Frozen Lick Mat Recipe for Fireworks Night

Most dogs love a good lick. A frozen lick mat turns that into a long, slow job that keeps them busy when the bangs start. This one takes three ingredients, five minutes and two hours in the freezer.

What you need

• A lick mat (any dog lick mat that is freezer safe)
• 2 to 3 tablespoons of plain natural yoghurt, with no sweeteners
• A spoon of plain pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling
• A few fresh blueberries

How to make it

1. Spread the yoghurt across the mat and push it into the grooves.
2. Add the pumpkin in a few dots or a swirl on top.
3. Press in the blueberries so they sit in the yoghurt.
4. Freeze for about 2 hours, flat in the freezer, until firm.

Make two at once and keep one in the freezer for the next noisy night.

Check every label first

Some everyday foods are dangerous for dogs, so read the label on anything you use:

• No xylitol (sometimes listed as birch sugar). It is often in "light" or "no added sugar" yoghurts and is toxic to dogs.
• No raisins, grapes or sultanas, including in fruit yoghurts.
• No chocolate, cocoa or chocolate flavoured yoghurt.
• Plain pumpkin only. Pie filling has added sugar and spices.

When to give it

Hand it over just before the fireworks usually start, once your dog is settled in their den with the curtains shut and the TV on. Stay nearby the first time so you can see how they get on, and take the mat away once it is licked clean.

A few tips

• Keep it small. It is a treat, so count it as part of the day's food, especially for smaller dogs.
• New foods, go slowly. If your dog hasn't had yoghurt or pumpkin before, try a little on a quiet day first. If your dog has a sensitive tummy or a special diet, check with your vet.
• Wash it well. Lick mats go in warm soapy water after every use.

Frequently asked questions

Can dogs eat yoghurt?

Most dogs can have a little plain natural yoghurt. Avoid sweetened, flavoured or "light" yoghurts, and never use anything with xylitol.

How long does a frozen lick mat last?

It depends on the dog, but frozen it usually keeps them busy far longer than the same food in a bowl.

Can I use peanut butter instead?

Only a peanut butter with no xylitol and no added salt or sugar, and only a thin layer, as it is high in fat.

More for fireworks night

A lick mat is one part of the plan. For the full checklist (walk before dark, den, curtains, background noise and what to do during the bangs), read our fireworks guide. If you're wondering about calming treats too, here's our honest look at whether calming treats work.

Sources: general dog food safety advice from the RSPCA and Dogs Trust. If you think your dog has eaten something toxic, call your vet straight away.