The Best Dog Grooming Muzzles For Comfort and Safety
Putting your pup in a comfortable muzzle will protect them from sharp tools and discourage biting if they get nervous during their grooming session.
When dogs are nervous or anxious, there is a higher chance that they will bite or growl, even with the people they trust most. When they are in a grooming session, your pup must be comfortable with the groomer and the tools being used to prevent them from lashing out. But it can take time to get to this level of comfort, meaning that precautions, such as the best dog grooming muzzles, need to be taken to avoid accidents and break bad habits.
These days, there are a variety of humane muzzles made from lightweight mesh or plastic. Your dog’s mouth will be covered to prevent biting, but they will still be able to breathe, pant, and bark while wearing it. It will make the overall grooming experience more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Best Dog Grooming Muzzles to Consider
When picking out a grooming muzzle for your dog, there are a few things you should consider. Firstly, your dog’s face shape will determine the type of muzzle they can wear. Most plastic, fabric, and metal muzzles are designed for dogs with long snouts. They have a cone-like shape that provides space for your dog’s nose and mouth. But dogs with short snouts, such as bulldogs and French terriers, won’t be able to wear these muzzles. In these cases, you’ll need to purchase a mask-style muzzle specifically designed for dogs with this face shape.
You should also consider when your dog will be wearing their muzzle. Will it only be worn during grooming sessions? Or will they also wear it on other occasions? Fabric muzzles may be comfortable for short periods, but they don’t allow your dog to drink water through them. If your dog will wear a muzzle outside of grooming sessions, we suggest purchasing one with a large basket that lets them pant, bark, and drink like normal.
Lastly, measuring your pup’s head and snout will ensure you choose a muzzle in the correct size. Even though most muzzles are adjustable, the one you pick shouldn’t squeeze or constrict your dog in any way while wearing it. To help you decide, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite dog muzzles designed for grooming.
Coppthinktu Adjustable Dog Muzzle Set
If you work as a groomer or own multiple dogs, this set of fabric muzzles from Coppthinktu is for you. The affordable set includes seven muzzles in a variety of sizes to fit chihuahuas, labradors, and every breed in between. When securing the muzzles, you can adjust them for the perfect fit. And the lightweight material won’t bother dogs while they are in grooming sessions.
The mouth opening is large enough to allow your pup to breathe, drink water, and pant. But they won’t be able to bite if they suddenly get nervous. Designed as a training tool, these muzzles will help your dog become a first-class citizen.
Pros:
- Multiple color and pattern options
- Waterproof material is easy to clean
- The minimal muzzle won’t get in the way while grooming
Cons:
- This fabric isn’t as breathable as other muzzle options
Luckypaw Mesh Dog Muzzle
When your dog wears a muzzle to the groomer, it should make them feel at ease, not anxious. Luckypaw’s mesh muzzle is designed for dogs with long snouts and has plenty of space inside for movement. The lightweight muzzle has two straps that sit between your dog’s ears and on either side of their head to clasp in the back.
There is a sliding buckle to secure the muzzle and ensure the most comfortable fit for your pup. And the wear-resistant fabric is designed to last, even if your dog is active and full of energy.
Pros:
- Breathable design
- Built-in loop to secure to your dog’s collar
- Helpful size guide
Cons:
- Not designed for dogs with short snouts
Barkless Breathable Mesh Dog Muzzle Mask
Owning a bulldog, Shih Tzu, or pug comes with challenges, including finding a muzzle that fits their adorably short snouts. This one from Barkless is shaped more like a mask than a traditional muzzle, complete with eye holes for your pup to see through.
The muzzle is available in multiple sizes and colors, and it slides over your dog’s face while keeping their nose exposed for breathing. The mesh material is breathable to ensure they don’t overheat. And the material won’t get in the way during short or long grooming sessions.
Pros:
- Head straps won’t scratch or irritate your dog
- Full-coverage mask prevents biting and chewing
- It doesn’t block your dog’s vision
Cons:
- This muzzle won’t prevent your dog from barking
Mayerzon Basket Dog Muzzle
For ultimate breathability, we love this dog muzzle from Mayerzon. The basket-style muzzle is made from thick rubber and has a modern design that will make your pup look extra stylish. The basket section is flexible and easy to clean. And it secures onto your dog’s head using adjustable nylon straps.
While wearing this muzzle, your dog can easily drink water and pant to ensure they never overheat. And the large holes offer ample airflow to keep your pup cool. Plus, it is available in multiple stunning colors.
Pros:
- Non-toxic rubber
- Durable for long-term wear
- The holes are large enough to slide small treats through for your dog
Cons:
- This muzzle tends to run a little small
Luckypaw Soft Duck Dog Muzzle
While this dog muzzle may not have a traditional look, it works just as well as basket and mesh designs. This silicone muzzle is shaped like a duck’s beak and flares out at the end to provide more room for your dog’s nose. The part that covers your dog’s mouth has a basket design to protect the groomer and others from unexpected bites.
The flexible silicone won’t irritate your dog’s skin, and the muzzle is breathable to prevent overheating, especially in warm climates. But the best part is that it is easy to take on and off using the single adjustable strap that secures behind your dog’s head.
Pros:
- Affordable option
- Made from food-grade silicone
- Dogs can easily drink while wearing this muzzle
Cons:
- Some dogs may be able to remove the muzzle on their own
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my dog needs to wear a muzzle?
Anxious dogs or dogs with a history of biting should always wear a muzzle during grooming sessions. Whether they are getting a bath, haircut, or nail trim, the groomer should feel safe around your dog when they are doing their job. If your dog misbehaves during their appointment, the groomer has the right to immediately end the session or ask you to put a muzzle on your dog for their safety.
Thankfully, there are ways to train your dog to stop biting or showing aggressive behaviors. Once they are trained, even around grooming scissors and electric clippers, you can work with your groomer to discuss removing the muzzle.
How do I put on my dog’s muzzle for grooming sessions?
While you might think you can just force the muzzle onto your dog, this isn’t the best way to get the job done. Like a dog harness or new collar, you’ll need to get your canine used to their new muzzle before taking them to the groomer. Start by introducing them to the muzzle, letting them smell and lick it. We recommend using treats when they react positively to this new accessory. Once they seem calm and used to the muzzle, you can slowly slide the basket over their snout. Work gently but confidently when you adjust the straps and buckle the muzzle. This will help your dog feel safe and ensure they trust you during this process.
How do you pick the right muzzle size?
Most dog muzzles offer a sizing guide to help you get the best fit for your pet. If your dog has a long snout, you’ll need to measure the circumference and length when choosing a muzzle. There should be enough space inside the plastic or mesh basket so your dog can comfortably breathe, bark, and pant.
But if you have a short-snouted dog, the measurements you’ll need will be a little different. The mask-like design requires you to measure the circumference of your dog’s neck, right behind their ears. This will ensure you get a muzzle that fits securely over your dog’s face without causing them any discomfort.
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