Licking Mat
Therapeutic licking mat are fast becoming an essential item in many dog owners’ tool kits. These ingenious little tools keep dogs happy while offering countless health benefits.
Made from durable, dog-safe materials, a variety of treats can be smeared onto the mats’ textured surfaces, allowing the pet’s tongue and brain to do the work. They’re not just a boredom-buster; they’re a calming aid, a mental workout and even a lending hand in training and dental health. But what are these mats, exactly, and why are they good for you? Let’s dive in!
What are Therapeutic Licking Mat?
Unlike your standard pet toy, licking mats have therapeutic benefit.
The sentence in passive voice would be:
“They are apparently meant to be used to calm dogs by having them lick and concentrate.”
They are available in different shapes, sizes and textures. Others have rubber bumps and grooves, or patterns meant to stimulate a dog’s tongue. Most of these dog toys are made from non-toxic silicone and rubber materials, which makes them safe to be used by pets on a regular basis
Here’s the sentence in passive voice:
“These mats are primarily intended to provide a calming experience to keep dogs busy. Highly customizable, they can be paired with different spreads, such as dog-safe peanut butter or yogurt.”
Their versatility also makes them a popular choice for dog owners who want to provide their pets with a healthy and stimulating activity.
How Do Licking Mats Work?
The concept of therapeutic licking mats is pretty straightforward: Licking is loved by dogs, and it has been shown to release soothing endorphins into their brains.
Licking is a repetitive motion that can be soothing for a dog, and a therapeutic mat makes the effort of getting every last bit of the treat a workout in itself. It taps into their natural foraging instincts, forcing them to work harder to get food, and then rewards them with a filling snack.
This behavior is a positive sign for dogs who are anxious or stressed. The constant licking stimulates the secretion of serotonin, a hormone involved in well-being and happiness.
This makes licking mats a great way for tension to be relieved in dogs that are stressed by things like thunderstorms, fireworks, and more.
Benefits of Therapeutic Licking Mat
The benefits of licking mat for dogs are endless and work for dogs of all ages and sizes. These are some of the main benefits:
Stress and Anxiety Relief: Pets suffering from anxiety may benefit from lick mats, as licking is calming and can be great for stressful experiences, such as traveling in a car or going to the vet.
Mental Stimulation: The mat’s textures and patterns make for a stimulating experience for dogs, giving their brains a workout.
Boredom Prevention: A licking mat can keep a dog busy for ages, thus helping to deter obnoxious behaviors.
Dental Health Boost: When dogs lick, they gently scrape their tongue against the licking mat, helping remove bacteria and improving their dental health.
Weight Management: Slowing a dog down when eating, these mats can help prevent gulping and promote digestion.
Reducing Stress and Anxiety in Dogs
Therapeutic licking mats have one of the most engaging benefits that might be more than you have ever imagined: they are a great homemade anxious dogs channel!
Licking is a natural canine behavior, and it helps dogs self-soothe, much like humans might relax during a calming activity, like knitting or reading. As a dog licks a mat over and over,
it releases endorphins, the brain chemicals that give the feeling of calm and well-being.
This makes licking mats particularly effective in stressful situations. If your dog is anxiety-prone during fireworks, thunderstorms or trips to the vet, introducing a therapeutic licking mat can serve as a welcome distraction.
This task shifts your dog’s focus from stressful stimuli to getting the treat from the mat, giving your dog a break from anxiety.
Brain Engagement and Enrichment
Dogs require mental exercise as much as they do physical exercise. Dogs also need mental stimulation, and a lack of it can lead to boredom, which manifests as unwanted behaviors like chewing furniture or barking too much.
A therapeutic licking mat is an easy way to keep your dog mentally stimulated. The different textures test them to keep licking, and locating every morsel of treat embedded in the grooves requires focus and effort.
This type of enrichment draws on your dog’s instinct to forage and problem-solve so that they are satisfied without feeling frustrated. These soft foods also means that the mats are disposable, because dogs have to work to find the last smear, making it a task you want it to do and look forward to.
Avoiding Boredom and Avoiding Bad Behavior
A bored dog is usually a destructive dog. Licking mats are an excellent tool for keeping any dog busy, especially when you cannot give 100% of your time to them. Instead of gnawing on shoes or scratching at doors, your dog will be busy licking the mat. Which can help eliminate destructive behavior when bored and restless.
There are long-term benefits on your dog’s behavior with regular licking mat use. It also gives them something to do, and provides a positive association with calm, quiet activities. Continue training them over time and many dogs learn to use their licking mat by themselves to self-soothe and remain relaxed (including when left alone for short periods).
Dental Health Benefits
Therapeutic licking mats can help with your dog’s dental hygiene too. The tongue can be cleaned by licking the textured surface of the mat which may help make breath fresher. Others have special ridges or raised sections intended to gently scrape your tongue to help reduce bacteria build-up for improved oral hygiene.
Fishing healthy foods, such as mashed fruits or various dog-friendly pastes, all over the mat can also promote slow eating, which is better for a dog’s dental health than gulping it down in one sitting.
Also, licking at a slow pace minimizes tartar deposits in the mouth as it encourages saliva secretion which keeps the mouth clean. As another approach to help keep teeth clean without the stress of standard brushing, dog-safe toothpaste smeared to a licking mat could work wonders.
Weight control and portion management
Just like puzzle toys, licking mats are an excellent option if you want to control your dog’s weight. If your dog is an avid eater, a licking mat can slow down their feeding.
Leaning too fast could cause digestive circumstances like gasoline and bloating, but a licking mat could make meal times a slow and mindful experience. Spreadable soft foods like pumpkin, yogurt, or pureed vegetables are excellent to get your dog working for their food and not scarfing it down in seconds.
Licking mats also help manage portions. Rather than pouring kibble or other treats into a bowl, you can appropriately portion a smaller, more nutritious amount to scatter on the mat. This cuts down on the amount of excess feeding and ensures they have a balanced diet.
With overweight dogs, enrichment licking mats can be a satisfying way to provide low-calorie treats that take longer to consume, helping keep them satisfied while lowering over all calorie intake.
Using Therapeutic Licking Mats in Training
Then you may be surprised to learn that licking mats can also be a great training tool. They are widely used by dog owners and dog trainers as a reward to reinforce good behavior.
The licking action is calming, and may help your dog focus on training in distracting environments. For example, a licking mat is excellent for anxious dogs who hate the grooming table or nail trims: Giving them something to focus on can distract and calm them.
Licking mats also teach patience when training. But dogs who learn the mat means a reward are more likely to learn to listen to commands, knowing that they’ll get a tasty and rewarding experience afterward. This helps to create good behavior patterns and builds the relationship between you and your dog.
Best Ingredients for licking mats
You’ll need to pick ingredients that are safe and enjoyable for your pup to eat. Here are some of the top go-to ingredients to use:
Unsweetened Peanut Butter (Xylitol-Free): A classic favorite, peanut butter is tasty and high in healthy fats and protein.
Greek Yogurt: Plain Greek yogurt is rich in protein and probiotics to support digestion.
Pumpkin Puree: Low in calories and fiber, pumpkin is good for digestive health.
Sweet Potato: Packed with vitamins A and C, mashed sweet potato is a healthy option.
Sliced Banana: Mash or slice banana for a potassium-rich, sweet treat.
Applesauce (Without Added Sugar): Applesauce is a great source of vitamins A and C and is a wonderful low-calorie food.
Cottage Cheese: High in calcium and protein; watch for fat content.
– Carrot Puree: Carrots are loaded with beta-carotene, and they can be crunchy (when grated) or smooth (when mashed).
Ingredients to Avoid:
Chocolate: Poisonous to dogs and to be avoided at all costs.
Xylitol: A sugar alternative that is extremely poisonous to dogs.
Grapes and Raisins: May cause kidney failure.
Avocado: Has person which is toxic to dogs.
Onions and Garlic: Causes Anemia
How To Choose A Licking Mat For Dogs
There are a few things to think about when choosing the ideal licking mat:
Size: Pick a size that is appropriate for your dog;’s breed and snout length. Use a larger mat for big breeds; use a smaller mat for small dogs.
Material: Make sure silicone or rubber is food grade and non-toxic. These materials are durable, flexible, and easy to clean. Skip the kind of mats that break or crack easily, which could be a choking risk.
Freestyle and Busier Components: Unlike Van-dykes and larger Hollywood components, different mats have different textures. Some have deeper grooves and raised bumps, for a more challenging experience; others flatter and easier. Pick a mat that suits your dog’s interest and tenacity level.
Suction Cup or Portable: If you would like to use the mat while grooming or bathing, a mat with suction cups that adheres to surfaces can come in handy.
Licking Mats are Improperly Cleaned and Maintained
The licking mat for dogs, however, must be cleaned regularly to prevent bacteria growth. Here are a few tips for a proper maintenance:
Hand Wash with Warm Soapy Water: Brush through the small crevices and remove all food residue.
Dishwasher Safe? : Many silicone mats are dishwasher-safe, which can help with cleanup. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure.
Be Mindful of Cleaning Products: opt for Fido-safe detergents or plain dish soap. Steer clear of bleach or other harsh chemicals that could stick to the mat.
Inspect Often: Look for signs of wear and tear, in particular if your dog is a power chewer. If it begins to crack or peel, it’s time to replace it.
Dry it Well: Allow the mat to dry out completely before putting it away.
DIY Licking Mat Ideas
If you’re feeling crafty, you can make some mat with some everyday supplies you will find around the house yourself. Here are a few DIY ideas:
Silicone Baking Mat Blanket the dough with another food-grade silicone baking mat that has a textured surface. Sprinkle the food in the grooves, and you have a licky mat that is quick and easy.
Bath mat substitute: Get a rubber bath mat with suction cups on the bottom — this is the easiest and cheapest way. It has a textured surface and can be adhered to floors or walls.
— Textured Cutting Board: A plastic cutting board with a rough surface can also make a licking mat. Just ensure that it’s pet-safe and easy to clean.
Ice DIY Mat: Get a shallow tray or plate, coat it with your dog’s favorite food, and freeze it. This creates a fun, longer-lasting challenge on warm days.
Conclusion
Therapeutic licking mats are not only a great treat for your dog—they’re a helpful tool to assist you with multiple health and behavioral issues. Honestly, whether your dog is a high-energy pup or an anxious adult, these mats can help your pet get their brains to work while having a soothing effect on them. Overall, therapeutic licking mats are a great addition to every dog owners arsenal, with their doggy dental health benefits, serving size controls, and a useful training tool.
And, by properly selecting your mat and playfully thinking outside the box, you can ensure your dog has a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling day to day experience.
To know more, have a look at the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs
How often can I use the licking mat for my dog?
Once you know they enjoy it, it’s perfectly safe to use a licking mat a few times a week, depending on your dog. Using an interactive game as part of daily enrichment is fine, however you have to balance out with other daily enrichment activities that provides your dog with positive stimulation.
Can puppies use licking mats?
Yes — if you use puppy-safe foods and choose a mat that’s the right size. No small parts or mats that a powerful, teething puppy can break apart.
Are licking mats better than other calming devices?
Some calming tools are supplementing, and licking mats are great, but they cannot replace all calming tools. Use them in conjunction with another means, like training, exercising and positive reinforcement.
How long can a dog stay on a licking mat?
Ten to 15 minutes is usually sufficient. If your dog is licking excessively or getting frustrated, it might be time to take the mat away.
Why is my dog not interested in the licking mat?
Experimenting with different spreads or slowly introducing the mat with lots of high-value goodies (try just a dab of peanut butter) It may take your dog a few attempts to grasp and appreciate the concept.
