Quick Picks — Skip to the winner for your situation
Company of Animals Baskerville Ultra Muzzle
Jump to review ↓Bumas Bumas Custom Muzzle
Jump to review ↓PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar
Jump to review ↓How we tested these 5 products
A well-fitted muzzle is a safety tool and a welfare tool – not a punishment. Used correctly, muzzles prevent biting during vet visits, grooming or stressful situations, and allow reactive dogs to socialise more safely while their training progresses. This guide covers the best muzzles available in Australia, how to choose the right type, and how to help your dog accept one positively.
Company of Animals Baskerville Ultra Muzzle
Basket design, thermoplastic, can mould with warm water
- Allows panting
- drinking
- treat reward through muzzle
- Requires correct breed-specific size – measure carefully
Rogz Rogz Grinz Muzzle
Nylon strap muzzle with ventilation holes
- Lightweight
- washable
- affordable
- Restricts panting – not suitable for hot weather or extended wear
What to look for – AU buying advice
Common Questions
Is it cruel to muzzle a dog?
A well-fitted basket muzzle used with proper training is not cruel. Muzzling a dog prevents biting incidents that could result in the dog being declared dangerous, rehomed or euthanised. For dogs that are reactive or prone to biting in certain situations, a muzzle is a welfare protection for both dog and public. The cruelty comes from using an ill-fitted muzzle or leaving a soft muzzle on for extended periods.
Can a dog drink water with a muzzle on?
A basket muzzle (like the Baskerville Ultra) allows dogs to lap water through the basket. You can also offer treats through the basket. Soft muzzles prevent drinking entirely – never leave a dog in a soft muzzle for more than a few minutes, especially in warm weather.
How long can a dog wear a muzzle?
Basket muzzles can be worn for extended periods (hours) in cooler conditions as they allow full panting and drinking. In hot Australian weather, monitor carefully – any muzzle increases heat stress risk. Soft muzzles should never be worn for more than 10-15 minutes. Always remove the muzzle in a secure environment when supervision is possible.
What size muzzle does my dog need?
Measure your dog’s muzzle length (from the stop – the dip between eyes and nose – to tip of nose) and circumference (around the muzzle, just below the eyes). Compare to the brand’s sizing chart. For unusual head shapes (very wide like Bulldogs, very narrow like Greyhounds), consider a custom Bumas muzzle or the heat-mouldable Baskerville Ultra.
The Baskerville Ultra is the best dog muzzle for Australian conditions by a significant margin – it’s the choice of vet clinics, trainers and rescue organisations nationwide. The basket design is the only appropriate choice for any use lasting more than a few minutes in Australian heat. Invest time in muzzle training before you need it.