There are many activities that can be stressful for both dogs and their owners. Bath time and grooming are two big ones but there are many more. However, giving your pooch a tasty distraction such as a lick pad can allow the both of you to relax and tasks to get done quickly. So here’s everything you’ll want to know about lick pads for dogs.
Lick Pad Basics
A lick pad is a distraction device. It’s a special type of slow treat dispenser that is used with creamy goodies such as peanut butter along with a handful of others (see more below). Pads have nubs that are specifically spaced so that they make it difficult for your pet to get the treat out with his tongue.
It’s a challenge that gets the dog to concentrate 100% on the task at hand and to forget about whatever else might be going on around him. Unlike other treat dispensers (such as lick mats) lick pads are designed to stick to smooth surfaces such as your shower wall, tub, glass doors, and more.
This allows you to place it at the perfect height for your individual pooch and in a range of locations. And of course to keep your dog focused, and enjoying himself so that you can get done whatever you need to do without any problems. It’s a win-win.
Best Ways To Use Lick Pads For Dogs
All dogs are different, but there are several situations where having a lick pad to distract them works really well such as:
Bath Time
One of the most popular uses of lick pads is as a distraction during bath time. While some pets do enjoy getting in the tub there are many more that don’t. By placing a treat-filled pad on your tub or shower wall to keep them busy you can get just about any pet to stand still while you shampoo and wash them down.
It’s surprising how fast you can get it done when your pet isn’t fighting you or squirming. A dog lick pad can also help with canines that actually love bath time a little too much as well. Overly-excited pets that love to splash can be kept calm so you don’t end up getting soaked.
Grooming
For pets and owners alike grooming can be a major pain. Some pets won’t stand still for something as simple as combing or brushing. For other dogs, difficulties may occur when you try and trim the hair on their feet, cut their nails, or clean their ears.
And some pooches have an issue with everything. For those who groom their pets at home and of course for professional groomers, a lick pad is a complete game-changer.
Applying Medicine
Another excellent time to use a lick pad for dogs is when you need to apply or give your dog medicine. From foot soaks, to applying creams, or giving injections by providing your dog with a distraction you can make sure he stays healthy without the hassle. Some owners even bring their lick pad with them to the vet!
Anxiety Of Various Types
Just like people, canines can suffer from various types of anxiety. A lick pad can be used to keep a pet’s mind off of the situation that causes the anxiety while also creating a positive association (getting a treat).
For example dogs with separation anxiety can be given lick pads just before you leave the house so that they’re too busy to focus on the fact that you’ve left. Pads also can help pets that shake and hide during thunderstorms. And for pets who get anxious (or too excited) in the car, lick pads can be stuck on the inside of car windows.
Other Uses
There are many other situations when having a pad to distract your dog can help such as when you have an over-friendly pet that likes to bother guests. Or if you have a “Velcro dog,” that loves to stick by you at all times and you need to get things done.
You may want to use a pad with canines that tend to beg when there’s food around or that can be naughty when left home alone. And of course, a licking pad for dogs always makes an excellent treat for a well-behaved pooch.
Choosing A Lick Pad
When deciding on a specific pad you’ll want to keep a few things in mind. In terms of material, the best lick pads for dogs are made from 100% food-grade silicone. This is very important because a silicone lick pad is not only safe for your pet but can also safely be used in the dishwasher and freezer.
You may want to choose the size of your pad based on the size of your pooch. However, there’s nothing wrong with going a bit bigger. The larger the pad the longer it will take longer for your pet to finish (which can be a good thing).
It just depends on how long you’d like to keep your dog busy. In fact to many pads actually have nubs that are of different heights to help make it harder for dogs to get to the treat, which keep them licking for as long as possible. Because it’s critical that your pet’s treat stays in place, you’ll want to make sure that you choose a pad that has a back with strong suction.
While some models use large single suction cups others may have multiple suctions cups. And a few such as the Original Lick Lick Pad have a back without any suction cups at all that can stick to most shiny and flat surfaces. To make things fun many pads and even nubs come in doggie-themed shapes such as bones and paws.
The Best Treat Options For Your Pad
Lick pads for dogs are specifically made to be used with spreadable treats, that way they can get in-between all of the nubs or grooves. And there are many options that dogs absolutely love.
Probably the most commonly used is peanut butter. That’s because it sticks well, dogs go crazy for it, and it’s easy to find. However wet dog food, cream cheese, pumpkin puree, yogurt, almond butter, mashed bananas, cottage cheese, and honey are all popular options as well. And don’t overlook using pre-made treat mixes such as Kong Easy Treat Paste either.
Of course, you may want to try out several different options to see what your pooch likes the best or even create your own customized lick pad treat by mixing two or more together for your pooch. To help harden up treats and make them last longer, lick pads can be placed in the freezer. Freezing can be a big help particularly if you are using food that doesn’t stick as well at room temperature.
Dog Lick Pad Tips
-Depending on what food you use in your lick pad, sometimes less is more. By applying a thin layer of the treat instead of a large amount, your dog may have to really work for it and get in there.
-When choosing a peanut butter consistency, creamy peanut butter is generally easier to clean. Crunchy peanut butter on the other hand may take a little more time.
-Always having a lick pad ready-to-go in the freezer, or more than one can be a lifesaver when you need to keep your dog busy in a hurry. For homes with multiple canines in particular this habit can really come in handy.
-While peanut butter lick pads are a doggie favorite, never give your pet peanut butter, or any food, that contains the sweetener xylitol. Only a handful of peanut butter brands use it, but xylitol is considered to be a food that is dangerous to dogs. So check the label before you buy.
-And don’t forget that it is always a smart idea to check with your vet before feeding your pet anything new and to only give your dog treats in moderation.
Lick pads for dogs are a simple tool that are a real game-changer for canine owners. And with this guide, you now have all the info you need to choose the best one for your pooch!
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