Looking for a simple yet effective way to enhance your dog’s daily routine? The benefits of a lick mat might surprise you. This versatile tool has become a favorite among pet owners, offering more than just a fun treat for your furry friend.
Curious about how it can improve your dog’s well-being? In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of a lick mat, and why it’s quickly becoming a must-have for dog owners everywhere. Keep reading to discover how this little mat can make a big difference!
Table of Contents:
- Why Are Lick Mats Gaining Popularity Across Australia?
- Types of Lick Mats to Choose From
- Tailoring Treats to Your Dog's Needs
- Making the Most of Lick Mat Benefits
- Top 5 Lick Mats for Dogs
- FAQs about Benefits of a Lick Mat
- Ian's Wrap
Why Are Lick Mats Gaining Popularity Across Australia?
Let's look at why Aussie pet owners are turning to lick mats to enrich their furry companions' lives.
Benefits of a Lick Mat
Using dog lick mats has a range of benefits. Here are some positives you can expect when you introduce a lick mat into your pet's life:
- Calming Anxiety: The licking action will release endorphins, naturally calming your dog. This is especially helpful during stressful situations like vet visits, grooming sessions, or when unfamiliar guests arrive.
- Mental Workout: Lick mats present a stimulating challenge, turning treat time into a boredom buster. Having to navigate the mat's texture to reach every morsel keeps your pup engaged and mentally sharp. It’s like a puzzle and a tasty treat all in one.
- Promoting Slow Eating: We’ve all seen our dogs gobble down food in seconds flat, which can lead to digestive issues like bloating. Lick mats encourage slower eating, which improves digestion.
- Dental Hygiene Boost: Encourage licking for increased saliva production, keeping teeth healthy, breath fresh and improving oral health overall.
Practical Uses for Everyday Situations
Beyond the direct benefits, let’s look at some practical applications for lick mats, including dog training:
- Crate Training Aid: For puppies or dogs new to crate training, a delicious treat spread onto a lick mat can create a positive association with the crate.
- Bath Time Distraction: Many dogs aren’t exactly fond of bath time. A lick mat stuck to the side of the tub with suction cups can be helpful at keeping dogs distracted.
- Grooming Companion: Similar to bath time, a lick mat can keep your dog occupied while you trim their nails or brush their fur.
Types of Lick Mats to Choose From
There are a lot of lick mats on the market.
For those new to lick mats, simple models like the Tasty Bone Lick Mat are an excellent starting point. They are a basic flat mat with textured grooves to lick the food off, and come in multiple sizes.
Looking for something more challenging? The Sniff 'A' Bone has a basic lick mat in the middle and extra treat hiders on the outside, helping dogs stay interested for extended periods.
Tailoring Treats to Your Dog's Needs
Finding the perfect spread for your pup’s lick mat is a delightful journey of culinary experimentation.
Remember, every dog is an individual. Observe your furry companion's preferences and reactions to various spreads and start with a small amount to ensure they enjoy it. This careful observation also extends to identifying any potential allergies.
Popular food options for your dog's lick mat include:
- Wet food or canned dog food
- Peanut butter or almond butter (xylitol-free)
- Natural Greek yogurt
- Cottage cheese
- Mashed sweet potatoes
- Mashed banana
- Bone broth
- Minced meat
- Canned fish
Making the Most of Lick Mat Benefits
Consider freezing your prepared lick mat for a longer-lasting and more engaging experience, particularly during those scorching Aussie summers. A frozen lick mat offers a refreshing and entertaining activity, perfect for beating the heat.
Remember to always supervise your dog, especially when introducing the lick mat for the first time. You don't want your dog using the mat as a chew toy!
Buy a lick mat that is an appropriate size for your dog's breed and how much your dog eats.
Top 5 Lick Mats for Dogs
Here at Zach's Pet Shop, we sell a great range of lick mats designed to keep your dog happy, occupied and healthy.
1. Tasty Bone Lick Mat - Bone Appetit
The Tasty Bone Lick Mat by Bone Appetite is a great way to keep your dog entertained. It can be used as a slow feeding bowl for pet food or a treat dispenser to minimise separation anxiety while you're at work.
2. Peanut Shake - Calming Pals
The Peanut Shake by Calming Pals is a lick mat that wobbles. This adds an increased level of distraction and challenge for your dog, extended meal times even longer.
3. Anti-Anxiety Bath Duck - Calming Pals
The Anti-Anxiety Bath Duck by Calming Pals has a suction back that sticks it to the shower wall. For furry friends scared of bath time, this lick mat helps to create positive associations, distraction and promote calm.
4. Jungle Digmat - Dig It
The Jungle Digmat by Dig It doubles as both as lick mat and snuffle mat, and will keep your pup occupied for hours on end. The raised silicon sections (shaped like leaves) mean you can hide both wet and dry food underneath for your dog to sniff out. Plus it's dishwasher safe!
5. Woofle Lick Mat - Calming Pals
The Woofle Lick Mat by Calming Pals is both a slow feeder and anxiety reliever. It has a cute waffle design and multiple suction cups on the back to prevent movement.
FAQs about Benefits of a Lick Mat
Are lick mats good for dogs with sensitive stomachs?
Yes, lick mats can benefit faster eaters with sensitive stomachs by slowing down the meal. Also, the act of licking encourages saliva production, which helps in the digestive process.
Can puppies use lick mats?
Absolutely. Dog trainers recommend introducing a lick mat at a young age to aid in developing healthy eating habits and prevent future issues like resource guarding or food aggression.
How often can I give my dog a lick mat?
You can incorporate a lick mat into your dog’s routine daily as a delightful enrichment activity. Be mindful of their overall calorie intake and adjust their regular food portions accordingly.
Ian's Wrap
Incorporating a lick mat into your dog's routine offers more than just a fun distraction—it’s a smart choice for their overall well-being. From slowing down eating habits to promoting better digestion, the benefits of a lick mat are clear. These mats not only help keep your dog occupied but also contribute to their mental and dental health.
Whether you're looking to reduce anxiety or simply provide a healthy way to enjoy treats, a lick mat is an excellent addition to your pet care arsenal.
