Reddit mentions: The best dog muzzles

Heyyyy fellow Austrian (well I am not Austrian but I live here!).

• Here is the food I give my dog, it lasts about... 6 weeks? Actually maybe longer, she is a pretty small girl, only 19kg. I supplement it with carrots and also fish oil I buy from Fressnapf. Occasionally I will add in egg, minced beef, green beans, etc. but it isn't necessary (neither are the carrots or fish oil really). If you wanted a cheaper but also high quality food, I highly recommend this one which I used for years until my dog showed symptoms of (genetic) stomach issues.
  
  
• You have to register your dogs, of course, and the cost depends on the place you are in Austria. I am in NO and it is about €40 a year I think.
  
  
• When I "first" got my dogs I didn't have to buy that much stuff, but things I can recommend as high quality products here in Austria are Hunter and Wolters both of which are also at Fressnapf/equivalent stores. You'll need a leash and a harness or a collar, of course.
  
  
• Getting my girl spayed in NO was I think a bit less than €250 but we included x-rays of her hips and back just to check for anything while she was under. I think it was about €150 for a friend to get her dog neutered from the same vet. I pay about €50~ a year for vaccinations, and €20~ a month for flea/tick medication (from the vet- don't buy the shitty brands at the store!).
  
  
• For public transport/anywhere off leash except a dog zone, you need a muzzle as it's law in Austria as I am sure you know. You can get a normal one which you can get as well at Fressnapf, I think I paid about €15, or you can get a really super nice BUMAS which can be custom fitted to your dog. It's not necessary but if you have a dog that has to wear a muzzle often for whatever reason, it may be nice.
  
  
• It can get pretty cold in Austria depending on where you are, zooplus has some pretty nice jackets which are not so pricey but I just got my girl a Hurtta jacket which is very nice and a brand that is highly recommended.
  
  Of course most of these things I buy over the course of the year. As for treats I personally use sausages or cheese cut up, or this tube of tuna which you can buy at any normal grocery store.
  
  Happy to answer any other questions!!

As much as it might break your heart, the best first step for HER safety, and your peace of mind is a soft muzzle. I'd buy one of the neoprene-lined mesh ones which you can buy like this one either on amazon or at most chain pet stores. This will help a situation that would potentially end in a scary bite not happen. Your dog may not LIKE the muzzle, but if your dog seriously injures another dog, she could be put down. in my opinion, its the lesser of two evils, and if the muzzle is introduced correctly, it won't even be too negative to her.

So, how do you train your dog to use a muzzle without throwing a fit? Easy(ish)! First, hold the muzzle in one hand, within her eyesight and give her a treat. Look at the muzzle? Treat. Let her sniff it, put it on the ground and let her eat a treat from on or ideally, in it. Build up to putting it on (very loosely at first, no pressure) so it's minimally stressful. Put it on for a little bit, give her some treats, and then take it off. Start feeding her with it on (again, loosely. Worn properly, she should still be able to eat or drink while wearing it). Over time, the muzzle should be associated with treats, and other fun activities. If you force the muzzle too fast, it could increase her stress, and make her reactivity worse as a result.

Another thing that may help is taking her on walks away from other dogs. This may require some creativity on your part, but it's worth it. Try walking her in less busy areas, ideally places that don't normally have dogs. I've found walking around strip malls or outdoor shopping areas really helpful if the dog is ok with people. If she's not ok around people, I'd try walking later at night when people that live near you aren't taking their dogs out, or walking around places away from your home that are outside of their normal operation hours (Parking lots after the business is closed, churches on weekdays, public schools on weekends or after school hours). This may require you to drive away from your house, but until you understand what's caused the change in her behaviour more, this is going to be your safe zone.

Finally, I'd have her taken to a vet. Sometimes, drastic changes in behaviour, especially at a younger age for her breed/s can be due to illness or discomfort. If you find that this is not the case, I would talk to a behaviourist. Weigh how important it is to you that your dog interact with other dogs. Are you willing to accept that she may not get along with other dogs well in the future? If not, do you have time and the resources to help her bridge this new fear of hers? Its worth considering. You may end up finding that you're both happier finding new ways to exercise other than walks or dog parks.

Best of luck! I hope you and your dog are able to overcome this with great ease <3

No one's going to be able to make this decision for you over the internet. We have limited information and we'll never actually meet your dog. It's true that some aggressive dogs are candidates for euthanasia but I strongly suggest seeking professional help instead of making this decision on your own. If you can, find a veterinary behaviorist who can meet and assess your dog. There's more information on finding a qualified professional in the wiki.


In the meantime, I suggest taking some steps to manage your dog. At first, it's probably best to keep him away from people he doesn't know well. This means that you don't let people pet him on walks, you put him away from friends come over, etc. In the meantime, take some time to learn about dog body language. Most dogs won't bite "all of sudden." There are lots of ways that dogs communicate that they're uncomfortable but, unfortunately, the warning signs are often subtle. Things like lip licking, the whale eye (when you can see the whites of their eyes,) avoidance behaviors like leaning or looking away can mean that your dog is starting to get stressed out and isn't cool with whatever's going on. It's also a really good thing that your dog growled first. Growling is a crystal clear message that a bite is probably coming next. Respect what the dog is trying to tell you when he growls and stop whatever you're doing (or make the other person stop what they're doing) immediately.


You can keep your dog from even getting to a point where he has to growl, however, by advocating for him. Once you start to understand his likes and dislikes and how he'll communicate them you have to stick up for him. For example, my dog doesn't like when people loom over him or put their face close to his. So, I tell anyone who meet him not to loom over him or put their face close to his. If, for whatever reason, I don't trust a person to follow my instructions (children for example...) they don't get to pet the dog. Knowing your dog well and advocating for him is going to help give him a good quality of life despite his aggression issues. This way he can eventually hang out with your friends but you can avoid problems by intervening if you see trouble brewing; "Okay guys, dog needs to take a break."


Another thing you might want to consider is muzzle training. There's a brand of muzzle called the [baskerville muzzle] (https://www.amazon.com/PetAZ-Muzzles-Silicone-Breathable-Adjustable/dp/B078W686S2/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1521915702&sr=8-4&keywords=basket+muzzle) that allows the dog to pant, drink water, and take treats. You can train a dog to happily wear a muzzle by teaching him to associate the muzzle with good things. My dog shoves his face into his muzzle whenever I bring it out because he knows muzzle = peanut butter. There is a huge stigma attached to muzzles which can be hard to overcome but it's a valuable training tool that, when used correctly, can keep your dog out of trouble and the people around him safe.


I know you're in a horrible situation. Having an aggressive dog can really turn your life upside down but you sound like a great owner who really cares.

Edit: a word

I had a vet tell me to get an Italian basket muzzle. It has a door that opens at the snout so they can be fed treats

I wish I could find the video on desensitizing a dog to a muzzle. Basically you put your hand through the muzzle with a treat in your hand. Have the dog come to your hand and take the treat. Keep doing this until eventually the muzzle is touching the dogs nose. You then eventually move to the point where the muzzle is on the dog without them freaking out. The italian basket allows you to continue to treat. I desensitized over several training sessions. I only fed her treats with my hand through the muzzle the first session. I spread this out over the course of a week until the muzzle was on her nose and she was happy fine with it.

His next visit to the vet might trigger his anxiety even before the exam. Getting him positively conditioned to the muzzle beforehand might make the situation slightly better. At least he doesn't have to go through the forceful restraining on top of everything else.

I just posted this in another post, but your dog's muzzle looks very similar to mine!

So many regular muzzles restrict their breathing and like others have said, it's either too small or too large in certain areas. I've purchased 4-5.

Finally was done wasting my $$ and ordered two different customized muzzles by BUMAS and waiting for them to come in. Definitely measure your dog's muzzle & pant measurements with very clear pictures if you ever decide to order one (they require pictures & after sending your order you have to send them another picture of them panting with the measuring tape.)

BUMAS measuring instructions

Measuring Tape Training (helps a lot doing this prior if dog doesn't sit still/isn't comfortable with strange things sitting on their face)

OH also, this muzzle from Amazon was the ONLY one that has fit so far but unfortunately the metal rivets rust quite easily if not cleaned & dried of saliva. Def couldn't drink water from it as well. I've purchased a few to keep on hand and have used it for muzzle training along with a large wire muzzle in the meantime.

Good to note to be very careful with trying out muzzles that don't fit properly as they have the potential to suffocate the dog.

I got an Italian basket muzzle because I wanted her to be able to pant, drink, and eat treats (provided by me of course, not trash treats) while wearing the muzzle. Originally I had a Baskerville (a heavy plastic basket muzzle) but it made her look like Cujo and was definitely overkill. The Italian basket is lightweight and flexible so she feels more comfortable in it. This is essentially what I have

Wearing a muzzle will help you stay calm and help keep other people from letting their dog approach yours. The stigma sucks, I know. I worry about it to. But then I think, why I am caring so much about what other random people think of my dog? Instead I should be caring more about the safety of my own dog and help to address this myth that 'only bad dogs wear muzzles'.

A properly fitted Baskerville muzzle like this will allow your dog to open his mouth to pant and take treats: https://www.amazon.com/Baskerville-2-Inch-Rubber-Muzzle-Size-5/dp/B0051H45GC

A mesh one like this does not allow your dog to pant so these are not recommended for walks: https://www.amazon.com/Coastal-Pet-28483202-BestFit-01300-BLK06/dp/B000CRTJUS/ref=pd_sim_199_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B000CRTJUS&pd_rd_r=9B4M6EJRAG6XRYGBN2VY&pd_rd_w=ZWA03&pd_rd_wg=aati7&psc=1&refRID=9B4M6EJRAG6XRYGBN2VY

My dog wears his muzzle everywhere. He's got some issues, and his muzzle keeps him safe while we're working through them. If you train them to wear it so that it's no big deal then they don't mind at all. This video shows how to do it fairly well. The muzzle they use is harder to treat though, so I prefer a basskerville ultra I also find them easier to fit and most dogs seem to be more comfortable in them.

Groomers are used to working with aggressive dogs. Aggressive Shih-Tzus are literally an every day occurrence at most grooming shops. Absolutely take your dog to the groomer, but please do everyone a favor and tell them your dog is aggressive when you book the appointment, and then tell them again when you drop your dog off. Also, you'll make your groomer's life a lot easier if you purchase a muzzle like this one (if your dog is relatively flat-faced, otherwise an appropriately-fitting Baskerville muzzle should work) and work on making your dog accustomed to wearing one, in case the groomer needs to muzzle him for their safety.

Not sure if this hits all your requirements but:

https://www.amazon.com/Cesar-Millan-Funny-Muzzle-Yellow/dp/B00MF0FDB4/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?adgrpid=55218261559&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIz9KFjtyO4gIVy1cNCh2sdA5aEAAYASAAEgIJ4PD_BwE&hvadid=274725274799&hvdev=m&hvlocphy=9004075&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=e&hvrand=3692331450945803640&hvtargid=kwd-326978256189&hydadcr=15188_9881759&keywords=cesar+muzzle&qid=1557414234&s=gateway&sr=8-3

I use this one for my ABD. I like it for a lot of reasons, including that it puts people at ease with the humor while also letting them know that she’s a bit finicky and of course keeps everyone safe.

I can give her little treats and she can kinda sorta lick but she can’t really drink. I don’t keep it on for more than 20 min, though.

You're 18. You absolutely can take control of this if and when you want to. Don't let anyone - including your father - tell you that you can't. They had their chance, and now you have to fix this before your dog becomes so dangerous that he causes a disfigurement, surgical restoration, etc. by biting another human in the face.

Spend a few hours researching training methods on this subreddit and talk to a behaviorist (NOT just any random dog trainer, and stay away from those who use aversive/dominance theory in their training - they will only worsen your dog's aggression).

Buy a muzzle and train him to wear it, and put it on him ANY TIME you're playing with him, taking him out of the house/yard, or anybody atypical (friends, non-immediate family, etc) is going to be in your home.

Basket muzzles are cheap. Make sure it fits snugly and don't stick your fingers in it ever. You can freeze peanut butter inside the basket and use it to train him not to be scared of it - use it like a kong at first, without attaching it, slowly get him used to taking treats out of it while it's attached for a minute or two at a time, then build up to longer periods of a few hours or so.

Dogs are bred to be social, loving, and trusting of humans. Any dog that shows atypical behavior is either poorly socialized and in need of training, counter-conditioning, and patience, or is mentally unsound and will require behavioral changes on your part in order to be kept as a pet.

Baskerville Ultra Muzzle, Tan, Size 3 - I use this one on my girl when I need to muzzle her. Doesn’t really stop her from drinking or whatever, eating I don’t think would be easy but not impossible if you hand it to them. Compared with other muzzles they adjust pretty fast, too.

Mine has issues with small children and some other dogs (doesn’t seem to be a pattern in size/gender/neutering). She routinely tries to eat our neighbor’s kid which sucks because the little girl really loves dogs. We’re working on it but it’s not been fun.

As was rudely pointed out to you earlier, fearing that your dog is going to get loose and bite someone isn't normal even if it's fairly common, and is an obvious safety risk for your dog and those around her. Thank you for coming here to ask for help to keep your dog under control and happy on walks. IMO, that makes you a much better dog owner than most people with "mean as fuck" dogs. Please do consider getting a behaviorist to help her be more relaxed on walks/in public. She and everyone else is safer when she's calm and the training won't ruin her for "guarding".

That said, Ruffwear makes very strong, high quality harnesses. They are pricey, but it sounds worth it to protect your dog (and people around your dog) if you are concerned she will break loose and bite someone.

Because you have a very real fear of your dog hurting someone, you need to consider the quality of your leash too. The leash clip is a very common failure point, so don't cheap out on a leash. Never walk your dog on a retractable leash; use a leash made of thick material (no cheap nylon), and a plated steel bolt snap.

Dropping the leash is real possibility too--far more likely than the harness breaking--so consider getting one that goes around your body. A good quality line is still important, so don't cheap out.

As was mentioned elsewhere, a basket muzzle will make everyone way safer, especially when it's introduced and fit properly. Basket muzzles are safe for the dog to wear all the time because they allow the dog to pant and drink while preventing serious damage to others.

I know a few folks who got service animal looking harnesses for their pets for this exact reason. Then they can tell people (or yell if necessary) that the dog is not a toy so leave us alone without the weird social backlash. IDK if it's a perfect solution, but it seems to help.


Edit: Or get something like this!! Ha - that should keep children away!


https://www.amazon.com/Zveryatam-Unique-Designer-muzzles-Werewolf/dp/B018RMAQZ6

Baskerville Ultra Basket Dog Muzzle – The Company of Animals - Adjustable and Comfortable Secure Fit - Durable Lightweight Rubber - Stops Biting, safe retraining of aggressive dogs- Size-5 Tan https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IFJ0NWW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_YJfVAbJBBH4BP

Sorry you have to muzzle her, that sucks. I bet she felt terrible for biting your finger. I haven't ever had to muzzle, but I have seen this cute muzzle that looks like a duck bill, available in lots of sizes, about 7 inches around, available on amazon.

Wildforlife New Arrival Cute Comfy Silica Gel Duck Bill Dog Muzzle (X-Large, Yellow) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01D35ERJS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_HPmLzb53Y2NWR

I use a Baskerville type muzzle most often. They are made out of hard plastic, but are open so the dog can pant, breathe easily, and accept treats as part of a training regime. The ultra is handy if you are thinking about using it more frequently.

Simple solution: order muzzle on amazon. Here's 5 of them for $9.99 with free shipping. Wait 24 to 48 hours for package. Clip nails the day after tomorrow.

What this person did was fucking duct tape a dog's snout, which to me seems really hard to do. Wouldn't the dog resist and fight?

I think we're safe to judge this person.

Dog Muzzles Suit, 7 PCS Anti-Biting Barking Muzzles Adjustable Dog Mouth Cover for Small Medium Large Extra Dog https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FTFK5GD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_brGxDbSZAN5TR

This is the closest example I can find on amazon. It’s very similar, except it’s not just a no barking one it helps keep her from her excited nipping.

I imagine they were using a muzzle on them and it caused the dog to have trouble breathing. Because of the shape of a brachycephalic dog's face, a standard cage muzzle can't be used if the dog gets a bit nippy while being trimmed. Instead they have to use a soft muzzle like this if you put it on upside down though, it covers the nose of most brachy breeds. Cat muzzles look similar but are made to cover the eyes as well and I could see undertrained staff putt on the soft dog muzzle upside down like a cat muzzle is normally situated suffocating the dog.

Thanks, it's just a basic A2 style flash hider with a dust cover.

Pretty sure it's actually this Muzzle Cover / Muzzle Cap (Black) 5-Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009PSZJ8Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_p-UXAbY48YZ55

We used these all the time in iraq. Get into a firefight and they either shoot off or the round punches a hole through them. Tape would just leave residue and wouldn't be as effective.

the tape on the flashlight to keep IR cover from coming off. not 100% what its holding on, but im assuming the tape on the IR designator is also holding on some sort of cover. The tape on the muzzle is possibly for keeping sand out of the barrel. 1st round punches through the tape. Usually they are thin plastic covers, but maybe he didnt have any available.

https://www.amazon.com/AR15-Muzzle-Cover-Black-5-Pack/dp/B009PSZJ8Q

edit: that or he has tape on their to direct all muzzle blast forward and prevent kicking up too much dirt... who knows.. personally wouldnt use tape but you do what you can i guess? hahah

Here, this one will keep everyone very far away from you.

They make brachy muzzles out of mesh. They look kind of silly, though. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00J59JBPM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_ji09BbG5GN5GB