So, your four-legged friend has been really rude to passersby lately. They occasionally act out towards other dogs at the park or on walks. They’ve also tried to bite during vet visits and grooming sessions. And you’ve just about had it up to here with their bad behavior?
Well, we have some good news for you. A dog muzzle may be just what you need to help put an end to your furry friend’s shenanigans!
Or maybe your canine companion doesn’t have any behavioral issues, and you simply want to be proactive and get a muzzle for your dog, just in case they ever find themselves in a situation where they need one.
Either way, we’re here to help! This article will provide tips on choosing the right muzzle for your dog. We’ll also touch on the different types of muzzles available and their various features, and we’ll give you a rundown of the 8 of the best dog muzzles on the market today.
But before we get into all that, let’s first take a quick look at some of the basics about dog muzzles. So, without further ado, let’s get started!Â
In a Rush? Here are Our Quick Picks:
What is a Dog Muzzle?
You probably already know what a muzzle is, but for those who don’t, a muzzle is a mask-like device placed over a dog’s snout to prevent them from biting or scavenging. These devices come in all shapes and sizes, usually made from leather, nylon, plastic, or wire, and have adjustable straps around the dog’s head to keep the muzzle securely in place.
Muzzles are commonly used on working dogs, police dogs, dogs with a history of aggression or biting, and dogs in training. They are also used during vet visits and grooming sessions. And some people even put a muzzle on dogs recovering from surgery to prevent them from licking or nibbling at their wounds, but this is not as common as there are medical devices specifically designed for this purpose, called the Elizabethan collar or “cone of shame.”
Misconceptions About Dog Muzzles
What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a dog wearing a muzzle? A gigantic, muscular, and dangerous monster with an intimidating-looking metal muzzle and a mean-looking face, growling and barking aggressively and ready to pounce at any given moment?
It’s fair if that’s what you think, as that’s how these devices were often portrayed in media, movies, and TV shows. Also, there is a lot of stigma surrounding dog muzzles, with many people thinking only “scary dogs” or “bad dogs” wear them, so I’m not surprised if that’s the image you have in your head.
In reality, dogs who wear muzzles are not necessarily bad, aggressive, dangerous, or vicious. And the fact is, dog muzzles can be used on all kinds of dogs, regardless of their size, breed, or temperament, and even the most gentle dogs can benefit from wearing one.
Reasons for Muzzling a Perfectly Well-Mannered Dog
Some owners put muzzles on their canines even though their four-legged friends have never shown aggression. There are several reasons why a pet parent might do this.
- They’re bringing their pooch to a place where other dogs are present, and they want to be extra cautious and have a muzzle on hand just in case other dogs are rude and approaching in a way that makes their furry friend uncomfortable.
- There are certain situations, such as during a vet visit or grooming sessions, where their pups might be feeling anxious, scared, or stressed, and the owner wants to prevent their dogs from biting out of fear or anxiety.
- There are laws and legislation in some states that require certain dog breeds to be muzzled in public.
- Some pet parents simply feel safer and more comfortable having their dogs wear a muzzle when kids are around to prevent accidental nips or bites.
- Others probably just want their dogs to get used to wearing a muzzle so that it won’t be such a shock or stressful experience if they ever need to wear one in the future.
So, as you can see, there are many reasons an owner would choose to muzzle their dog, even if their canine has never exhibited any problematic behavior. And contrary to popular belief, dog muzzles are not just for “dangerous” dogs.
When Should You Use a Muzzle on Your Dog?
Now that we’ve gone over some of the whys and wherefores of dog owners muzzling their pups, let’s talk about when it is appropriate to muzzle your canine companion or in what situations where it might be a good idea to use one.
1. During Vet or Groomer Visits
Vet or groomer visits can be stressful for many dogs, especially if they have to undergo procedures that they’re not comfortable with, such as being poked and prodded or having their nails trimmed.
If your dog does get anxious or stressed during these visits, then a muzzle could be a good idea, just to be on the safe side. It will prevent them from biting out of fear or anxiety, which will also help the vet or groomer do their job without worrying about being nipped or bitten.
2. If Your Dog Has a History of Biting, Snapping, or Aggression
If your canine has a history of biting, snapping, or aggression, you would definitely want to muzzle them in situations where they might be more likely to exhibit these behaviors.
For instance, if you’re bringing them to places where there are other dogs present, such as the dog park or beach, then it’s best to err on the side of caution and put a muzzle on your furry friend just in case they get into an altercation with another pooch.
3. When Seeking Help from a Trainer or Behaviorist
You would also want to muzzle your dog when working with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to help correct certain unwanted behavior. The reason is that the trainer or behaviorist may need to do things in ways your furkid might not like.
That doesn’t necessarily mean they will use physical force or anything that causes your pup distress, though. But it’s when during the process of training, behavior modification, or desensitization and counterconditioning that your dog might need to experience certain situations or stimuli that may trigger their aggression or fear, like when being approached by other dogs or people.
In these cases, using a muzzle can help keep everyone safe while your dog is getting the help they need.
4. In Emergency Situations
An injured dog or one in pain is more likely to lash out and bite for the simple fact that they’re feeling scared and vulnerable. So if you ever find yourself in an emergency with your furry friend where they are hurt or injured, it’s best to put a muzzle on them to prevent them from unintentionally biting you or anyone else trying to help.
5. When in a New, Unfamiliar Environment
Have you ever heard from any pet parents saying their dog went crazy out of nowhere and started attacking other dogs or people for no apparent reason?
And those owners will typically go: “My dog has never shown any aggression or biting tendencies, but suddenly, one day, she started growling at other dogs and trying to attack them when we’re out on walks. It’s really out of character for her. She’s always been such a sweet and docile dog, and I had no idea what had gotten into her.”
While there are several reasons why an ordinarily well-behaved dog might start exhibiting aggression, one possibility is that they’re feeling stressed or anxious because they’re in a new, unfamiliar environment, like at a crowded dog park or beach where they’ve never been before.
So when taking your furry friend to a new place or really anywhere where you think it might be too overwhelming for them and that you aren’t 100% sure how they’ll react, don’t risk it! Just put a muzzle on them as a precautionary measure.
6. If Your Dog is a Compulsive Eater
Compulsively eating non-food items, also known as pica, is a common behavior among dogs, and it’s not always easy to stop them from doing it. They will eat just about anything and everything they can get their paws on, whether it’s sticks, leaves, rocks, dirt, garbage, socks, or even their own poop or other animals’ feces.
While this might not seem like a big deal, it is incredibly dangerous if they ingest sharp or poisonous items or things that could potentially block their digestive tract or intestines.
So if your dog is known to consume objects they’re not supposed to, consider keeping them muzzled when outdoors or in any other situation where they might have access to inedible items they are obsessed with. Though it’s not a long-term solution, it can help prevent them from swallowing something that could make them seriously ill while you work on correcting the behavior.
7. When Required by Law
In some countries and states, there is breed-specific legislation (BSL) imposed on certain breeds of dogs that are considered dangerous to reduce the number of dog bites and attacks. The most commonly regulated breeds include Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and wolf-dog hybrids.
Under BSL, dogs that fall under the regulated breeds are often required to be spayed or neutered, on a very short leash in public, or muzzled regardless of whether or not they have a history of aggression, and owners of these breeds are required to carry liability insurance. And in a more severe form of BSL, owning a regulated breed may be outright banned in certain areas.
I personally think these dogs are often unfairly demonized and lumped into one category. In reality, it’s not the dog’s breed that determines whether or not they’re dangerous, but rather it’s the owner’s responsibility to socialize and train their dog properly.
Although BSL is unfair, unjust, and based on misinformation and breed stereotypes, the fact is that these laws exist in some places. So, if you own a dog who happens to be on the list of regulated breeds in your country or state, be sure to comply with the law to avoid any legal trouble.
Should You Use a Muzzle on an Aggressive Dog?
There’s a lot of debate about whether or not muzzling an aggressive dog is a good idea. Some people argue that it’s inhumane and only makes the dog more stressed, while others believe it’s a necessary safety measure to protect both the dog and those around them.
I’m of the latter opinion and believe that, when used correctly, muzzles can be a great tool in managing an aggressive dog. However, it’s important to note that muzzling a dog is not a cure-all solution and will not magically fix all the aggression issues. It won’t make the aggression go away or make the dog less aggressive.
Muzzles can only help prevent the dog from biting or attacking someone. And the fact is, these tools should only be used as a temporary measure. The only way to truly deal with an aggressive dog is to work with a qualified professional dog trainer or behaviorist to identify the root cause of the aggression and implement the necessary behavior modification plan.
You May Also Like: Fear Aggressive Dog 101
Should You Use a Muzzle to Stop a Dog from Barking?
No. Muzzles should not be used to stop a dog from barking. While it may seem effective to silence a noisy dog, muzzling them will not work, as these tools will still allow dogs to open their mouth wide enough to vocalize.
And if you were to use a muzzle that clamps the dog’s mouth shut, all you’ll end up doing is preventing them from being able to breathe properly. Doing that will likely cause more problems than it solves, as they’ll become even more frustrated, anxious, and stressed, which could lead to more barking or worse.
You need to understand that barking is natural dog behavior and is often done for a reason. For instance, they may bark to alert their pack (you and your family) of potential danger, get your attention, express excitement or fear, or out of boredom or frustration. So, unless they bark excessively in an inappropriate context, like in the middle of the night almost every day, there isn’t really a need to stop them from doing it.
Even if you want to stop your dog from barking, there are much better solutions. There are a variety of devices designed explicitly to curb a dog’s barking habit, such as sound- and vibration-based anti-bark collars, ultrasonic bark control gadgets, and dog training whistles.
And, of course, the best way is to figure out why they’re doing it in the first place and address the underlying issue. Again, are they seeking attention? Anxious? Bored? Stress? Hungry? Once you know the reason for the nuisance barking, you can take the necessary steps to stop it.
You May Also Like: How To Stop Your Pooch From Barking At Night
Should You Use a Muzzle to Stop a Dog from Chewing?
You could technically use a muzzle to stop a dog from chewing, but we don’t recommend it. The reason is that physically preventing your dog from chewing or destroying things will only mask the real issue.
Yes, your pup won’t be able to chew on your furniture or shoes while wearing a muzzle, but that doesn’t stop them from wanting to do it. It’s like putting a cloth over a deep cut. It’ll stop the bleeding, but it won’t heal the wound. The underlying cause of the chewing behavior still needs to be addressed. Otherwise, they’ll just find something else to gnaw on as soon as you take the muzzle off.
So the best solution is to figure out why your pooch is chewing in the first place and address that underlying issue. Like barking, there are several reasons why dogs may chew.
For instance, puppies will chew on things to relieve the teething pain. Adult dogs may chew out of boredom, frustration, anxiety, or stress. Some dogs have a chewing compulsion and will chew on anything they can get their teeth on, whether it’s furniture, shoes, blankets, clothes, or even their own paws! Depending on the reason for chewing, the solution will be different.
For teething puppies, you can give them age-appropriate puppy chew toys to help soothe their gums. If they’re bored, you can provide them with more mental and physical stimulation through exercise, playtime, and puzzle toys to keep their minds occupied. If they’re anxious or stressed, you’ll want to work on building their confidence and consider using a calming collar for dogs or a ThunderShirt to help keep them calm and relaxed.
Are Dog Muzzles Cruel?
Some people will always argue that any type of muzzle is cruel, regardless of the situation. While I understand where they’re coming from, I don’t necessarily agree.
It really depends on the context. For instance, if a dog is wearing a tight-fitting grooming muzzle 24/7 or while on walks and never gets a chance to eat, drink, or socialize normally, that’s inhumane. Otherwise, if a dog is only wearing a muzzle in situations where they may be inclined to bite, like at the vet or groomer, I don’t see any problems whatsoever. It’s a tool to help keep both the dog and the people around them safe. In fact, it’s better to muzzle them in those situations than to risk them biting someone and getting put down as a result.
It also depends on the type of muzzle you’re using. A proper-fit basket muzzle will allow your dog to eat, drink, and pant normally. It’s the ones used for grooming, also called soft muzzles, that are more restrictive, which you shouldn’t use for regular walks or really any other time outside of grooming sessions unless absolutely necessary.
So as long as you’re using the right muzzle for the right situation and not overdoing it, I don’t see how it’s any different than putting a leash, collar, or harness on them or anything else we do to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them.
The bottom line is that it’s crucial to use dog muzzles responsibly. Only put a muzzle on your dog when needed and only for as long as necessary. Never leave a dog unattended while they’re wearing a muzzle, and never use a muzzle as a way to discipline to punish your dog.
How to Choose the Best Muzzle for Dogs?
So you’ve decided to get a muzzle for your dog. But with all the different types and styles on the market, how do you choose the right one? No fret! Here are a few things to consider to help you pick the best muzzle for your canine.Â
Different Types of Dog Muzzles
First, you need to decide which type of muzzle is best for your dog. There are four main types: basket muzzles, sleeve muzzles, short-snout muzzles, and agitation muzzles.
- Basket muzzles. These are the most common types for training and regular use. They’re also called cage muzzles, typically made of metal, plastic wire, leather, or silicone. Though basket muzzles probably look the most intimidating and the least humane option, they allow for normal panting, drinking, and eating, making them the most comfortable for dogs to wear for extended periods.
- Sleeve muzzles. Also known as an occlusion muzzle, soft muzzle, and grooming muzzle, these are the type of muzzle you see most often at the groomers. They’re usually made of nylon or mesh and wrap around the dog’s snout, designed to hold the dog’s mouth completely shut. Sleeve muzzles are only meant to be used for short periods, like during vet visits or grooming sessions, and under no circumstances should you leave your dog unattended while wearing one.
- Short-snout muzzles. As the name suggests, these are made specifically for brachycephalic breeds, like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers. Typically made of nylon and soft, breathable mesh and are shorter in length to accommodate short-snouted dogs’ unique facial structure.
- Agitation muzzles. These are specialized muzzles used by police dogs for rigorous attack and agitation training. They’re made of heavy-duty materials, built to be extra-durable to protect the dog’s nose and ensure the agitator who’s not wearing any protective gear doesn’t get hurt.
Size
The next thing you need to consider is size. It’s crucial to choose a muzzle that’s the right size for your dog, as a muzzle that’s too big can easily slip off, and one that’s too small will be uncomfortable for your pup to wear. So you’ll need to measure your dog’s snout carefully.
The best way to do this is to use a soft measuring tape, and the four most common measurements you’ll need to take are your dog’s snout length, circumference, width, and height.
- Snout length. Measure from the tip of your dog’s nose to an inch below your dog’s eye base.
- Snout circumference. Start from an inch below your dog’s eyes at the base of their nose (the widest part of your dog’s snout) and wrap the measuring tape around to meet back up at the starting point.
- Snout width. Below your dog’s eye base, measure the distance from one side of their snout to the other, and be sure to keep the measuring tape level.
- Snout height. Start at the base of your dog’s nose, just an inch below your dog’s eyes, and measure vertically from the top of their snout to the bottom. Depending on the brand you choose, some will require you to measure your dog’s snout height with their mouth open, while some will have you measure with their mouth closed.
Adjustability
Another important factor to consider is adjustability. You’ll want to ensure the muzzle you choose has some adjustability so you can get a snug, comfortable fit that’s not too tight and loose for your dog.
Breathability
Your dog’s comfort is of utmost importance, and one way to ensure their comfort is to choose a breathable muzzle. So look for one with adequate air circulation holes, and make sure it allows for normal panting and doesn’t restrict your dog’s breathing in any way. This is especially important if you live in a hot climate or plan on using the muzzle for extended periods.
Our Top Picks for Best Dog Muzzles
1. Editor's Choice - Baskerville Ultra Dog Muzzle
There are many things to love about the Baskerville Ultra Dog Muzzle. First and foremost, it’s a basket muzzle, which means your dog can drink, pant, and eat while wearing it.
This muzzle is tough and durable, made of a malleable thermal plastic rubber that can be heated to shape to your dog’s snout for a comfortable, customized fit. It also features soft padded neoprene lining to prevent chafing and has fully adjustable neck and head straps with pre-holed webbing to ensure an easy and secure fit.
The Baskerville Ultra is available in six sizes to fit a wide range of dogs, so you’re sure to find one that’s just right for your pup!
PROS
- You can easily warm the muzzle in hot tap water for a personalized fit around your dog's snout.
CONS
- Dogs with a very long snout may be able to get their lower jaw out.
2. Best for Large Dogs - CollarDirect Leather Dog Muzzle
This handmade leather muzzle from CollarDirect is made of high-quality, durable, and skin-friendly genuine leather that will withstand years of use and is comfortable for your dog to wear.
It’s explicitly designed for large dogs with a thick snout, like American Staffordshire Terriers and Pitbulls, and has two adjustable straps to ensure a snug and comfortable fit.
This muzzle has only one size available, measuring 3 inches in length and 14 inches in circumference, and comes in black or brown.
PROS
- It fits Amstaffs, Pitbulls, and breeds with a similar snout very well and won't rub, chafe, or irritate your dog's skin thanks to the genuine leather construction.
CONS
- We find that this muzzle is too narrow to fit dogs with wide jaws, like Rottweilers and Cane Corsos.
3. Best for Small Dogs - Alfie Pet Adjustable Quick-Fit Plastic Muzzle
Finding a muzzle that fits a small dog can be challenging, as many muzzles on the market are made for medium and large dog breeds. But the Alfie Pet Adjustable Quick-Fit Plastic Muzzle is up to the task, offering a size small enough to fit a range of toy- and small-sized breeds with a tiny snout, like Chihuahuas.
This muzzle is made of flexible plastic and is adjustable, allowing you to make adjustments as needed to ensure a comfortable, secure fit for your pup. And because it’s made of plastic, it’s lightweight and sure to cause your dog no discomfort. It also has quick-release buckles, making it a snap to take on and off when needed.
PROS
- It's very lightweight, and your little pup will barely feel like they're wearing it.
CONS
- The edges are a bit rough, so you'll want to file them down or wrap them in duct tape to prevent chafing.
4. Best for Dogs with a Long Snout - BronzeDog Metal Wire Basket Dog Muzzle
The BronzeDog Metal Wire Basket Dog Muzzle is the perfect pick if you’ve got a dog with a long nose. While it’s designed explicitly for Dobermans, it can also fit breeds with a similar snout shape, like Greyhounds, Whippets, GSPs, and Weims.
This muzzle is made of lightweight stainless steel and is basket-style, so your dog can still pant and drink while wearing it. The leather straps have four adjustable points and are lined with soft padding on the inside to prevent rubbing your dog’s skin raw and causing discomfort.
PROS
- It's very breathable, and the cushioned leather straps make it comfortable for dogs to wear.
CONS
- It's a bit pricey.
5. Best for Short Snout Dogs - JYHY Short Snout Dog Muzzles
Every owner of snub-nosed dogs or brachycephalic breeds, like Pugs, Boston Terriers, French Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus, knows that finding a muzzle that fits and stays on their short-snouted pups well isn’t easy. But this mask from JYHY sure does the trick.
It is designed explicitly for flat-faced breeds and is undoubtedly one of the best on the market. It’s made of soft, skin-friendly, breathable mesh that won’t rub or irritate your dog’s face, with exquisite edges to prevent rubbing on their eyes and nose.
PROS
- Thanks to the "eye hole" design, it won't obstruct your dog's vision, and the mesh is soft and won't cause irritation.
CONS
- It may shift a bit on your dog's face at times, so you'll need to adjust it occasionally.
6. Most Comfortable Muzzle for Dogs - GoodBoy Gentle Muzzle
At first glance, the GoodBoy Gentle Muzzle doesn’t look like much. In fact, it looks like ones that clamp down over your dog’s snout, making it impossible for them to pant, and you might be wondering how it could possibly be comfortable for your pup to wear.
Don’t let its unassuming appearance fool you. The straps and snout diameter are adjustable, allowing you to find a level of tightness that gives your dog the ability to pant, drink, and eat while ensuring they can’t open their mouth wide enough to attack. It also has soft neoprene padding to prevent rubbing your dog’s skin raw and causing discomfort.
And the best part? This new, improved version comes with an additional overhead strap, which has solved the previous model’s tendency to fall off and the problem of dogs being able to paw the muzzle off, making it even more secure and reliable.
PROS
- A comfortable muzzle that doesn't restrict your dog's ability to pant and drink and has neoprene padding to prevent chafing.
CONS
- Smart and determined dogs can still find a way to get the muzzle off, and it may not fit pooches with a stubby nose properly.
7. Best for Grooming - Downtown Pet Supply Quick-Fit Dog Muzzle
One of the most popular muzzles used by professional groomers, this is a perfect option for dogs who need to be muzzled for grooming, as it can keep them from opening their mouths to snap and bite while you grind their nails and give them the haircut they need.
The Downtown Pet Supply Quick-Fit Dog Muzzle is made of durable nylon with a soft inner lining for comfort. The strap is adjustable and equipped with a quick-release buckle to let you put the muzzle on and take it off quickly and easily. It is also machine-washable, so keeping it clean between uses is a breeze.
This tight-fitting groomer muzzle is available in nine sizes, so whether you have a tiny Chihuahua or a large Bullmastiff, you’re sure to find a perfect fit.
PROS
- It is inexpensive, soft yet durable, and allows you to groom your dog quickly, easily, and efficiently. Plus, it's easy to put on and take off.
CONS
- It's only suitable for grooming, so if you're looking for a muzzle to use during walks or other activities, this isn't the one for you.
8. Premium Choice - Dean and Tyler DT Freedom Muzzle
If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line basket muzzle that doesn’t compromise on quality or comfort and that you are willing to pay a bit more for, then the Dean and Tyler DT Freedom Muzzle is the one for you.
This muzzle is made of chrome-plated steel wire and high-quality leather. The construction is solid, and the materials are of the highest quality and will last a long time. It’s adjustable, and there is plenty of room inside the basket for your dog to pant, drink, and eat. Plus, the nose bridge is fitted with full, natural felt padding to offer added comfort.
Unlike most brands, the DT Freedom Muzzle isn’t one size fits all. Instead, they come in a wide range of sizes and shapes, made explicitly for certain dog breeds, including Ridgies, Pitbulls, Collies, and more, to give a much better and more accurate fit.
PROS
- Superb quality and is comfortable for dogs to wear, even in warm weather, thanks to its large panting room.
CONS
- On the pricier side.
How to Put a Muzzle on a Dog?
Once you have selected the right muzzle for your dog, it’s time to learn how to put it on properly. Putting a muzzle on your dog for the first time can be daunting, but it’s important to remember that you’re doing it for their safety and the safety of others. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to acclimate your dog to a muzzle:
- Start by letting your dog sniff the muzzle and reward them for doing so. This is to help your pup associate the muzzle with something positive.
- Once they seem comfortable with it, try to get them to voluntarily put their nose inside the muzzle and reward them for doing so. Do not force the muzzle onto your fido’s face. If they are reluctant, hold treats inside the muzzle with your other hand to entice them to stick their nose in.
- While your pup eats the treat inside the muzzle, hold the straps behind their head without fastening the buckle. This is to help them get used to the sensation of the muzzle on their face.
- Once your pooch is comfortable with step three, you can proceed to fasten the buckle. The easier way I find to do this is to coat the inside of the muzzle with peanut butter or treats they really like, like spray cheese. This will help keep their attention focused on the yummy treats and not on the fact that they’re wearing a muzzle.
- Once the muzzle is fastened, give your dog more treats and praise to reinforce the positive association.
- Let your dog wear the muzzle for short periods at first and gradually increase the duration as they get more comfortable with it.
With these steps, you’ll have your dog acclimated to a muzzle in no time! Remember to go slowly, be patient, and most importantly, make it a positive experience for your dog. It’s also a good idea to put the muzzle on your dog regularly, like during walks, so they don’t associate it only with the vet, groomer, or other scary places.
A Reminder: Muzzles Are Not a Long-Term Solution for Problem Behavior
It’s crucial to remember that muzzles are not a long-term solution to stopping unwanted dog behavior. These tools should only be used on an as-needed basis, such as during vet visits or grooming appointments, or in situations where your dog may be prone to biting or lashing out.
If your dog has aggression, anxiety, or other problem behavior, always consult a professional trainer or behaviorist to help you get to the root of the problem and find a more permanent solution.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Muzzles
1. What Type of Dog Muzzle is Best for My Pup?
This depends on your dog’s individual needs. A basket muzzle is the best for regular use, as it won’t interfere with your dog’s breathing and allow your fido to drink. However, if you’re looking for a muzzle for grooming or vet visits, a cloth muzzle may be a better option.
2. Do Muzzles Calm Dogs Down?
A well-acclimated dog should feel calm and relaxed while wearing a muzzle. If your canine becomes agitated while having a muzzle on, it could be that it doesn’t fit correctly, or you didn’t introduce the muzzle to your furkid properly. So it all comes down to choosing the right muzzle and conditioning your dog to it the right way.
3. Does Muzzle Make Dogs More Aggressive?
A muzzle may frustrate dogs and make them more aggressive. But that may only be the case if you didn’t train them to wear it and if you use it as a form of punishment. It’s also important to reiterate that a muzzle is not a magic wand that will immediately make an already aggressive dog calm and docile. If your dog has aggression, you’ll need to work with a professional trainer to help address the underlying issues.
4. How Long Can a Dog Wear a Muzzle?
We recommend no more than 30 minutes at a time. And the reason we don’t advise any longer is that although dogs can pant and drink water with a basket muzzle on, there are still many things they can’t do. And putting a muzzle on them for too long can make them feel like they’re being punished, which isn’t the intention and certainly not what you want them to associate the muzzle with. Also, one thing to note is that a muzzle should only be used under supervision to ensure it doesn’t cause discomfort to your dog.