Quick answer: A lick mat is for licking soft food and is mostly about calm and comfort. A snuffle mat or snuffle toy is for hunting dry treats and kibble with the nose and is mostly about foraging and mental effort. Many dogs benefit from both, used for different moments.
Lick mat: what it does
A lick mat has a textured surface that you spread with soft food such as plain yoghurt, mashed pumpkin or wet dog food. Your dog licks it clean. Repetitive licking is often soothing, so lick mats are popular for grooming sessions, vet visits, thunderstorms and quiet time. The LOVE Lick Mat from Lambwolf Collective is a good example.
Snuffle mat or toy: what it does
A snuffle mat or snuffle toy has folds, pockets or fabric strips where you hide dry treats or kibble. Your dog uses their nose to find them. This mimics foraging and uses real mental effort. Toys such as Guu Mushroom or Deep Dish Pizza are made for this.
Side by side
- Food type: lick mats use soft or spreadable food, snuffle toys use dry food.
- Effect: lick mats tend to calm, snuffle toys tend to engage.
- Mess: lick mats are messier and need washing after each use. Snuffle toys need regular cleaning too.
- Speed: both slow eating, but snuffle toys usually take longer to empty.
Which should you choose?
- Anxious or excitable dog: start with a lick mat.
- Bored, energetic or food motivated dog: try a snuffle toy.
- Fast eater: either works, see our guide to treat pocket toys for slow feeding.
- Not sure: pick one of each and rotate.
Tips
- Freeze a lick mat for a longer lasting treat, especially in summer.
- Supervise your dog and take the mat away if they chew it.
- Count the food as part of the daily meal.
- Wash thoroughly after each use. See how often to wash dog toys.
Frequently asked questions
What can I put on a lick mat?
Plain yoghurt, mashed pumpkin and dog safe wet food are common choices. Check that anything you use is safe for dogs, with no xylitol, onion, garlic or macadamia.
Can puppies use lick mats?
Yes, and they can be useful for calm time. Supervise closely.
Do I need both?
Not necessarily, but they serve different moods, so many owners enjoy having both.
