Blueberry & Sardine Probiotic Lick Mat Recipe
At Primal Treats, we believe your dog’s diet should be built on real, whole foods — not mystery ingredients or fillers. One of our favorite ways to keep dogs mentally stimulated and nutritionally nourished is with a homemade lick mat — and this one’s packed with omega-3s, probiotics, and antioxidants.
Let’s dive into a simple, healthy recipe your dog will go crazy for.
Why Lick Mats Are So Good for Dogs
Lick mats aren’t just fun — they serve a real purpose. When your dog licks the surface repeatedly, it releases endorphinsthat help calm anxiety, boredom, and stress.
They’re perfect for:
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Slowing down fast eaters
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Keeping dogs busy during grooming or bath time
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Providing mental stimulation on rainy days
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Supporting dental health by promoting saliva production
Now imagine combining that with powerhouse ingredients like wild sardines, blueberries, and grass-fed kefir — you’ve got a functional treat that nourishes from the inside out.
Ingredients
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🐟 1–2 wild-caught sardines (packed in water, no salt or oil)
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🫐 ¼ cup wild blueberries (fresh or frozen)
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🥛 ¼ cup grass-fed organic kefir (unsweetened, plain)
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(Optional) ½ tsp ground flaxseed or chia seeds for added fiber and omega-3s
These ingredients are nutrient-dense and species-appropriate — meaning they mimic what dogs would naturally benefit from in the wild, but in a modern, easy-to-digest format.
Directions
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Prepare your base:
Add the kefir to a small bowl. It’ll serve as the creamy base that holds everything together and helps it spread smoothly across the mat. -
Mash the sardines:
Use a fork to mash the wild sardines into small flakes. This ensures your dog can lick up the natural oils and proteins evenly. -
Blend or fold in the fruit:
Add blueberries — you can mash them lightly or blend them with the kefir for a smoother texture. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants that protect cells and support heart and brain health. -
Mix everything together:
Combine the sardines, kefir, and blueberries until you have a rich, colorful mixture. Sprinkle in flaxseed if using. -
Spread onto the lick mat:
Evenly spread the mixture across your dog’s lick mat, pressing gently into the grooves. -
Freeze for 1–2 hours:
Place the lick mat in your freezer until solid. This adds an extra cooling, long-lasting texture dogs love. -
Serve & enjoy:
Once frozen, place it on the floor or outside on a towel. Watch your dog lick calmly and happily — it’s enrichment and nutrition all in one.
Why These Ingredients Work So Well Together
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Wild-Caught Sardines:
Packed with EPA and DHA, essential omega-3 fatty acids that support brain function, reduce inflammation, and improve coat health. Sardines are also a natural source of vitamin D and calcium. -
Wild Blueberries:
Loaded with antioxidants that support immune and cellular health, while being low in calories and gentle on digestion. -
Grass-Fed Organic Kefir:
A natural probiotic powerhouse — kefir promotes healthy gut bacteria, improves digestion, and boosts the immune system. Using grass-fed dairy also ensures higher levels of beneficial fatty acids and CLA. -
Flax or Chia Seeds (optional):
Add fiber for healthy digestion and extra omega-3s for joint and skin support.
Storage Tips
You can make a few lick mats at once and store them in the freezer for up to 3 weeks. Just make sure to cover them or place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
For an on-the-go version, you can also pour the mix into silicone molds and freeze them into bite-sized “pup cubes.”
A Note on Quality
At Primal Treats, we follow the same philosophy when creating our freeze-dried dog treats — minimal processing, no preservatives, and ingredients you can actually pronounce.
Your dog’s nutrition should come from nature, not a lab.
Give this recipe a try and tag us on social media with your pup enjoying it!
If you love clean, functional nutrition like this, explore our freeze-dried treat line — made from single-ingredient, human-grade meats that support your dog’s health just like this recipe does.