A lick mat looks like a simple thing: a flat rubber mat covered in little ridges and bumps. But for a lot of dogs, it's one of the easiest ways to settle down. Here's why it helps, how to use one, and what to put on it.
Why licking helps dogs settle
Licking is something dogs do naturally to calm themselves. You may have seen your dog lick their paws or a blanket when they're unsure. A lick mat turns that into a slow, steady activity. The textured surface means they can't gulp the food. They have to work at it, lick by lick.
That gives a nervous dog something to focus on. Instead of listening for the next bang of thunder, they're busy chasing the last bit of peanut butter out of a groove.
When to use a lick mat
- Storms and fireworks. Stick it to the floor or the side of the tub in their safe room.
- The first minutes after you leave. Hand it over as you head out, so your leaving means "treat time".
- Baths and nail trims. Stick it to the wall of the tub at nose height. Many dogs stand still while they lick.
- Vet visit prep. Use it at home while you practice handling paws and ears.
- Calm evenings. A good wind-down before bed.
How to use one, step by step
- Spread a thin layer. Use a spoon or spatula to press the filling into the grooves. Thin is better than thick. It lasts longer.
- Freeze it (optional, but worth it). One to two hours in the freezer turns a five-minute snack into a twenty-minute job.
- Keep it steady. If your mat has a suction back, stick it to the tub, tile, or a smooth floor. If not, set it on a towel so it doesn't slide around.
- Stay nearby. Watch your dog while they use it. Take it away once they're done licking, or if they start chewing the mat.
- Wash it. Rinse, then wash with warm soapy water or on the top rack of the dishwasher if the mat says it's dishwasher-safe.
6 easy fillings
Use small amounts, and count them as part of your dog's daily food.
- Peanut butter. Plain and xylitol-free only. Check the label every time. Xylitol is toxic to dogs.
- Plain yogurt. Unsweetened, no artificial sweeteners. Some dogs don't do well with dairy, so start small.
- Plain canned pumpkin. 100% pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which has sugar and spices.
- Wet dog food. Easy, and it fits right into their normal diet.
- Mashed banana. A thin layer, mixed with a little yogurt or pumpkin.
- Soaked kibble. Soak their regular kibble in warm water until soft, mash it, spread it, freeze it. Great for dogs on a strict diet.
Avoid: anything with xylitol, chocolate, grapes or raisins, onion, or garlic. If your dog has allergies, a sensitive stomach, or a special diet, check with your vet before trying new foods.
Freezer tip: make a few at once
Before a big night, like New Year's Eve or July 4th, fill two or three mats and freeze them. When one is licked clean, swap in the next. Having two means one can be in use while the other is in the freezer.
Is a lick mat enough on its own?
For a mild worrier, a lick mat may be all you need during a short storm. For a dog with stronger fears, it works best as one part of a plan: a safe spot to hide, a calm routine, and your vet's advice if the fear is severe. A lick mat is a calming job, not medicine.
Try it
Try the SodaPup Lotus Lick Mat: made in the USA, with suction cups for the tub or tile, and freezer- and dishwasher-safe. See all our lick and feast mats. Pair it with our Calming Plush Dog Bed for a safe spot and a calming job on loud nights.