Need a way to keep a dog entertained and treat them to something healthy and delicious? This egg salad lick mat recipe is a game-changer.
It’s quick to make, filled with simple, dog-safe ingredients, and gives pups something to focus on while their humans get things done. Perfect for crate training, downtime, or just giving a furry friend a little enrichment boost throughout the day.
No complicated prep. No fancy ingredients. Just a wholesome treat that dogs go crazy for.
And if there’s ever been a moment where peace and quiet were needed (while a dog happily licks a mat in the corner), this is the go-to solution.
What You’ll Need
- 2 boiled eggs, mashed
- 1 tbsp plain Greek yogurt (unsweetened, no xylitol)
- 1 tbsp mashed sweet potato or finely cooked carrot
- 1 tsp finely chopped parsley (optional, but great for fresh breath)
- 1 tsp ground flaxseed or chia seeds (optional, helps digestion)
- A splash of water (to loosen the texture, if needed)
Pro Tips for First-Time Prep (Especially With Families & Kids Around)
- Smooth it out. A smoother mix makes licking easier—especially helpful for puppies or smaller dogs.
- Freeze it for later. Pop the filled lick mat in the freezer for an hour. Perfect for dogs that need a longer distraction.
- Introduce slowly. For dogs trying these ingredients for the first time, start with small amounts.
- Make it part of crate time. Great for helping dogs build positive crate associations.
- Let kids help mix it. Supervision required, but it’s an easy way to get them involved in caring for the family pet.
Tools to Have on Hand
- Silicone lick mat (textured is best)
- Small mixing bowl
- Fork or spoon for mashing and mixing
- Spatula or back of a spoon for spreading
- Freezer (optional for extended treat time)
Substitutions & Variations
- No yogurt? Try banana or plain pumpkin puree.
- Sweet potato swap: Cooked carrots, green beans, or even mashed peas work well.
- No dairy? Unsweetened applesauce is a dog-friendly binder.
- Want to level it up? Add a pinch of turmeric or a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
Make-Ahead Tip
Make the mixture ahead and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Spread on mats as needed. For longer storage, prep and freeze filled mats for up to a month. Just pull one out when needed.
How to Make It
- Boil and peel the eggs. Let them cool completely.
- Mash the eggs with a fork in a small bowl.
- Mix in the yogurt, sweet potato, parsley, and seeds (if using).
- Add a small splash of water if the mix is too thick.
- Spread evenly onto the lick mat using a spatula or spoon.
- Serve immediately or freeze for an hour for a longer-lasting treat.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~90
- Protein: ~6g
- Nutrient Highlights:
- Healthy fats from egg yolk and seeds
- Probiotics (if using yogurt)
- Fiber from veggies
- Antioxidants from parsley or sweet potato
Note: Always adjust serving size for the dog’s size, dietary needs, and current vet recommendations.
Leftovers & Storage Tips
- Leftover mix can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days.
- Filled mats can be frozen for up to 1 month.
- If serving frozen, let it thaw slightly for smaller or sensitive dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can raw eggs be used instead of cooked? Nope. Always cook eggs for safety and better digestion.
Is yogurt safe for dogs? Yes—plain Greek yogurt with no sweeteners or flavors is usually fine. Skip if the dog is sensitive to dairy.
Is this safe for puppies? Yes, in small amounts. Always introduce new foods slowly and watch for any signs of upset.
What if the dog doesn’t like it? Try a different base like pumpkin or mashed banana. Some dogs need a flavor trial to find their favorite.
Ready to Give It a Try?
This easy lick mat recipe is such a simple way to keep dogs happy, focused, and well-fed. Perfect for busy days, chill nights, or whenever a little calm is needed around the house.
Tried it out? Share how it went in the comments and feel free to drop any questions for more helpful tips!
