🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Dog Care Products

Calm Your Dog on Car Rides: Best Lick Mats 2026

Reduce travel anxiety in dogs with lick mats that release calming endorphins. Our top pick: KONG Lick Mat. Compare 5 options for every budget.

PE
ProPawPicks Editorial Team
ProPawPicks Reviewer
Updated

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KONG Lick Mat ★ Top Pick: KONG Lick Mat Check Price on Amazon →
5
Picks Compared
4.5
Average Customer Rating
100%
Food-Grade Silicone
3
Dishwasher Safe Picks
⚡ Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: KONG Lick Mat. This mat features strong suction cups that stick to windows or smooth surfaces, making it.
  • Best for Wet Food: Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo-Bowl. Designed as a slow feeder bowl, it works well as a lick mat for wet food in the car.
  • Best for Freezing: Hyper Pet Lickimat. This silicone mat can be frozen to extend licking time, which is great for long car rides.
  • Best Budget: JW Pet Lickimat Splash. An affordable silicone mat with a simple design that works well for travel.
  • Best Puzzle Lick Mat: LickiMat Wobble. This mat has a wobbly base that adds a puzzle element, making it more engaging for dogs.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

ProductBest For
KONG Lick Mat Best Overall Check price →
Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo-Bowl Best for Wet Food Check price →
Hyper Pet Lickimat Best for Freezing Check price →
JW Pet Lickimat Splash Best Budget Check price →
LickiMat Wobble Best Puzzle Lick Mat Check price →

Quick answer

The best lick mat for travel in cars is the KONG Lick Mat because it sticks securely to windows or smooth surfaces, has deep grooves to hold spreads, and is easy to clean. For a more portable option, the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo-Bowl is great for wet food. If you prefer a mat that can be frozen for longer-lasting entertainment, consider the Hyper Pet Lickimat.

What to consider for Lick Mat For Travel In Cars

When choosing a lick mat for car travel, consider how it attaches to surfaces. Suction cup mats should be strong enough to stay in place on windows or dashboards. Portability matters: a mat that folds or is lightweight is easier to pack. Material should be non-toxic and dishwasher safe for easy cleaning between uses. Size should fit your dog’s licking area without being too large for the car. Also think about the type of spread: some mats work better with wet food, others with frozen treats. Finally, check that the mat is durable enough for your dog’s licking intensity.

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

When selecting a lick mat or similar enrichment tool, prioritize size appropriate to your dog to prevent choking. Durability should match your dog’s chew strength: soft silicone mats are safe for most dogs but can be chewed by aggressive chewers. Non-toxic materials like food-grade silicone are essential. For dental chews, look for the VOHC seal. Genuine enrichment value comes from designs that challenge your dog to work for food, such as textured grooves or compartments.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated attachment mechanisms for car travel (suction cups, non-slip bases)
  • Checked material safety: all picks are food-grade silicone or BPA-free plastic
  • Considered ease of cleaning: dishwasher safe or simple hand wash
  • Reviewed customer feedback on durability and suction strength
  • Assessed size and portability for car use
  • Compared price to value
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission

What to avoid

  • Toys small enough to swallow or choke on
  • Hard chews that crack teeth
  • Falling-apart toys that shed pieces
  • Leaving a heavy chewer unsupervised with any toy

For more dog product guides, visit our dog guides and explore dog food and dog care products.

Why this matters

Lick mats are effective for reducing anxiety in dogs during car travel because the repetitive licking action releases calming endorphins, similar to the effect of a pacifier for humans.

The Options

Types Explained

Lick Mat

A flat silicone mat with textured grooves or ridges designed to hold spreads like peanut butter or yogurt. Dogs lick the food off, providing mental stimulation and calming effects.

Best for: Dogs who need a calming activity during car rides or crate time.

Slow Feeder Bowl

A bowl with internal ridges that slow down eating. It can double as a lick mat for wet food but is less portable than a mat.

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

Puzzle Lick Mat

A lick mat with added puzzle elements like wobbling bases or hidden compartments. It increases engagement and problem-solving.

Best for: Highly intelligent or bored dogs that need extra mental challenge.

Freezable Lick Mat

A silicone mat designed to be frozen with spreads, extending licking time. The cold can also soothe teething puppies.

Best for: Long car rides or teething puppies who need longer-lasting entertainment.
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
KONG Lick Mat
Best Overall

KONG Lick Mat

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This mat features strong suction cups that stick to windows or smooth surfaces, making it ideal for car travel. The textured grooves hold peanut butter, yogurt, or wet food, keeping dogs occupied. It is dishwasher safe and made from food-grade silicone. However, the suction cups may fail on textured surfaces, and some dogs may chew the edges.

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#2
Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo-Bowl
Best for Wet Food

Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo-Bowl

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Designed as a slow feeder bowl, it works well as a lick mat for wet food in the car. Its maze-like ridges slow down eating and provide mental stimulation. It is dishwasher safe and made from food-safe materials. A trade-off is that it lacks suction cups, so it may slide on smooth car seats, and it is bulkier than traditional mats.

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#3
Hyper Pet Lickimat
Best for Freezing

Hyper Pet Lickimat

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This silicone mat can be frozen to extend licking time, which is great for long car rides. It has deep grooves and a non-slip base that stays put on floors. It is dishwasher safe and comes in various colors. One limitation is that it does not have suction cups, so it may shift on car seats, and freezing can make it too hard for some dogs.

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#4
JW Pet Lickimat Splash
Best Budget

JW Pet Lickimat Splash

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An affordable silicone mat with a simple design that works well for travel. It has a non-slip base and is easy to clean. The shallow grooves are good for thin spreads like broth or purees. However, it may not hold thicker spreads as well, and some dogs finish quickly due to the shallow texture.

Check Price on Amazon →
#5
LickiMat Wobble
Best Puzzle Lick Mat

LickiMat Wobble

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This mat has a wobbly base that adds a puzzle element, making it more engaging for dogs. It is made from non-toxic silicone and is dishwasher safe. The wobble can be fun but may also cause spills in the car. It is best for dogs who need extra mental stimulation, though it may not be as secure as suction cup mats.

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Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Attachment Method

For car travel, suction cups or non-slip bases are crucial to prevent the mat from sliding. Suction cups work best on smooth surfaces like windows, while non-slip bases are better for seats or floors.

02

Material Safety

Always choose food-grade silicone or BPA-free plastic. These materials are non-toxic and safe for your dog to lick. Avoid mats with strong chemical smells or unknown materials.

03

Ease of Cleaning

Dishwasher safe mats are convenient for frequent use. Mats with deep grooves may require extra scrubbing by hand. Consider how often you will clean it after car rides.

04

Size and Portability

A compact, foldable mat is easier to store in the car. Larger mats may provide more licking area but can be cumbersome. Match the size to your dog's licking style and car space.

05

Durability

Silicone mats are generally durable, but aggressive lickers or chewers may damage them. Look for thicker silicone or reinforced edges. Replace if you see signs of wear to avoid ingestion.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Cleaning

Rinse the mat after each use to remove residue. Most silicone mats are dishwasher safe on the top rack. For hand washing, use warm soapy water and a brush to clean grooves. Avoid abrasive sponges that may damage the surface.

Storage

Store the mat flat or rolled in a dry place. Avoid folding it in a way that creases the silicone, as this can weaken the material. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration.

Inspection

Check regularly for signs of wear like cracks, tears, or loose pieces. If your dog is a chewer, inspect after each use. Replace the mat if damaged to prevent ingestion of silicone fragments.

Pro tip

Freeze the lick mat with a thin layer of plain yogurt or peanut butter before a long car ride to extend licking time and keep your dog occupied longer.

Frequently asked questions

Are lick mats safe for heavy chewers?
Lick mats are generally safe for licking, but heavy chewers may bite and tear the silicone. If your dog is a strong chewer, choose a thicker mat like the KONG Lick Mat and supervise use. Replace the mat at the first sign of damage to prevent ingestion. For aggressive chewers, consider using the mat only when you can monitor, or opt for a more durable chew toy instead.
How do I choose the right size lick mat for my dog?
Size the mat so your dog can comfortably lick without straining. A mat that is too small may frustrate your dog, while one that is too large may not fit in the car. For travel, a mat around 8x6 inches works for most small to medium dogs. Larger dogs may need a bigger surface. Ensure the mat does not cover the entire seat to allow for movement.
Do I need to supervise my dog with a lick mat?
Yes, always supervise your dog with any toy, including lick mats. Although rare, a dog could chew off and swallow a piece of silicone, leading to intestinal blockage. Supervision allows you to intervene if the mat becomes damaged. For car travel, keep the mat within your view and remove it if your dog starts chewing aggressively.
Can lick mats help with dental health?
Lick mats themselves do not clean teeth, but they can be used with dental-friendly spreads like plain yogurt or pumpkin puree. Some lick mats have textured surfaces that may gently massage gums, but they are not a substitute for dental chews or brushing. For dental benefits, look for VOHC-approved products. Lick mats primarily provide enrichment and calming effects.
Are puzzle lick mats good for boredom?
Yes, puzzle lick mats are excellent for relieving boredom. They require your dog to work for food by licking, which releases endorphins and reduces stress. This is especially helpful during car rides or when your dog is left alone. The added puzzle element increases mental stimulation, making it more engaging than a plain lick mat.
What is the difference between digestible and non-digestible chews?
Digestible chews, like bully sticks or rawhide alternatives, break down in the stomach and are generally safe if swallowed in small pieces. Non-digestible chews, like nylon bones or rubber toys, are not meant to be eaten and can cause blockages if ingested. Lick mats are non-digestible; if your dog swallows a piece, contact your vet immediately.
How do I clean a lick mat?
Most silicone lick mats are dishwasher safe on the top rack. For hand washing, use warm water and mild soap, scrubbing grooves with a brush. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals. Rinse thoroughly to remove soap residue. Dry completely before storing to prevent mold. Some mats can also be boiled for sterilization.
Can I use a lick mat for wet food in the car?
Yes, lick mats work well with wet food. Spread a thin layer of canned dog food or puree onto the mat. The grooves hold the food, and your dog licks it off. This can be a great way to feed a meal during a long car ride. However, wet food may spoil if left out for hours, so use it for short trips or pack it with an ice pack.
What should I do if my dog swallows a piece of a lick mat?
If your dog swallows a piece of silicone, contact your veterinarian immediately. Symptoms of blockage include vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, and difficulty defecating. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a vet. 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 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.