After 41 hours spent researching the best dog muzzles, we think Barkless XS-to-XL Soft Silicone Basket Dog Muzzle is the best for most people.
This choice is based on several criteria: brand, type, material, size, snout length, snout circumference, color, straps, closure, collar loop, breathable, easy to clean, weight, warranty, and best use, among other things.
| Product | Price | Overall Rating | Quality | Efficiency | Durability | Maintenance | Value for Money | brand | type | material | size | snout length | snout circumference | color | straps | closure | collar loop | breathable | easy to clean | weight | warranty | best use | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Barkless XS-to-XL Soft Silicone Basket Dog Muzzle | Check Price | 4.9 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 5.0 | Barkless | Basket muzzle | Flexible silicone | XS to XXL | 3 to 5.7 in | 7 to 17 in | Black | 1 rear, 1 overhead | Buckle | 1 loop | Yes | Yes | 0.5 lbs | 1 year | Stops barking, chewing, biting |
 | Mayerzon XS-to-XL Stop Chewing & Biting Dog Muzzle | Check Price | 4.5 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.5 | Mayerzon | Basket muzzle | Foldable rubber | XS to XL | 2.75 to 4.3 in | 7.5 to 14.5 in | Black / Red | 1 rear, 1 overhead (optional) | Buckle | No collar loop | Yes | Yes | 0.35 lbs | 1 year | Stops barking, chewing, biting |
| Mayerzon XS-to-XL Breathable Basket Dog Muzzle | Check Price | 4.8 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 | Mayerzon | Basket muzzle | Foldable rubber | XS to XXL | 7.4 to 18.5 in | 1.9 to 4.4 in | Black | 1 rear | Buckle | No collar loop | Yes | Yes | 0.4 lbs | 1 year | Stops barking, chewing, biting |
 | Mayerzon XS-to-XL Anti-Biting Cover Dog Muzzle | Check Price | 4.4 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.5 | Mayerzon | Basket muzzle | Foldable rubber | S to XL | 2.75 to 4.3 in | 7.5 to 14.5 in | Black | 1 rear, 1 overhead (optional) | Buckle | No collar loop | Yes | Yes | 0.4 lbs | 1 year | Stops barking, chewing, biting |
| TCOA XS-to-XL Baskerville Ultra Dog Muzzle | Check Price | 4.2 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.5 | TCOA | Basket muzzle | Foldable rubber | XS to XXL | 2.6 to 5.1 in | 8.6 to 16 in | Black / Tan | 1 rear, 1 overhead (optional) | Buckle | 1 loop | Yes | Yes | 0.65 lbs | 1 year | Stops barking, chewing, biting |
There are a number of things you want to do with your dog and buy for your dog, but using the best dog muzzle might not be the first one you think of.
While it might not be the most glamorous, on some occasions this product is just necessary.
Loving your dog means caring for them; and caring for them the right way, sometimes means making hard decisions.
For example, using a dog anxiety jacket or dog recovery suit might not be their preference, but sometimes it’s just necessary. Other products such as a dog carrier aren’t quite as disliked by your pooch, but it’s definitely not their favorite dog chew toy either.
Even a simple dog harness or dog collar with a dog tag might not be the easiest to slip on to use their dog leash and give them a little exercise. However, there’s no doubt you always have the best intentions in mind. That’s why you always have their favorite dog fetch toy or automatic dog ball launcher available to play with them.
And you’re not alone. Pet product manufacturers have made caring for and training your dog that much easier by offering options for a dog training collar, a calming dog collar, and a dog retractable leash. They’ve even thought of a dog agility tunnel for those that want to improve their pet’s performance at events and a specialized dog dematting tool along with dog conditioner to care for their coat.
The tools are out there; a dog interactive toy to make their lives better and dog anti-chew spray to make yours easier. All you need to do is know how to use these tools properly and effectively to care for your precious pet.
Selection Of The Best Dog Muzzles
Here are the best dog muzzles for most people according to Outlinist:
Buying Guide
Purpose
For the uninitiated, a muzzle can be considered animal cruelty. However using a muzzle on a dog can be as calming as a dog blanket during certain situations such as when grooming, training, a muzzle to stop dog barking at night, and even for aggressive breeds.
The important part is to know what you need this product for to help guide you to purchasing the right one. Keep in mind that a muzzle is never for constant use and not a substitute for actually training your dog.
Size
Fitting a dog muzzle the correct way is crucial for the effectiveness of the muzzle and for your dog’s safety. With so many various breeds of dogs, there are endless dog sizes, and snout shapes and sizes.
To fit correctly, first measure your dog’s snout from below the middle of their eyes to the end of their nose, and then measure the circumference of their snout. The proper size dog muzzle won’t be longer than your dog’s snout, but will be larger than its circumference.
Basket Style Options
The best basket muzzle is ideal for reactive and energetic dogs. The basket design is lightweight and still allows them to do all the needed functions such as, eating, drinking, and panting freely.
The straps should be comfortable enough to be worn for a longer period of time, such as a long walk. Be aware that dogs who have never worn a basket muzzle before may catch their paws or nails in the basket openings until they become accustomed to it.
Slip-On Style
A slip-on or tube style is the best muzzle for barking. It is designed for quick access and short, very temporary use.
These are meant to be stress-reducing and a quick fix for barking. They are comfortable for your dog, since they are typically made of fabric. However they keep the mouth completely closed, keeping your dog from panting and other vital functions. Consider a slip on one for quick trips to the vet or groomers to prevent barking, but not for extended use.
Options for Short-Snouted Dogs
A basket muzzle for small dogs is not ideal, but a short-snout style one is. For dogs such as pugs, with either no snout, a flat face, or a short snout, you must be careful when choosing a style that keeps their snout closed. These dogs and similar dog breeds often have breathing issues.
Short-snout muzzles are typically made of mesh or soft fabric material. Both will cover the lower part of the face to prevent biting, barking, etc. When choosing mesh or fabric, consider that mesh is still more breathable, especially on hot days.
Police Dog Style
Police dogs are always equipped with top-quality gear, and a muzzle is frequently used because these dogs are specifically trained to bite. This also means that police dog style muzzles are the most restrictive and the most powerful.
If you have a large breed dog, a particularly aggressive dog, or a breed of dog that must wear a muzzle because of local law, such as a pit bull, the police dog style may be the most effective.
Soft Material
The best dog muzzle for new pet owners is a soft one, specifically made of fabric or nylon. This is an entry level product that is easy to use, especially for those who have never used a one before.
A soft, nylon dog muzzle is flexible and fits comfortably on your dog. It is designed for short-term correction and should not be used in place of training. Some are designed for large breed dogs, but they are not recommended for especially aggressive dogs that may still bite with it on.
Leather
A dog muzzle made of leather is ideal for owners that want a stylish one for their dog, specifically made of natural, biodegradable materials. Leather ones are heavy-duty, but the muzzles themselves require a lot of care to keep the leather in good condition.
If you want to train your dog to wear one for the first time, leather comes in various styles, but remember that the basket style is optimal for treat feeding. If you have a small breed dog, a leather muzzle most likely will not be available.
Mesh
A mesh dog muzzle is the most breathable and lightweight. However, depending on the style, either tube-like or mask-like, it may prevent panting. Even mesh tube styles will prevent panting and are not recommended for use for more than 4 or 5 minutes.
Mask-style mesh ones do allow breathing, but not treat feeding. The tube-style makes it easy to feed treats. For training purposes, you should be able to feed the dog treats while the muzzle is on.
Silicone
Silicone dog muzzles are highly preferred because they are easy to clean, making them more sanitary than others. Silicone or rubber ones are available in a wide variety of sizes, and typically come in a basket muzzle style. For dogs that wear their muzzles on walks, silicone is preferred because it is easy to clean.
Silicone or rubber is comfortable for your dog yet strong enough to hold them back if aggressive behavior or biting is the concern.
Metal or Wire
You can use a dog muzzle instead of a cone by choosing a wire basket one. Metal or wire muzzles are as heavy duty as they come, but they are also useful to prevent wound licking. These are recommended for the biggest breeds of dogs, and can be used for long periods of time.
The issue is that the metal or wire can cut into your dog’s skin. They are not recommended for smaller dogs and sometimes the straps may obstruct vision. A metal one is only recommended for the most experienced pet owners.
Legally Required
If your dog is required by law to wear a muzzle in public, make sure you know the rules and regulations. For example, some pit bull muzzle laws state that pit bulls as well as other breeds deemed especially aggressive must wear them in public.
If your dog is subject to a muzzle law, the muzzle should be wire or metal and a cage or basket like style. These are able to be worn for prolonged time and still allow the dog to perform basic functions such as eating, drinking, and panting.
Adjustable
Another factor to pay attention to is the adjustability of your dog muzzle. While the snout portion might fit your dog well, if the straps come loose, then the product is pointless.
Muzzles should have adjustable straps so that it stays securely attached to your dog. Adjustable ones may also have the ability to grow with a dog, so that it can be used on juvenile dogs into adulthood. Adjustability also ensures comfort for your puppy pal.
Durability
Clearly a dog raincoat should be made to withstand the rain, but a muzzle should be able to withstand the elements as well. Since your dog’s muzzle will often be worn outdoors, durability is key. It should also be durable enough to withstand your dog’s power.
Think about the number and quality of straps, as well as the material. Wire or metal might be the toughest, but rubber and silicone ones can get the job done as well.
Safety
Always consider the safety of your dog and others when purchasing a muzzle. You wouldn’t simply place a dog blanket around your dog’s head to prevent barking, and you must beware of how long a muzzle is kept on for breathing, drinking and eating reasons.
Consider also who will be interacting with the dog when the product is on. If holes in a particular basket model pose a threat to biting, choose a different type. The best dog muzzle will provide a solution to the specific problem and be safe as well as comfortable for your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get my dog to wear a muzzle?
Encouraging your dog to wear a muzzle can require very specific training. The most important thing to remember is to always introduce it slowly. Do not force or rush your dog.
At first, let your dog sniff and touch it with their nose. Then, hold it in one hand and a treat in the other, so that your dog understands the muzzle must go on first. Give them the treat once they have it on. This can occur as many times as needed until your dog willingly accepts you to put it on.
How do I put my dog’s muzzle on?
It is important not to fight or wrestle your dog into putting on a muzzle. This will make your dog associate negative, bad things with the muzzle.
To put one on your dog, first show it to your dog. Then place the opening over the snout slowly and secure with the straps. It is helpful to always give your dog a treat after cooperating. Ensure that the straps are tightened effectively and that it will not fall off.
Can my dog wear a muzzle all day?
One thing to be very clear of is that muzzles are not for constant use. They are a dog training tool. They are not a replacement for training and will not make your dog stop barking or biting for the rest of their life.
They are only for temporary use. Constant use can cause serious health and potentially legal issues. They are intended to prevent barking or biting over short timeframes, such as with the vet or groomer.
Do muzzles prevent barking?
Muzzles can prevent barking. Specifically slip-on and tube-style ones because they keep the mouth or snout shut. However, remember that even these cannot be kept on for a prolonged period of time.
Basket or cage styles may not prevent barking completely, as the mouth is able to move around more freely. Muzzles may also prevent chewing, licking, and most importantly biting. Many owners are concerned especially about biting in public.
What is the point of a muzzle?
A muzzle is most commonly used to prevent biting. They are to be worn in public and whenever biting is a concern. However, they are not a permanent solution. It will not lessen your dog’s aggression or behavioral problems. If behavior is an issue, specialized training is recommended.
They can sometimes be used instead of dog cones or to prevent barking, chewing or licking. For any of these issues however, it is still only a temporary fix.
Sources
- South Korea: People Who Report Unleashed Dogs to Be Rewarded, Library of Congress, Mar 23, 2018
- Dog Bite Prevention, Baltimore County Government
- Restraint Techniques for Animals, Johns Hopkins University
- Dog Muzzles: When, Why and How to Use Them, American Kennel Club, Dec 18, 2015
- Dog Muzzles, Wikipedia
- The best dog muzzle you can buy, Business Insider, Aug 23, 2018
- Muzzles: Three questions, Cesar's Way
- Dog Muzzles & Head Collars, Chewy
- Dog Training Muzzles for Biting, Barking & Walking, Petco
- Dogs and muzzle training: How to muzzle train your dog, Blue Cross, Jun 26, 2018
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