If you've been on any pet social media lately, you've seen the lick mat. Spread with peanut butter, frozen with yogurt, stuck to the shower wall during bath time — they're everywhere. And for good reason: they work.
But as a parent who cares about what goes in (and around) your pet, you've probably asked: are silicone lick mats actually safe for dogs?
The short answer: yes — with a few things to know. Here's the full picture.
What Are Lick Mats Made Of?
Most lick mats on the market are made from one of two materials:
- Food-grade silicone — the same material used in baby pacifiers, baking molds, and kitchen tools. BPA-free, non-toxic, flexible, and heat-resistant.
- TPR (thermoplastic rubber) — softer and more textured, also generally considered safe, though quality varies more by manufacturer.
A high-quality silicone lick mat is completely non-toxic. The material doesn't leach chemicals, doesn't absorb bacteria easily, and is dishwasher safe — which matters a lot for daily hygiene.
What to avoid: lick mats made from PVC or hard plastic. These can contain phthalates and other additives that aren't safe for regular food contact.
Are They Safe for Puppies?
Yes — food-grade silicone is safe for puppies from 8 weeks old. In fact, silicone lick mats are one of the best early enrichment tools you can introduce. They encourage calm focus, slow feeding, and help puppies build positive associations with handling and grooming.
One important note: supervise the first few uses. Some puppies (and even adult dogs) will chew the mat rather than lick it. If your dog is an aggressive chewer, choose a thicker, more durable mat and monitor until you know how they interact with it.
Are They Safe Around Kids?
This is a question we hear often from families. The answer is yes — food-grade silicone is the same material used in baby products. No BPA, no phthalates, no toxic dyes.
Kids can safely help fill the silicone lick mat, hand it to the dog, and even rinse it after use. It's actually a great way to get children involved in pet care in a safe, mess-controlled way.
What's the Right Way to Use a Lick Mat?
To get the most benefit — and avoid any issues — follow these simple guidelines:
Safe fillings:
- Peanut butter (xylitol-free — always check the label)
- Plain Greek yogurt
- Wet dog food
- Pumpkin purée (plain, no spices)
- Mashed banana
- Cream cheese (plain)
What to avoid:
- Peanut butter with xylitol — toxic to dogs
- Grapes, raisins, onions, chocolate — all toxic
- Anything with artificial sweeteners
How Often Can Dogs Use a Lick Mat?
Daily use is completely fine — and for many dogs, beneficial. Licking triggers the release of serotonin, which has a natural calming effect. Regular use can help:
- Reduce anxiety around baths, vet visits, and grooming
- Slow down fast eaters and improve digestion
- Provide mental stimulation for dogs that get bored easily
- Give high-energy dogs a productive outlet
Just make sure the fillings fit within your dog's daily calorie needs — especially if you're using it every day.
How to Clean a Lick Mat Properly
Food-grade silicone is non-porous, which means bacteria don't penetrate the surface the way they would with rubber or plastic. That said, clean it after every use:
- Dishwasher safe: top rack, regular cycle
- Hand wash: warm soapy water, use a small brush to get into the textured grooves
- Air dry completely before storing
Replace the mat if you notice cracks, tears, or pieces coming off — a damaged mat is a chewing hazard.
Bottom Line
Silicone lick mats are safe, effective, and one of the most versatile tools in a pet owner's kit — especially for families where kids and pets share the same space. The key is choosing food-grade silicone, using safe fillings, and supervising initial use with puppies or heavy chewers.
Our silicone lick mat is made from 100% food-grade silicone — BPA-free, dishwasher safe, and designed with a strong suction base so it stays put during bath time, mealtime, or any time your pet needs to decompress.
Also read: Dog Anxiety During Baths: 5 Tricks That Actually Help
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