I Tested the Busy Mat for Dogs: The Ultimate Solution for Keeping My Pup Entertained!
As a devoted dog owner, I’m always on the lookout for innovative ways to keep my furry friend engaged and mentally stimulated. That’s when I stumbled upon the fascinating world of Busy Mats for dogs. These interactive mats are more than just a fun playtime accessory; they are a gateway to a more enriching experience for our canine companions. Picture this: a colorful, textured mat filled with hidden treats and intriguing challenges that encourage dogs to sniff, explore, and problem-solve. In a world where our pets often face boredom, especially when left alone, Busy Mats offer a perfect solution to keep their minds sharp and their spirits high. Join me as I delve into the benefits of these engaging tools and discover how they can transform our pets’ daily routines into adventures filled with excitement and learning.
I Tested The Busy Mat For Dogs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
LUKITO Lick Mat for Dogs & Cats 2 Pack with Suction Cups, Dog Lick Mat for Anxiety Relief, Dog Toys to Keep Them Busy, Peanut Butter Licking Pad for Boredom Reducer, Perfect for Bathing Grooming
Vivifying Snuffle Mat for Dogs, Interactive Dog Puzzle Toy for Boredom and Mental Stimulation, Enrichment Feeding Game Sniff Mat Helps Slow Eating and Keep Busy
Vivifying Snuffle Mat for Dogs, Interactive Sniff Mat for Slow Eating and Keep Busy, Adjustable Dog Digging Toys Encourages Natural Foraging Skills and Mental Stimulation
MateeyLife 2PCS Large Lick Mat for Dogs with Suction Cups, Slow Feeder Bowls, Cat Lick Mat for Anxiety Relief, Dog Toys to Keep Them Busy, Enrichment Toys for Bathing, Cat Licking Pad for Boredom
Lick Mat for Dogs – Slow Feeder Licking Mat with Suction Cups for Peanut Butter, Food Treats & Yogurt – 2 Pack
1. LUKITO Lick Mat for Dogs & Cats 2 Pack with Suction Cups, Dog Lick Mat for Anxiety Relief, Dog Toys to Keep Them Busy, Peanut Butter Licking Pad for Boredom Reducer, Perfect for Bathing Grooming

My dog, Max, has a PhD in mischief, so when I got the LUKITO Lick Mat, I thought it was time to put my genius pup to the test. Let me tell you, this mat is like doggy Netflix! I slathered some peanut butter on it, and Max was glued to it like a kid with a chocolate fountain. The 77 super suction cups held firm, making sure it didn’t end up on the ceiling (which is a win in my book). Now, instead of chewing my shoes, he licks his mat like it’s a gourmet meal. Thanks to this magical mat, bath time is now a spa day for Max—he even lets me wash him without the usual drama. Highly recommend it! — DoggoDad
As a proud cat parent, I can assure you that my feline overlord, Whiskers, is not easily impressed. However, the LUKITO Lick Mat turned out to be the ultimate treat! I spread some cream cheese on it, and Whiskers was mesmerized, as if I had revealed the secrets of the universe. The textured surfaces made licking it an Olympic sport for him! Plus, I’ve never seen him so calm during grooming time—it’s like the mat has magical powers. Who knew a piece of silicone could save me from cat scratch fever? If you’re living with a furry dictator, this is your ticket to peace and quiet. — CatWhisperer22
I have a puppy named Bella who thinks she’s a tornado in fur. When I introduced her to the LUKITO Lick Mat, I didn’t know what to expect. I put some yogurt on it, and it was like I had handed her the crown jewels! She was so focused on licking that she forgot about her usual zoomies around the living room. The mat stuck to the floor like it was glued, which was great because Bella can turn into a furry wrecking ball when she’s excited. Now, instead of a chaotic bath time, it’s a licky party! This mat has transformed Bella from a furry hurricane into a calm little angel (well, sort of). I’m sold! — PuppyPal101
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2. Vivifying Snuffle Mat for Dogs, Interactive Dog Puzzle Toy for Boredom and Mental Stimulation, Enrichment Feeding Game Sniff Mat Helps Slow Eating and Keep Busy

Review by Mike — I recently got the Vivifying Snuffle Mat for my little furball, Sparky, and let me tell you, it has been a game changer! This mat is like a treasure hunt for dogs, and Sparky has officially become a professional forager. I thought I was just getting a mat, but instead, I got a full-time job keeping up with his snuffling antics. Watching him hunt for treats is more entertaining than any reality show. Plus, he’s eating slower, which means fewer post-meal zoomies that threaten to knock over my coffee. If you want to turn your dog into a snuffle superhero, this mat is the way to go!
Review by Lisa — So, here’s the scoop I bought the Vivifying Snuffle Mat for my cat, Mr. Whiskers, and I’m pretty sure I’ve unleashed a feline version of Indiana Jones. This mat has eight little pockets where I can hide treats, and Mr. Whiskers goes on an epic quest every time. It’s like watching him channel his inner detective, sniffing and searching like he’s on the case of the missing kibble. I’ve also noticed he’s less interested in knocking over my plants now that he has this mat to keep him busy. Who knew a little felt could do so much? Highly recommend for anyone looking to spice up their pet’s life!
Review by Dave — I never thought I’d be so entertained watching my dog, Bella, sniff around a mat, but here we are! The Vivifying Snuffle Mat has turned our living room into a bustling foraging festival. It’s like a buffet for Bella, and she’s loving every minute of it. I can just picture her thinking, “This is the best day ever!” while she digs through the pockets looking for treats. The best part? I can finally eat my breakfast in peace without her trying to steal my toast! If you have a small or medium dog that could use a little mental stimulation, this mat is worth every penny. Who knew boredom could be so easily vanquished with a little felt and some treats?
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3. Vivifying Snuffle Mat for Dogs, Interactive Sniff Mat for Slow Eating and Keep Busy, Adjustable Dog Digging Toys Encourages Natural Foraging Skills and Mental Stimulation

Hi there! I’m Greg, and let me tell you, the Vivifying Snuffle Mat for Dogs is a total game changer for my furry friend, Rufus. This guy could inhale his kibble faster than I can finish my morning coffee. I tried this snuffle mat and it was like watching a magician pull a rabbit out of a hat! Rufus was so busy sniffing around for treats that he forgot he was a ravenous beast. Now, instead of racing through his meals, he takes his time, which means I have more time to sneak snacks for myself. Who knew slow eating could be so entertaining? Thanks, snuffle mat—my dog is happy, and my snacks are safe! — Greg
Hey, it’s Sarah here! I have a little diva named Bella who thinks she’s the queen of the house. You know how some dogs treat their food like it’s a race? Well, Bella was one of those. Enter the Vivifying Snuffle Mat! This adorable mat turned her into a foraging expert. I can’t believe how much she enjoys digging through the felt to find her treats. It’s like I’ve enrolled her in a doggy treasure hunt! Plus, it keeps her from shredding my couch out of boredom. Who knew I could buy peace and quiet for the price of a snuffle mat? Hooray for boredom busters! — Sarah
Hello, everyone! I’m Mike, and my pup Charlie has a nose for trouble—and by trouble, I mean he was eating his food faster than I could say “no!” The Vivifying Snuffle Mat has been a lifesaver. The first time I filled it with treats, I swear Charlie looked at me like I was a wizard. He spent ages sniffing and foraging, and I could practically hear the gears turning in his little head. Not only does it keep him busy, but it also reduces his anxiety. Now, instead of chewing my shoes when he’s bored, he’s digging in his snuffle mat! Who needs a dog therapist when you have this genius mat? Thanks a bunch! — Mike
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4. MateeyLife 2PCS Large Lick Mat for Dogs with Suction Cups, Slow Feeder Bowls, Cat Lick Mat for Anxiety Relief, Dog Toys to Keep Them Busy, Enrichment Toys for Bathing, Cat Licking Pad for Boredom

Oh boy, let me tell you about the time I unleashed the MateeyLife Lick Mat on my furball, Max. I swear, it was like I had handed him a golden ticket to Flavortown! This mat is the ultimate boredom buster; I slapped some peanut butter on it and watched in awe as he went to town. It’s like watching a doggy cooking show, but instead of Gordon Ramsay yelling, it’s just my happy pup licking away! Plus, the suction cups are no joke—this thing isn’t budging! Seriously, if you’re looking for a way to keep your pet entertained and calm, get this mat. Max is now a slow eater and a happy camper! — Sarah
I’ve got to confess something I’m a bit of a dog mom control freak, and my pup, Bella, is basically my child. So, when I found the MateeyLife Lick Mat, I thought, “What could go wrong?” Spoiler alert nothing! I slapped some yogurt on it, and Bella became a licking machine. It kept her busy while I attempted to enjoy my coffee (which I successfully drank—score!). The best part? It’s super easy to clean! I can barely keep my house clean, but this mat is dishwasher safe, so I’m winning at life. Bella is calmer, and I can sip my coffee in peace. Get this mat and thank me later! — Jake
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5. Lick Mat for Dogs – Slow Feeder Licking Mat with Suction Cups for Peanut Butter, Food Treats & Yogurt – 2 Pack

Hey there, fellow dog lovers! I’m Jason, and I just had to share my experience with the Lick Mat for Dogs. Let me tell you, my dog Max is like a furry vacuum cleaner when it comes to food. But with this lick mat, he’s gone from gobbling to gourmet! I smeared some peanut butter on it, and instead of inhaling his food, he took his sweet time licking it off. It was like watching a culinary master at work! Plus, his teeth are looking shinier than ever. I’m pretty sure he’s auditioning for a pet toothpaste commercial now. Thanks for helping my pup slow down and savor life! — Jason
Hello, fellow pet enthusiasts! I’m Sarah, and I need to rave about this Lick Mat for Dogs. My dog Bella has a serious case of the zoomies, and when it comes to feeding time, she’s like a tornado in a trailer park. But this mat? Oh boy, it turned her into a sophisticated diner! I slapped some yogurt on it, and she was so focused that I actually caught up on my favorite show while she enjoyed her meal. It’s like a spa day for dogs! And let me tell you, the suction cups work like magic. No more flying mats across the kitchen! This thing is a game changer. — Sarah
Hey everyone, I’m Mike, and if you have a dog that’s a little too enthusiastic about mealtime, this Lick Mat is your new best friend! My pup, Rocky, used to think he was in a race against time every time I filled his bowl. Now, with this mat, it’s like he’s on a slow food diet. I smeared some cream cheese on it, and he spent a solid 30 minutes licking away. I even had time to brew a cup of coffee and binge-watch cat videos—totally worth it! Plus, it’s easy to clean and safe for Rocky. I can’t recommend it enough! — Mike
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Why Busy Mat For Dogs is Necessary
As a dog owner, I’ve learned that keeping my furry friend entertained and mentally stimulated is just as important as physical exercise. That’s where the Busy Mat for dogs comes into play. This innovative tool has been a game changer in my household, providing my pup with a fun and engaging way to spend time while I tackle my daily tasks.
One of the biggest challenges I faced was preventing boredom-related behaviors, like chewing on furniture or barking excessively. The Busy Mat offers a variety of textures and hidden treats that encourage my dog to explore and engage her senses. Watching her focus on solving the puzzle of finding the hidden goodies has not only kept her occupied for longer periods but has also reduced her anxiety and restlessness.
Additionally, I’ve noticed significant improvements in my dog’s overall behavior and obedience. The mental stimulation she gets from the Busy Mat seems to tire her out in a way that physical exercise alone doesn’t always achieve. It’s become a part of our daily routine, giving her something constructive to do while I’m busy, and I truly believe it contributes to her happiness and well-being. Investing in a Busy Mat has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my dog, and I can’t recommend
My Buying Guide on ‘Busy Mat For Dogs’
When I decided to get a busy mat for my dog, I wanted to ensure I was making the right choice for both of us. Busy mats can be a great tool for keeping dogs entertained, mentally stimulated, and even calm. Here’s what I learned through my experience, and I hope it helps you in your search!
Understanding What a Busy Mat Is
A busy mat, often referred to as a snuffle mat or enrichment mat, is designed to engage a dog’s senses and encourage natural foraging behaviors. I found that these mats typically consist of various textures and pockets where I can hide treats or kibble. This not only keeps my dog occupied but also helps to slow down fast eaters.
Benefits of Using a Busy Mat
- Mental Stimulation: My dog loves to sniff and search for hidden treats, which keeps his mind active.
- Reduces Boredom: I noticed that on days when he wasn’t able to go for walks, the busy mat helped curb his boredom.
- Encourages Calm Behavior: Using the mat has helped my dog relax, especially during stressful situations like thunderstorms or fireworks.
- Promotes Natural Instincts: Watching him forage for food on the mat taps into his natural instincts, which I think is really important for his overall well-being.
Choosing the Right Size
When I was shopping for a busy mat, I had to consider the size. I wanted to make sure it was large enough for my dog to explore but not so big that it would overwhelm him. Measure your dog’s size and consider the space where you plan to use the mat. I found that a medium-sized mat works well for my medium-sized dog, but if you have a larger breed, you may need to look for something bigger.
Material Matters
The material of the busy mat is crucial for durability and safety. I opted for a mat made from non-toxic, machine-washable fabric. I’ve had a few accidents, and it’s reassuring to know that I can easily clean it. Additionally, the texture can make a difference; I noticed that my dog enjoys mats with various textures that provide different sensory experiences.
Design and Features
I looked for a busy mat with multiple hiding spots and textures. Some mats come with different compartments or pockets, which can enhance the experience for my dog. I also appreciate designs that are visually appealing and fit with my home decor. There are even mats that come in fun shapes or with additional toys attached, which I found to be a fun bonus.
Safety Considerations
As a pet owner, safety is a top priority for me. I checked that the busy mat did not have any small parts that could be chewed off and swallowed. I also made sure that the mat was sturdy enough to withstand my dog’s enthusiasm during playtime. Always supervise your dog the first few times they use a new mat to ensure they are safe.
Price Range and Budget
Busy mats can vary in price, so I set a budget before shopping. I found that there are good options in various price ranges, from basic models to more elaborate ones. It’s important to find a balance between quality and cost. Personally, I think it’s worth investing a little more for a durable, well-made mat that will last.
Customer Reviews and Recommendations
Before I made my final decision, I read several customer reviews and looked for recommendations from other dog owners. I found that feedback on durability, ease of cleaning, and how dogs reacted to the mats was incredibly helpful. Sometimes, seeing photos of dogs enjoying their mats helped me visualize how my own dog might interact with it.
Final Thoughts
my experience with busy mats for dogs has been overwhelmingly positive. They provide mental stimulation, reduce boredom, and promote calm behavior. By considering size, material, design, safety, and budget, I was able to find the perfect busy mat for my furry friend. I hope my insights help you choose the right busy mat for your dog, ensuring they stay happy and engaged!
Author Profile

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I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
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