The problem
Almost all dogs have a bite threshold. This is the point at which they are stressed enough to bite. For some, this threshold is reached easily, while for others, it may take some extraordinary measures. There’s a lot going on in the dominance hierarchy when it comes to domestic dogs.
Whichever the case, if your dog is prone to behavioral issues such as biting or barking, shouldn’t there be something which may help the dog from hurting a human or another animal?
The solution
Dog muzzles!
A muzzle protects your dog, you as the owner, and the potentially injured party. For one, anyone who gets a dog bite will need immediate medical attention, and two, the dog that has done the biting will probably be quarantined and euthanized. Plus, three, you as the owner may get some legal action taken against you.
So: If your dog is likely to bite, bark, chew, or misbehave while grooming; then a muzzle may keep everyone involved safe and will manage the dog’s aggressive tendencies. But don’t just put a band-aid on it, a muzzle should serve as a temporary fix to an underlying behavioral issue.
With a dog muzzle, you can make even the scariest situations manageable, and the experience will result in a positive learning opportunity for everyone. Including your furry best friend!
Here are a few reasons why most people consider buying muzzles for dogs:
- The most important reason is to be able to handle an injured or terrified dog, in case of an emergency situation.
- To groom the dog, or do a medical examination safely. This is for a dog that is likely to bite.
- To protect other animals (and humans) while approaching a dog that is likely to bite.
Types of muzzles out there
As with anything else, there’s never usually just one type. There are so many kinds of muzzles out there that you can buy, all of which should fall under one of these types.
Plastic muzzle
This is the best overall muzzle for protecting your dog. It will also help the dog to breathe, feed, and drink water easily. They can, therefore, wear it for extended periods of time.
Leather muzzle
These come in different sizes and designs, so be thorough while choosing, and get one that will best suit your dog, so they can be able to drink, pant and get rewards.
Soft muzzle
This is lighter than the plastic muzzle, and it is easy to put on. It, however, does not allow much room for ventilation and breathing, and some dogs are able to chew through it.
Grooming (fabric or mesh)
This does not allow the dog to drink, eat or pant with the muzzle on. It should, therefore, be used only for short periods of time. It is also not safe for training.
Metal basket
This is one we generally do not recommended. It may break at the welded spot which will leave sharp edges that may injure the dog. That being said, some dog owners swear by them and consider our opinion absurd and unfounded.
Emergency muzzle
This can be used in case of emergencies. Typically designed as just a string or belt type apparatus that can quickly be placed on a dogs mouth to swiftly evacuate the premises.
Best dog muzzles examined
As mentioned, there’s so many muzzles to choose from. Maybe that’s because they’re relatively easy to make? There’s a high demand for them?
Whatever the case, our team sifted through the saturation and uncovered these five quality muzzles for dogs that we think are worth considering. Check them out below.
Ewinever Adjustable Breathable Muzzle
This muzzle comes in five different sizes, so you are sure to find one that will fit your dog. Whether your dog is a small, medium, large, or giant breed. It has a premium quality buckle that is easily adjustable to fit your dog.
It is made of a premium nylon material that is very safe for the dog, plus it is also breathable, soft and long-lasting.This muzzle is also multi-functional and will prevent the dog from biting licking wounds, chewing, barking, and many other problems.
Pros
- It will protect the dog from biting other dogs or humans.
- It will also protect the dog from barking, chewing and licking wounds.
- It is very safe, as the dog can still breathe easily in it.
- It can be used by all dogs as the buckle is adjustable.
Cons
- Be on the lookout, as the dog will be able to pull it out easily.
Customers feedback
This product has 4 out of 5 stars rating, and most customers said that their dogs were able to chew through it and some were able to take it off. They, however, loved the fact that they could find it in many different sizes and all their dogs got one; as well as that it gets the job done overall.
‘Barkless’ Soft Basket Dog Muzzle
This is a flexible silicone muzzle basket that is made of a strong and durable material which is also soft on your dog’s snout. The basket design provides an all-around protection for the dog, and keeps it from biting, eating dirty food and barking all the time.
It is safe and secure, and the strap will ensure the muzzle remains in place securely and features two additional points for attachment. The loop will also attach to the collar of the dog and the strap over the head will attach to the rear strap. You won’t have to worry about it falling off.
Lightweight and breathable: It is a good muzzle as your dog will be able to feed, drink and pant. It is also lightweight and will fit quickly.
Pros
- It is made of quality material.
- It is very soft and ideal for the dog.
- It is durable and will last a long time.
- It does not come off easily as it is secured in place.
- It is lightweight and breathable.
Cons
- It is a little too wide for some dogs.
Customers’ feedback
It has 3.8 out of 5 stars rating, and most of the customers were very happy with the fact that it secures itself in place without coming off or even moving. It was ideal for most dogs and served its function very well.
Coastal Pet Best Fit Mesh Dog Muzzle
This is a size 6 dog muzzle that has an 8-inch circumference. It has a strong and adjustable mesh that is breathable and allows the dog to pant and feed. It is one of the most popular choices.
It comes highly recommended for all dogs, especially dogs breeds like that of Weimaraner and Dalmatians. The nylon wire web provides a ventilation for the dog, plus it comes with a very well-padded nose-band that makes it comfortable for the dog as he wears it.
Pros
- It is made of a high-quality material.
- It is strong and adjustable for the dog.
- The muzzle gives the dog room to breathe and feed easily.
- It is very well-padded for comfort.
Cons
- You must secure it tight as the dog may be able to take it off.
Muzzle size and suggested breeds chart:
Customer’s feedback
This muzzle has a high rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars. It was recommended by most savvy customers as one of the best muzzles in the market because it kept their dogs comfortably restrained. It was nice and soft, plus it was well-padded for comfort.
Downtown Pet Supply Quick Fit Dog Muzzle
This is a comfortable and humane muzzle, that is a top choice for most groomers and dog handlers. It has a fully adjustable strap and a buckle that is super quick to release.
It is made of a strong nylon fabric that is durable, soft and easy to clean. It comes in many different sizes, so choose the right one to fit your dog perfectly. This muzzle will allow the dog to breathe, feed and pant, but (naturally) be careful while using it, and never leave the dog unattended.
Pros
- It is strong and durable.
- It is made of a high-quality plastic material.
- It is fully adjustable and allows for a quick release.
- It is soft and allows the dog to breathe easily.
Cons
- It may not be safe to leave the dog in it unattended (use common sense!)
Customers feedback
It has 3.3 out of 5 stars rating. Customers who used this muzzle were unhappy as the sizes never seemed to fit their dogs. They advised anyone who wanted to buy the muzzle to measure their dogs very well before they bought them so they wouldn’t have trouble with the sizes.
You can use the measuring chart below:
Mayerzon Dog Muzzle Nylon with Soft Padding
This is an extra soft muzzle that is flexible enough for the dog. It has nylon loops that prevent the dog from biting which gives you more control as the owner.
It is also fully adjustable and is guaranteed to give a good fitting on the neck. The snout and strap circumference ensure it is not too tight. The comfort level is also very high, and the dog can wear it for long periods of time.
Pros
- It is very soft and comfortable on the dog.
- It is flexible, which means the dog can be able to wear it for long periods of time.
- The muzzle has an adjustable strap; allows you to use it on many different dog sizes.
- It will prevent the dog from biting and barking.
- It comes with a guidebook to show you how to use it.
Cons
- Dogs may easily get out of it if not secured properly.
Chart on how to properly measure your dogs snout:
Customers feedback
It has been given 3.8 out of 5 stars rating by customers. Most were happing with the fitting, plus it was very comfortable on the dog for long periods of time. The dogs are also able to go along their businesses totally oblivious, as they could breathe, feed and pant very well.
Time to muzzle up!
So, that’s that. You’ve learned a great deal about the best muzzles for your dog out there. Overall, a muzzle is a great tool for keeping your dog and everyone around it safe. If there’s a chance of your dog biting, you should seriously consider investing in a quality muzzle.
Be keen however to measure accordingly and buy the right size; as you can tell from the reviews, most complaints were from owners who said the muzzles do not fit properly.
Also, you should watch this insightful video on muzzle training: