As a dog parent and an enthusiast/advisor about all things canine, I’ve come across countless tools and toys designed to make our furry companions’ lives better. A product that stands out in this journey is the Lickimat. In this post I’ll share the inside scoop, dishing out seven benefits of introducing a Lickimat to your dog’s routine.

Have you ever found yourself questioning how to keep your four-legged buddy entertained, especially during mealtimes or when they seem anxious? The answer might lie in a seemingly simple, yet ingenious product: the Lickimat.

Lickimat: What is it?

For those unfamiliar, a Lickimat is a textured silicone mat designed to spread soft foods, like peanut butter or yogurt, for your dog to lick off. Using your dog’s favorite treats, making them work a little harder for their reward. Sounds simple? It is! But its benefits are profound.

The Concept Behind Lickimats

The Psychological Perspective: At its core, the concept of Lickimats goes beyond the basic idea of treat dispensing. Dogs, as creatures of habit and instinct, engage in licking for various reasons, from exploring their environment to signaling submission or affection. The act of licking releases endorphins in a dog’s brain, chemicals that act as natural mood elevators. These endorphins can help reduce stress and induce feelings of contentment, calm, and relaxation. Therefore, when a dog is presented with a Lickimat smeared with a tasty treat, not only do they get the pleasure of the treat itself but also the psychological satisfaction and calming effects that come with the repetitive action of licking.

Mimicking Natural Foraging Behavior: Before domestication, canines in the wild would forage for food, spending a significant amount of time searching, pawing, and licking to extract their meals from various sources. Lickimats emulate this foraging behavior, offering domestic dogs an opportunity to ‘work’ for their food. This slow, meticulous process of extracting food from the mat’s nooks and crannies can help satiate their inherent foraging instincts. It’s a reminder of their ancestral behaviors, fulfilling an inherent need that often goes unnoticed in modern pet care.

Holistic Well-being and Bonding: Lickimats aren’t just about providing physical nourishment through treats. They cater to a dog’s emotional and psychological well-being as well. When dog parents use a Lickimat, they aren’t just offering food. They’re giving their pet an activity, a form of mental stimulation that combats boredom and potentially destructive behaviors. Furthermore, as dog owners observe and interact with their pets during their Lickimat sessions, it opens avenues for increased bonding and understanding, enhancing the deep connection between human and canine.

Why Every Dog Parent Should Consider a Lickimat

1. Promotes Mental Stimulation for Your Furry Friend

We all know that dogs are intelligent beings. A Lickimat challenges them mentally, making them think and focus as they try to get every bit of the tasty treat. Think of it as a puzzle for your pooch that’s both fun and delicious. Searching and licking every last bit requires concentration, which can keep their mind sharp and active.

2. Encourages Slower Eating

We’ve all seen those pups who gulp down their food in mere seconds. Not only can this lead to indigestion, but it can also result in conditions like bloat. A Lickimat can help to slow them down, promoting healthier eating habits. By spreading out their favorite treat, it encourages them to eat slowly, aiding digestion and reducing the risk of bloating.

3. Promoting Calmness and Anxiety Relief

Licking is a natural behavior for dogs that releases calming hormones. Using a Lickimat, especially in stressful situations, can help alleviate feelings of anxiety. Remember those times when there’s a storm, and your dog gets all jittery? Or perhaps when you’re leaving for work? A loaded Lickimat can be a lifesaver! The repetitive action of licking is soothing for dogs, helping them relax.

4. Enhancing Dental Health

The act of licking and navigating the texture of the mat can help in removing food particles and debris from their tongue, teeth, and gums, promoting better oral health. As your dog licks the mat, they’re also giving their tongue and mouth a workout. This helps to clean the tongue, gums, and even freshen their breath! Who knew dental hygiene could be so tasty?

5. Ideal for Hot Days: Frozen Treat Fun

During scorching summer days, you can freeze the Lickimat after loading it with a treat. It serves as a cool and refreshing treat, ensuring your pup stays hydrated and happy. Spread some yogurt or broth on the mat and pop it in the freezer. Voila! A refreshing treat that’ll keep them occupied on a hot day.

6. Assists in Training Sessions

Got a feisty pup? Introduce a Lickimat during training. The promise of a tasty reward, that they’ll have to work for, can help make them more responsive to commands. A Lickimat keeps them engaged for longer, ensuring they’re occupied and focused.

7. Makes Mealtime More Engaging

Why just eat when you can have fun at the same time? Lickimats transform mealtime into an enjoyable activity, making your dog look forward to it even more.

How to Choose the Right Lickimat for Your Pooch

While the basic concept remains the same, there are different Lickimat designs tailored for various needs, from teething puppies to senior dogs. So, make sure you pick the one that’s best suited for your furry friend and is size appropriate.

Think About Durability

For aggressive lickers or chewers, consider getting a Lickimat designed with added durability in mind.

Reflect on Your Dog’s Preferences

Does your dog love peanut butter? Yogurt? Wet dog food? Choose a Lickimat texture that complements their favorite treat.

Cleaning Your Lickimat

It’s essential to clean the Lickimat after every use. A simple wash with soap and water will do. Some are even dishwasher safe!

Safety Precautions

Always supervise your dog while they’re using the Lickimat, especially in the beginning. Ensure they’re licking and not biting or tearing at the mat.

Conclusion: Lickimats – A Must-Have for Every Dog Parent

Every dog deserves a Lickimat. It’s more than just a treat dispenser; it’s a tool that brings numerous benefits, both for your pup and you. As a dedicated dog parent and advisor, I can’t emphasize enough the positive transformation it brings. Incorporating a Lickimat into your dog’s routine can be a game-changer. From providing mental stimulation to aiding in digestion, the benefits are hard to ignore. As a passionate dog parent, I believe in giving my furry buddy the best, and I can genuinely say a Lickimat has been a worthwhile addition to our daily life Ready to give it a try?

FAQs

Q1.: How do I introduce my dog to the Lickimat?

A: Start by placing a small amount of their favorite treat on it, and let their curiosity do the rest! Follow manufacturer instructions.

Q2.: How often should I use a Lickimat?

A: Depending on your goal, you can use it daily, especially if it’s for mealtime or anxiety relief. While it’s safe for daily use, it’s essential to monitor the calorie intake if you’re using treats.

Q3.: Can I use any treat on my Lickimat?

A: Yes, use dog safe treats opting for soft treats or foods that can be spread, like yogurt or mashed fruits.

Q4.: Is it easy to clean a Lickimat?

A: Absolutely! Most Lickimats are dishwasher safe. Just remove any leftover food and give it a rinse.

Q5.: My dog chews everything. Is a Lickimat safe?

A: While Lickimats are durable, always supervise your dog, especially if they have a history of chewing through toys. Look for a Lickimat that is chew-resistant.