How we pick our products
Muzzles are practical and helpful companions of every dog owner, they protect our animals from poisonous baits and serve as protection against bite injuries. Nevertheless, they restrict the dog’s freedom of movement. For this reason, the right choice of muzzle is of great relevance.
With our muzzle test 2023 we want to help you find the best muzzle for your dog and support you in your choice. We have compared different types of muzzles and listed their advantages and disadvantages. We are confident that we can offer you the best advice to find the right muzzle for your dog.
Summary
- Muzzles serve as a tool against unwanted behaviour of your dog and allow protection for the animal and the people. It is also considered the best product for bite and poison bait prevention.
- In Germany, a muzzle is compulsory for certain dog breeds, which varies from federal state to federal state.
- Basically, a distinction is made between different models of muzzles in a variety of designs and materials. All types of muzzles are available in different sizes and price ranges.
The Best Muzzle: Our Picks
Muzzles: Buying and evaluation criteria
In this paragraph, we will show you the aspects you can use to decide between the inexhaustible variety of muzzles. With the help of these criteria, you can address your dog’s needs, which include:
In the following paragraphs, we will explain what you should look for when buying a muzzle. We will go into the individual criteria.
Material
As already mentioned, muzzles come in a wide variety of designs. One of the most important criteria when buying a muzzle is the material used. These include for example: Nylon, plastic, leather, biothane, polyester, plastic and metal.
The decisive factor in the choice of material is the intention behind the purchase of a muzzle. Certainly, the visual aspect plays a major role in the choice of material.
If the muzzle serves to prevent biting, you need a robust and stable muzzle for your four-legged friend. If there is no danger from your pet, we recommend the fabric muzzles or the leather muzzles.
Size
In order for your dog to feel comfortable with his muzzle, it is very important to determine the size of the muzzle.
Pay attention to the length and circumference of the muzzle.
The muzzle is the right size when your dog has enough space around the muzzle and nose. It is important that the muzzle is securely attached and cannot slip.
For dogs with short and flat noses, we recommend a model with different sizes and with an adjustable function.
Wearing comfort
One of the most important aspects is the wearing comfort for the dog. The muzzle must provide enough room for panting. Especially in summer, the dog must be able to open its muzzle with the muzzle to drink or snort.
A well-fitting muzzle will not rub on the dog’s nose or slip into the dog’s eye area.
The muzzle should be comfortable. Wearing the muzzle for a long time can cause imprint marks. We therefore recommend a muzzle with soft, padded nose pieces for your four-legged friend.
Care
A special feature when choosing a muzzle is the care. Make sure that the muzzle is easy to put on and take off, this makes cleaning easier.
Leather muzzles fit well and are very flexible models, but very difficult to clean and are among the unhygienic varieties.
Muzzles made of biothane are particularly easy to clean. The flexible material is temperature-resistant and very easy to clean. This antibacterial material is a good alternative to leather muzzles and is the hygienically better variant.
Muzzles: Frequently asked questions and answers
In the following section we address the most important questions about muzzles. We answer all questions briefly and precisely and give you the best possible answer. With the help of our article you will get all the background information that will help you to buy the right model for your dog.
What is a muzzle?
The muzzle is pulled over the dog’s head and fastened. This prevents the dog from injuring anyone by biting. It also serves to control the unwanted behaviour of your four-legged friend.
The muzzle enables you to go for quiet, pleasant walks and prevents scuffles with other dogs that your dog does not get along with.
When does a dog have to wear a muzzle?
This applies to certain breeds of dog that are classified as particularly dangerous and aggressive.
As soon as your dog is a fighting dog or a listed dog, it must wear a muzzle in public. Note that the regulations vary from federal state to federal state.
Another area of use is public transport. In principle, a muzzle is compulsory on trains and trams. However, small dogs in transport boxes as well as guide and assistance dogs are exempt from the muzzle requirement.
Dogs often wear the muzzle when visiting the vet, as they may encounter stressful situations there and thus endanger others.
What types of muzzles are there?
| Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Plastic muzzle | Usually bite-proof, Easy and good to clean, Drinking and panting is possible, Individually adjustable and mouldable | Non-padded nose strap, Material quickly becomes brittle |
| Grid muzzle | Very bite-proof, Long-term use, Drinking and panting is possible, Individually adjustable and mouldable | Heavier than other materials, No poison bait prevention |
| Silicone muzzle | Drinking and panting is possible, Light weight, Well suited for holidays and visits to the vet | Not bite-proof, Not customisable |
| Muzzle made of Biothane | Light weight, Easy to clean, Drinking and panting is possible, Usually bite-proof, Poison bait prevention possible, Can be customised, Tear resistant | A more expensive option |
| Leather muzzle | Wide range of sizes, Light weight, Drinking and panting is possible, Soft and adaptable material | Usually not bite-proof, Leather can become brittle more quickly, No poison bait prevention |
| Muzzle loop | For short use only | Prevents panting and drinking, Not bite-proof, No poison bait prevention |
If you are primarily looking for a muzzle for bite prevention, we recommend wire and metal muzzles as they are sturdy and more comfortable. However, if you are looking for a muzzle for visits to the vet and for poison bait prevention, we recommend a model made of leather, silicone and biothane.
We personally consider the muzzle loops to be unsuitable for your dog. They are not functional and bite-proof, and they also prevent your dog from panting and drinking.
How much does a muzzle cost?
The range can go from about 2.50 to 75 Euros. Regardless of the price, muzzles are an important piece of dog equipment that guarantees the protection of our four-legged friends and fellow humans. For this reason, the prices for muzzles seem reasonable to us.
Muzzles made of nylon start at a price of 1.50 euros. As already mentioned, these are not well suited for bite prevention and make panting and drinking more difficult. Plastic muzzles are also in the low price range.
| Type | Price range |
|---|---|
| Plastic muzzle | approx. 10 to 25 euros |
| Muzzle made of mesh | approx. 19 to 50 euros |
| Silicone muzzle | approx. 15 to 35 euros |
| Muzzle made of biothane | approx. 40 to 75 euros |
| Leather muzzle | approx. 20-45 euros |
| Muzzle loop | approx. 2 to 20 euros |
The most expensive version among the muzzles is the model made of biothane. The biggest advantage of this version is the high-tech material, which is tear-resistant, comfortable and hygienic. Many dog owners choose this variant despite the price.
How do I clean a muzzle?
To clean the muzzle thoroughly and in an environmentally friendly way, it is best to use a brush and soapy water and clean it thoroughly.
Once it is thoroughly dry, you will need to spray a disinfectant. Apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions and let it dry.
Please be careful not to use aggressive household cleaners as this may damage the material of the muzzle.
Which dogs are affected by the compulsory muzzle?
The following dog breeds belong to the Germany-wide list dogs:
- Bull Terrier
- American Pit Bull Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Tosa Inu
- Rottweiler
It is important to mention that in some municipalities in Germany additional dog breeds are classified as fighting dogs. Therefore, inform yourself well before buying a muzzle for your four-legged friend.
There is a possible exemption from the muzzle requirement. In this case, your dog must pass an essential test. In this test, your dog’s behavioural characteristics are examined and evaluated under veterinary observation.
Conclusion
For many dog owners, the muzzle is a very important accessory that should not be missing. With the help of the muzzle, you can move around with your four-legged friend in a relaxed manner without having to think about difficult encounters and situations. Many dog owners now use the muzzle, even though the dog is not classified as a fighting dog.
Thanks to the muzzle, you can protect your dog not only from bites, but also from poisonous bait. Once you have found the right muzzle for your dog, nothing can stand in the way of a long walk with your beloved dog.
Image source: Jessinono/ 123rf
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