Introduction
Feeding your dog doesn’t have to be boring. In fact, the right tools can turn treat time into a fun, brain-boosting activity. Snuffle mats and lick mats are two of the most popular enrichment tools around, and when paired with the right treats, they can keep your pup entertained, calm, and engaged. Let’s look at how these mats work and which treats make the pawfect match.
What Is a Snuffle Mat?
A snuffle mat is designed to mimic the experience of foraging. Made with layers of fabric strips, it hides treats within folds, encouraging your dog to sniff, dig, and search for food. This taps into their natural instincts and provides both mental and sensory stimulation.
Benefits of snuffle mats include:
- Slowing down fast eaters
- Engaging natural sniffing behaviours
- Reducing boredom with a fun “hunting” game
- Helping anxious dogs focus and calm down
What Is a Lick Mat?
A lick mat is a flat, textured mat where you spread soft foods or crush treats into paste. As dogs lick at it, they work to remove every little bit. Licking has a naturally calming effect on dogs, lowering stress and helping them relax.
Benefits of lick mats include:
- Providing a calming activity
- Distracting dogs during grooming or vet visits
- Slowing down treat consumption
- Offering a low-impact form of enrichment for puppies and seniors
Best Treats for Snuffle Mats
Not all treats are snuffle-friendly. You’ll want small, dry, and crumbly treats that hide well between the fabric folds. Some top picks include:
- Fish Bites – Small, light, and aromatic, perfect for encouraging sniffing.
- Beef Jerky Pieces – Easy to break into smaller chunks.
- Shark Cartilage Chunks – Crunchy and irresistible, ideal for hiding.
- Training Treats – Any single-ingredient option that’s bite-sized.
Best Treats for Lick Mats
Since lick mats need spreadable foods, the right treats are those you can crush, melt, or blend. Great options include:
- Yoghurt Drops (dog-safe) – Crush and mix with water or mash into paste.
- Minced Raw Meat – Spread thinly for a protein-packed challenge.
- Crushed Jerky – Mix with a little broth to create a spread.
- Peanut Butter (dog-safe, no xylitol) – A classic lick mat topper.
You can also freeze lick mats for a longer-lasting challenge, especially in summer.
Extra Enrichment Tools
While snuffle and lick mats are favourites, there are other ways to get creative:
- Puzzle Feeders – Encourage problem-solving skills.
- Stuffable Chews – Goat horns or hooves can be filled with mince or yoghurt.
- Frozen Chews – Freeze meaty bones or chews for longer-lasting play.
How to Get Started With Mats
Introducing mats is simple, but a few tips help:
- Start easy by placing treats on top, then gradually tuck them deeper.
- For lick mats, begin with thin layers before moving to stickier or frozen spreads.
- Use mats during quiet times to encourage calm behaviour.
- Rotate mats and treats to keep the experience fresh.
Quick FAQs
Are mats safe for all dogs?
Yes, though heavy chewers should be supervised to ensure they don’t damage the mat.
How often can I use a snuffle or lick mat?
Daily use is fine, especially if treats are balanced into your dog’s diet.
Can mats replace meals?
Absolutely — many owners feed meals in mats to slow down eating and provide extra enrichment.
Conclusion
Snuffle mats and lick mats turn everyday treats into exciting enrichment activities. By pairing the right treats with these tools, you’ll keep your dog’s nose, tongue, and brain busy — all while supporting calmness and wellbeing.