Best LickiMats for Dog Anxiety & Boredom (Recipes!)

LickiMats have become a popular tool for managing dog anxiety and boredom, and for good reason! These textured mats encourage licking, which releases endorphins that have a calming effect. They also provide mental stimulation, keeping your pup occupied and entertained. But with so many LickiMats on the market, and so many potential recipes, where do you start?

Choosing the Right LickiMat

Several factors influence the best LickiMat choice for your dog:

• Material: Most LickiMats are made from food-grade TPR rubber. Ensure it’s BPA-free and non-toxic.
• Texture: Different textures provide varying levels of challenge. Some have raised patterns, while others feature deep grooves or segmented areas. Consider your dog’s licking style and preferences. Aggressive lickers might do better with more durable mats.
• Size and Shape: Choose a size appropriate for your dog. Larger dogs require larger mats. Different shapes suit different purposes (e.g., round for slowing down feeding, rectangular for spreading treats).
• Suction Cups: Some LickiMats have suction cups on the bottom to prevent sliding. This is particularly helpful for excitable dogs or smooth surfaces.

Popular LickiMat options include:

• LickiMat Buddy: A versatile, textured mat suitable for various treats.
• LickiMat Soother: Features a smooth, textured surface, ideal for spreadable treats and gentle licking.
• LickiMat Playdate: Segmented sections allow for different treats in one go, adding to the challenge.
• LickiMat Wobble: A bowl that wobbles to add more engagement during mealtime.

LickiMat Recipes for Anxiety & Boredom

The beauty of LickiMats lies in their versatility. You can use a wide variety of dog-friendly foods. Remember to consider your dog’s dietary needs and allergies before introducing new foods.

• Peanut Butter Power-Up: Spread a thin layer of dog-friendly peanut butter (xylitol-free!) on the mat.
• Frozen Yogurt Delight: Mix plain yogurt (unsweetened) with a little fruit puree (banana, blueberries) and freeze on the LickiMat. Perfect for hot days!
• Pumpkin Patch: Pure pumpkin puree (not pie filling!) is a great source of fiber and can help with digestive issues.
• Bone Broth Bliss: Pour bone broth onto the LickiMat and freeze for a long-lasting, savory treat.
• DIY Pate: Blend cooked chicken or turkey with a little water or bone broth to create a smooth pate.
• Savory Mash: Combine mashed sweet potato, cooked carrots, and a sprinkle of parsley.
• Mealtime Enrichment: Spread your dog’s regular wet food or rehydrated kibble on the mat to slow down eating and provide mental stimulation.

Tips for Success

• Introduce gradually: Start by simply showing your dog the LickiMat with a small amount of their favorite treat.
• Supervise initially: Ensure your dog doesn’t try to chew or destroy the mat.
• Adjust portion sizes: Remember that LickiMats are a supplement to your dog’s diet, not a replacement for regular meals.
• Clean regularly: Wash the LickiMat thoroughly after each use to prevent bacteria buildup.
• Experiment with different recipes: Find out what your dog enjoys most!

By choosing the right LickiMat and experimenting with various healthy and engaging recipes, you can effectively combat dog anxiety and boredom, providing your furry friend with a fun and mentally stimulating experience.

1600×1066 lickimat dog food from lickimat.blogspot.com

679×679 dog lick mat calming mat dog anxiety relief add healthy treats canine wellness center from caninewellnesscenter.com

200×200 lickimat buddy original anti anxiety mat pet from www.fleacircuspetsupplies.com.au