My dog does not need a muzzle – that is what many dog owners think. However, there are some situations in which even a dog that is actually very calm and composed should be prevented from snapping. In addition, muzzles help keep dogs safe themselves, as they prevent, for example, poison bait from being eaten. Dog owners should own a comfortable muzzle for his dog and get his four-legged friend used to wearing it at an early stage if needed.

There are many different moments when owners should put a muzzle on their dog.

Visiting the vet: The dog muzzle is very useful, for example, during visits to the vet’s surgery or when the dog has injured itself. In pain, many dogs react unexpectedly and can snap. Even a dog that is otherwise completely relaxed may not understand why he feels a sudden sharp pain and may snap out of uncertainty or fear. To protect the vet and yourself, a basket muzzle or soft muzzle is a good precautionary measure at such times.
Wounds: Muzzles can also be useful after a visit to the vet, for example if a dog is to be prevented from licking its wound after an operation. Although there are special cones for this purpose, some four-legged friends don’t get on well with them and bump into everything. A muzzle is sometimes a more comfortable option for your dog.
New dog: If you have adopted a new dog, you do not know your four-legged friend very well at the beginning and cannot judge without a doubt how he will react in different situations. In addition to a lead, a muzzle can also provide security, for example, when you and your new dog meet other dogs for the first time, when you visit friends with small children, when you are out in the pedestrian zone or when you are confronted with other potentially exciting situations for the first time. Remember: a muzzle only shows that you are thinking ahead and prefer to play it safe, not that your dog is aggressive – even if owners of muzzled dogs have to experience this prejudice in public time and again.
Public transport:  Muzzles are often advisable on busses or trains if you are worried that your pet may snap, even if they are not mandatory.
Compulsory muzzle due to breed: Some breeds require a muzzle. Which breeds are included varies.  You can check with your local authority.
Travel: Before you travel abroad with your dog, you should always familiarise yourself with the local rules for handling dogs in public. Some regions have stricter rules and dogs must wear a muzzle in many situations.
Protection against poison bait: Does your dog belong to those who can’t resist treats and wolfs down everything? Then it may be necessary to keep him from eating old food leftovers, waste or even poison bait for rats with a muzzle. The latter can occur more frequently, especially in urban environments. Even if signage indicating poison bait is required, it is possible that your dog has eaten it faster than you can react.

A muzzle must fit the dog and should not restrict his freedom of movement. If it is also used for walking and jogging, the dog must be able to pant and drink without hindrance. Incorrectly sized muzzles can lead to overheating and circulatory problems because dogs regulate their body temperature with by panting. This is particularly important for breeds with a short nose. Very narrow muzzles should only be used during a veterinary examination or the like, and then only for short periods. When choosing a muzzle, pay attention to the following:

• The muzzle must sit firmly on the dog’s head so that it cannot slip.
• However, it should not restrict the dog and stifle it: the muzzle should not lie on the tip of the nose or so close to the eyelids that the dog’s sight is impaired or its eyes are irritated.
• Make sure that you have padding and soft material where the muzzle is touching.
• If, in some situations, your dog is short-tempered and therefore has to wear a muzzle, it should be able to be fastened particularly securely – for example to the collar or harness.

In addition to the fit, owners should also pay attention to the material when buying the muzzle. Solid plastic jaw baskets are particularly sturdy. Leather is softer and more comfortable to wear, but not every dog likes the smell. In addition, the leather can wear out more quickly, through the dog’s saliva, for instance. Muzzles or loops made of polyester or other soft material are usually only suitable for short uses. Make sure that your dog can always pant – otherwise the muzzle is only suitable for short period of use, for example at the vet’s.

For the muzzle to fit properly, you measure the dog’s head. Use a measuring tape to determine the length of the back of the nose from the eye line to the tip of the nose. In the second step, measure the circumference of the nose about 1 to 3 cm in front of the eyes. For a muzzle for a French bulldog or a pug, start 1 cm below the eyes. For a muzzle for an Alsatian or other dogs with a long head, 3 cm is adequate. To determine the right size, add 1 to 2 cm in length and 2 to 4 cm to the measured circumference. Generally less is added for muzzles for small dogs than for larger ones. A leather version requires a slightly larger addition than a plastic or metal model.

At the beginning, a muzzle is as unusual as a collar is to puppies. So gradually get your four-legged friend to the new object. Put some treat snacks into the muzzle and let the dog put his nose in it. If the dog is no longer afraid of contact, you can close the muzzle briefly. Open it after just a few seconds. Then extend the wearing time cautiously and reward your dog generously. After just a few days, your four-legged friend will have a positive connection to the muzzle.
In our online shop you will find a wide selection of dog muzzles for dogs of all sizes – from chihuahuas to great danes, from manufacturers such as AniOne and MORE FOR. Search and find a muzzle online, buy from the comfort of your couch and have everything delivered directly to your home.