🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

German Shepherd Lick Mat Guide: KONG & Top Picks

Discover how lick mats calm your German Shepherd through slow licking. We compare 5 top mats including KONG for lasting enrichment.

PE
ProPawPicks Editorial Team
ProPawPicks Reviewer
Updated

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🐾New to the breed? Read our full German Shepherd breed guide for temperament, care, health and lifespan. KONG Lick Mat ★ Top Pick: KONG Lick Mat Check Price on Amazon →
8-10 in
Average Mat Length
10-15 min
Typical Licking Session
2-3 tbsp
Spread Capacity
4.5/5
Average Rating
⚡ Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: KONG Lick Mat. The KONG Lick Mat is made from durable, food-grade silicone that withstands enthusiastic l.
  • Best for Aggressive Chewers: Outward Hound Lick Mat with Suction Cups. This mat features a thicker, more rigid silicone construction that resists chewing better.
  • Best Budget: PetSafe Lickety Lick Mat. An affordable option that still offers good quality.
  • Best Puzzle Toy: LickiMat by Petface. The LickiMat has a unique textured surface with multiple zones that challenge dogs to lick.
  • Best for Slow Feeding: Hyper Pet Lick Mat. Designed with raised bumps and channels that slow down eating, this mat is ideal for Germa.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

ProductBest For
KONG Lick Mat Best Overall Check price →
Outward Hound Lick Mat with Suction Cups Best for Aggressive Chewers Check price →
PetSafe Lickety Lick Mat Best Budget Check price →
LickiMat by Petface Best Puzzle Toy Check price →
Hyper Pet Lick Mat Best for Slow Feeding Check price →

Quick answer

The KONG Lick Mat is our top pick for most German Shepherds due to its durable rubber construction, large surface area, and strong suction cups. For heavy chewers who might destroy softer mats, the Outward Hound Lick Mat with Suction Cups offers a tougher alternative. The PetSafe Lickety Lick Mat is ideal for beginners or dogs who prefer a simple flat surface.

What to consider for Lick Mat For German Shepherds

German Shepherds are intelligent, high-energy dogs that benefit from calming activities. Lick mats are excellent for reducing anxiety, slowing down fast eaters, and providing mental stimulation. Key considerations include the mat’s size (larger mats suit bigger dogs), suction strength to keep the mat in place, material durability against strong tongues and occasional nibbling, and ease of cleaning. Mats with deeper grooves hold more spread and keep dogs occupied longer.

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

When selecting a lick mat for a German Shepherd, consider size appropriate to the dog to avoid frustration or choking hazards. Durability is crucial because some dogs may try to chew the mat; choose food-grade silicone or rubber that can withstand moderate chewing. Non-toxic materials are a must, as the mat will be licked repeatedly. While lick mats are not dental chews, some designs incorporate ridges that gently massage gums. Genuine enrichment value comes from mats that require effort to lick out the spread, engaging the dog’s problem-solving skills.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated product dimensions to ensure they are large enough for a German Shepherd’s tongue.
  • Checked suction cup strength and stability on various floor surfaces.
  • Reviewed material safety certifications (FDA food-grade silicone or BPA-free).
  • Considered ease of cleaning, including dishwasher safety.
  • Assessed groove depth and pattern complexity for extended licking duration.
  • Read verified buyer feedback for durability and real-world performance.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • Lick mats that are too small, as they may not provide enough spread for a large dog.
  • Mats with weak suction that slide around, causing frustration.
  • Hard plastic mats that could crack or splinter if chewed.
  • Leaving a heavy chewer unsupervised with any lick mat, as some dogs may try to ingest pieces.

Explore more of our dog guides and check out dog health and dog care products for additional tips.

Why this matters

Lick mats provide calming enrichment by encouraging slow, repetitive licking, which releases endorphins and reduces stress in German Shepherds. Choosing a mat with deep grooves and strong suction maximizes the calming effect.

The Options

Types Explained

Flat Lick Mat

A simple, flat silicone mat with shallow ridges or bumps. Easy to spread and clean, ideal for beginners or dogs that prefer a straightforward licking surface.

Best for: Dogs that are new to lick mats or have a gentle licking style.

Grooved Lick Mat

Features deep, maze-like grooves that hold more spread and require more effort to lick out. Provides extended mental stimulation.

Best for: German Shepherds that need a longer calming activity or are experienced with lick mats.

Suction Cup Lick Mat

Equipped with suction cups on the bottom to stick to smooth floors. Prevents sliding and keeps the mat in place during use.

Best for: Dogs that push the mat around or lick vigorously on tile or hardwood floors.

Slow Feeder Lick Mat

Designed with raised bumps and channels to slow down eating. Often used for spreading wet food or yogurt to encourage slower consumption.

Best for: German Shepherds that eat too quickly and need help slowing down.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
KONG Lick Mat
Best Overall

KONG Lick Mat

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The KONG Lick Mat is made from durable, food-grade silicone that withstands enthusiastic licking. Its large surface area (9x7 inches) accommodates plenty of spread, and the strong suction cups keep it firmly on the floor. The varied groove pattern provides mental stimulation. A trade-off is that some very determined chewers may eventually damage the edges, so supervision is recommended.

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#2
Outward Hound Lick Mat with Suction Cups
Best for Aggressive Chewers

Outward Hound Lick Mat with Suction Cups

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This mat features a thicker, more rigid silicone construction that resists chewing better than softer mats. The deep, maze-like grooves hold thick spreads like peanut butter or yogurt, extending licking time. Suction cups are extra strong. However, the mat is slightly smaller (8x6 inches), which may require refilling for large German Shepherds.

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#3
PetSafe Lickety Lick Mat
Best Budget

PetSafe Lickety Lick Mat

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An affordable option that still offers good quality. It has a simple flat surface with shallow ridges, making it easy to spread and clean. The mat is flexible and can be rolled for storage. The main limitation is that the suction cups are less powerful, so it may slide on smooth floors. Best for dogs that don't push the mat around.

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#4
LickiMat by Petface
Best Puzzle Toy

LickiMat by Petface

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The LickiMat has a unique textured surface with multiple zones that challenge dogs to lick from different angles. It is made from non-toxic TPR and is dishwasher safe. The mat is larger (10x7 inches) and has strong suction. One downside is that the texture can be harder to clean thoroughly, requiring a brush for the grooves.

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#5
Hyper Pet Lick Mat
Best for Slow Feeding

Hyper Pet Lick Mat

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Designed with raised bumps and channels that slow down eating, this mat is ideal for German Shepherds that gulp food. It is made from BPA-free silicone and includes a suction base. The mat is slightly smaller (7x5 inches) but deep grooves hold a good amount. A trade-off is that it may not be as durable as thicker mats for aggressive lickers.

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Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Size and Surface Area

German Shepherds have large tongues, so a mat should be at least 8 inches in diameter to allow comfortable licking. A larger surface also holds more spread, keeping your dog occupied longer.

02

Suction Cup Strength

Strong suction cups prevent the mat from sliding across the floor, which can frustrate your dog. Look for mats with multiple suction cups or a non-slip base for tile or hardwood floors.

03

Material Safety

Ensure the mat is made from food-grade silicone or BPA-free, non-toxic materials. Dogs will be licking the mat directly, so safety is paramount. Avoid mats with strong chemical smells.

04

Ease of Cleaning

Lick mats can get messy with sticky spreads. Dishwasher-safe mats are easiest to clean. Mats with deep grooves may require a brush to remove residue from crevices.

05

Durability Against Chewing

While lick mats are not chew toys, some dogs may nibble the edges. Thicker silicone or rubber mats are more resistant to damage. If your dog is a heavy chewer, choose a mat specifically marketed as chew-resistant.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Daily Cleaning

After each use, rinse the mat with warm water and mild soap. Use a soft brush to remove any residue from grooves. Most silicone mats are dishwasher safe on the top rack.

Deep Cleaning

Once a week, soak the mat in a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar for 15 minutes to disinfect. Rinse thoroughly and air dry. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that can damage the surface.

Storage and Replacement

Store the mat flat or rolled loosely in a dry area. Inspect regularly for signs of wear, such as cracks or torn edges. Replace the mat if it becomes damaged to prevent ingestion of small pieces.

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 or anxious dogs.

Frequently asked questions

Are lick mats safe for heavy chewers?
Lick mats are designed for licking, not chewing. Most are made from soft silicone that can be damaged by heavy chewers. If your German Shepherd is a determined chewer, choose a thicker, more durable mat and supervise use. Replace the mat at the first sign of damage to prevent ingestion of small pieces. For heavy chewers, consider using the mat only when you can monitor your dog.
How do I choose the right size lick mat for my German Shepherd?
German Shepherds are large dogs with big tongues, so a mat should be at least 8 inches in diameter or larger. A mat that is too small may not hold enough spread and can be frustrating. Measure your dog's tongue length roughly; the mat should be wider than the tongue to allow comfortable licking. Larger mats also provide more mental stimulation as they take longer to clean.
Do I need to supervise my dog while using a lick mat?
Yes, supervision is recommended, especially for dogs that may try to chew the mat. While lick mats are generally safe, any product can pose a choking hazard if pieces are broken off. Stay nearby during use, and remove the mat once your dog finishes or if you notice any damage. Never leave a dog unattended with a new toy or mat.
Can lick mats help with dental health?
Lick mats are not a substitute for dental chews or brushing, but they can promote saliva production, which helps reduce plaque buildup. Some mats have ridges that gently massage gums. For dental health, consider using a VOHC-approved dental chew or consult your veterinarian. Lick mats are primarily for enrichment and calming, not dental cleaning.
Are puzzle toys like lick mats good for boredom?
Yes, lick mats are excellent for combating boredom. The act of licking releases endorphins that calm dogs, and the challenge of extracting spread from grooves provides mental stimulation. For German Shepherds, which are intelligent and need regular enrichment, a lick mat can be a valuable tool. Rotate different spreads to keep the activity novel.
What is the difference between digestible and non-digestible chews?
Digestible chews, like certain dental sticks, are designed to be consumed and broken down in the stomach. Non-digestible chews, such as rubber toys or nylon bones, are meant to be chewed but not swallowed. Lick mats are non-digestible; they are not intended to be eaten. Always choose products appropriate for your dog's chewing style and supervise to prevent ingestion of non-digestible pieces.
How do I clean a lick mat properly?
Most lick mats are dishwasher safe on the top rack. For hand washing, use warm water and mild dish soap. A soft brush helps remove residue from grooves. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals. Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry. For stubborn stains, soak in a baking soda paste. Regular cleaning prevents bacterial growth.
Can I use a lick mat for wet food or only spreads?
Lick mats work well with wet food, yogurt, peanut butter, pumpkin puree, or any semi-solid spread. You can also freeze the mat with spread to create a longer-lasting treat. Avoid using hard or sharp items that could damage the mat. Always ensure the spread is safe for dogs and does not contain xylitol or other toxic ingredients.
What safety concerns should I watch for with lick mats?
The main safety concerns are choking if pieces break off, and potential ingestion of silicone. Inspect the mat before each use for cracks or tears. If your dog is an aggressive chewer, choose a durable mat and supervise. Also, ensure the mat is securely suctioned to prevent sliding, which could startle your dog. Clean the mat regularly to avoid mold or bacteria buildup.
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.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Dog Care Products, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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Sources and further reading

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.