Open or closed muzzle?
Why a muzzle?
Dogs sometimes wear a muzzle. This can be for various reasons, such as:
- Preventing injuries
Sighthounds are fast dogs with thin skin. When they run together, they can accidentally injure each other, especially with their sharp teeth. A muzzle helps to reduce this risk. - Racing or coursing
During a fun run or competition, wearing a muzzle is often mandatory. - Safety
With a muzzle, you can better protect both the dog and other people or animals in the area. Think of the introduction of a cat, an appointment at the vet or a wound that the dog is not allowed to lick. - Food
Some dogs like to eat everything off the ground. With a muzzle, you can better prevent this.
Open or closed muzzle?
A question that is often asked: is it best to choose an open or closed muzzle for my dog? One muzzle is no better than the other, it is often a matter of personal preference. A consideration you could make:
- Scavenging
Does your dog eat stuff off the ground? The open muzzle may be sufficient, but some dogs are not hindered by the muzzle and press their entire snout (including muzzle) into something dirty. They might still manage to get something in through the small holes. Is your dog that determined? Then the closed muzzle is a better choice. - Drinking
Does your dog drink a lot? This is easier with the open muzzle because of the holes at the front. With a closed muzzle, the drinking bowl has to be filled a lot higher in order to be able to drink water with a muzzle on. - Perception
You will notice that some people have a negative bias when a dog wears a muzzle. You can choose a muzzle precisely because of this effect: the muzzle could make other people put their dog on a leash more quickly, which is very pleasant if you have a reactive dog. Or do you want the muzzle to be as discrete as possible? The choice of an open or closed muzzle is important here. Also consider the colour of the muzzle: do you prefer a cheerful bright colour or something that does not stand out against your dogs fur? - Sturdy
The closed muzzle is cast in one piece and is therefore slightly sturdier than the open muzzle. - Fun run or coursing
An open muzzle is usually worn during these events.
Please note: although a muzzle can be useful in certain situations, it is important that your dog learns that it is fun to wear a muzzle first! Make sure your dog gets used to the muzzle before you go for a walk with it. Our muzzles are lightweight and will not withstand a dog constantly pawing it off or rubbing in on hard surfaces.
