Best Dog Food Mat

Finding the right dog food mat is about more than just style. It's about making mealtimes cleaner, easier, and more comfortable for your furry friend. 

With countless options available, it might feel overwhelming to pick the best one. But don't worry - I've done the heavy lifting for you. In this article, I've compiled a list of the top 10 dog food mats based on me actually testing each one.

I personally took into account their material, size, ease of cleaning, protection level, cost and other feedback to make it as balanced as possible.

So whether you're a new pet parent or looking to upgrade your old mat, you'll find the perfect match for your pet's needs right here. Dive in to discover my top picks!

First a quick note: this website is reader-supported. I spend a lot of time personally evaluating, testing and reviewing each product on this list. When you buy through links on our site, I may earn an affiliate commission. This helps keep my two dogs happy as well!

8 Best Dog Food Mats

Please note that these prices can vary based on the point of purchase and whether there are any ongoing promotions or discounts. The prices provided here are the standard rates without any discounts applied.

1. Best Overall: Leashboss Splash Mat XL Dog Food Mat with Tall Lip

The Leashboss is specifically designed to uphold cleanliness while managing your pet's feeding area. The silicon material is not only non-toxic and non-allergenic but also offers cold and heat resistance.

It gives you peace of mind knowing that your dog is feeding from a safe material this is:

• Non toxic
• BPA free
• PVC free
• Phtalate free

It comes in two sizes, large (L) and small (S), measuring 24" x 16" and 19" x 12" respectively. The mat is available in five colors including Beige, Blue, Grey, Navy Blue and Black.

I'm a big fan of the simple design that minimizes the likelihood of messes on my floor. This mat is easy to clean and is dishwasher safe so you don't have to think about when / how to clean it. I just throw it in the dishwasher once a week and we're all set.

With its versatile use and lifetime warranty, the Leashboss ensures your satisfaction.

2. Best for Grip: Dexas Rubber Grippmat Mat for Dogs Bowls

The Dexas Pets Grippmat is a flexible and non-slip pet placemat designed to catch spills under pet food bowls. It features non-slip silicone material, spill-proof borders to contain drips and spills and integrated silicone nibs that securely hold dishes and bowls in place during mealtime. 

What I love about the grippmat is the simple versatility. It can be used on either side and is fully reversible. It works on different types of flooring, including hardwoods, tile floors and carpets.

We use it on old hardwood and it doesn't slip around or anything.

I personally appreciate just how easy it really is to clean, with just the nubs instead of lots of texture.

You can get this gripmatt in different colors and two sizes, with the 13x19 inch size suitable for cats and small dogs, and the larger 17 by 23.5 inch size perfect for larger dogs or especially messy pets.

In terms of setup and use, you just place it directly on the floor under their pet's food dishes or elevated feeders. If mealtime is messy, I'll just rinse it in the sink with warm, soapy water or washed for simple care.

Overall, it is simple and effective without breaking the bank. There is solid feedback at 4.6 stars on Amazon.

3. Best Large Mat: Carry360 Large Dog Bowl Mat

The Carry 360 is designed for big, messy dogs. My poodle is the messiest drinker on the planet, and this one works perfectly for him. Seriously, I don't know how he manages to slop around so much water as he drinks it.

This mat stands out for its anti-messy design with raised edges that prevent water or food from spilling over its boundaries, keeping your floors spotless.

It is massive at 36x 24 inches and made from sturdy food-grade silicone, authorized by the FDA, the mat is:

1. Safe
2. Non-toxic
3. Non-allergenic
4. Easy to clean

I like the pocket design on one end, which makes it easy to clean rogue kibble bits. There's a raised edge and also a slightly bumpy texture that secures meal bowls from sliding or slipping. If you want something big to make sure no messes, this is it!

4. Best Personalized: Drymate Leopard Personalized Dog & Cat Placemat

The Drymate Personalized Pet Bowl Placemat is a customizable and stylish feeding mat for your pets. It comes in two different sizes and a wide range of colors and designs, allowing you to choose one that matches your pet's personality or complements your home decor.

The placemat helps keep your pet's feeding station clean and dry by absorbing and containing spills and preventing water and food crumbs from reaching your floors.

The top layer of the mat is made of an absorbent polyester fabric with over 50% recycled fibers, while the bottom layer features a liquid bonded waterproof backing, ensuring durability and longevity. The slip-resistant backing keeps the mat securely in place and prevents it from sliding around during feeding times.

You'll love the personalized touch this mat can add to any kitchen or living room.

The mat is easy to clean and can be either machine washed or rinsed off and scrubbed with soap. As a USA-made product from a family-owned company with a mission to help the community, pets and the environment, I love Drymate!

5. Mr. Peanut's Large Pet Food Mat

The Mr. Peanut's Large Pet Feeding Mat is a premium FDA food-grade silicone mat designed to protect floors from food and water spills. It measures 23.5" x 15.5" with a thickness of .25", providing a durable and flexible solution that fits practically anywhere. 

The mat has these little gripper-dots pattern to prevent your dog food bowls from sliding and a raised edge along with a waterproof material to contain water and food spills effectively.

I like the non-slip backing system because it ensures the mat stays in place and keeps things as tidy as possible at mealtime. Let's face it, they are dogs, so sometimes they are no the most tidy -- especially with wet food.

It gives me peace of mind knowing that it is food-safe, non-toxic and 100% food-grade silicone. It also looks sleek and doesn't take away from our kitchen asthetic... if you care about that sort of thing.

Cleaning and maintenance are a breeze, as the mat is dishwasher safe and can be easily wiped clean with a wet cloth or paper towel. According to a study published in PLOS One in 2022, pet food dishes are often contaminated with bacteria that can be dangerous to pets and people (1). 

One thing I noticed when I dug a bit more into this mat is that people use it for litter boxes or drain mats in the kitchen. Some people even use it to line their car seats.

Regardless of what you are using it for, this one works well and is cost effective.

6. Bungalow Flooring Waterhog Paws & Bones Personalized Pet Mat

I had no idea you could get your dog's name on their own feeding mat! That is what Bungalow Flooring is doing with their trusty 18 x 28" model. This mat can be personalized with your furry friend's name, up to eight characters, making it a thoughtful and unique gift for any pet owner. 

Whether used indoors or outdoors, this commercial-grade, anti-static, and quick-drying mat is safe and skid-free on any floor surface, including hardwood, tile, laminate, carpet, vinyl, concrete and deck boards. Certified skid-resistant by the National Floor Safety Institute, the mat stays securely in place during mealtime -- even with rowdy dogs like my husky, Nitotem.

This is a big plus, since dogs that get excited at mealtime can easily hurt themselves slipping on a sliding mat, especially as they get older. Many dogs continue getting “Zoomies”, scientifically known as frenetic random activity periods (FRAPs) into late life according to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine’s DogWatch (2). 

The Waterhog mat features an exclusive "Water Dam" design, capable of holding up to 1.5 gallons of water per square yard of fabric. This is a great design for my friends with Labradors, who always insist on “swimming” in their water bowls. It’s also nice for flat-faced shih tzu puppies who insist on putting their whole lower face into the water and dripping all over the place. 

The ridged paw and bones pattern and border help trap water and debris, ensuring they remain on the mat and not on your floors. The mat is made of premium PET fiber surface, with up to 94% recycled materials and the durable rubber backing is made of 20% recycled SBR rubber (Styrene Butadiene Rubber), contributing to its eco-friendly quality construction.

Bungalow Flooring takes pride in its USA-made products, ensuring high-grade construction that stands up to extreme elements and heavy use. With a commitment to manufacturing the best mats in the world, Bungalow Flooring combines exclusive technology, quality craftsmanship, and original designs to create lasting solutions for your home that are both stylish and functional.

7. Pet Parade Non-Skid Dog Feeder Mat (Silicone)

The Pet Parade Non-Skid Pet Bowl Tray offers pet owners a mess-free feeding solution, keeping food and water spills off the floor. Its key attribute is the raised splash guard, which prevents spills and keeps the feeding area clean for both dogs and cats.

I love the outer trench design, which helps to keep ants and other critters out of the bowl area. You fill the moat with water, which can create an ant barrier, ensuring the food remains pest-free. If you’ve ever found ants competing with your dog for kibble as soon as you put down the plate, (like I have!) you’ll really appreciate this feature. 

This product comes in a fun burgundy color and can accommodate two pet bowls with a diameter of up to 8 1/2 inches.

In my limited use of this, I appreciate its sturdiness, functionality, and ease of cleaning; when it's dirty I can just put it in the dishwasher.

Other things to note are that it doesn’t take up a lot of space, making it a great choice for tight spaces.

8. GoTags Paw Personalized Food Mat for Dogs (Polyester)

The GoTags Personalized Dog Food Mat offers a customized and stylish solution to keep your floors clean during mealtime. This mat comes with adorable paw and bone designs and can be personalized with your pet's name using 15 thread color options, adding a paw-fect personal touch (I couldn't resist).

If you’re the kind of person who gives your dog seasoning on their food and other special treatment, you’re sure to want them to have a personalized mat. 

The mat is made from a durable blend of 60% cotton and 40% polyester, ensuring extra longevity and absorbency. Measuring 19 x 12.75 inches, it provides ample space for placing pet bowls.

The great embroidery finish, gives your pet a polished and classy look while they are eating. Also, the personalized touch allows pets to recognize their designated feeding area if you have multiple pets. But my two dogs always get confused... not to mention my husky tries to steal my poodles food.

It's comforting know that it is made in Washington State, USA, and orders are embroidered and shipped within 2 business days. It serves not only as a pet feeding mat but also as a doormat for your furry friend's entry, garage, patio or wherever they might bring in dirt, rain, snow, or mud.

Why You Should Use a Dog Food Mat

Dog food mats aren't just a stylish accessory for your pet's mealtime. They serve numerous practical purposes, making them a necessity for any dog owner.

Firstly, they help keep your floor clean. No matter how tidy your dog is, they're bound to make a mess while eating or drinking. Crumbs, spills, dribbles - it's all part of the package with a pet.

If you give your dog extra healthy treats like dog food toppers, the mess is only going to get worse. A mat under your dog's food and water bowls catches these, saving you the chore of frequent clean-ups.

Secondly, they protect your floors. Whether you've got hardwood, tiles, or carpet, food and water spills can cause damage. Mats create a barrier between the bowls and the floor, preventing stains, discoloration, and water damage.

They also provide stability. Food bowls without a mat can slip and slide around during mealtimes. A dog food mat grips the bowls, preventing movement and offering your dog a more comfortable eating experience.

Lastly, they're easy to clean. Many mats are made of silicone or other materials that are dishwasher safe. So, instead of scrubbing the floor, just pop the mat in the dishwasher and it's good as new.

What to Consider When Choosing a Dog Food Mat

A few things you need to consider when choosing a dog food mat are the material, size, cleaning, protection, cost and customer reviews. Let's go through each of these in more detail.

1. Material

Different materials offer varying levels of durability, comfort and cleanliness. For durability, consider rubber or silicone mats. They're resistant to tearing and can withstand rigorous use. If your dog is a messy eater or an enthusiastic chewer, these materials are up to the task.

Comfort is another aspect influenced by the material. Some materials may be too hard or rough for your pet's comfort. Soft silicone or padded materials ensure the mat is comfortable for your pet to step on.

Regarding cleanliness, silicone shines again. It's a non-porous material, meaning it doesn't attract bacteria or germs as easily as other materials. It's also resistant to stains, making it an excellent choice for cleanliness.

2. Size

The mat needs to be large enough to catch any spills or mess from your dog's food and water bowls, but you don’t want it taking up any more space than necessary.

Measure the size of your dog's bowls. Your mat should be larger than the combined size of the bowls to effectively catch any mess.

Larger dogs and those with flat faces tend to be messier eaters, so you might need a larger mat to handle the chaos of their mealtimes.

3. Cleaning

A dog food mat should be easy to clean. After all, it's meant to save you the trouble of mopping up after your pet, not create more work.

Mats made of silicone or rubber are often dishwasher-safe. This feature allows for effortless cleaning - just toss it in the dishwasher, and it's ready for the next meal.

For mats not suitable for dishwashers, check if they're easy to wipe down or rinse off. Some mats feature patterns that trap food particles, making them harder to clean. Choose a mat with a simple design to make cleaning as straightforward as possible.

4. Protection

The main reason for a dog food mat is to provide protection for your floors. Look for a mat that promises to do just that.

A mat should be waterproof to protect against any spills from the water bowl. Water can cause serious damage to hardwood floors and can stain carpets. A waterproof mat will prevent this water from seeping through onto your floor.

Aside from being waterproof, consider a mat with a raised edge. This feature helps to contain spills and crumbs, ensuring they don’t end up scattered around your floor.

Lastly, the mat should also be non-slip. This protects against the mat itself moving around on the floor during meal times, which could lead to spills and messes outside of the mat.

5. Cost

Price is a significant factor when choosing any product, and dog food mats are no exception. It's essential to find a balance between cost and quality. You want to save your money for extras to make your dog’s life as good as possible, like electrolytes for dogs, not spend it all on basics like a mat. 

While it's possible to find cheap mats, they might not offer the durability or features that a slightly more expensive mat could provide. On the other hand, the most expensive mat isn't necessarily the best one for your needs.

When considering the cost, remember to factor in the potential savings a good mat offers. It could protect your floor from damage, saving you money on repairs or cleaning. Also, a durable mat might cost more initially but last longer, proving more cost-effective over time.

6. Reviews

Lastly, but most importantly, consider the reviews of the product. Reviews from other customers can provide valuable insight into the quality and effectiveness of the mat.

Look for reviews that mention the factors important to you. If cleanliness is a priority, look for reviews mentioning ease of cleaning. If you're concerned about floor protection, see if any reviews talk about how well the mat protects against spills.

Remember, every dog and home situation is unique. What works well for one dog owner might not work as well for you. However, reviews can provide a general idea of the product's performance and help you make an informed decision.

Speaking of reviews, read my in depth guide to the best freeze dried dog food.

FAQs

What materials are dog food mats typically made of?

Dog food mats are typically made from rubber, silicone, or some form of plastic. Rubber and silicone mats are durable, flexible, and easy to clean. Plastic, while less flexible, is a cost-effective option and can be equally easy to clean, though it might not last as long. Certain mats might also be made from fabric, offering a softer feel but requiring more frequent washing.

What advantages does a dog food mat have over a regular placemat?

Dog food mats are designed specifically to handle the mess that comes with pet feeding. Unlike regular placemats, they have raised edges to contain spills, are generally made from waterproof and stain-resistant materials, and have a non-slip base to keep the mat in place during mealtimes. This level of functionality can't be found in standard placemats.

Are dog food mats waterproof?

Yes, most dog food mats are designed to be waterproof to protect your floors from water and other liquid spills. This feature is especially important for preventing damage to hardwood floors or carpeted areas.

Are dog food mats non-slip?

Indeed, many dog food mats are designed with a non-slip bottom. This feature keeps the mat from sliding around during meal times, helping to prevent spills and messes. It also makes it easier for your dog to eat comfortably without chasing their bowl around.

Are dog food mats dishwasher safe?

Many dog food mats, particularly those made from silicone or plastic, are dishwasher safe, which makes cleaning them a breeze. However, always check the manufacturer's instructions before placing any mat in the dishwasher.

Are there any special considerations for puppies?

When choosing a mat for a puppy, consider its chew resistance. Puppies tend to chew on everything they find, so a durable, chew-resistant mat is a must. Also, a mat with a raised edge is beneficial to contain spills, as puppies can be especially messy eaters.

What is the best way to clean a dog food mat?

The best cleaning method depends on the material of your mat. Many silicone or plastic mats can go in the dishwasher. For others, a simple wipe down with a damp cloth or rinse under the sink might be sufficient. For fabric mats, a run through the washing machine is usually needed.

Are there any special features of some dog food mats?

Certain dog food mats come with special features such as raised edges for better spill containment, patterned surfaces to trap food particles, or even a built-in slow feeder for dogs who eat too quickly. Some may also have decorative designs or customizable options for a touch of personal style.

Where is the best place to buy a dog food mat?

Dog food mats can be purchased from various places. Pet supply stores, both physical and online, are a great starting point. Large online retailers like Amazon also offer a wide variety. Additionally, specialized pet brands often sell their products directly from their websites. Always remember to compare prices and reviews before purchasing.

Closing Thoughts

If you're looking for the best dog food mat to keep your pet from eating off the floor, the Leashboss is a great option. It's made from durable, non-toxic materials and is the perfect size for most dogs. Plus, it's easy to clean and comes in a variety of colors.

And if you are looking for a high protein meal topper that is perfect for picky eaters, try a high protein bone broth like the one from Bluebird Provisions.

Sources

1. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0259478
2. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/what-are-zoomies
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15131099/
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9213604/
5. https://www.vin.com/apputil/content/defaultadv1.aspx?pId=11165&meta=Generic&id=3848657#:~:text=Dogs%20that%20eat%20quickly%20have,increase%20risk%20by%20110%20percent.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used to treat or supplement any pet's diet. Consult your veterinarian or animal health specialist if you have questions about anything related to their food, consumption or health. The statements have not been evaluated by the FDA, USDA or CFIA.

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