10 Best Dog Muzzles in 2023
Many people see muzzles as a form of cruelty. When you put a muzzle on your dog, it could result in animal cruelty, it is not what they were made for. In reality, the best dog muzzles are actually meant for bark control. There is a multitude of reasons why most dogs wear a muzzle. The most obvious one is to prevent your loveable pooch from injuring others upon fear.
But even a non-aggressive dog could learn to use a muzzle. Muzzles can dissuade your dog from excessive barking, chewing, random eating and biting of course. Sometimes if a dog is recovering from an injury and your vet might suggest a muzzle for your dog in place of a dog cone.
In some areas of the US, municipal governments require certain breeds to wear a canine muzzle. Whatever the reason, there are things to consider when browsing for one. Once again we’re going to take you through some choices and help you pick the right one.
How Did We Pick the Best Dog Muzzle?
It may seem like an impossible task, but we did try to find the best dog muzzle that not only provided your dog with comfort, but also did its job.
Comfort
How comfortable is the muzzle around your dog’s mouth? A secure muzzle for your dog shouldn’t squish your dog’s noise, but it should fit well around your dog’s head without being too tight. We did our best to try and find the correct fit that would suit aggressive dogs of any breed.
Type
We’ll get into this a bit more in the buyer’s guide, but there are various types of dog muzzles for your aggressive dog or one who tends to eat everything in sight on walks. We also made sure to include as many types of muzzles such as basket muzzles on our list. Your dog’s face has a lot to do with the type of muzzle you purchase.
Size
The comfort ties into the size of the best dog muzzle. Your dog has to wear a muzzle of the right size to be comfortable. We looked for ones that are adjustable or can fit a variety of dog breeds.
Material
We also made sure the options we chose have been crafted out of softer materials that won’t chafe your dog’s skin. If you plan on putting a muzzle on your aggressive dog for a long while, then the material should play a primary role when you consider the best dog muzzle.
View the Best Dog Muzzles Below
1. The Company of Animals Baskerville Ultra Basket Dog Muzzle
Product Specifications
- Brand: The Company of Animals
- Lifestage: Adult
- Breed Size: Large Breeds
- Material: Rubber
- Closure Type: Buckle
Our Review
This type of muzzle for dogs is called a ‘basket muzzle’. The design doesn’t restrict your dog from eating, drinking, and panting if need be. The basket part of the muzzle is made from malleable thermal plastic rubber, which means it can be shaped and molded to fit your dog’s snout.
The two attachment points, one that attaches to your dog’s collar, and an overhead safety strap will ensure this muzzle will remain in place. This might not be suitable for dogs who like to eat anything they find on the road, but giving your pup enough space to drink at will is important.
Pros:
+ May be molded and fitted
+ Allows drinking, panting, eating
+ Lightweight and tough
+ Safety collar attachment loop
Cons:
– It may take some time for your dog to get used to the muzzle
Why We Like It – Heat the basket of this muzzle to mold and shape it for a custom fit. The inside is lined with neoprene, the same material used to make wetsuits, which gives enough cushion around your dog’s snout.
2. Four Paws Quick Fit Dog Muzzle
Product Specifications
- Brand: Four Paws
- Lifestage: Adult
- Breed Size: Medium Breeds
- Material: Nylon
Our Review
This style fits tightly around your dog’s jaws but still allows panting and drinking. The small buckles on the back are adjustable to find a perfect and comfortable fit for your best friend. This muzzle is best to prevent biting, barking and chewing.
The completely washable nylon is soft enough it won’t bother your pooch but strong enough to stay in place. Are you worried you won’t find the correct fit? Don’t be because this muzzle comes in 9 sizes! It’s soft enough and still allows your pup to pant and breathe properly.
Pros:
+ Available in 9 sizes
+ Completely washable nylon
+ Adjustable
+ Allows drinking and panting
Cons:
– More of a large dog muzzle, not for small dogs or toy breeds
Why We Like It – We love how this muzzle does its job but is soft enough your pet won’t realize it’s meant to deter him from doing certain activities. He will still be able to breathe, drink and pant.
3. JYHY Short Snout Dog Muzzles
Product Specifications
- Brand: JYHY
- Item Size: S(9″-12″), M(11″-17″), L(15″-25″), XL(18″-25″)
- Color: Grey(Eyehole)
Our Review
For the Pug and Bulldog owners out there, we have your back! This muzzle is for most dogs with short snouts, or flat-faced dogs such as French bulldogs. Unfortunately for them, their muscle has to envelope most of their faces. But we think it’s adorable! Your dog may look like Hannibal Lecter, but I assure you he won’t have breathing problems.
The breathable mesh and durable nylon come together to create a comfortable yet durable design. The quick release buckle makes it easy to put on and remove because we know your dog won’t be going into this willingly.
Pros:
+ Designed for short snouts
+ Breathable but durable
+ Padded edges
+ Easy release buckle
Cons:
– Not a lot of color choices
Why We Like It – There are two options, one which makes your pup look like he’s wearing a mask, and one that looks like a fencing helmet. Both are secure and comfortable options.
4. Lepark Nylon Dog Muzzle for Small, Medium, Large Dogs
Product Specifications
- Brand: Lepark
- Item Size: S to XXXL
- Material: Nylon
Our Review
Lepark Nylon Dog Muzzle is a simple design that consists of one strap that wraps around your pup’s snout, and one around your dog’s head. You must make sure it’s loose enough to give your dog the freedom to pant and move its tongue. Durable and high-quality nylon can stand up to daily use.
This item doesn’t look ‘scary’ and lives up to its purpose. What’s important is it is easily adjustable and very easy to take on and off. It really breaks your heart to force this on your dog knowing full well they won’t enjoy it. The easy slip-on and buckle design minimize the struggle.
Pros:
+ Simple design
+ Easy to slip on and off
+ Durable and high-quality nylon
+ Comfortable
Cons:
– Not many color options
Why We Liked It – It might look flimsy, but it is strong enough for your dog. The strap around the mouth makes it difficult for your dog to wriggle out of.
5. CooZero 7 PCS Anti-biting Barking Pet Muzzle
Product Specifications
- Brand: CooZero
- Color: Black
- Material: Oxford cloth
Our Review
Get seven for the price of one! There is less of a need to measure your dog thoroughly because he’s bound to fit into one of the sizes. It’s easy to slip on with a fully adjustable strap and buckle. This pet muzzle will prevent your dog from biting, eating random scraps, barking, and licking wounds.
Made entirely of oxford cloth, the material is water, wear and dirt-proof making it especially easy to clean. The light and breathable muzzle won’t hurt your dog and will prevent it from hurting others. If you are not completely happy with the product, CooZero offers a 100% money back and a lifetime guarantee!
Pros:
+ Adjustable
+ Multiple sizes
+ High-quality material
+ Money-back and lifetime guarantee
Cons:
– Not many color options
Why We Like It – I usually consider products with a guarantee a risk-free purchase. If by any chance the product is not to your liking, you don’t take a hit and that’s always a good thing!
6. GoodBoy Gentle Muzzle Guard
Product Specifications
- Brand: GoodBoy
- Item Size: Small to Large
Our Review
Just by looking at the picture, you can see why the word ‘gentle’ is in the name. The thick neoprene padding is very obvious and adds an extra touch of style. You can choose from a pretty pink for you fur baby girl, or a sky blue for your boy.
A ‘humane’ muzzle, this mouth guard prevents your pup from all the less than desirable tendencies, while still allowing it to breathe and drink. The bonus collar and connection strap will help keep the muzzle in place, even for pups that are master escape artists.
Pros:
+ Comfortable padding
+ Bonus collar and strap
+ 2 color options
+ Adjustable fit
Cons:
– Intelligent dogs could wriggle out
Why We Like It – The high-quality buckles used to adjust the fit won’t loosen over time. Velcro for the mouthpiece adjustment makes it easy to customize the fit in increments.
7. Petburg Nose Strap Dog Muzzle
Product Specifications
- Brand: Wintchuk
- Item Size: S/M/L/XL/XXL
- Color: Black/Green/Red
- Material: Soft mesh (more breathable and reduce the burden of dogs)
Our Review
Also coming in multiple colors, the Petburg Dog Muzzle is multifunctional. Use it to prevent your dog from doing anything harmful to himself or others. The different sizes can accommodate any breed aside from ones with short snouts.
The three-strap design makes it almost impossible to be pawed off by your dog. Need to loosen the muzzle? The quick release buckle allows you to take off the mouth guard and adjust the strap to find the perfect fit for your dog. Remember not to fit it so tightly your dog doesn’t have the room to pant or use its tongue freely.
Pros:
+ Multiple colors
+ Adjustable design
+ Extra secure
+ Various sizes
Cons:
– Your dog needs time to get accustomed to it
Why We Like It – You can customize the strap that fits between your pup’s eyes. If it’s difficult to wear the muzzle with the extra strap, just take a pair of scissors to it and improve the design.
8. WORDERFUL Ant-Bite Duck Muzzle
Product Specifications
- Brand: Prime
- Item Size: Small size, Suitable for small dog, with mouth circumference 4.5″ and neck circumference 6.7”-10.0″
- Material: Silicone
Our Review
Why not make lemonade out of lemons? If your dog must wear a muzzle, a cute design might make it more bearable. Give your dog the full freedom to breathe and use its tongue with this cute duckbill design. The long bill makes it hard for your pooch to reach its wounds or scraps on the street or give dog bites.
Soft and comfortable, the beak is made with advanced silicone that’s lightweight. It won’t weigh your dog down and protects your kids and your dog as well. Slip the beak on over your dog’s snout and snap the buckle shut, it’s that easy!
Pros:
+ Cute design
+ Lightweight
+ Durable and adjustable
+ Prevents barking, biting and eating
Cons:
– Small dog muzzle not for big dogs
Why We Like It – Your pet doesn’t need to look like Darth Vader and strike fear into people’s hearts. The cute duck design offers the same protection, with a touch of cuteness without intimidation.
9. CollarDirect Adjustable Dog Muzzle
Product Specifications
- Brand: CollarDirect
- Item Size: Small, Medium, Large
- Material: Nylon
Our Review
We love package deals! Get two for the price of one. Choose one red and one black if you have one male and one female fur baby. If you have a Jack Russell as I do, or a pup with a similar snout, this was made just for them. Slip this dog mouth guard on easily in one swift motion.
Intended to prevent the typical biting, barking and eating behavior, these guards are also great for a short visit to the vet or groomer. The nylon material is waterproof and easy to clean. It’s lightweight and durable, some even say their dogs don’t even notice it!
Pros:
+ Lightweight and durable
+ Easy to clean nylon
+ 2 pack deal
+ Adjustable
Cons:
– Covers a large part of the dog’s nose
Why We Like It – With the perfect fit, this muzzle can prevent all the naughty behaviors without restricting your dog from being comfortable. You can tighten or loosen the muzzle as much as you need to.
10. Kurgo Snout About Strap Dog Head Collar Muzzle
Product Specifications
- Brand: Kurgo
- Item Dimensions: 3 x 13.5 x 0.25 inches
- Material: Synthetic
- Closure Type: Buckle
- Color: Coastal Blue, Raspberry, Red/Blue
Our Review
The affordable price is definitely a selling point. The careful design prevents your pup from removing it with its paws. The strong nylon has a reflective ribbon print that comes in two colors for added safety. Don’t worry about choking or pain because the fit is easily adjustable and still allows your dog to breathe and drink normally.
The wide soft straps won’t cut into your pooch or cause hot spots. This collar muzzle can double as a training collar when it’s strapped to a dog leash. It will encourage your pup not to pull and charge forward.
Pros:
+ Doubles as a training collar
+ Easily adjustable
+ Reflective ribbon
+ No choking or pain
Cons:
– The sizing may be off by a little
Why We Like It – Not only does this best dog muzzle prevent actions such as biting, barking or random eating, but it also allows you to maintain gentle control over your pooch while training.
Bonus Buy: KarmaPets Calming Treats for Dogs
Training your pet to get used to a muzzle? Taking him or her on a long journey in the car? Or trying to get your pooch accustomed to new clothing? This is your new best friend. These calming treats balance their brain chemistry when they feel stressed and bring their mood right back up.
Get the calming feeling without the drowsiness with these vegan and organic treats for dogs. Not satisfied or your dog doesn’t like them? Get your money back 100% with their guarantee.
Pros:
+ Calming but not drowsy
+ Healthy, vegan and organic
+ Delicious flavor
+ Money-back guarantee
Why We Like It – It’s so tough trying to get your pet to accept something new. One wrong move and all your efforts go down the drain. Keep yourself sane and your pet more accepting with these treats.
Dog Muzzle Buyer’s Guide
Even the best dog muzzles can give people the wrong impression. When we think of a muzzle, our minds jump directly to the inhumane treatment of animals. However, if used correctly, they serve as a useful aid to train and protect your dog as well as others.
Still, you have the occasional dog parent asking if muzzles are cruel, and shake their heads at owners who use them. Now that you are better informed, we’ll pile on the information and guide you through what to look for when purchasing one.
What to Look for When Buying a Dog Muzzle?
Type
As you have seen, there are different kinds of muzzles out there. Let’s take the muzzle for short-snouted dogs out of the equation first. For them, they have only the choice of muzzles for short dogs or a breed specific one.
Basket/Soft muzzle – The basket muzzle is one that is shaped like a basket. They are usually made with plastic, wire, or some even look like a leather muzzle, or nylon or have mesh straps . These muzzles look like a basket and give your pooch enough ventilation to breathe and drink properly but not to unleash dog bites. You will more often see larger dogs with the wire type muzzle and smaller ones with plastic baskets.
If you like the luxurious leather muzzle options, keep in mind that they are not as weather-resistant.
Sleep or Wrap – These muzzle styles cover your dog’s mouth and wrap around the snout to restrict movement. With these two, your pooch will have significantly less freedom of mobility. Because it’s more restricting, we don’t suggest letting your pet wear these for prolonged periods of time.
Size
Make sure you buy the right size.
For length – Measure by taking a measuring tape to the tip of your canine’s nose and run it along with their snout all the way to about a half inch away from their eyes.
For circumference – Measure the BASE of the snout. For a comfortable fit, allow some half an inch or so of extra room.
Easily Adjustable
Dog muzzles with adjustable straps for the length and Velcro or straps for the width will facilitate the measuring process greatly.
Are Dog Muzzles Cruel? Do They Hurt My Dog?
If used correctly, dog muzzles are not cruel and won’t hurt your dog. Do not use muzzles for prolonged periods. They inhibit basic functions like drinking, eating and panting. If you restrict your dog from these basic needs, then it WILL be cruel.
A muzzle is NOT a long-term solution. It does not replace training and behavioral control. It shouldn’t be used as a form of punishment, and it will not address the problem and will eventually give your dog some form of PTSD.
How to Know if My Dog Needs a Muzzle?
You do if your dog is injured. Due to their nature, aggressive dogs are usually ones that feel threatened. If they are in severe pain or extreme fear, they will lash out. A muzzle is useful in this scenario.
If your dog has a history of behavioral issues, even just once, we suggest using a muzzle. You do not want to be liable for injuries your dog causes; it won’t end well for you or your best friend.
Some dogs love a day at the groomers. If you are not one of the lucky parents, your dog may become aggressive and hurt the groomer, so a muzzle is a safe bet.
As mentioned before, certain countries and/or cities may have legislation, which requires certain breeds that are deemed dangerous to wear muzzles in public.
What Kind of Muzzle Should My Dog Wear?
Wire basket muzzle – These are better for big dogs. They can easily free themselves from soft muzzles and even break through plastic ones. Wire basket muzzles can stand against your large pooch.
Short snout dog muzzle – You can easily see why these are better suited to short-snouted dogs. They are designed just for them and fit snugly on their faces/over their mouths. Even if you could get a basket muzzle onto your Pug, it won’t fit right and will make him uncomfortable.
Plastic basket muzzle – This type is strong enough to subdue your little pooch. It gives them the freedom to pant and drink but is strong enough to stay on.
Soft muzzle – A soft muzzle is the most versatile. They can fit with any dog, but better for a medium-sized dog with a long enough snout.
Best Muzzle for Small Dogs
The Company of Animals Baskerville Ultra Basket Dog Muzzle
For smaller pooches, we recommend this basket dog muzzle. It is super lightweight and secure but leaves enough room for your pet to breathe. The neoprene lining makes it more comfortable than you think, and the adjustable straps allow you to fit it perfectly to your fur baby.
Best Muzzle for Large Dogs
Dean & Tyler Freedom Muzzle
This wire basket muzzle is great for larger breeds. It is essentially a cage that allows your pet some freedom. The chrome-plated steel can withstand the force of even giant breeds and are thin enough to give ample ventilation.
Best Muzzle for Short Snout Dogs
JYHY Short Snout Dog Muzzles
Even though this style takes up your dog’s entire face, the breathable mesh fabric gives enough ventilation. Short snout dogs might not take to this muzzle as easily but the durable nylon construction won’t give in to its pawing. The bumpers around the edges keep the mesh from digging into your pup.
Best Soft Option for Dogs
GoodBoy Gentle Muzzle Guard
This is our top choice for soft muzzles. Not only is it sufficiently padded for extra comfort, but it also comes in pretty colors! Unlike the nylon options that cover your dog’s entire snout, this design is less suffocating and gives more freedom. Strong enough to control your dog’s tendencies, but soft enough it won’t bother him. It’s also easily adjustable and quick to slip on and off.
Conclusion
Not every dog behind a muzzle is aggressive and raring to go. Unfortunately, that is the typical image but it just isn’t true. The primary purpose of a muzzle, just like any other dog device, is made for your benefit. In this case, dog muzzles also keep anyone and anything in your dog’s immediate vicinity safe, including your dog.
In addition to that, they can also be used as a training tool. When they are used in the right situation and in the right way, they are humane and pain-free. There are a variety of muzzles on the market, and we hope our walk-through helped guide you in making the right choice for your pooch.
Expert Tip
You need to train your dog to accept a muzzle, and a professional dog trainer can help you do it correctly. Do not just spring this new and confusing contraption on him. All he will be thinking of is how to get out of it and the end of that road isn’t pretty. Introduce muzzles at an early age if you can.
Let your dog sniff the muzzle and give him a treat. Let him lick, smell it, paw at it and show you he accepts it. You can then try to slip it on him but rewarding him with treats every step of the way. Take off the muzzle within a few seconds and reward him with another treat and some encouraging words.
Repeat these steps until the muzzle is completely accepted by your fur baby. Increase the time you leave the muzzle on gradually, but don’t forget to give him a reward and maybe a pat on the head!
Did You Know?
BSL (breed-specific legislation) in different countries require certain dogs to be muzzled. Let’s take a look at some general breeds that fall under this law.
• Pit Bull Terriers
• Doberman Pinschers
• Rottweilers
• Rhodesian Ridgebacks
• Bull Mastiffs
• Japanese Tosa
• Wolf hybrids
• Staffordshire Terriers
• Neopolitan Mastiff
And the list goes on. You can refer to websites online to read about restrictions in your specific country.
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