There have been several questions lately regarding lick mats - the benefits, what happens when they are used, how to clean them and more.
That's why we're providing the ultimate lick mat guide today, answering all these questions and more.
If you haven't heard of a lick mat yet (also referred to as a lick mat, lick mat or Lickmat), it is exactly what it sounds like! With a textured mat, your puppy will be challenged to lick every last bit of the treats from the mat.
What do we go through in the article?
- Advantages of lickmat / lickmat
- Lollipop flavors and ideas
- Cleaning a lick mat
- Get the puppies ready for something good
Advantages of lick mats
Puppy parents can use lick mats in a number of ways to train their dogs' minds. Here are some reasons why dogs and their owners love to lick mats:
The lick mats provide a good (and delicious) distraction when your dog is anxious during bathing, grooming and other activities.
Dogs often misbehave due to boredom, so keeping your dog busy with the lick mats can help redirect the energy.
The lick mats engage the dog - mental training is as important as physical training. To figure out how to lick the mat clean, the dog's brain will be working hard, and THAT is mental dog training at its best. Just like when we went to school when we were little. You create your own little dog school in your own home and the student is your best friend!
Besides, what's cuter than a happy puppy?
Using lick mats (and any brain work for that matter) can help reduce unwanted behaviors such as chewing, barking and more!
If you have noticed other benefits of Lick Mats, please share them with us!
Things to put on a lick of food
What to put on a lick mat is one of the most common questions we get.
Let's discuss the benefits of giving extra treats and dog treats first, before jumping into what can be "smeared" on the lick mats.
You should always keep your daily calorie intake in mind - if you put a lot of calories on the lick mat, make sure to adjust your other meals accordingly.
If in doubt, choose low-calorie treats so your dog can still enjoy the entire meal!
Now for the good stuff! The following are some of our favorites to put on a lick mat:
Lick mat - what do we use?
We recommend using something that fits well and does not run.
Check out these healthy ideas for lick mats:
Banana!!! Yes, thank you, says our dog, and more. It works just like that and our dog licks his way to get everything. Especially if it has been in the freezer and has become chilled and extra good to lick. (Worse to wait until it is "a little" thawed anyway!)
Plain Greek yogurt is great to mix with other ingredients and freeze. However, some dogs can be sensitive to dairy products, so start with a small amount and see if it causes digestive problems. This of course applies to all different food products for the dog. It may be good to tread carefully.
A can of pumpkin is a great low-calorie option for puppies suffering from constipation or diarrhea. Limit your pumpkin consumption, as too much can cause an upset stomach. The same applies to most squash varieties as well.
Something sweet
A sweet ingredient added to the lollipop is a pleasant surprise.
Your dog can eat a wide variety of fruits. Bananas as mentioned, apples are good for making applesauce. Carrots, for example, or other good vegetables.
Balance out all that sweetness with something tasty and nutritious. A variety of dog-friendly vegetables are available in various forms.
Choose a lick mat recipe from each category to get your dog to love different "snacks". The dog will appreciate it!
Different flavors and textures will keep your dog interested. Be sure to use only a small amount of each ingredient so your dog doesn't get too many calories.
Are you worried that your puppy will lick everything off at once? Place the mat (with desired toppings) in the freezer for half an hour before giving it to your dog.
The activity will last longer, is more challenging and provides a little extra refreshment on a hot day. It fits perfectly now on these hot summer days.
How to clean a lick mat?
Once you have started reading here, there is a good chance that you will try lick mats with different flavors for your dog. Then it's good to have it washed properly as well.
The easiest way to clean a lick mat is to soak it in warm water with washing-up liquid until the residue comes off, then scrub it gently to make sure it's clean.
You should also clean and disinfect your dog's food and water bowls while you're at it!
Other questions about lick mats?
Let's take a look at some of the most common questions we've heard about lick mats.
Do lick mats help dogs with anxiety?
Although it is a myth that food or treats can cure dog anxiety, lick mats can be calming for dogs and curb their anxious tendencies. This applies in particular to grooming, bathing and other similar activities.
Licking can be calming for many dogs. Furthermore, it can help reduce problem behavior by keeping them occupied with something fun and tasty. This can be during brushing or other things that you want to do with a puppy that will never stand still
Are lick mats good for dogs?
Without a doubt, lick mats are a great activation toy for the brain, while at the same time the dog gets his dog treat delivered on a good lick surface!
Here are some reasons why dogs should use lick mats:️
You can use the lick mat to distract your dog during bathing, grooming and other activities. The mat can help reduce stress and anxiety.
By keeping your dog busy with a lick mat, you can prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behavior. Boredom is often the cause of destructive behavior, so the lick mat can help redirect their energy.
Mental exercise is just as important as physical exercise - it is both engaging and enriching. To find out how the dog will get the food from the mat, the brain has to get going.
When it's hot, they're a cool treat. Just freeze the lollipops and add some tasty food to them and they'll be like dog ice cream!
These lick mats are a great way to keep your dog engaged, work their brain and give them a tasty treat at the same time!
How long do lick mats last?
There are two parts to this question; one is how long the mat itself will last with use, and two is how long your dog will be occupied with it. Let's answer both!
Lick mats usually last quite a long time. But they are not to be chewed on. Therefore, if you let your puppy chew on it, it won't last very long! You can have a well-preserved lick mat for 2 years.
The second question concerns how long it will keep the puppy occupied, and it depends on the puppy and how good the "topping" is.
Do you freeze lick mats?
Using frozen lick mats is the best way to use them! Your dog will enjoy licking it much longer when you freeze it.
Decide what you want the dog to eat, spread it on the mat and then put it in the freezer. The best thing you can do is freeze it overnight, but even a couple of hours helps, or as mentioned earlier, a shorter time to chill the food!
I always have a prepared lick mat in the freezer. So I can give my dog a treat and help him relax when appropriate.
By now you have hopefully learned about the benefits that come with acquiring a lick mat.
There is only one step left...
get your dog a lick mat today! CLICK HERE , order and continue to enjoy the summer days! =)
