🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Best Lick Mats for Small Dogs Under 20 Lbs? Our Top 5 Picks

Small dogs have shorter tongues, making shallow nub lick mats more effective. We researched top mats like KONG Lick Mat to find the best textures for small breeds.

ProPawPicks Editorial Team

ProPawPicks Reviewer

Updated

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★ Top Pick: KONG Lick Mat Check Price on Amazon →

Picks Compared

4.5 oz

Average Mat Weight

6.5 inches

Average Diameter

100%

Food-Grade Silicone

⚡ Key takeaways

Best Overall: KONG Lick Mat. The KONG Lick Mat features gentle, shallow nubs perfect for small tongues.
Best for Strong Lickers: Outward Hound Lick Mat. With deeper grooves and a textured surface, the Outward Hound Lick Mat keeps determined li.
Best Budget: Hyper Pet Lick Mat. The Hyper Pet Lick Mat offers a simple, effective design at a low price.
Best for Easy Cleaning: LickiMat by LickiMat. The LickiMat brand is known for its non-porous surface that resists staining and odors.
Best Design: PetFusion Lick Mat. The PetFusion Lick Mat has an ergonomic shape with multiple compartments to spread differe.

At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Product	Best For
KONG Lick Mat	Best Overall	Check price →
Outward Hound Lick Mat	Best for Strong Lickers	Check price →
Hyper Pet Lick Mat	Best Budget	Check price →
LickiMat by LickiMat	Best for Easy Cleaning	Check price →
PetFusion Lick Mat	Best Design	Check price →

Quick answer

Our top pick is the KONG Lick Mat for its gentle nubs, strong suction, and dishwasher-safe design. For a budget-friendly option, the Hyper Pet Lick Mat offers great value. If your dog is a strong licker, the Outward Hound Lick Mat provides deeper grooves for longer engagement.

What to consider for Lick Mat For Dogs Under 20 Lbs

Small dogs have smaller tongues and mouths, so the mat’s texture should be shallow enough to reach but engaging. Suction strength is critical to prevent sliding on smooth floors. Material safety is paramount since dogs will be licking for extended periods. Easy cleaning (dishwasher-safe) is a must for daily use. Also consider the mat’s size: it should fit in your dog’s bowl or on a flat surface without being too large.

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

When selecting a lick mat for a small dog, prioritize size-appropriate textures to avoid frustration. Durability matters if your dog tends to chew the mat; look for thick silicone. Non-toxic, food-grade materials are essential. For enrichment, choose a mat with varied patterns to spread food and extend licking time. Avoid mats with small detachable parts that could be chewed off.

How we chose these picks

Evaluated suction strength on tile and hardwood floors.
Checked material safety certifications (FDA, BPA-free, food-grade silicone).
Considered texture depth suitable for small tongues.
Reviewed cleaning ease (dishwasher-safe, no crevices).
Assessed durability against licking and occasional chewing.
Read verified customer feedback for small dog owners.
Compared price and value across multiple brands.
Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

Mats with shallow suction that slide around, frustrating your dog.
Textures too deep or sharp that could irritate a small tongue.
Mats made from materials that absorb odors or are hard to clean.
Leaving your dog unsupervised with a mat if they are prone to chewing it.

For more guides, visit our dog guides and explore dog care products and dog health sections.

Why this matters

Small dogs have shorter tongues, so lick mats with shallow, closely spaced nubs are more effective than deep grooves. The best mats balance texture difficulty with accessibility to prevent frustration.

The Options

Types Explained

Classic Lick Mat

A flat silicone mat with raised patterns or nubs. Food is spread across the surface for licking. Ideal for calming anxious dogs or slowing fast eaters.

Best for: Dogs that need gentle enrichment and stress relief.

Suction Lick Mat

Features strong suction cups on the bottom to attach to floors or walls. Helps keep the mat stationary during use.

Best for: Active lickers or dogs that push the mat around.

Puzzle Lick Mat

Combines lick mat textures with puzzle elements like compartments or removable pieces. Provides mental stimulation beyond simple licking.

PetFusion Lick Mat

View on Amazon

The PetFusion Lick Mat has an ergonomic shape with multiple compartments to spread different foods. Its textured surface provides moderate difficulty for small dogs. The silicone is thick and durable, and the mat is dishwasher-safe. However, the larger size may be overkill for very small dogs.

Check Price on Amazon →

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

Suction Strength

A lick mat that slides around is frustrating. Look for strong suction cups that hold on tile, wood, or laminate. Test reviews often mention suction performance.

Texture Depth

Small dogs need shallow to moderate textures to reach food easily. Deep grooves may be too challenging, while very shallow ones might not hold enough spread.

Material Safety

Ensure the mat is made from food-grade silicone, BPA-free, and phthalate-free. Non-toxic materials are essential since dogs will lick the mat for extended periods.

Ease of Cleaning

Dishwasher-safe mats save time. Hand washing should be easy without crevices that trap food. Some mats are also microwave-safe for quick sanitizing.

Size and Portability

The mat should fit in your dog's bowl or on a flat surface. A compact size is better for small dogs and travel. Oversized mats can be cumbersome.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Daily Cleaning

Rinse the mat under warm water immediately after use to remove residue. Use a soft brush to clean grooves. Most mats are dishwasher-safe on the top rack.

Deep Cleaning

Soak the mat in a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap for 10 minutes. Scrub with a brush, rinse thoroughly, and air dry. Avoid abrasive cleaners that may damage silicone.

Storage

Store the mat flat or rolled loosely. Avoid folding or stacking heavy objects on top to prevent deformation. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration.

Pro tip

To increase licking time, freeze the mat after spreading a thin layer of peanut butter or yogurt. This also soothes teething puppies and provides a cooling treat.

Frequently asked questions

Are lick mats safe for heavy chewers?

Lick mats are designed for licking, not chewing. If your dog is a heavy chewer, they may bite off pieces of silicone, which can be a choking hazard. For heavy chewers, choose a mat made from extra-thick, durable silicone and supervise use. If your dog tends to chew, consider offering the mat only during supervised sessions and remove it once the food is gone.

How do I size a lick mat for my small dog?

For dogs under 20 pounds, choose a mat with a diameter of 5 to 7 inches. The mat should be small enough that your dog can easily reach all areas with their tongue. A mat that is too large may be intimidating or difficult to clean. Also consider the depth of the grooves: shallow to moderate textures work best for small tongues.

Do I need to supervise my dog with a lick mat?

Yes, supervision is recommended, especially the first few times. While lick mats are generally safe, some dogs may try to chew or swallow the mat. If you notice any signs of chewing or ingestion, remove the mat immediately. Always choose a mat made from non-toxic, food-grade silicone to minimize risks.

Can lick mats help with dental health?

Lick mats primarily provide mental stimulation and slow feeding, not dental cleaning. However, spreading dental-friendly foods like plain yogurt or pumpkin can promote oral health by increasing saliva production, which helps neutralize acids. For actual dental benefits, consider VOHC-approved dental chews or regular brushing.

Are puzzle toys better than lick mats for boredom?

Both can reduce boredom, but they work differently. Lick mats are simpler and focus on licking, which can be calming. Puzzle toys require problem-solving and are more mentally stimulating. For small dogs, a combination of both is ideal. Start with a lick mat for relaxation and introduce puzzle toys for cognitive challenge.

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

Digestible chews, like certain dental sticks, break down in the stomach and are safe to swallow in small pieces. Non-digestible chews, like nylon bones, are not meant to be swallowed and can cause blockages. Lick mats are non-digestible but are not chewed; they are licked. Always choose products appropriate for your dog's size and chewing habits.

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 a soft brush to remove food residue. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive sponges that can scratch the silicone. Dry thoroughly before storing to prevent mold or bacteria growth.

Can I freeze a lick mat?

Yes, freezing a lick mat with spread food can extend licking time and provide cooling relief, especially in warm weather. Use foods like yogurt, peanut butter, or wet dog food. Ensure the mat is freezer-safe (most silicone mats are). Supervise your dog during frozen use to prevent overexertion.

What should I do if my dog swallows a piece of the lick mat?

If you suspect your dog has swallowed a piece of silicone, contact your veterinarian immediately. Symptoms of intestinal blockage include vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, and difficulty defecating. To prevent this, always supervise use and replace worn mats promptly.

A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your pet's diet or care routine, especially if your pet 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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Best Lick Mats for Small Dogs Under 20 Lbs? Our Top 5 Picks

Quick Comparison

Quick answer

What to consider for Lick Mat For Dogs Under 20 Lbs

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

How we chose these picks

What to avoid

Types Explained

Classic Lick Mat

Suction Lick Mat

Puzzle Lick Mat

Travel Lick Mat

Top 5 Picks

KONG Lick Mat

Outward Hound Lick Mat

Hyper Pet Lick Mat

LickiMat by LickiMat

PetFusion Lick Mat

Key Buying Factors

Suction Strength

Texture Depth

Material Safety

Ease of Cleaning

Size and Portability

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Daily Cleaning

Deep Cleaning

Storage

Frequently asked questions

How we made this guide

More Dog Care Products guides

Sources and further reading