Photo: Unsplash (free licence).
Quick answer: choose a basket or anatomical muzzle that lets your dog open its mouth, pant and drink, sized to its snout. Get it used to the muzzle at home with treats in short sessions before using it outdoors. With a restricted breed, use a strong, non-retractable lead.
Types of muzzle
- Basket or anatomical: allows panting and drinking; the best choice for walks.
- Silicone: comfortable and light; check that it allows panting.
- Adjustable nylon: for short use (grooming, vet visits), not long walks, because it restricts panting.
How to measure
- Snout length: from just below the eyes to the tip of the nose.
- Snout circumference with the mouth open (panting).
- Neck circumference behind the ears for the strap.
Getting your dog used to it step by step
- Let your dog sniff the muzzle and reward it.
- Put a treat inside so it puts its snout in by itself.
- Fasten it for a few seconds while giving treats.
- Gradually increase the time at home.
- Use it on short walks before longer ones.
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