Muzzle for a Dog it should be selected appropriately, because only then will it be safe and functional. It fulfills many tasks: it helps prevent eating from the ground during walks, and will also help effectively control attacks of aggression and even tame a barking dog. What do you need to know to choose a good muzzle for your dog?
Types of muzzles
Before purchasing the appropriate variant, remember that muzzles are made of many different materials, so a model that works great for one dog may not necessarily be well received by another animal. Therefore, we decided to present the topic of dog muzzles by presenting the most popular types currently available on the pet supplies market.
Metal muzzle
This is one of the most popular models. It is appreciated by dog owners for the fact that it allows the animal to breathe freely and open its mouth, and at the same time does not make it difficult to drink water. The big advantage is that it does not require special cleaning. Unfortunately, this option is not without its drawbacks, as the metal is relatively heavy and it heats up easily in the summer when it is hot outside, while in the winter it becomes very cold, which may lead to cuts or irritations. When choosing this type of muzzle, it is worth making sure that it is properly protected against rust – it should be covered with a galvanic coating. An enamelled muzzle will not be comparably durable. An additional advantage will be straps made of leather or felt, which will protect your pet’s sensitive muzzle against damage.
See: Which dog leash should you choose? The complete guide
Leather muzzle
Leather muzzles are made of natural leather or the so-called ecological. They are available in two variants: classic (riveted or nailed) and built-in. The first of them uses a structure similar to that used in metal models, where the neck is made of leather strips, thanks to which it allows the mouth to be opened freely. However, built-in muzzles have a full neck, which is additionally equipped with ventilation holes. They are not an ideal solution because they significantly restrict movement, which is why they are recommended primarily for aggressive dogs. Leather models are very light and allow the dog a lot of freedom, making them perfect for learning to wear a muzzle. Unfortunately, these products are characterized by low durability. If you decide to choose a leather muzzle, pay attention to the way the elements are connected and the type of material used. Remember that rivets are more durable than nails. Handmade muzzles are also more durable.
Fabric muzzle
Material muzzles are made primarily of nylon or nylon and differ significantly from other variants because they have the shape of a tube adapted to the dog’s muzzle. When choosing this variant, you should pay special attention to the selection of the size, because an incorrectly fitted one may restrict movements and even injure the animal. The big advantage is that they are very light and have low prices. However, these models do not protect against licking and biting, and they also make it difficult to open the mouth and pant, which may have unfortunate consequences, especially in summer. This variant is also difficult to keep clean, and the dog can easily take it off, so they are intended mainly for occasional use, e.g. during visits to the vet, and not for constant wearing.
Plastic muzzle (plastic)
Physiological muzzle – the best choice?
A rather modern solution are physiological muzzles, which perfectly fit the needs of the dog. This model is slightly larger than the other variants, so its construction allows for freedom of movement, including breathing, panting or drinking. It is made of metal rods covered with rubber plastic. This material provides proper protection of the dog’s muzzle, absorbs impacts, does not react to temperatures and does not irritate the dog’s muzzle. An additional advantage is lightness, resistance to damage and easy to keep clean. Despite the high price, it is worth choosing this type of muzzle and providing your pet with comfort.
Read also: Harness or collar? Things you need to know about dog harnesses and collars
Dog muzzle – which one to choose?
Advantages | Defects | For whom? | |
Metal | – free breathing, – opening the mouth, – drinking – easy to clean | – heavy weight – responds easily to high and low temperatures – may cause irritation | Due to its weight, it is recommended for medium and large breeds for aggressive dogs |
Leather | – natural, soft and light material – classic ones provide great freedom of movement | – non-durable material – high price (natural leather) – closed ones restrict freedom of movement | for medium and larger dogs built for aggressive dogs |
Material | – very light – low price | – limits movements, may irritate – the dog can easily pull it off – difficult to keep clean | intended for occasional use, e.g. during a visit to the vet |
Plastic | – light and flexible – does not hinder movements – does not respond to temperatures – easy to clean | – impermanent | for smaller, medium-sized and gentle dogs |
Physiological | – freedom of movement – breathing – drinking – shock absorption – lekki – resistant to damage – easy to clean – does not irritate | – High price | for all dogs |
Frequently Asked Questions
KrakVet.pl Pet Store
A wide range of muzzles for dogs
How to choose a muzzle for a dog?
When choosing a muzzle, we should pay attention to the individual needs of our pet. He may not feel good in every type of material. The place where the dog wears the muzzle is also important. If he runs in an area where it is clean and we are sure that he will not attack anyone, then a much better choice will be to choose lighter muzzle designs (metal, leather or plastic). However, if our dog is aggressive or often eats from the ground, built-in muzzles will be more appropriate.
How to measure a dog muzzle?
Choosing the right muzzle size is very important and prevents problems such as abrasions and irritations associated with using the muzzle. To choose the right size, measure the dog’s muzzle: the length measured from the tip of the nose to the point between the eyes and the circumference at the widest point, i.e. from 0.5-1.5 cm from the dog’s eyes. To this you should add 1 to 2.5 cm depending on the size of the dog. A well-chosen muzzle should not press the dog’s head or touch the nose, and should not interfere with the dog’s field of vision.
When to put on a muzzle?
The best time to start putting on a muzzle is when your puppy is between 2 and 4 months old. However, if our dog is aggressive or tries treats on the ground during walks, you can put lighter and soft muzzles on him. Leather or plastic models will work best in this case.
Dog muzzle and barking – does a muzzle prevent barking?
Please note that most muzzles do not prevent your dog from barking. Whether a muzzled dog can bark or not depends on the size of the selected model. Those that allow freedom of movement will not hinder barking. If we want to prevent this, a fabric muzzle will be a good choice. Recently, special anti-barking muzzles have also become available, which are designed in such a way as to limit barking.
Dog muzzle and the law – is a muzzle mandatory?
Polish law obliges owners to use a leash and muzzle. However, top-down regulations do not clearly specify when and where an animal should use a muzzle. Such information is specified primarily in resolutions of local governments and internal regulations, e.g. public transport or public transport regulations, so it is worth getting acquainted with them before going for a walk in a new place. Failure to ensure precautionary measures when keeping an animal may result in a fine of up to PLN 250.
We have prepared an infographic with a summary for you – check it out!
Date of publication: 05/09/2015
