Healthy Lick Mat Recipes for Dogs That Boost Calm and Enrichment - Petdirect
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Healthy Lick Mat Recipes for Dogs That Boost Calm and Enrichment

Healthy Lick Mat Recipes for Dogs That Boost Calm and Enrichment

If your pooch loves to lick (what dog doesn’t?), a lick mat might just become your secret weapon for enrichment, training or calming downtime. Not only do lick mats provide mental stimulation, but they’re also fantastic for easing stress, reducing boredom, and encouraging slow feeding. To help you get creative in the kitchen, we've rounded up our favourite healthy and tail-waggingly tasty lick mat recipe ideas your dog will love.

Whether you want to soothe an anxious pup, shake up mealtime, or reward your dog with a fun treat, these recipes are all easy to make and use ingredients you're likely to have at home or can pick up right here at Petdirect.

Why Lick Mats Are Great For Dogs

Dogs explore the world with their noses and tongues, so lick mats tap into their natural foraging instincts. Licking triggers the release of calming endorphins, which can help your dog feel safe and relaxed. Lick mats are especially useful for:

  • Reducing anxiety during grooming or storms
  • Slowing down gulpy eaters
  • Adding enrichment to rainy days or when stuck indoors
  • Diverting attention during training or visitors

If your dog struggles with stress, check out our calming essentials for dogs to support their emotional wellbeing.

How To Choose The Right Lick Mat

Lick mats come in a range of shapes and textures. When choosing one, consider your pup’s size, enthusiasm, and what you’ll be putting on it. For sloppy ingredients like yoghurt or purée, opt for fine grooves. For chunky dispersals like mashed veggies or raw food blends, a deeper, textured mat works better.

We recommend starting with a trusted brand like LickiMat, designed by pet experts with safety and enrichment in mind. If you’re looking for a great value alternative that still delivers on enrichment and durability, the M-PETS range of lick mats is another excellent option.

Easy Lick Mat Recipes Your Dog Will Love

Let’s get licking! These recipes are designed to be safe, nutritious and super simple to whip up at home. Be sure to adjust for any allergies or dietary needs specific to your pup.
Always introduce new foods gradually and adjust portions to suit your dog’s size, age, and dietary needs. Avoid ingredients like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and artificial sweeteners. If your dog has allergies or a medical condition, check with your vet before trying new recipes.

1. Peanut Butter & Banana Bliss

  • 1 ripe banana
  • 1 tablespoon natural, xylitol-free peanut butter
  • Optional: sprinkle of ground flaxseed for healthy fats

Mash the banana and mix with peanut butter. Spread evenly over the lick mat and freeze for longer enjoyment. Always check peanut butter labels to ensure it contains no xylitol, added sugar, or salt.

2. Calming Pumpkin & Yoghurt Swirl

  • 2 tablespoons plain Greek yoghurt
  • 2 tablespoons canned pumpkin (plain purée, not pie filling)

Mix and swirl directly onto the mat for a gut-friendly, soothing treat. If your dog is sensitive to dairy, start with a small amount or swap yoghurt for lactose-free yoghurt.

3. Meaty Mash-Up

  • Leftover chopped chicken or turkey (skinless, boneless)
  • 1/4 cup cooked mashed kumara or pumpkin
  • Slash of dog-safe bone broth for texture

This protein-packed combo keeps meat-loving pups satisfied. If using bone broth, ensure it is specifically made for dogs and free from onion, garlic, salt, and added seasonings.

4. Frozen Kibble Yogurt Bombs

  • Plain Greek yoghurt, unsweetened
  • Small portion of your dog’s regular kibble
  • Optional: finely chopped curly parsley only

Mix together and spoon onto a gently grooved mat. Freeze before serving for a longer-lasting treat. Curly parsley is safe in small amounts, but avoid spring onion or flat-leaf parsley. Try with quality kibble from brands like ACANA or Orijen for an extra nutritional boost.

Helpful Tips For Lick Mat Use

Here’s how to make your dog’s lick mat experience even better:

  • Supervise your pup the first few times to ensure they don’t chew the mat
  • Pop the mat in the freezer beforehand for longer-lasting fun
  • Rotate recipes to keep things interesting and support varied nutrition
  • Use the mat during potentially stressful times, like nail trims or when guests arrive

Looking for more ways to treat your pup? Explore our full range of dog treats at Petdirect, including NZ made options that support local and taste great too.

Wrap-Up: Fun, Enrichment, and Nutrition In One

Whether you’re looking to enrich your dog’s day, calm their nerves, or just show them a little extra love, these lick mat ideas are a perfect go-to. Not only do they bring variety to your dog’s routine, but they also allow you to easily sneak in extra nutrition or calming support when needed.

At Petdirect, We Get Pet. We're here to help you give your pup the happiest, healthiest life possible. So grab a lick mat, stock up on tasty toppers and dog treats, and start mixing up these tasty recipes today!

Want to stay stocked up? Check out our Autodeliver service for easy, repeat ordering. You’ll also earn rewards through our Pet Perks loyalty programme and even collect Airpoints – because treating your dog should reward you, too!