Muzzles For Your Dog

Safety is paramount when dealing with frightened dogs or dogs that are stressed or in pain so using a muzzle is sometimes necessary.

There are a lot of different types on the market and it can be difficult to decide which one to get, however, there are only really 2 types, one that clamps their mouths shut and one that doesn’t!

The one that clamps their mouths shut should ONLY be used if you are not exercising your dog and when there is a chance they may bite someone when handling them-such as at the vets, being groomed, nails clipped etc

The other type (often called a basket muzzle – like greyhounds wear) lets the dog pant and even take a treat-this is for exercising in.

DOGS NEED TO PANT when exercising to cool down, clamping their jaws shut is stopping them doing this and so could be harming your dog (especially in hot weather or lots of exercising) or at the very least causing distress.

Make sure that the muzzle is comfortable and fits well, not rubbing it’s nose because it is too short or tight, best thing to do is try before you buy if possible or buy a couple for size. Most manufacturers do muzzles for different breeds of dog (even short nosed dogs) so you should get something that fits nicely.

When fitting for the first time – give a treat, put the muzzle on and take it off again until the dog is happy with it being fitted-so if you have a vets appointment don’t wait until the day-do this several days if not weeks beforehand.

Which One Should To use?

People often need a muzzle for their dog, whether it is at the vets for an examination or walking their dog when it is not good with other dogs-but WHICH ONE?!

The answer is, although there are so many on the market there are only really 2 types one that keeps the dog’s mouth shut and one get let’s them pant and eat (if you push it through the bars!)

The first is used at the vets or groomers to make sure no one gets bitten in a stressful situation and the second is used for walking your dog. Dogs need to pant when walking to help them cool down so the “basket” type (like greyhound have) is the one for this.