Easy lick mat recipes for dogs, what to put on a lick mat
Three simple lick mat recipes using ingredients you already have at home, yoghurt, pumpkin and banana. The easiest calming enrichment you can make in under five minutes.
combinations
5 minutes
enrichment
Lick mats have become one of our favourite daily rituals. They're perfect for rainy days, hot afternoons when a long walk isn't possible, or simply slowing snack time down a little. The slow, repetitive licking can feel soothing and helps a busy, excited pup settle.
New to lick mats? Our guide covers everything you need to know, plus nine easy recipes.
Why lick mats?
Simple lick mat recipes
Calming, delicious, and ready in under five minutes.
All three use simple, dog-safe ingredients you likely already have at home. Always use plain, unsweetened versions and make sure any peanut butter is xylitol-free.
favourite
Yoghurt + blueberries
♡ Cool, creamy & antioxidant-rich. Lana's personal favourite.
- 1/2 cup plain yoghurt (unsweetened)
- A handful of fresh blueberries
- A sprinkle of dog treats or kibble (optional)
How: Spread the yoghurt over the mat in a thin layer, press blueberries into the surface, then scatter the kibble or treats on top. Freeze 20 minutes for a firmer treat, or serve right away.
Pumpkin + crunch
♡ Gentle on tummies, great for digestion & deeply satisfying.
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree (plain, not pie filling)
- A handful of crushed dog treats or kibble
How: Spoon the pumpkin puree onto the mat and spread with the back of a spoon, working it into the ridges. Press the crushed treats or kibble into the puree so they stick.
Shop this matBanana + sprinkle
♡ Naturally sweet, creamy & endlessly customisable.
- 1 small mashed banana
- 1 tbsp peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- Kibble or flaxseed for topping
How: Mash the banana onto the mat, swirl in the peanut butter with a spoon, then finish with a scatter of kibble or flaxseed. Freeze 30 minutes if your dog tends to inhale it.
Shop this matOur favourite lick mats
Not sure which mat to choose? Start with a flat mat for simple recipes, a bowl mat for longer licking, or a no-flip mat for messier pups.
Large Lick Mat for Dogs & Cats
A generous 2-pack with four different textures per mat. Food-grade silicone, dishwasher & freezer safe, great value and a firm favourite.
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Slow Feeder Bowl Lick Mat
A beautiful galaxy-design bowl that wobbles for an extra challenge. Doubles as a slow feeder, easy to clean and genuinely lovely to look at.
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LickiMat Indoor Keeper Dog Feeding Station
A sturdy no-skid frame that holds your lick mat in place and extends capacity to 6 cups. Brilliant for pups who like to flip their mat.
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LickiMat Soother & Buddy Set
Vet-developed classics, one for smooth foods like yoghurt, one with a raised texture for chunkier treats. BPA-free and freezer safe.
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LickiMat Slomo Slow Feeder
Deep pyramid texture that works for wet, dry or raw food, great full-meal feeder for small dogs or a treat server for any size.
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LickiMat Soother
The original vet-developed soother, perfect for yoghurt, bone broth and runny treats. Suction feet keep it steady on the floor.
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LickiMat Buddy
Raised ridges built for raw meat, canned food, pumpkin and chunkier treats. A great pick for dogs who want more of a challenge.
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LickiMat Tuff Buddy
A tougher, thicker version of the Buddy for strong chewers. Same raised texture, built to handle more enthusiastic licking.
View on AmazonSpread the mix right to the edges to make it last longer.
Pop it in the freezer for a longer-lasting warm day treat.
Four easy steps
Ready in under five minutes with one simple lick mat.
Spread yoghurt, pumpkin or banana over the mat surface
Press in blueberries, kibble, treats or a drizzle of peanut butter
Give fresh or freeze 30–60 min for a longer-lasting treat
Watch the calm settle in within minutes
Good to know
What can I put on a lick mat for my dog?
Safe lick mat fillings include plain unsweetened yoghurt, pumpkin puree, mashed banana, xylitol-free peanut butter, bone broth and soft fruit like blueberries. Always avoid xylitol, grapes, onion, garlic and chocolate. these are toxic to dogs.
Are lick mats good for dogs?
Yes, lick mats are one of the most effective calming enrichment tools available. The slow repetitive licking releases endorphins and activates the parasympathetic nervous system, naturally settling anxious or overexcited dogs.
Can I freeze a lick mat?
Absolutely, and it's highly recommended. Freezing extends the enrichment time significantly and makes it a refreshing treat on warm days. Fill with yoghurt, pumpkin or banana, then freeze for 30–60 minutes. The pumpkin combination is our favourite for freezing.
How often can I give my dog a lick mat?
Lick mats can be used daily as part of your enrichment routine. Lana gets one most afternoons, usually after a walk as a wind-down ritual. Keep portions reasonable and count any food spread toward their daily intake.
♡ Quick tip
Rotate the combinations across the week to keep things interesting. Switching up the flavours means she's always excited to see the mat come out. Freeze the pumpkin version overnight for the best summer snack.
If you try these with your pup, I'd love to see them enjoying it. Tag @lana.thegoldenretriever on Instagram. Lana always enjoys seeing fellow enrichment fans. ♡
♡ A little moment with Lana & Marshie
Marshie the rabbit has never once respected the idea that lick mats are just for dogs. Most afternoons he wanders straight over and helps himself, and Lana lets him, tail wagging the whole time. It's become one of my favourite little rituals to watch.
