🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Best Lick Mat For First Time Owners 2026: 5 Picks Compared

New to lick mats? Our guide compares five top-rated options to help you choose the right one for your dog, focusing on ease of use, durability, and cleaning.

ProPawPicks Editorial Team

Reviewed for accuracy by our editorial team

Updated June 14, 2026

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.

★ Top Pick: KONG Lick Mat

5-15

Minutes of licking per session

100%

Food-grade silicone (top picks)

Dishwasher-safe

Cleaning method for most

3-6

Suction cups on average

⚡ Key takeaways

Best Overall: KONG Lick Mat. The KONG Lick Mat is our top pick for first-time owners due to its simple, effective desig.
Best for Slow Feeding: Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl. While primarily a slow feeder bowl, the Outward Hound Fun Feeder can also be used as a lic.
Best Budget: Hyper Pet Lick Pad. The Hyper Pet Lick Pad is an affordable option that still offers good quality.
Best for Calming: LickiMat Wavy. The LickiMat Wavy is designed specifically for calming anxious dogs.
Best for Durability: PetFusion Lick Mat. The PetFusion Lick Mat is built to last with thick, heavy-duty silicone.

Quick answer

Our top pick is the KONG Lick Mat for its simple design, strong suction, and dishwasher-safe convenience. It’s ideal for first-time owners because it’s easy to use and clean. If you want a more interactive option, the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl doubles as a slow feeder. For budget-conscious owners, the Hyper Pet Lick Pad offers good value.

What to consider for Lick Mat For First Time Owners

Lick mats are great for calming anxious dogs, slowing down fast eaters, or providing mental enrichment. As a first-time owner, consider the mat’s size, suction strength (to keep it in place), material (food-grade silicone is best), and ease of cleaning. Some mats have deeper grooves for longer-lasting engagement, while others are simpler. Also think about your dog’s licking intensity; a heavy licker may need a more durable mat.

What to look for in a toy or chew (chew toy, puzzle, lick mat or dental chew)

When choosing a lick mat or similar enrichment tool, look for: a size appropriate to your dog (not too small to avoid frustration or too large to store), non-toxic materials (BPA-free, food-grade silicone), easy cleaning (dishwasher-safe is a plus), and genuine enrichment value (grooves or textures that hold spreadable foods like peanut butter or yogurt). Avoid mats with small detachable parts that could be chewed off.

How we chose these picks

We evaluated products based on publicly available information, including customer reviews and manufacturer specs.
We prioritized mats made from safe, non-toxic materials like food-grade silicone.
We considered suction strength to prevent sliding during use.
We looked for ease of cleaning, preferring dishwasher-safe options.
We assessed durability for different licking intensities.
We compared price points to offer options for various budgets.
We checked for features that aid first-time owners, such as simple design and clear instructions.
Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

Avoid mats with small parts that can be chewed off and swallowed.
Do not use a mat that is too small, as it may not provide enough engagement.
Avoid mats made from materials that are not food-grade or contain BPA.
Do not leave your dog unsupervised with a lick mat if they are prone to chewing and destroying it.

For more guidance, check our dog guides and dog care products or dog nutrition sections.

Sources and further reading

At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Product	Best For
KONG Lick Mat	Best Overall	Check price →
Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl	Best for Slow Feeding	Check price →
Hyper Pet Lick Pad	Best Budget	Check price →
LickiMat Wavy	Best for Calming	Check price →
PetFusion Lick Mat	Best for Durability	Check price →

Why this matters

Lick mats are a low-cost, effective tool for reducing anxiety and slowing down fast eaters, but they require supervision if your dog is prone to chewing.

The Options

Types Explained

Flat Lick Mat

A simple, flat silicone mat with raised ridges or grooves. Often has suction cups on the back. Ideal for spreading soft foods like peanut butter or yogurt. Easy to clean and store.

Best for: First-time owners and dogs who need a calming activity.

Slow Feeder Bowl

A bowl with internal obstacles that slow down eating. Can double as a lick mat for wet food. Usually made of plastic or silicone. May not have suction cups.

Best for: Dogs that eat too quickly and need portion control.

Puzzle Lick Mat

A lick mat with more complex patterns, sometimes with removable pieces or hidden compartments. Provides higher mental stimulation. May be harder to clean.

PetFusion Lick Mat

View on Amazon

The PetFusion Lick Mat is built to last with thick, heavy-duty silicone. It features deep grooves and strong suction cups that hold even on textured surfaces. It's dishwasher-safe and comes in multiple sizes. The only limitation is its higher price point, but the durability makes it a worthwhile investment for enthusiastic lickers.

Check Price on Amazon →

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

Material Safety

Ensure the lick mat is made from non-toxic, food-grade silicone or rubber. Avoid mats with BPA, phthalates, or other harmful chemicals, especially since your dog will be licking directly off the surface.

Suction Strength

Strong suction cups are crucial to keep the mat in place on floors or walls. Test the mat on your specific surface; some mats work better on smooth tile or glass than on textured surfaces.

Ease of Cleaning

Lick mats can get messy with sticky foods. Look for dishwasher-safe options or those with smooth surfaces that are easy to hand wash. Deep grooves may require more effort to clean thoroughly.

Size and Depth of Grooves

Consider your dog's size and licking intensity. Larger dogs may need a bigger mat with deeper grooves to keep them engaged longer. Smaller mats may be sufficient for quick calming sessions.

Durability

If your dog is an aggressive licker or tends to chew, choose a thicker, more durable mat. Cheaper mats may wear out quickly or get damaged, posing a choking hazard if pieces break off.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Cleaning

Most lick mats are dishwasher-safe on the top rack. If hand washing, use warm soapy water and a soft brush to remove food residue from grooves. Avoid abrasive sponges that can damage the silicone.

Storage

Store lick mats flat or rolled loosely in a dry place. Avoid folding them sharply, as creases may weaken the material over time. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent degradation.

Inspection

Before each use, check for signs of wear such as cracks, tears, or missing pieces. If the mat becomes damaged, replace it immediately to prevent your dog from ingesting small parts.

Pro tip

Freeze the lick mat with a thin layer of peanut butter or yogurt for a longer-lasting challenge that also soothes teething puppies.

Frequently asked questions

Are lick mats safe for heavy chewers?

Lick mats are generally safe for licking, but if your dog is a heavy chewer, they may try to bite or chew the mat. This can damage the mat and create small pieces that could be swallowed. For heavy chewers, choose a thick, durable silicone mat and supervise use. If your dog attempts to chew the mat, redirect them to a more appropriate chew toy.

How do I size a lick mat for my dog?

Choose a lick mat that is proportional to your dog's size. A mat that is too small may not provide enough engagement, while one that is too large may be cumbersome. For small dogs, a mat around 6 to 8 inches in diameter is suitable. For medium to large dogs, look for mats 10 inches or larger. Consider the depth of grooves; deeper grooves hold more food and last longer.

Should I supervise my dog with a lick mat?

Yes, supervision is recommended, especially the first few times you use the mat. While lick mats are designed for licking, some dogs may try to chew or flip the mat. Supervision ensures you can intervene if the mat becomes a choking hazard or if your dog manages to tear off a piece. Always remove the mat once your dog loses interest or finishes the food.

Can lick mats provide dental benefits?

Lick mats themselves do not clean teeth like dental chews, but they can promote saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and wash away food particles. Some lick mats have textured surfaces that may provide mild abrasive action, but they are not a substitute for regular teeth brushing or VOHC-approved dental chews.

Are puzzle toys better than lick mats for boredom?

Both can help with boredom, but they serve different purposes. Lick mats are calming and focus on repetitive licking, which releases endorphins. Puzzle toys require problem-solving and are more mentally stimulating. For first-time owners, a lick mat is often easier to start with. You can combine both for variety.

What is the difference between digestible and non-digestible chews?

Digestible chews, like rawhide alternatives, break down in the stomach and are generally safer if swallowed. Non-digestible chews, like nylon bones, are not meant to be ingested and can cause blockages if large pieces are swallowed. Lick mats are non-digestible but are not meant to be chewed; they are for licking only. Always choose products appropriate for your dog's chewing style.

How do I clean a lick mat properly?

Most lick mats are dishwasher-safe; place them on the top rack. For hand washing, use warm water and mild dish soap. A soft brush helps clean grooves. Rinse thoroughly to remove soap residue. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals. Dry completely before storing to prevent mold or bacteria growth.

Can I use a lick mat for wet food or only spreads?

Lick mats work well with both wet food and spreads like peanut butter, yogurt, or pumpkin puree. For wet food, choose a mat with deeper grooves to hold the food. You can also freeze the mat with food for a longer-lasting challenge. Avoid using foods that are too runny, as they may drip off.

What safety concerns should I watch for with lick mats?

The main safety concerns are choking if your dog chews off and swallows a piece of the mat, and bacterial growth if the mat is not cleaned properly. Always inspect the mat for damage before use. Do not leave your dog unsupervised with a damaged mat. Clean the mat after each use to prevent mold and bacteria.

A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.

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