Lick Art How-To for You and Your Dog

by Nicole Janiga

Create a one-of-a-kind work of art courtesy of your pup!

We saw the trend and just had to give it a try. And now "lick art" is officially our new favorite DIY project. Why? Well for starters, you get to do it with your dog. Plus the end product is an art piece like no other, a keepsake that your best friend helped create.  

Not to mention that the act of licking (when on approved surfaces like lick mats) can help to reduce canine anxiety and boredom. And you can use this activity as a helpful distraction if it's time for a nail trimming or ear wash. 

Whether you want to cherish this painting forever or gift it to a fellow dog lover, you really can't go wrong. Ready to get started? Gather the below materials, and get painting!


Materials

  • Resealable plastic bag
  • 3-4 different colors of non-toxic paint
  • Stretched canvas to fit in plastic bag, 8x10 works great!
  • Approximately two tablespoons of peanut butter, making sure that the only ingredient is ground peanuts. Make sure to avoid any peanut butter that contains xylitol, as it is highly toxic to pets.
  • Butter knife to spread the peanut butter
  • Sundays to inspire your dog’s creativity

Instructions


  1. 1. Start by spreading your peanut butter over random places on the outside of one side of the plastic bag.
  1. 2. Pour dots of paint all over your canvas. The more saturated, the better!
  2. Insert the paint-soaked canvas into the plastic bag. Double and triple check that the bag is entirely sealed.
  1. 3. Place pieces of Sundays on the peanut butter. This will encourage your pup to get involved and use this "lick mat" instead of their bowl.
  1. 4. Place the plastic bag on level ground, and let “Pup”-caso get to work! Be sure to closely supervise your pup as they spread the paint around the canvas using their tongue, mouth, and paws gently.
  1. 5. Once all the dog food and peanut butter have been enjoyed, remove their masterpiece from the plastic bag and leave it in an out-of-reach safe place to dry for about 30 minutes. 

  2. Before gifting their masterpiece (or taking the one-of-a-kind artwork to a museum), include a note and wrap for your lucky recipient of choice. And if you're going to keep this work of art, consider making a few more so you can make a gallery wall! 

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