Lick Mats for Dogs: 7 Benefits Proven by Science

A lick mat is far more than a simple accessory to keep your dog busy. It's a tool for both dietary and behavioural enrichment, and its benefits are documented across several scientific studies. From easing anxiety to improving digestion, here are the 7 reasons vets increasingly recommend the lick mat.

1. Reduced anxiety and stress

Licking triggers the release of endorphins — the feel-good hormones — in your dog's brain. It's a naturally soothing behaviour that acts as a natural calming aid.

A study published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science (2018) showed that 15 minutes of daily licking reduced cortisol stress markers by 40% in dogs with separation anxiety. The lick mat channels this behaviour constructively: instead of compulsively licking their paws (a common sign of stress), your dog licks an appetising, stimulating surface.

2. Prolonged engagement (20 to 30 minutes)

A lick mat spread with frozen yoghurt will keep your dog occupied for 20 to 30 minutes. It's the perfect activity for when you need to step out, take an important call or simply enjoy a moment of quiet.

For comparison: a chew lasts 15 minutes on average, a classic Kong around 10 minutes, and a bowl of kibble around 30 seconds. The frozen lick mat is the longest-lasting activity you can offer your dog — with the added bonus of being low in calories if you use plain 0% yoghurt.

3. Improved digestion

Licking stimulates saliva production, and saliva contains essential digestive enzymes. The more your dog salivates, the better they digest their food.

According to the Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition, canine saliva contains amylase and lipase, two enzymes that begin breaking down carbohydrates and fats before the food even reaches the stomach. By licking for 20 minutes instead of gulping in 10 seconds, your dog pre-digests their food and eases the workload on their stomach.

4. The ideal tool at bath time

Stick the lick mat to the shower wall or the side of the bath with its suction cups, spread it with peanut butter, and your dog will stay calm and focused throughout the wash.

This is our customers' favourite use: 78% of lick mat buyers use it during bath time. Concentrating on the licking distracts the dog from the water and shampoo, turning a stressful moment into a positive experience.

5. Mental stimulation and enrichment

The lick mat is a food puzzle that engages your dog's cognitive abilities. They have to use their tongue precisely to extract food from the grooves and textures of the surface.

Dietary enrichment is a fundamental recommendation from behavioural vets. A dog that works for its food is a more balanced dog — less destructive and less prone to barking. Dr. Ian Dunbar, a pioneer of positive dog training, recommends that 50% of meals be given via toys or food puzzles.

6. Preventing compulsive licking

Dogs that compulsively lick their paws, flanks or belly are often suffering from anxiety or boredom. The lick mat redirects this behaviour towards a healthy, constructive activity.

Compulsive licking can cause lick dermatitis (granulomas), skin infections and hot spots. By offering a stimulating alternative, the lick mat reduces episodes of self-directed licking by 60%, according to a study in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior (2019).

7. Suitable for both dogs and cats

The lick mat works just as well for cats as it does for dogs. Use wet cat food, plain yoghurt or liquid treats for felines. The fine textures of the mat are perfectly suited to cats' tongues.

For anxious cats (moving house, the arrival of a new pet, thunderstorms), the lick mat is a natural alternative to medication. Prolonged licking has the same calming effect on felines as it does on dogs.

What can you put on a lick mat?

The best options (tried and tested by our customers):

• Plain 0% yoghurt — low in calories, rich in probiotics
• Peanut butter — check it's free of xylitol (toxic to dogs)
• Mashed banana — rich in potassium, loved by 95% of dogs
• Wet dog/cat food — their favourite food in a slower version
• Sweet potato purée — rich in fibre and beta-carotene
• Soft cheese — irresistible and easy to spread

Pro tip: prepare 5 mats in advance, freeze them, and pull one out whenever you need it. A frozen mat keeps your dog occupied 2 to 3 times longer.