Buy and Review: LickiMat by Hyper Pet

If there is one thing I have learned as a mini dachshund mom here in Miami, Florida, it is that a bored dog is a mischievous dog. My little guy has a way of finding the one loose thread on the rug the second I hop on a work call. That is why I have been a huge fan of LickiMats for years, but let me tell you, the world of dog enrichment has come a long way as we head into April 2026. Whether you are dealing with a wiggly pup during bath time or a dog who inhales their dinner in three seconds flat, there is now a LickiMat specifically designed for that exact struggle.

Why Licking Is a Superpower for Dogs

It might look like they are just enjoying a snack, but there is actually some pretty cool science happening when your dog uses a lick mat. Recent veterinary research from the 2026 VMX conference has really leaned into the concept of the gut-brain axis in our pets. When a dog licks a textured surface, it stimulates the Vagus nerve, which triggers a parasympathetic nervous system response. In plain English, that means it puts their body into a rest and digest state, naturally lowering their cortisol levels and helping them feel calm.

Beyond the mental health perks, it is great for their physical health too. The textured patterns on the mats act like a tongue scraper, helping to remove bacteria and food particles that cause bad breath. Plus, the extra saliva produced during all that licking contains enzymes that help protect their teeth and gums. For my dachshund, who is prone to that typical terrier dental drama, every little bit of extra cleaning helps.

Picking the Right LickiMat for Your Pup

The lineup has expanded quite a bit recently, and it can be a little overwhelming to choose. I have tested most of these in my own kitchen, and here is the breakdown of the current 2026 favorites.

The Classic Series for Everyday Enrichment

The Classic LickiMats like the Buddy and the Soother are still the gold standard for soft treats like Greek yogurt, pumpkin puree, or peanut butter. These are usually priced around 9.99 USD and are perfect for a quick afternoon distraction. The Soother has tiny bumps that are great for liquidy treats, while the Buddy has a cross-pattern that holds onto thicker pastes a bit better.

The Tuff Series for the Power Lickers

If your dog is a bit more enthusiastic (or has a habit of carrying their mat around like a trophy), you definitely want to upgrade to the Tuff series. These are made with a much sturdier polypropylene base and are priced at 16.99 USD. The best part is that they are completely dishwasher safe, which is a total lifesaver when you are trying to clean dried peanut butter out of those tiny crevices.

New for 2026 The CrateMate

The biggest game changer this year has been the LickiMat CrateMate, which retails for about 23.99 USD. It is designed with special hooks that allow it to attach directly to the wire of your dog's crate. If you are working on crate training or dealing with separation anxiety, this is a must-have. It keeps the mat at eye level and prevents it from getting pushed into a corner or covered in bedding.

Solving the Mess Factor

One of the biggest complaints I used to hear about lick mats was the mess on the floor. LickiMat finally solved this with their Keeper Collection. These are sturdy outer trays that you slide your mat into, preventing your dog from pushing the mat across the kitchen floor and leaving a trail of yogurt behind. The Keepers range from 11.99 USD to 25.99 USD depending on the size, and they have been a permanent fixture under our kitchen table lately.

Daniella's Pro Tips for LickiMat Success

After years of using these, I have picked up a few tricks to make them even more effective. First, always freeze your mat. If I just spread some wet food on a mat, it might last five minutes. If I pop it in the freezer for an hour, it turns into a twenty-minute project. This is especially helpful on those humid Miami, Florida summer afternoons when my pup needs to stay cool and occupied.

Second, use the UFO or Splash mats for grooming. The LickiMat UFO (23.99 USD) and Splash (17.95 USD) have heavy-duty suction cups on the back. I stick one to the side of the tub during bath time or to the fridge while I am trimming my dachshund's snout. It keeps his head still and his focus entirely on the treats instead of the scissors.

How It Compares to the Competition

While LickiMat is the original, there are some newer players in the game as of 2026. The Hyper Pet IQ Calm is a popular alternative that often shows up in big-box stores, and it is a solid, budget-friendly choice. If you have a dog that is a truly destructive chewer, you might look at SodaPup mats, which are made of a thicker natural rubber that can withstand a bit more tooth pressure. However, for sheer variety of textures and specialized designs like the CrateMate, LickiMat still holds the top spot in my book.

The Bottom Line

Lick mats are one of the most affordable and effective ways to improve your dog's quality of life. Whether you are trying to survive a thunderstorm, get through a nail trim, or just want to give your best friend a little mental workout, there is a LickiMat that fits the bill. For most owners, I recommend starting with a Tuff Buddy. It is durable, easy to clean, and the pattern works well with almost any spreadable treat you have in your pantry. Your dog (and your rugs) will thank you.