4 Irresistible Lick Mat Topping Ideas to Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy
|
When it comes to finding fun, engaging ways to entertain and nourish your dog, a lick mat is a fantastic tool! Lick mats not only provide mental stimulation and help ease boredom, but they can also be a nutritious addition to your dog’s routine with the right toppings.
Below, we've gathered four wholesome lick mat topping ideas that are easy to make, packed with nutrients, and sure to keep your dog’s tail wagging!
Table of contents
1. Pumpkin Puree & Greek Yogurt
Why It’s Great: Pumpkin and Greek yoghurt are nutritional powerhouses for dogs. Pumpkin puree is rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre, all of which support digestive health,Greek yoghurt brings in probiotics and calcium, beneficial for your dog’s gut and bone health.
Health Benefits:
- Pumpkin: Helps with digestion and provides essential nutrients.
- Greek Yogurt: Adds probiotics to support gut health and calcium for strong bones.
Tip: Spread a thin layer of pumpkin and Greek yogurt on the lick mat for a creamy, irresistible blend your dog will love.
@yearsuk Here are 4 healthy autumn lick mat ideas YOUR dog will love 🐶😍 #doglickmat #dogtreats #dogsoftiktok #goldenretriever ♬ original sound - Years.com
2. Banana & Peanut Butter
Why It’s Great: Bananas are a dog-favourite fruit, loaded with potassium, fibre, and various vitamins. Adding a dollop of xylitol-free peanut butter not only ups the flavour but also adds protein for an energy boost.
Health Benefits:
- Banana: Provides potassium for heart health and energy.
- Peanut Butter: Adds protein, but be sure to choose a xylitol-free version for your dog’s safety.
Tip: Mash the banana for easy spreading and add a thin layer of peanut butter for extra taste.
3. Carrots & Peas
Why It’s Great: If your dog enjoys crunchier snacks, carrots and peas are excellent choices. Packed with fibre, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, these vegetables offer significant health benefits while being low in calories.
Health Benefits:
- Carrots and Peas: Excellent sources of fibre for digestion and antioxidants that support overall health.
Tip: Lightly steam or mash these vegetables to make them easier to spread on the lick mat.
4. Apple Slices (Core and Seeds Removed)
Why It’s Great: Apples bring a fresh, crisp taste that many dogs enjoy. Rich in vitamins A and C and dietary fibre, apples also help support dental health by gently cleaning your dog’s teeth as they chew.
Health Benefits:
- Apples: Offer fibre, support immune health with vitamins A and C, and can help clean teeth.
Tip: Freeze apple slices before serving for a longer-lasting treat. Remember to remove the core and seeds as they can be harmful to dogs.
Pro Tip: Freeze the Lick Mat
For a longer-lasting treat, pop the filled lick mat in the freezer for a few hours. Not only will it keep your dog engaged for longer, but it also makes the toppings extra refreshing, especially on warmer days.
Balance is Key: The Importance of a Complete Diet
While these homemade lick mat toppings make for exciting, nutritious treats, it’s essential to feed your dog a complete, balanced diet to ensure they get all the nutrients they need. At Years, we offer a range of flavourful, balanced meal options designed to keep dinnertime interesting and your dog’s health at its best.
