🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Need teething puppy relief? Best lick mats for your pup

Lick mats aren't a cure-all for teething, but they can significantly reduce discomfort and provide mental stimulation. Our top pick: the KONG Puppy Lick Mat.

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ProPawPicks Editorial Team
ProPawPicks Reviewer
Updated

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KONG Puppy Lick Mat ★ Top Pick: KONG Puppy Lick Mat Check Price on Amazon →
2 to 5
Minutes of licking per session
4 to 8
Weeks typical teething period
100%
BPA-free silicone recommended
1 to 2
Mats suggested for rotation
⚡ Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: KONG Puppy Lick Mat. The KONG Puppy Lick Mat is made from soft, puppy-safe silicone that soothes sore gums.
  • Best Puzzle Lick Mat: Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl. This slow feeder bowl doubles as a lick mat with raised ridges that encourage licking and.
  • Best Budget: PetDroid Slow Feeder Lick Mat. The PetDroid Slow Feeder Lick Mat offers a large surface area with various textures at an.
  • Best for Mental Stimulation: LickiMat Wobble. The LickiMat Wobble is a unique domed mat that wobbles as the puppy licks, adding an extra.
  • Best Value Set: Hyper Pet Lickety Mat. The Hyper Pet Lickety Mat comes in a set of two different textures, allowing variety for y.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

ProductBest For
KONG Puppy Lick Mat Best Overall Check price →
Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl Best Puzzle Lick Mat Check price →
PetDroid Slow Feeder Lick Mat Best Budget Check price →
LickiMat Wobble Best for Mental Stimulation Check price →
Hyper Pet Lickety Mat Best Value Set Check price →

Quick answer

The best lick mat for teething puppies is the KONG Puppy Lick Mat. Its soft silicone texture soothes sore gums while holding treats or peanut butter. For a more challenging option, the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl slows eating and provides mental stimulation. Budget-conscious owners may prefer the PetDroid Slow Feeder Lick Mat.

What to consider for Lick Mat For Teething Puppies

Teething puppies need gentle relief for inflamed gums. A lick mat should have soft, flexible silicone nubs that massage gums without being too hard. Size matters: a mat that is too small may not hold enough spread, while one too large could be cumbersome. Look for mats that can be frozen for extra soothing effect. Also consider ease of cleaning, as puppies drool and make messes. Non-toxic, food-grade materials are essential since puppies will lick and chew the mat.

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

When choosing a lick mat for a teething puppy, prioritize size appropriate for the puppy to avoid choking, durability matched to chew strength (puppies have softer jaws but can still damage weak silicone), non-toxic materials (BPA-free, food-grade silicone), and genuine enrichment value (nooks and crannies that challenge the puppy to lick and work for food). For dental chews, look for a VOHC seal, but lick mats themselves are not dental chews.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated product descriptions and customer reviews for safety and material quality.
  • Considered only BPA-free, food-grade silicone or similar non-toxic materials.
  • Focused on designs that provide gum massage and mental stimulation.
  • Checked for ease of cleaning, including dishwasher safety.
  • Compared sizes to ensure suitability for small to medium puppy breeds.
  • Included options that can be frozen for added teething relief.
  • Prioritized products with strong suction to stay in place.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • Avoid lick mats with small removable parts that could be chewed off and swallowed.
  • Do not use lick mats that are too hard or rigid; they can damage puppy teeth.
  • Avoid mats that are too thin or flimsy; they may tear and pose a choking hazard.
  • Never leave a teething puppy unsupervised with a lick mat, especially if they are aggressive chewers.

For more guidance, see our dog guides or visit dog health and dog care products.

Why this matters

Lick mats are not a cure-all for teething, but they can significantly reduce discomfort and provide mental stimulation when used alongside appropriate chew toys.

The Options

Types Explained

Flat Lick Mat

A flat silicone mat with raised nubs or ridges. It is the most common type, easy to spread food on, and often has suction cups. Best for simple licking and gum massage.

Best for: Puppies that need basic gum relief and slow feeding.

Slow Feeder Bowl

A bowl with internal ridges that force the puppy to lick and work around obstacles to get food. It combines feeding with enrichment.

Best for: Puppies that eat too quickly and need mental stimulation during meals.

Wobble Lick Mat

A domed mat that wobbles when licked, adding instability and challenge. It encourages problem-solving and extends licking time.

Best for: Active, curious puppies that enjoy a puzzle.

Multi-Texture Mat

A mat with different textures and patterns on one surface, offering varied tactile sensations. Often sold in sets.

Best for: Puppies that get bored easily and need variety.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
KONG Puppy Lick Mat
Best Overall

KONG Puppy Lick Mat

View on Amazon

The KONG Puppy Lick Mat is made from soft, puppy-safe silicone that soothes sore gums. Its textured surface holds peanut butter or yogurt well, and it can be frozen for extra relief. The suction base keeps it in place. However, it is relatively small, so it may not hold enough spread for larger puppies or multiple sessions.

Check Price on Amazon →
#2
Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl
Best Puzzle Lick Mat

Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl

View on Amazon

This slow feeder bowl doubles as a lick mat with raised ridges that encourage licking and slow eating. It is made from food-grade silicone and is dishwasher safe. The maze-like design provides mental stimulation. One limitation is that it is not as flexible as a flat mat, making it harder to freeze evenly.

Check Price on Amazon →
#3
PetDroid Slow Feeder Lick Mat
Best Budget

PetDroid Slow Feeder Lick Mat

View on Amazon

The PetDroid Slow Feeder Lick Mat offers a large surface area with various textures at an affordable price. It is made from non-toxic silicone and has strong suction. It works well for spreading wet food or treats. A downside is that the nubs are somewhat soft, which may not hold up to aggressive licking over time.

Check Price on Amazon →
#4
LickiMat Wobble
Best for Mental Stimulation

LickiMat Wobble

View on Amazon

The LickiMat Wobble is a unique domed mat that wobbles as the puppy licks, adding an extra challenge. It is made from durable, food-grade silicone and can be frozen. The wobbling motion engages the puppy's problem-solving skills. However, the wobble may be too unstable for very small puppies or those easily frustrated.

Check Price on Amazon →
#5
Hyper Pet Lickety Mat
Best Value Set

Hyper Pet Lickety Mat

View on Amazon

The Hyper Pet Lickety Mat comes in a set of two different textures, allowing variety for your puppy. Both mats are made from non-toxic silicone and are dishwasher safe. They have strong suction and are large enough for multiple uses. One trade-off is that the mats are thinner than some competitors, which may reduce durability with heavy use.

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Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Material Safety

Always choose a lick mat made from food-grade, BPA-free silicone. Puppies will be in direct contact with the mat, so non-toxic materials are essential to prevent ingestion of harmful chemicals.

02

Texture and Nub Design

The nubs should be soft enough to massage gums but firm enough to hold spread. Varied textures can provide different levels of stimulation and help keep the puppy engaged longer.

03

Size and Suction

A mat that is too small may not hold enough food, while one too large may be difficult to place. Strong suction keeps the mat from sliding, which is important for active puppies.

04

Ease of Cleaning

Lick mats can get messy with sticky spreads. Look for dishwasher-safe mats or those with smooth surfaces that are easy to hand wash. Deep crevices can harbor bacteria.

05

Freezer Compatibility

Freezing a lick mat can provide extra soothing relief for teething gums. Ensure the mat is freezer-safe and flexible enough to not crack when frozen.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Daily Cleaning

Rinse the lick mat with warm water immediately after use to remove residue. Wash with mild soap and a soft brush to prevent buildup in crevices. Most silicone mats are dishwasher safe on the top rack.

Inspect for Damage

Regularly check the mat for tears, cracks, or loose pieces. If the mat shows signs of wear, replace it immediately to prevent choking hazards. Puppies with sharp teeth can damage silicone over time.

Rotate and Store

Have at least two lick mats so one can be cleaned while the other is in use. Store mats in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent silicone degradation.

Pro tip

Freeze the lick mat with a thin layer of plain yogurt or pumpkin puree for a soothing, long-lasting treat that also helps distract your puppy from chewing on furniture.

Frequently asked questions

Are lick mats safe for heavy chewers?
Lick mats are generally safe for puppies who lick, but heavy chewers may bite through the silicone. If your puppy is a strong chewer, supervise use and choose a thicker, more durable mat. Replace the mat if you see bite marks or pieces missing. For aggressive chewers, consider offering a designated chew toy instead.
How do I size a lick mat for my puppy?
Choose a lick mat that is larger than your puppy's mouth to prevent accidental swallowing. The mat should be long enough that the puppy cannot fold it and bite off pieces. For small breeds, a 6x8 inch mat is often sufficient. For larger puppies, opt for a mat at least 8x10 inches.
Should I supervise my puppy with a lick mat?
Yes, always supervise your puppy with a lick mat, especially the first few times. While lick mats are low-risk, puppies can sometimes bite off pieces or get the mat stuck on their tongue. Supervision ensures you can intervene if needed and helps you gauge your puppy's chewing style.
Can lick mats replace dental chews?
No, lick mats are not a substitute for dental chews. They do not provide the mechanical abrasion needed to reduce plaque and tartar. For dental health, look for VOHC-accepted chews or regular brushing. Lick mats are primarily for enrichment and gum soothing.
How do lick mats help with boredom?
Lick mats engage a puppy's natural instinct to lick and forage. Spreading food like peanut butter or wet food requires the puppy to work to get every bit, providing mental stimulation. This can reduce destructive behaviors and help calm an anxious puppy.
What is the difference between digestible and non-digestible chews?
Digestible chews, like certain rawhide alternatives, break down in the stomach and are less likely to cause blockages. Non-digestible chews, like nylon or hard plastic, are not meant to be swallowed and can cause intestinal blockages if ingested. Lick mats are non-digestible, so always supervise and remove if pieces break off.
How do I clean a lick mat thoroughly?
After each use, rinse the mat and scrub with a brush using warm soapy water. For deep cleaning, soak the mat in a mixture of water and white vinegar for 15 minutes, then rinse. Most silicone mats are dishwasher safe; place them on the top rack away from heating elements.
Can I freeze a lick mat?
Yes, freezing a lick mat can provide extra relief for teething gums. Spread a thin layer of peanut butter or yogurt, then place the mat in the freezer for 30 minutes to an hour. Ensure the mat is freezer-safe and flexible to avoid cracking.
What should I do if my puppy swallows a piece of the lick mat?
If your puppy swallows a piece of silicone, monitor for signs of distress such as vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite. Contact your veterinarian immediately for advice. To prevent this, always supervise and replace worn mats.
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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