The 4 best dog muzzles in 2023

Pros: Easy to drink and pant, made from moldable thermoplastic rubber, attaches to collar for security and to prevent sliding and chafing, removable over-the-forehead safety strap, comes in six sizes, works well for most breeds

Cons: Fit may not be ideal for very long or short snouts, large dogs who have not been properly desensitized to the muzzle may be able to break the straps, not 100% bite-proof for dogs with a bite history 

The affordable Baskerville Rubber Ultra Muzzle offers the ideal combination of comfort and safety that a muzzle should have. It confines a dog's jaw without restricting their ability to breathe, eat, drink, or pant.

It is made from high-quality thermoplastic rubber and comes in six sizes to ensure a snug fit. It can even be heated and molded to better fit your dog. A sturdy nylon strap wraps around the back of the head and secures with a plastic buckle. Additional lower straps support the chin and include a tab for connecting the muzzle to a collar for added security and to prevent sliding and chafing. 

While it is comfortable and flexible, the Baskerville is not 100% bite-proof, according to Michael Shikashio, certified dog behavior consultant and founder of AggressiveDog.com. For an aggressive dog with a bite history, he prefers a heavier-duty metal wire basket muzzle with leather padding underneath.

It's safe for a dog to wear the Baskerville for hours, but you should frequently check the fit to ensure it isn't causing any discomfort, says Dr. Katherine Houpt, a veterinary behaviorist and professor emeritus of behavior medicine at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine. 

Pros: Made from breathable mesh, available in 9 sizes, adjustable strap for secure fit, inexpensive, lightweight at less than an ounce  

Cons: Sizing may run a little large; restricts eating, drinking, and panting; not for long-term wear; may not fit very large, very small, or short-snouted dogs; available only in black

If this pick is temporarily out of stock or you're seeking an alternative, we recommend the Downtown Pet Supply Quick-Fit Dog Muzzle.

Soft, or sleeve, muzzles are typically made from nylon or synthetic mesh and fit snugly around a dog's mouth and nose and work by forcing a dog's mouth closed. While they prevent dogs from biting, they also make it difficult for dogs to drink water, eat, or pant. For this reason, Houpt says soft muzzles should only be worn for short periods of time, like during a visit to the vet's office. 

We recommend the Coastal Pet Products Best Fit Adjustable Dog Muzzle, which is made from durable mesh and comes in nine sizes for dogs with snouts from 3 to 13.5 inches in circumference.    

The breathable nylon mesh sleeve of this muzzle slips over the snout. An adjustable nylon strap wraps around the back of the head and clips with a plastic buckle. It's lightweight at just 0.8 ounces.

While we like Coastal Pet Products Best Fit for its simplicity, low cost, and breathability, it will not fit all dogs perfectly. With only one adjustable strap and no way to shrink or expand the sleeve, it may not work for very small or large dogs. 

Pros: Custom fit for short-snouted dogs, two designs available for different security needs, straps come in 28 colors and can be mixed and matched, additional safety straps available, additional bling available

Cons: Cannot be returned, takes up to 12 weeks to arrive, not 100% bite-proof for dogs with a bite history

Traditional basket and sleeve muzzles are designed to fit snugly around a dog's snout, but brachycephalic (short-snouted) pups like pugs and bulldogs need a different solution. For flat-faced dogs, Shikashio recommends handmade custom muzzles by Trust Your Dog. 

These are the best dog muzzles for brachycephalic breeds and come in two designs: The Custom Vinyl Muzzle and the Custom Biothane Muzzle. The former looks more like a vinyl face shield than a standard basket design and features holes from top to bottom so a dog can easily drink water and eat treats. A colorful biothane strap wraps around the back of the head and is secured with quick-release metal or plastic buckles. Trust Your Dog recommends this style for dogs with a bite history.

The second design, the Custom Biothane Muzzle, has straps that wrap around the back of the head and over the forehead and secure with a quick-release metal or plastic buckle. You can also incorporate rhinestones, silver heart rivets, and brass stars into the design. The biothane muzzle may not be 100% effective at preventing dog bites in highly motivated dogs.

The biothane straps on the Custom Vinyl and Custom Biothane Muzzles can be mixed and matched from 28 colors, and additional safety straps are optional. Because Trust Your Dog Muzzles are handmade with a custom fit, they are more expensive than standard models and may take up to 12 weeks to arrive. Keep in mind that these muzzles are not eligible for returns.

Pros: Custom fit with several behavioral safety options; fits a range of snouts from 5/8 to 5 1/2-inches long; multiple colors; does not restrict dog's ability to eat, drink, breathe, or pant

Cons: Cannot return or exchange, not 100% bite-proof for dogs with a bite history

Our pick for the best customizable muzzle is the Bumas Muzzle, which is made to fit your dog's snout and personality. The biothane material stays soft and pliable in below-freezing weather and extreme heat, allowing your dog to eat, drink, and pant. There are 13 standard sizes to choose from, or better yet, you can order a custom-made muzzle tailored to your dog's exact measurements.

The basket has tightly woven biothane-coated straps and can be designed for snouts from 5/8 to 5 1/2 inches in length. Straps wrap around the back of the head, and an optional security strap runs from the top of the muzzle and between the ears. Metal rivets in the webbing hold the pieces together. Additional choices for customizing the Bumas include a neoprene nose piece or nose-free option for dogs with sensitive snouts and a simple click-clasp or a metal-buckle fastener. 

Although Bumas Muzzles are expensive, they are among the best dog muzzles on the market. Shikashio also recommends them. He notes, however, that because the biothane material is not 100% bite-proof, they are best for dogs that are low-level biters over those with a more significant bite history. This custom-made muzzle cannot be returned or exchanged.

There are a few key elements to keep in mind when shopping for one of the best dog muzzles. 

Intended use: Jennifer Malawey, a certified professional dog trainer and behavioral consultant at Instinct Dog Behavior and Training, says there are several reasons why a dog might wear a muzzle. It's important to find the one that best suits your dog and the situation. For example, brief trips to the vet may only require a soft sleeve muzzle intended for short-term wear, while a basket muzzle might be best for longer walks. All muzzles used for extended wear must allow the dog to comfortably breathe, pant, drink water, and accept treats, Malawey says.

Fit: The best dog muzzles will stay securely on your dog's head, Malawey says. Muzzles should have adjustable straps to loosen or tighten for a better fit. If you're opting for a muzzle without customization options, Malawey recommends moldable muzzles. They can help achieve a more secure fit in most dogs. Another aspect to consider is snout length. Large and small breeds will have different muzzle requirements, so avoid anything that's considered one size fits all. 

Material: Durable materials like rubber and biothane are good options for the best dog muzzles. For sleeve muzzles, synthetic mesh typically works well to ensure airflow. 

Extra features: Muzzles with extra safety straps may be useful in keeping a dog safe, but they are unnecessary. Options with fun colors or designs may also be a good choice, especially if you want to avoid some of the stigma of muzzling a dog.

We made our choices for this guide based on recommendations and advice from Michael Shikashio, a certified animal behaviorist and dog aggression expert; Dr. Katherine Houpt, a veterinary behaviorist and professor emeritus of behavior medicine at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine; Jennifer Malawey, a certified dog trainer and behavioral consultant at Instinct Dog Behavior and Training; and Laura Sharkey, owner and senior trainer at Woofs! Dog Training Center. Reporter Shoshi Parks' experience as a certified professional dog trainer also helped shape our selection criteria.

For each type of muzzle, we favored products with the majority, if not all, of the following characteristics:

• Breathable
• Gives dog the ability to pant, eat treats, and drink water
• Moldable or custom fit
• Nods to comfort including the type of material used
• Secure straps and optional safety straps
• Available in multiple sizes and colors

Is it cruel to muzzle a dog?

No, it's not cruel to muzzle a dog likely to bite or eat objects on walks. Wearing a properly fitted muzzle can be as comfortable as wearing a harness or collar. "In a well-acclimated, well-fit muzzle, a dog is going to be able to do everything they would normally do," says Shikashio. It's an excellent way to provide freedom while assuring the safety of your pup and everyone around them.

How long can a dog wear a muzzle?

Dogs should only wear a muzzle when they need it. That may include on walks, around strangers, or at the vet's office. A dog can wear a comfortable, properly fitted basket muzzle for a few hours as long as you regularly check that it is not rubbing or chafing. A sleeve muzzle that prevents a dog from panting should only be worn briefly during vet exams or grooming. 

Do muzzles stop barking?

Sharkey says using a muzzle to stop barking or disruptive behavior is never appropriate. A dog exhibiting these behaviors may be experiencing discomfort or anxiety, and it's best to consult a canine behaviorist to determine why. Plus, if a dog can't bark, it can't pant, leading to dangerous overheating.

How do I get my dog to wear a muzzle?

Dogs not properly introduced to a muzzle are likely to hate wearing one. Sharkey says only muzzling a dog in stressful situations can cause strong negative associations with it. To help your dog be comfortable in a muzzle, it's best to use a process of gradual desensitization. "It's going to be something that they're used to, that they accept and tolerate well, and that they are reinforced highly for wearing," she says. Our how-to guide can help you properly acclimate your dog to wearing a muzzle. 

Do vets recommend muzzles for dogs?

Sharkey says wearing a muzzle may be a good idea for some dogs, especially in high-stress situations like going to the vet, where the dog may pose a biting risk. The type of dog muzzle recommended by your vet will vary, but the best dog muzzles are properly fitted to your dog and keep them and people safe in triggering situations. 

What muzzle is best for aggressive dogs?

In general, Malawey recommends a basket muzzle for most situations. This type of muzzle is the safest for long wear because the dog can eat, drink, breathe, and pant. A basket muzzle can also prevent dogs who don't respond to the "leave it" cute from ingesting foreign materials on walks and curb biting. Dogs who may be reactive in stressful situations, like the vet, may need a soft sleeve muzzle worn for short periods. Regardless of the type you choose, one of the best dog muzzles can help keep you and your dog safe in various situations. 

What is the best muzzle for dogs that eat everything?

A basket muzzle can be a good option for dogs that attempt to eat objects they aren't supposed to. Malawey advises purchasing the muzzle that will work best for their specific physiology to ensure you get a secure fit. A poorly fitted muzzle may not stop a dog from eating foreign objects.