Lickimats are a relatively new tool in the world of canine enrichment. They certainly weren’t around when I had my previous dog. But Flossie’s been enjoying hers for a couple of years now, and it’s become invaluable. Depending on how efficient your dog is at licking, it can keep your dog happily occupied for up to an hour.
What is a Lickimat?
Originating in Australia, the Lickimat is a rubberised 20cm square with a raised pattern of grooves designed for your dog’s favourite soft food to be spread across the surface. The idea is that your dog licks the food and the process of intense licking is not just enjoyable, it releases a calming hormone, which helps your dog relax.
And, aside from the positive psychological effects, there are some physical benefits too. Licking stimulates saliva production, helping to clean the tongue, teeth and gums. It also breaks down bacteria in your dog’s mouth and freshens breath. What’s not to like? Or lick…
When can a Lickimat be used?
Lickimats can be used any time you want to help your dog feel calm or simply to keep him busy doing something enjoyable for a while. They are ideal for when your dog might be feeling stressed. For example, before or during a trip to the vet or groomer, or during a storm or fireworks.
Flossie can be nervous when people she doesn’t know arrive at the house. I settle her down with her Lickimat when a visitor arrives. She quickly busies herself with it and consequently associates the visitor with something nice happening.
Lickimats are made from non-toxic food grade thermoplastic rubber and they are suitable for all sizes of dog, including puppies. It is advisable to supervise the first few uses, just in case your dog decides to be over enthusiastic with chewing.
Flossie is a toy destroyer and I was certain she would chew it, but she never has. However, I would be cautious about leaving her alone with one. But, if you are confident that your dog won’t chew it, a Lickimat can be ideal for giving to a dog with separation anxiety when you leave the house.
What fillings can I use on my Lickimat?
Anything soft that your dog enjoys is suitable. If your dog’s normal food is wet you can use the Lickimat as an alternative and more interesting method of feeding him. Dog-friendly peanut butter (ie without xylitol which can be fatal to dogs), natural yoghurt, mashed, cooked and cooled sweet potato or mashed banana are a few suggestions.
You can buy Lickimat sprinkles too, available in four flavours. And, because you are only using a small amount of food, you can ensure you are not over feeding your dog.
Lickimats are also safe to store in the freezer so are great for a longer-lasting cooling treat in hot weather.
How to clean your Lickimat
Lickimats are easy to hand wash with hot soapy water, scrubbing clean with a washing up brush. I would recommend soaking the mat in the water before scrubbing. I made the mistake of trying to wash it under a running tap and I got very wet!
What types of Lickimat are available?
As well as the Lickimat Buddy shown here, there are several other types with different groove patterns. They are reasonably priced too. You can buy a basic square Lickimat for around £5.
For a little more, there is also the Lickimat Wobble Bowl which Flossie enjoys and the Lickimat Splash which has a suction pad for use on tiles so you can keep your dog happy while you’re washing him down.
Lickimat products are widely available from Amazon, Fetch, Viovet and other online retailers.
Suzy Pope is a certified copywriter and newspaper columnist specialising in pets, business and lifestyle. If you would like help with a writing project, please get in touch.
