What to Put on a Lick Mat for Dogs: 20 Quick & Easy Ideas Using Foods You Already Have

If you've ever found yourself staring into the fridge wondering what can I put on my dog's lick mat?—you're not alone.

The good news is that you probably already have plenty of dog-safe foods in your kitchen. From plain yoghurt to pumpkin puree, there are lots of healthy, affordable options that can turn a simple lick mat into a fun enrichment activity.

Lick mats aren't just entertaining. The repetitive licking action can help many dogs relax, provide mental stimulation, slow down eating, and make treats last longer.

Here's our guide to the best things to put on a lick mat for dogs, using everyday ingredients that are safe for most healthy dogs.

Why Use a Lick Mat?

Lick mats are a fantastic enrichment tool because they:

• Provide mental stimulation.

• Help relieve boredom.

• Encourage calm behaviour through repetitive licking.

• Slow down fast eaters.

• Keep dogs occupied during grooming, bathing or nail trims.

• Offer an easy way to serve healthy treats.

Remember that treats and toppings should make up no more than around 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake.

20 Dog-Safe Lick Mat Ideas

1. Plain Greek Yoghurt

One of the most popular lick mat toppings.

Choose plain, unsweetened Greek yoghurt with no added sugar or artificial sweeteners. It provides protein and calcium, and many dogs love the creamy texture.

Avoid flavoured yoghurts and always check the ingredients to make sure they do not contain xylitol (also called birch sugar), which is highly toxic to dogs.

2. Peanut Butter

A classic choice.

Use natural peanut butter with no added sugar, salt or xylitol. Spread a thin layer across the mat for a simple, satisfying treat.

3. Pumpkin Purée

Plain pumpkin purée (not sweetened pumpkin pie filling) is rich in fibre and makes an excellent lick mat spread.

4. Mashed Banana

Got an overripe banana? Mash it up and spread it over the mat.

Bananas provide potassium and fibre, but because they're naturally high in sugar, they're best enjoyed in moderation.

5. Cottage Cheese

Plain cottage cheese is another protein-rich option that many dogs enjoy.

If your dog is sensitive to dairy, introduce it slowly or choose another topping.

6. Wet Dog Food

Your dog's normal wet food works brilliantly.

It's balanced, familiar and ideal if you're trying to avoid adding extra calories.

7. Mashed Sweet Potato

Cooked sweet potato is naturally sweet, full of fibre and easy to spread.

Never use raw sweet potato.

8. Plain Cooked Chicken

Finely shred plain cooked chicken with no seasoning, onions or garlic.

Mix it with a little warm water or yoghurt to make it easier to spread.

9. Sardines

Sardines packed in spring water are packed with omega-3 fatty acids.

Mash them into the grooves of the mat for a high-value treat.

10. Mashed Blueberries

Fresh or thawed blueberries can be mashed into a paste.

They're packed with antioxidants and make a colourful topping.

11. Unsweetened Applesauce

Choose applesauce with no added sugar or sweeteners.

Avoid products containing xylitol.

12. Mashed Carrot

Cooked carrots mash easily and add fibre and vitamin A.

13. Scrambled Egg

Plain cooked egg can be mashed and spread over the mat.

Don't add butter, milk or seasoning.

14. Cream Cheese

Plain cream cheese can be used occasionally as a high-value reward.

Because it's high in fat, it's best reserved for special occasions.

15. Plain Oatmeal

Cooked oats without sugar or flavourings make a filling topping that sticks well to a lick mat.

16. Mashed Peas

Cooked peas mashed with a little water create an easy vegetable spread.

17. Broth

You can buy dog-friendly broth from most pet stores, frozen, and it is perfect for hydration on a hot day.

18. Plain Tuna

Tuna in spring water can be offered occasionally.

Because tuna can contain higher levels of mercury than smaller fish, it shouldn't be fed frequently.

19. Dog-Safe Fruit Mix

Mash together:

• Banana

• Blueberries

• Strawberries

Avoid grapes, raisins and cherries, which are unsafe for dogs.

20. Freeze It!

Whatever topping you choose, try freezing the filled lick mat for a few hours.

A frozen lick mat lasts much longer, making it perfect for warm weather or keeping your dog entertained while you work from home. Tips for Making the Perfect Lick Mat

• Spread toppings thinly to avoid overfeeding.

• Mix healthy ingredients for variety.

• Freeze the mat for longer-lasting enrichment.

• Wash thoroughly after each use.

• Supervise your dog if they're new to using a lick mat or are likely to chew it.

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