Every meal, a little game. But which game? If you've been eyeing a snuffle mat for dogs and a lick mat for dogs and wondering which one belongs in your pup's routine, here's a friendly way to choose.
What's a snuffle mat?
A snuffle mat is a sniffing game for snack time. Soft fabric petals or strips hide kibble and treats, and your pup uses their nose to sniff, seek, and find every bite. Sniff. Seek. Snack. Repeat.
Our picks: Sunflower Snuffle Mat ($24.99), Flower Sniff Mat ($24.99), Meadow Snuffle Mat ($29.99), Seek & Sniff Mat ($49.99), Forage Snuffle Mat ($69.99).
What's a Lick Mat?
A Lick Mat is a textured surface you spread with a thin layer of a pup-safe topping. Your pup licks every groove for unhurried snack time. Spread, freeze, lick, repeat.
Our picks: Signature Lick Mat ($14.99), Ocean Friends Lick Plate ($19.99), Maze Lick Mat ($19.99), Bloom Lick Mat ($19.99).
Quick chooser: sniffer or licker?
- Nose-first explorer (always sniffing on walks) → try a snuffle mat.
- Snack savorer (loves licking the spoon) → try a Lick Mat.
- Can't decide? Many pups enjoy both — rotate them for variety through the week.
How to start a snuffle mat
- Start with a small handful of kibble scattered on top.
- Once they've got it, tuck pieces deeper into the petals.
- Swap in for part of a meal when it's a hit.
How to start a Lick Mat
- Spread a thin layer of a pup-safe topping (ask your vet what's right for your pup).
- Try it fresh first; freeze it later for a new twist.
- Pick it up when snack time is done — it's a snack-time tool, not a chew toy.
A few friendly ground rules
Always supervise play, start with small portions, and remove any mat that's torn or damaged. See each product page for care instructions. Questions about portions or diet? Ask your vet.
Ready to pick a game?
Whether your pup is a sniffer, a licker, or a little of both, there's a game for every mealtime. Explore Enrichment Picks ✦
Also read: Snuffle Mats: Hide-and-Seek Snack Games for Curious Noses; How to Use a Lick Mat: Spreads, Patterns & Easy Cleanup.