Best lick mat for dogs: how we compare the ones we carry
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Three brands show up in most dog houses, and each brings something different to freeze-dried treat mats. Pick by material, size and texture, not hype.
SodaPup eMats: TPE with variety
SodaPup makes dozens of mat designs from TPE, a flexible plastic rated for freezer use. Sizes are clear: about 8 by 8 inches for most dogs, about 4 by 4 inches for puppies and toy breeds. Texture difficulty ranges from easy to hard. The Sky eMat has a medium cloud pattern. The Zombie eMat is also medium, with a skull design. The Citrus Design eMat adds suction cups for baths. All are made in the USA and cost between 13.99 and 16.99. Mats ship within one business day from SodaPup in Longmont, Colorado.
Modern Dog silicone: one size, many designs
Modern Dog mats are food-grade silicone with one size (about 8 by 8 inches) and five fun designs. The It's a Birthday Pawty and Disco Cowgirl are equally popular. All include suction cups, a spatula and a brush in the box. They go in the dishwasher and microwave. All cost 20.00. Modern Dog ships within five business days from Nashville, Tennessee.
Pink Papyrus: budget multi-level mats
Pink Papyrus makes silicone mats for dogs and cats in five colors. The Pink and Yellow are simple, with a multi-level surface and suction cups. They cost 15.00 each. All go in the dishwasher. Pink Papyrus has no published location but ships through Shopify Collective.
TPE vs. silicone: which to pick
TPE (SodaPup) handles freezing well and comes in many patterns and sizes. Silicone (Modern Dog, Pink Papyrus) goes in the microwave and feels different in the mouth, which appeals to some dogs. Both are durable. TPE mats come in more choices; silicone mats are slightly more textured for some dogs.
Suction cups worth the space
If you'll use a mat during grooming or baths, suction cups matter. The mat stays in place, freeing your hands. SodaPup offers cups on many models, including the Citrus. Modern Dog and Pink Papyrus include them on all mats.
Price comparison
SodaPup eMats run 13.99 to 16.99. Modern Dog costs 20.00. Pink Papyrus is 15.00. Budget for a mat and freeze-dried treats to go in it, which ship separately from us.
In the Toys aisle
Sky eMat, SodaPup, light blue, $16.99. Zombie eMat, SodaPup, black or orange, $15.99 each. Citrus Design eMat, SodaPup, lime green, orange or pink, $15.99 each. It's a Birthday Pawty Lick Mat, Modern Dog Company, $20.00. Disco Cowgirl Lick Mat, Modern Dog Company, $20.00. Pink Dog and Cat Lick Mat, Pink Papyrus, $15.00. Yellow Dog and Cat Lick Mat, Pink Papyrus, $15.00.
How it ships
SodaPup products are sold through Shopify Collective and shipped to you directly by SodaPup in Longmont, Colorado, usually within one business day, with their own tracking. Not made or shipped by Sniff and Shift. Sold through Shopify Collective and shipped to you directly by The Modern Dog Company in Nashville, Tennessee, usually within five business days, with its own tracking. Not made or shipped by Sniff and Shift. Sold through Shopify Collective and shipped to you directly by Pink Papyrus Co., with its own tracking. Not made or shipped by Sniff and Shift. Our freeze-dried treats are made in Malvern, Pennsylvania and ship separately from us.
Questions
Which mat is easiest to clean?
All go on the top rack of the dishwasher. Modern Dog and Pink Papyrus mats go in the microwave, which gives you an extra cleaning option. SodaPup mats are fine in the dishwasher and hold up to frequent washing.
Can I freeze all three brands?
Yes. SodaPup TPE is rated for the freezer. Modern Dog silicone freezes fine too, though it thaws slightly faster than TPE. Pink Papyrus silicone also freezes well.
My dog eats fast. Which mat is hardest?
SodaPup rates mats by difficulty. Ask for hard-difficulty models like the Tree of Life if you want deep grooves. Modern Dog and Pink Papyrus don't publish difficulty ratings, so you'll have to try one to see if your fast eater stays interested.
Is the included brush and spatula worth it?
Modern Dog includes both. The spatula makes loading easier; the brush cleans corners. You can buy a small silicone brush separately if you prefer other mats, but it's a nice inclusion.
Which brand is most popular?
SodaPup has the most designs and biggest range of sizes. Modern Dog has the strongest brand identity and includes accessories. Both are well reviewed. Pick based on what you need, not popularity.
Load mats with freeze-dried treats to turn comparisons into engagement. Explore all mats and treats on our Explore page.
