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A lick mat can feel like magic when it brings instant peace to a whiny or restless puppy, but sometimes that calm comes after a buildup we don't even notice. I'm taking a closer look at what drives that rising anticipation and how small, thoughtful changes can shift the pattern toward calm, confidence, and comfort. With a bit of intention, lick mats can become tools that support your puppy's emotional well-being rather than fuel anxious routines or unwanted behaviors.
In this episode, you'll hear:
• Why puppies start whining, circling, pawing, bouncing, or barking before you deliver a lick mat.
• The "thing before the thing" and how anticipation becomes reinforcement.
• What to do first when your puppy is anxious, whiny, or restless.
• The different stages of using a lick mat to support wanted behavior.
• How to prepare lick mats without triggering excitement.
• How to create a new trigger so calm behavior predicts the lick mat.
• Ways to use lick mats for fear, visitors at the door, and environmental distractions.
• Why lick mats should not be a lifelong crutch and how to use them with intention.
Resources:
1. Podcast Episode 16: The Thing Before Your Dog's Thing - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/16/
2. Podcast Episode 314: Dog Enrichment Secrets Part 1: Using Your Dog's Natural Instincts To Build Variety And Engagement - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/314/
3. Podcast Episode 315: Dog Enrichment Secrets Part 2: 30 Day Enrichment Challenge + Free Planner PDF - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/315/
4. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/U5zFK_WkHpY
