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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