The Best Dog Muzzles

Dog muzzles often bring to mind images of large, aggressive dogs, but in reality there are reasons for a dog to wear a muzzle that have nothing to do with them being mean. Just as some dog owners use wireless dog fences to ensure the safety of both their dogs and passersby, dog muzzles are often used for similar reasons.  If your dog becomes stressed or fearful during vet or grooming appointments, a muzzle can help keep both your pet and the people around him calm. If your dog has suffered an injury and might bite out of pain, temporary muzzling can be a good solution to prevent accidents. Muzzles are also sometimes needed to prevent your dog from nibbling or licking at a wound or eating inedible objects when out on a walk.

Choosing the right muzzle for your dog can seem like a daunting task. There are basket muzzles, short snout muzzles, and soft muzzles. They’re made with a variety of materials and come with different strap configurations. Furthermore, each muzzle differs in what it prevents and what it allows. If you need one that will prevent licking, for example, certain muzzles will meet your needs and others will not. We reviewed dozens of dog muzzles to identify the best of the best in a variety of categories. These picks will help narrow your search for the perfect dog muzzle.

Top Pick
CooZero 7 Piece Adjustable Dog Muzzle Set
The dog muzzle that comes in 7 sizes so you always find the perfect fit.

We’ve identified CooZero 7 Piece Adjustable Dog Muzzle Set as the best dog muzzle available. With a guaranteed fit, adjustable straps, and breathable, comfortable material, this multi-functional dog muzzle offers the benefits you need in a muzzle while keeping your dog safe and happy, all at an affordable price point.

The 5 Top-Rated Dog Muzzles

Editor's PicksBrandRating
Best OverallCooZero 7 Piece Adjustable Dog Muzzle Set4.1
Runner UpGoodBoy Comfort Fit Gentle Muzzle4.2
Best Budget BuyFour Paws Quick Fit Dog Muzzle3.8
Best Basket MuzzleThe Company of Animals Baskerville Ultra Basket Dog Muzzle3.8
Best Short Snout Dog MuzzleJYHY Short Snout Dog Muzzle4.0

*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change

Our Top Pick: CooZero 7 Piece Adjustable Dog Muzzle Set

Whether you don’t know what size you need, have multiple dogs, or need a muzzle that will grow with your puppy, CooZero 7 Piece Adjustable Dog Muzzle Set is the perfect choice. It comes in seven different sizes, so no pre-measuring is necessary before you buy. You can try several different sizes on your dog when they arrive to determine which size is the best fit. Since ordering the wrong size was one of the top complaints with every other muzzle we reviewed, this simple and affordable solution puts CooZero’s muzzle at the top of the pack.

The CooZero muzzle stops dogs from biting, licking wounds, barking (check our list of best dog bark collars), and eating things they shouldn’t while still allowing for panting and drinking. The eco-friendly material is soft for comfort and easy to clean. CooZero’s dog muzzle offers adjustable strap options to ensure that the muzzle remains safely and comfortably in place. One attachment strap hooks right to your dog’s collar and another optional strap offers over the head safety, but is removable.

Priced at only $14.99, with an average Amazon customer rating of 4.0 stars with over 300 reviews, this dog muzzle provides the features you need. And since it comes in seven different sizes, you won’t have to worry about measuring wrong and having to reorder.

CooZero 7 Piece Adjustable Dog Muzzle Key Features:

  • Arrives in a set of seven sizes to ensure a proper fit.
  • Adjustable and removable straps provide a safe, secure fit.
  • Eco-friendly material is breathable and easy to clean.
  • Prevents wound licking, biting, barking, and eating.
  • Allows panting and drinking.

Our Runner Up Pick: GoodBoy Comfort Fit Gentle Muzzle

Runner Up
GoodBoy Comfort Fit Gentle Muzzle
The padded muzzle that’ll keep your dog content.

TheGoodBoy Comfort Fit Gentle Muzzle is a close second to our top pick. This dog muzzle allows your dog to breathe, pant, and drink with ease while preventing biting, barking, and eating.

It’s soft neoprene padding is a big plus for people who want to be extra sure of the comfort of their dog’s snout. This one will not chafe or cause hot spots. With adjustable straps and a Stay-Fit connection, this muzzle is easy to fasten onto your dog. It even includes a bonus collar for added support. Many customer reviews praised the easy-to-understand training manual that comes with the purchase.

With a slightly higher price tag than our top pick, at $15.99 GoodBoy Comfort Fit Gentle Muzzle has an Amazon rating of 4.2 stars with just over 200 reviews.

GoodBoy Comfort Fit Gentle Muzzle Key Features:

  • Soft, neoprene padding keeps your dog comfortable.
  • Adjustable straps provide a secure fit.
  • Includes a bonus collar and training manual.
  • Design allows for easy breathing, panting, and drinking.
  • Prevents biting, barking, and chewing.

Best Budget Pick: Four Paws Quick Fit Dog Muzzle

Best for Budget
Four Paws Quick Fit Dog Muzzle
The dog muzzle that’s comfortable, strong, and machine-washable.

If you need a muzzle for occasional use, Four Paws Quick Fit Dog Muzzle could be right for you. With only one adjustable strap, it’s easy to put on and once your dog is wearing it, it remains secure. Several reviewers mentioned initially putting it on upside-down, so if you find you’re having trouble getting it to stay on, you may need to flip it over.

The Four Paws muzzle comes in nine different sizes and is made of durable, machine-washable nylon. It allows for panting and drinking, while preventing chewing, biting, and barking. Although the price varies depending on the size ordered, most are under $10. With a 3.8 star rating on Amazon, this is an affordable option for a quality product.

Four Paws Quick Fit Dog Muzzle Key Features:

  • Easy to put on with only one strap.
  • Strap is fully adjustable.
  • Durable nylon material is machine-washable.
  • Prevents biting, barking, and chewing.
  • Allows for panting and drinking.

Best Basket Muzzle: The Company of Animals Baskerville Ultra Basket Dog Muzzle

Best Basket Muzzle
The Company of Animals Baskerville Ultra Basket Dog Muzzle
A muzzle that provides a safe and secure fit while allowing unrestricted panting, eating, and drinking.

The Company of Animals Baskerville Ultra Basket Dog Muzzle won the top spot in the best basket muzzle category. This muzzle is primarily made to prevent biting while still allowing panting, drinking, barking, and some eating.

The basket section of the muzzle is made of rubber that can be heated and shaped to a custom fit around your dog’s snout. The straps are ergonomically designed, include two attachment points with one being optional and removable, and have neoprene padding for a comfortable fit.

With 3.8 stars and over 2000 reviews, The Company of Animals Baskerville Ultra Basket Dog Muzzle is a great choice when you need a custom-fit basket dog muzzle primarily to prevent biting. The price varies depending on the size, but is in the $10-$20 range.

The Company of Animals Baskerville Ultra Basket Dog Muzzle Key Features:

  • Malleable rubber allows for a customized fit.
  • Ergonomically designed straps are adjustable to provide a secure fit.
  • Neoprene padding prevents chaffing and increases comfort.
  • Prevents biting.
  • Allows for panting, drinking, eating, and barking.

Best Short Snout Dog Muzzle: JYHY Short Snout Dog Muzzle

Best Short Snout Dog Muzzle
JYHY Short Snout Dog Muzzle
The ideal muzzle for the hard-to-fit short snout dog.

When you have a dog that doesn’t fit into most of the traditional muzzles, JYHY Short Snout Dog Muzzle is the perfect alternative. With four size options, this mesh and nylon muzzle prevents biting, chewing, and barking while still allowing your dog to drink and pant.

JYHY’s muzzle features an adjustable strap with a quick-release buckle that won’t irritate your pet’s skin. The material is durable and easy to clean. Priced in the $17-$25 range depending on size and style, the JYHY Short Snout Dog Muzzle has 4.0 star on Amazon and is a great choice for people who have a short snout dog.

JYHY Short Snout Dog Muzzle Key Features:

  • Adjustable strap with a quick-release buckle is easy on the skin.
  • Durable mesh and nylon construction is easy to clean.
  • Prevents biting, barking, and chewing.
  • Allows for easy breathing.

Who Should Buy a Dog Muzzle

Dog muzzles are useful for a variety of reasons and even the nicest dogs can sometimes be in situations where a muzzle is necessary. Many trainers recommend getting dogs used to a muzzle before they actually have need of one, so the short answer to the question of who should buy a dog muzzle is anyone who owns a dog.

However, to get a bit more specific, there are certain instances when a dog muzzle would come in handy. If your dog becomes stressed or nervous when placed in certain situations, a muzzle may be appropriate. These situations could include being around guests or other animals, going to the vet or groomer, or being in an unfamiliar location.

If your dog eats or chews things it shouldn’t, a muzzle is an effective way to prevent your dog from getting sick or destroying property. Muzzles can also be useful if your dog is injured. In this instance, a muzzle will not only prevent your dog from biting out of fear or hurt, but will also keep your dog from chewing or licking any wounds it might have. Finally, in some locations, muzzles are required for particular dog breeds.

Top Pick
CooZero 7 Piece Adjustable Dog Muzzle Set
The dog muzzle that comes in 7 sizes so you always find the perfect fit.

Important Features to Consider

A dog muzzle should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a dog muzzle:

  • Adjustable. No two dogs have exactly the same snout shape or size, so an adjustable muzzle is a must to ensure a proper fit.
  • Comfort. If the material is irritating or the fit is too tight, chaffing can occur. This is not only uncomfortable for your dog, but can lead to painful hot spots.
  • Allows for easy breathing and panting. If a muzzle does not allow your dog to breathe easily, it’s not the right muzzle for your dog. Furthermore, since panting is the way that dogs sweat, they should be able to easily pant with the muzzle on.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a dog muzzle and how does it work?

A dog muzzle is a device that is placed over the snout of your dog to prevent biting and chewing. While dog muzzles come in many different designs, they all typically have straps that attach behind the dog’s head to keep the muzzle on securely.

Muzzles work by keeping your dog’s mouth contained or unable to fully open. While a muzzle’s main purpose usually is to prevent biting or chewing, it’s also important that the muzzle allow for easy breathing and panting.

How do you measure a dog for a muzzle and how should a muzzle fit?

Most companies will provide detailed instructions on how to measure your dog for their particular muzzle. However, it’s typical that you’ll need to measure the circumference of your dog’s snout at it’s widest point and the length of your dog’s snout from its nose to under its eyes. You may also need to measure around to the back of your dog’s head.

Finding the right size muzzle can be tricky because there is only room for a small margin of error. If the muzzle is too tight, it will prevent easy breathing and panting, and it could chafe your dog’s snout. If it’s too loose, your dog will be able to wiggle out of it. Sometimes the best option is to order several sizes to try on your dog in order to determine which is the best fit.

How long can a dog wear a basket muzzle?

Basket muzzles allow for easier breathing, panting, and drinking than other muzzles, so they can be worn for longer periods of time than other designs. However, most experts agree that all muzzles should only be worn for short periods of time. Some recommend about 20 minutes, while others say you can allow your dog to remain in a muzzle longer than that. The most important thing is to monitor your dog while in a muzzle. A dog should never be left unattended while wearing one.

Can dogs eat and drink with a muzzle on?

Most, but not all, muzzles prevent your dog from eating. You may be able to offer them a small treat (try cbd dog treats for anxiety), but they will not be able to get at food or other items on their own. Since one of the main reasons people use muzzles is because their dogs chew or eat things they aren’t supposed to, many muzzles are designed to not allow eating.

On the other hand, most muzzles do allow your dog to drink. Breathing, panting, and drinking are all important to the health of your dog and should be easily accomplished with a muzzle on. Since panting and drinking both require the tongue to be out, if a muzzle allows for panting, drinking is usually able to be accomplished as well.

Other Dog Muzzles We Reviewed

Top Pick
CooZero 7 Piece Adjustable Dog Muzzle Set
The dog muzzle that comes in 7 sizes so you always find the perfect fit.

We looked at 20 other dog muzzles. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best dog muzzles list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your dog. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.

Basket Dog Muzzles

Leather Brothers Italian Basket Dog Muzzle

Leather Brothers Italian Basket Dog Muzzle

Lightweight and comfortable with plenty of ventilation, the Leather Brothers Italian basket muzzle is perfect for the dog who tries to eat things it shouldn’t.

Key Features:

  • Flexible basket with adjustable leather straps provides strong, comfortable fit.
  • Removable front grill offers flexibility in design.
  • Comes in 10 sizes.
  • Prohibits biting, barking, and eating.
  • Allows breathing and panting.

Cost: $19

Mayerzon Breathable Basket Dog Muzzle

Mayerzon Breathable Basket Dog Muzzle

For a muzzle that’s easy to put on and provides flexibility for your dog’s unique snout shape, Mayerzon’s breathable basket muzzle is a great option. 

Key Features:

  • Soft, yet durable rubber can be widened or narrowed for a custom fit.
  • Quickly adjusts to the right size with nylon straps.
  • Large holes allow for easy breathing, panting, and drinking.
  • Prevents biting, chewing, and barking.

Cost: $19

CollarDirect Leather Pitbull Dog Muzzle

CollarDirect Leather Pitbull Dog Muzzle

If you need a durable muzzle built specifically for dogs with neither short nor long snouts, this leather option is sure to please.

Key Features:

  • Made specifically for pitbull, amstaff, staffordshire terrier, and other breeds with similar snouts.
  • Made of durable genuine leather.
  • Offers two adjustable straps for a secure fit.
  • Prevents biting, chewing, and barking.
  • Allows for breathing and panting.

Cost: $30

Downtown Pet Supply Basket Cage Dog Muzzle

Downtown Pet Supply Basket Cage Dog Muzzle

Reviewers found the lightness of this basket muzzle to be one of its best qualities. Its strong plastic and comfortable fit also make it a winner.

Key Features:

  • Made to last with strong, flexible plastic.
  • Includes comfort strip for a pleasant fit.
  • Adjustable strap ensure a proper fit.
  • Allows breathing, panting, and drinking.
  • Prevents biting, barking, and chewing.

Cost: $10

Mayerzon Breathable Silicone Basket Dog Muzzle

yerzon Breathable Silicone Basket Dog Muzzle

Breathable and secure, this Mayerzon muzzle makes good on its promises. With excellent customer service, you won’t have to worry about losing money if you order the wrong size. 

Key Features:

  • Tough, yet soft to make it both durable and comfortable.
  • Adjustable, padded straps provide a secure fit.
  • Prevents biting, barking, and chewing.
  • Allows breathing, panting, and drinking.

Cost: $13

Barkless Soft Basket Silicone Dog Muzzle

Barkless Soft Basket Silicone Dog Muzzle

When you need to protect your dog and the people nearby, look no further than this muzzle that provides a secure fit and durable construction. 

Key Features:

  • Durable material with a comfortable fit.
  • Provides all-around protection for your dog and others.
  • Safety straps provide secure and proper fit.
  • Prevents biting, chewing, and barking.
  • Allows breathing, panting, and drinking.

Cost: $19

Short Snout Dog Muzzles

Canine Friendly Short Snout Dog Muzzle

Canine Friendly Short Snout Dog Muzzle

A must for hard-to-fit dogs with short snouts, this muzzle is made of durable material that allows your dog to breathe easily.

Key Features:

  • Made of durable nylon and breathable mesh.
  • Adjustable, sliding straps for a secure fit.
  • Soft edges keep muzzle from rubbing against eyes.
  • Prevents biting and eating.
  • Allows breathing, panting, and drinking.

Cost: $25

CollarDirect Short Snout Basket Muzzle

CollarDirect Basket Short Snout Dog Muzzle

Reviewers commented over and over again about the high quality of CollarDirect’s short snout muzzle. If you have a bulldog or boxer, this muzzle will fit like a glove.

Key Features:

  • Quality made of genuine leather.
  • Features two adjustable straps for a solid fit.
  • Designed especially for boxers, English bulldogs, and American bulldogs.
  • Provides great ventilation for breathing and panting.
  • Prevents chewing, biting, and barking.

Cost: $32

Soft Dog Muzzles

Coastal Pet Products Best Fit Mesh Muzzle

Coastal Pet Products Best Fit Mesh Muzzle

A sheath-style muzzle designed for short periods of use, Coastal Pet Products mesh muzzle keeps your dog cool while preventing biting and eating.

Key Features:

  • Provides adjustable strap and adjustable mesh for a perfect fit.
  • Breathable mesh offers ventilation for your dog.
  • Padded nose band provides a comfortable fit.
  • Recommended for large breeds.
  • Open front allows breathing, panting, and drinking.
  • Prevents barking, biting, and chewing.

Cost: $15

Mayerzon Nylon Dog Muzzle

Mayerzon Nylon Dog Muzzle

If you need a muzzle that also teaches your dog not to pull while on the leash, this one from Mayerzon is the perfect choice.

Key Features:

  • Soft and flexible with extra padding for a comfortable fit.
  • Fully adjustable neck strap and snout circumference for a fit that’s not too loose or too tight.
  • Includes guidebook.
  • Prevents biting and provides owner with more control.

Cost: $13

Dogs My Love Adjustable Dog Muzzle

Dogs My Love Adjustable Dog Muzzle

Many reviewers found this the ideal muzzle for performing grooming tasks like cutting their dog’s nails or cleaning their ears. With its easy on and off design, there’s a lot to love about this muzzle.

Key Features:

  • Quality materials are strong, light, and softly padded.
  • Additional strap around the snout provides extra protection.
  • Buckles are highly flexible and cold resistant.
  • Recommended by vets and breeders.

Cost: $11

Cozy Quick X-Small Dog Muzzle

Cozy Quick X-Small Dog Muzzle

Well-cushioned for maximum comfort, this muzzle is specially designed for small dogs who don’t fit in standard muzzles.

Key Features:

  • Constructed of durable nylon pack cloth.
  • Water and dirt resistant.
  • Offers adjustable straps and quick-release buckles.
  • Perfect for small breed dogs with average length snouts.

Cost: $11

Weebo Pets Breathable Nylon Cloth Safety Muzzle

Weebo Pets Breathable Nylon Cloth Safety Muzzle

Perfect for short grooming or training sessions, Weebo Pets muzzle will keep your dog calm and happy.

Key Features:

  • Sheath-style nylon cloth design offers a comfortable fit.
  • Adjustable straps and quick release buckle provide a secure fit.
  • Padded piping ensures no chaffing.
  • Stops biting and discourages barking.

Cost: $4

Pro Guard Pets Softie Muzzle

Pro Guard Pets Softie Muzzle

If eating or licking are activities that must be curbed, this muzzle is a great choice. It protects your dog from ingesting things it shouldn’t and allows wounds to heal without your dog further irritating them.

Key Features:

  • Tough nylon resists tears and punctures.
  • Easy to put on with adjustable straps.
  • Includes mesh insert for easy breathing.
  • Restricts biting and chewing.

Cost: $9

Canine Friendly Soft Fit Dog Muzzle

Canine Friendly Soft Fit Dog Muzzle

A soft and breathable muzzle that’s easy to put on, you may want to order a size down as many reviewers mentioned that it runs large.

Key Features:

  • Made from breathable mesh and durable nylon.
  • Adjustable strap and side-close buckle offer easy muzzling.
  • Open front allows for panting and drinking.
  • Prevents biting and chewing.

Cost: $16

Pawliss Duck Mouth Shaped Dog Muzzle

Pawliss Duck Mouth Shaped Dog Muzzle

Well-made and comfortable to wear, this duck mouth muzzle does its job while allowing your dog to look as cute as ever.

Key Features:

  • Soft silicone design keeps your pet comfortable.
  • Adjustable strap features quick release buckle.
  • Adds a bit of whimsy to time spent muzzled.
  • Prevents biting, chewing, and licking.

Cost: $10

Niteangel Quick Fit Nylon Dog Muzzle

Niteangel Quick Fit Nylon Dog Muzzle

Durable and well-padded, this muzzle arrives in two sizes so you get the right fit for your dog.

Key Features:

  • Made of high-quality materials that are strong, flexible, and extra padded for a comfortable fit.
  • Fully adjustable neck strap and snout circumference.
  • Can be used as a collar to stop pulling, jumping, and lunging.
  • Prevents biting.
  • Allows panting and drinking.

Cost: $12

FOMATE Anti-Licking Mesh Dog Muzzle

FOMATE Anti-Licking Mesh Dog Muzzle

This muzzle is breathable while still preventing licking and eating. Its adjustable straps and snout piece make it easy to get the right fit.

Key Features:

  • Ideal for dogs recovering from injury or surgery.
  • Adjustable hook and loop fastener for perfect fit.
  • Made of washable mesh.
  • Permits easy breathing and panting.

Cost: $10

Barkless Leather Dog Muzzle

Barkless Leather Dog Muzzle

Reviewers loved that this leather muzzle was both comfortable and difficult for their dogs to get off on their own.

Key Features:

  • Designed for dogs with long snouts.
  • Quality leather material is lightweight, durable, and easy on a dog’s skin.
  • Two adjustable straps provide a secure fit.
  • Prevents biting.
  • Allows panting, drinking, and eating.

Cost: $11

Lepark Nylon Dog Muzzle

Lepark Nylon Dog Muzzle

High quality and easy to put on, reviewers say this muzzle comes with something extra: excellent customer service.

Key Features:

  • High-quality nylon construction is durable and comfortable.
  • Padded nose guard provides extra comfort.
  • Adjustable straps ensure a secure fit.
  • Prevents biting and barking.

Cost: $13

Suppose you want to teach your pet a desirable behavior and associate it with a command word. Our selection of the best dog collar for training can assist you in preparing your dog to do good manners.