Top 5 Best Dog Muzzle Choices

What comes to mind when you think of a dog muzzle? You're probably picturing a vicious large breed dog foaming at the mouth, right? Actually, muzzles for dogs are very beneficial for dog training, grooming and emergency situations, no matter the breed. A muzzle also shouldn't be painful to a dog; they allow your dog to breathe, pant and even drink water.

There's a lot of controversy surrounding muzzles for dogs, but in fact, humanely designed dog muzzles are an effective and recommended tools. Professionals sometimes use them even on cats to prevent all kinds of injuries to the animal.

In this article, we'll take an extensive look at using muzzles on dogs, when they are needed and when there's no reason to use one, and what are the pros and cons of using muzzles for dogs. We've also researched, tested, reviewed, and ranked the best dog muzzles:

When Dog Muzzles Are Essential

Some pet owners refuse to use dog muzzles no matter what, mostly because they think it hurts the dog or they simply don't like the idea of muzzling their canine. However, there is no reason to avoid dog muzzles entirely, especially when they're needed.

There's a great article from Dr. Tony Johnson, DVM, who explains why dogs should always be trained for muzzles and why, in some cases, they are required. In the end, he makes a great point about using muzzles on dogs:

“I am a big fan of muzzles. I don’t want to get bitten, I don’t want to have to quarantine a pet who has bitten someone, and I know that even the nicest and most even-tempered dog or cat can bite if provoked by a stranger when they are not feeling well.”

While a dog muzzle may not always be necessary, vets and trainers agree that in certain cases, dogs may be unpredictable, and even the most mild-mannered dog may become aggressive in the event of a severe injury or other reasons, like fear aggression.

Medical conditions, like brain tumors in dogs, can also cause a friendly canine to turn aggressive and become dangerous. Groomers know that with certain dogs, grooming them against their will can bring out the worst (i.e., biting), especially when a dog has not been properly trained or accustomed to grooming.

While many countries and most U.S. states have abandoned “muzzle laws,” some areas still have breed specific legislation that requires certain “dangerous” dog breeds to be muzzled when they are not on their owners' property. No matter what the reason, it's likely that your dog will need to be muzzled at some point in his life.

The Types of Dog Muzzles

There are two different types of dog muzzles – the basket muzzle and the soft muzzle.

Basket dog muzzles look a bit more harsh than soft muzzles, but they are actually much more comfortable for the dog than soft dog muzzles when adjusted properly. Plastic basket muzzles are used for small dog breeds, and metal basket muzzles are recommended for large dogs or aggressive canines, but they accomplish the same thing.

Soft dog muzzles are usually made of mesh or nylon. While they look like they would be more comfortable, they usually aren't. You have to adjust these muzzles much tighter than basket muzzles, which restricts the ability of the dog to pant or drink water. It's also tighter around his face, making it uncomfortable.

Essentially, both types of dog muzzles accomplish the same goal. If chosen right and adjusted properly, basket dog muzzles (metal or plastic) are more comfortable for dogs.

How to Measure Your Dog for a Muzzle

Getting a dog muzzle that fits well is the only way to ensure that you'll be able to use it.

If a muzzle is too loose, it's not going to contain your dog the way it is supposed to. If it's too tight, it may restrict breathing and panting of the dog. A muzzle that is too tight may also causing chaffing and irritation.

Here's how to measure your dog for a muzzle and pick the right fit:

1. Measure the length of the dog's snout. Use a fabric tape measure, and then measure from your pet's eye line (the line on his snout that is in between the eyes) down to the tip of his snout.

2. Measure the circumference of his snout. Beginning on the top of his snout, wrap the fabric tape measure around your dog's cheek, down under his chin, and back up to the top of the snout.

3. Measure from the eye line to the back of your dog's head behind his ears. This will tell you the length of strap that you'll need to look for.

4. And the final measurement you'll need will be his neck circumference. Simply wrap the tape measure around his neck.

Don't forget to record all of these measurements as you go, and make sure they're 100% accurate. For more tips, watch this video on how to measure your dog for clothing.

While we include some of the best dog muzzles sold on Amazon and the prices are generally lower online than in brick-and-mortar pet stores, generally it's best to shop for a dog muzzle at your local pet store. This way you can try on the muzzle before purchasing. Nevertheless, if you choose to order a dog muzzle online, then make sure that it fits the measurements you've taken of your dog, and read reviews from other owners.

The 5 Best Dog Muzzle Choices

1Dogs My Love Real Leather Basket Muzzle

A muzzle must be used sparingly on dogs and only for situations that pose the risk of your dog biting other people or pets. Choose the basket style when your dog needs to engage in physical or off-leash activities, such as running or playing.

This leather cage basket dog muzzle from Dogs My Love is made from genuine leather and designed to provide proper ventilation. This design allows the dog to pant and be comfortable even when being restrained. The snout length is 3.5 inches, and circumference is 11.8 inches.

• Dog muzzle reviews: Read opinions of other pet owners

This muzzle is highly secure, according to dog owners who need a really well-made muzzle for their dogs. Three adjustable straps firmly hold it in place – two going to the side of the face and a middle strap that connects to the two straps and the dog’s collar. It does allow for panting, which is important when the dog is physically active.

Take note, however, that this muzzle won’t allow for drinking or eating. This feature solves the problem of many dog owners whose dogs have the disgusting habit of picking or eating dirt – and worse, even feces – in parks and public places. Include this in your shopping list if you need one that provides relative comfort to your dog and the utmost protection for others.

PROS: Made from genuine leather Snout length is 3.5 inches and circumference is 11.8 inches Adjustable strap fits around your dog's collar to ensure it stays in place

CONS: Does not allow for eating or drinking

Most helpful review (read the full Amazon review): “NOT for constant wear! It's a good strong leather muzzle – just don't buy it thinking your dog can have a sip of water when thirsty. Won't…”

 

2Canine Friendly Short Snout Muzzle

When visiting the vet or going places while your dog is leashed, the mesh-style muzzle is a good option. It is softer around the snout and allows a wider area to breathe because of the type of material used. The Canine Friendly Short Snout dog muzzle comes in four sizes.

It is made of canvas-like orange nylon material, black mesh, and three adjustable sliding straps and buckles. The mesh encloses the whole face up to the forehead with an opening around the nose.

• Dog muzzle reviews: Read opinions of other pet owners

The mesh webbing has adequate spacing so as not to obscure vision and padded bumpers to keep it off the eyes. The Canine Friendly Short Snout Dog Muzzle is the best option for dog breeds with shorter snouts and is an important addition to first aid kits for canines. Regular muzzles are usually molded to a shape, and it was often a bit of a challenge for many pet owners to find one that would fit their short-nosed dog’s unique facial features.

The mesh keeps the dog under control without constricting his facial structure – it still allows breathing through the mouth with the tongue out and licking water in a dish. This is one of the best dog muzzle brands because it stays put quite well, even when the dog tries to shake it off. For situations that call for brief muzzling, this should serve the purpose perfectly.

PROS: Available in 4 sizes Made of canvas-like orange nylon material, black mesh, and three adjustable sliding straps and buckles Padded bumpers keep it from obstructing the eyes

CONS: While they say it is one of the top-rated muzzles, some reviewers say their dogs did not like the fact that this product covered their entire face The sizing runs a bit small

Most helpful review (read the full Amazon review): “I'm hopeful that I'll be able to change this rating to 5 stars. I have to return the large and get an x-large to fit my bulldog. I'm sharing the info from…”

 

3Company of Animals Baskerville Ultra Muzzle

Rubber basket-style muzzles are probably the best choice when you want optimum safety with the highest level of comfort for your pet. The Company of Animals Baskerville Ultra Muzzle is made of high-quality rubber molded to a basket shape. It effectively confines the canine’s jaw, disabling it to biting, yet does not constrict all other facial features necessary for breathing, panting, drinking, and even eating treats.

Secure strapping attaches to the collar and has an optional overhead strap. This muzzle is available in six sizes and in tan and black colors. Many dog owners attest that the Company of Animals Baskerville 5-Inch Rubber Ultra Muzzle has been a real lifesaver not only for their dog but for other dogs as well. This may not be the solution that ends all dog fighting or socialization issues, but it has been a very useful tool for going through behavioral therapy and rehabilitation.

• Dog muzzle reviews: Read opinions of other pet owners

The size chart and training guide are very important in picking out the right size and getting your dog acquainted with the muzzle. It took pet owners a little while to train their dogs to tolerate the muzzle, but they eventually took to it much better than they did previous types. Owners say that this acceptance is largely due to bigger snout space for breathing and eating, softer material used, and much wider webbing than found in some of the other animal muzzles.

PROS: Available in 6 sizes and 2 colors Made of high-quality rubber Allows the dog to breathe, pant, drink, and eat This is one of the top-ranked puppy muzzles as it attaches to the dog's collar to prevent it from sliding around

CONS: Many consumers complained that this muzzle was durable enough to withstand strong dogs. Some say it broke after just a few uses. Be advised when ordering from Amazon – one reviewer claims he received a muzzle that had already been used and already had dog hair all over it.

Most helpful review (read the full Amazon review + PHOTOS): “I got this muzzle for my 42 lb Vizsla/pit mix that I adopted from the shelter at 3 years old. I noticed at dog parks that she would get…”

 

4Cesar Millan Funny Muzzle

Cesar Millan specially designed these muzzles to inject positive energy into situations that caused pet owners to their decision to muzzle up their dogs in the first place. Dogs are affected by negative energies, not solely coming from the canines but largely from their humans. These Cesar Millan muzzles come in dragon, smile, and braces patterns that elicit smiles and relaxed feelings in situations where their dog may injure other dogs, pets, or humans.

This muzzle is made of durable nylon material, open around the nostril area, and secured with adjustable straps. Dog owners who hate to muzzle their pups but must comply with requirements in many public places were very happy that they found the Cesar Millan Funny Muzzle. They say that it lightens the mood in many situations where their dogs need to interact with people. With humans being more relaxed – many even finding it amusing – their dogs naturally settle down and relax, too.

• Dog muzzle reviews: Read opinions of other pet owners

The full restriction provided by rigid basket muzzles often makes the dog look more aggressive and intimidating than he actually is. This impression adds to the fear factor. On the other hand, this muzzle is made of fabric and mesh, so it’s naturally more comfortable for the dog and much more visually appealing than any of the other products on this list.

PROS: Available in 3 unique patterns to promote positive energy Made of durable nylon material and secured with adjustable straps Available in 4 sizes

CONS: Many reviews say that the sizing runs very small – sometimes up to 2 sizes small Does not allow for panting, eating, or drinking

Most helpful review (read the full Amazon review): “Love this muzzle…does a great job of lightening people's opinions of my dog, making everyone laugh when they see him rather…”

 

5Downtown Pet Supply Quick Fit Muzzle

Some dogs need only to be restrained gently, and this muzzle from Downtown Pet Supply is ideal for them. It is made of nylon fabric that is durable yet much more comfortable than those designed with straps using unyielding materials.

Fabric, on the other hand, allows flexibility while preventing the dog from moving its jaw to bite. This muzzle is available for a wide variety of dog breeds and sizes because of the different snout lengths – nine sizes – to choose from.

• Dog muzzle reviews: Read opinions of other pet owners

Pet owners found this to be a more humane option than some of the other pet muzzles on the market. They acknowledge, though, that the Downtown Pet Supply Quick Fit Dog Muzzle still allows their dogs to bark. Some reviewers also noted that the sizing on this muzzle is larger than expected.

This is not only useful for averting dogfights and possibly conflicts with the neighbors; it’s been useful, too, for dogs that make a habit of swallowing things like whole acorns and large nuts during walks.  Overall, this is a great pet item that prevents a dog from injuring others or itself without the unnecessary discomfort that usually comes with wearing muzzles.

PROS: Made of durable nylon Available in 9 sizes Designed to be easier to put on than any other item on the market Cheapest price

CONS: A few reviews note that these muzzles run larger in size than expected Some buyers were disappointed with the quality of this muzzle, although they weren't surprised due to the extremely cheap price tag.

Most helpful review (read the full Amazon review + PHOTO): “Love these for my two barking and one rescue biter . I read all the reviews and followed there advise and bought small as to stop…” 

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