It's no secret that dogs need enrichment
As pet owners, do you want to give your dog a little extra enrichment in their life? If so, you're in luck! This guide is all about the delicious and healthy treats of lick mat toppings you can use to keep your pup entertained. Keep reading for information on what lick mats are and nine of the best toppings to use. Your dog is going to love you for it!
What are Lick Mats?
Do you want to give your dog a fun and delicious way to get their food? Check out lick mats! Lick mats are made from silicone rubber with dens and grooves that you place your dog's food (or treats!) on top of. Your pup then licks around the mat to grab their food using their tongue. Lick mats come in all shapes and sizes, but the best part is that they're one of the cheapest dog enrichment toys you could get. Lick mats are also a great way to help your puppy get used to their new crate. Simply pop one of our delicious toppings on top, and leave it in your dog's crate for five minutes while you leave the room. Doing this will help your new puppy see their crate as a fun and exciting place while making them less likely to howl, cry, or bark for attention that brings you back in the room.
What to put on a Lick Mat?
If you're just getting started with lick mats for your dog, you're probably wondering what to put on them. Not to worry - we've got you covered! Here are seven healthy and delicious lick mat toppings that will have your dog licking their plate clean.
The following are some recipes for your dog's lick mat:
- Peanut butter
- Cream cheese
- Bananas
- Sweet potato
- Honey
- Natural yoghurt
- Frozen vegetables
- Something fishy
- Blueberries
Peanut butter/ Almond Nut Butter
If you're looking for a healthy and delicious way to treat your pup, why not try some peanut butter on their lick mat? Regular peanut butter or almond nut butter, xylitol free, is an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins for dogs of all ages - but it's essential to make sure they don't overdo it. Like us, overeating can lead to health problems like diabetes or pancreatitis. So try to limit your pup's intake by giving them a peanut butter-filled lick mat once a week. But that's not all - here are eight more healthy and delicious lick mat toppings for your dog! Extend playtime on the lick mat with frozen peanut butter and be mindful of the calories from treats.
Cream cheese
If you're looking for a tasty and healthy way to top your dog's lick mat, why not try cream cheese? Cream cheese is a low-fat cheese perfect for dogs, and it makes a delicious and nutritious treat for your pup. Simply spread a dollop of cream cheese across your mat, and let your furry friend go to town! Just be sure to give this cheese in small quantities, as it is high in fat.
Banana
Bananas are a great healthy snack for dogs and contain a lot of potassium which is good for them. Like with any other topping, be sure to give your dog bananas only occasionally as they have a lot of sugar. Bananas make a healthy & delicious treat.
Sweet potato
Are you making sweet potatoes for dinner? Don't forget to save a few to top your dog's lick mat with! Dogs can eat cooked sweet potatoes, as they are a whole food and less likely to cause an immune response or damage the digestive tract. Sweet potatoes are a popular source of carbohydrates in commercial dog foods, so it's a good idea to start your puppy off with them by spreading a small amount (maybe 2-3 cubes) onto their lick mat. You want to make sure they like the flavour before coating their mat.
Honey
If you're looking for a natural way to help your dog's health, honey might be the answer. This sweetener has been shown to have antimicrobial and antifungal properties, reduce inflammation, soothe stomach ulcers and sore throats, and even increase your dog's tolerance to pollen. However, it's essential to be strict with how much honey you give your dog, as it is high in sugar. That said, using a tablespoon of honey as a topping for a lick mat is a great way to give your dog a healthy and delicious snack.
Natural yogurt
If you're looking for a healthy and delicious topping for your dog's lick mat, why not try natural plain (non-sweetened) yogurt. Plain yogurt is high in protein and calcium and is full of probiotics that boost your dog's immune system and help support digestion. Plus, it makes a long-lasting treat if frozen.
Pureed vegetables
Are you looking for a new healthy way to give your dog vegetables? Why not try pureed vegetables? vegetables are a great way to add nutrients and variety to your dog's diet, and they can be enjoyed as part of a delicious lick mat topping. Some of our favourites include:
Sweetcorn: This popular veg is an excellent source of fibre, and dogs love the sweet taste.
Green beans: These crunchy veggies are an excellent source of vitamins A, C and K and minerals like potassium and magnesium.
Broccoli: Broccoli is packed with nutrients, including vitamins C, K and B6, and minerals like zinc and selenium.
Carrots: These crunchy root vegetables are a great source of beta-carotene, vitamin A and potassium.
Pumpkin: Pumpkins are not just for Halloween! They're a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as beta-carotene.
Be sure to mix things up with dry and wet dog food and try different pureed vegetables to keep your dog's diet interesting.
Something Fishy
Adding wet food like canned fish, sardines and salmon to a dog's diet can be a great way to give them essential nutrients.Sardines are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamin D and selenium, among other nutrients. Be sure to look for canned fish that has been soaked in brine, not oil. Mix things up by trying different types of canned fish.
Blueberries
Blueberries are a tasty treat and are a good source of antioxidants, which help protect the brain from damage. The antioxidants in blueberries may also help improve cognitive function and memory. Adding blueberries as a topping on your dog lick mat is a great way to give them a nutrient-dense snack that is good for their brain health. You can also mash up blueberries or other dog safe pureed fruit/ vegetables and use them as a slathering base for other delicious lick mat toppings.
Changing The Way Dogs Eat for Good!
As responsible pet parents, we know that you want to do everything to help. Living with a sick dog after a meal is no fun. Our two doggos, Marley and Belle, both like to eat fast! So we know exactly what it's like to live with a dog in pain and discomfort after eating.
We are introducing the Ultimate, Versatile 4-in-1 Slow Feeder Dog Bowl! We're excited this new slow feeder dog bowl combines modern design with innovative functionality. It's more than just a slow feeder. A slow feeder bowl that naturally slows your dog down at chow time, as well as a reversible lick mat so your pet can enjoy a variety of delicious foods like purees, stews, or wet food. An excellent bowl for easy delicious food prep and storage doubles as a dog-friendly travel bowl for your canine adventures.
Your dog will have a happier, healthier mealtime experience giving you peace of mind. For more information about please see superfeedy.com
