Best Muzzles For German Shepherds

Muzzles can have a negative connotation.  However, a muzzle is not only used for aggressive dogs.  There are many reasons a dog may have to be muzzled. 

Muzzles can be used to discourage your dog from licking a wound, for grooming, during training, to prevent barking in certain situations, to prevent biting in an emergency or unknown situations, or to prevent your dog from picking up dangerous objects while out and about.

This article will list the best muzzles for German Shepherds as well as how to properly select a muzzle for your dog. 

*This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of the links I get a small commission at no additional cost to you 🙂 .

Things To Consider Before Buying A Muzzle For Your Dog

1. Size

Size is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a muzzle.  To determine the correct size for your dog you need to measure the length of your dog’s neck and snout.  Then you need to also measure the circumference of both. 

The muzzle size you select is also important because it should be snug enough to do the job, but large enough to allow your dog the ability to pant.  Not having the ability to pant for too long can cause your dog to overheat because panting is how dogs control their temperature. 

Additionally, the size will go to the overall comfort of the muzzle for your dog.  Your dog will be less bothered by being muzzled if the muzzle is comfortable.

2. Ability to eat and drink

The ability to eat and drink is also a significant factor to consider.  Your dog should not be wearing a muzzle for an extended time period but depending on the reason for muzzling your German Shepherd you should consider your dog’s ability to eat and drink while being muzzled.

This is especially important on warmer days or if you are muzzling during training – your dog will get thirsty and you will want to reward your pup good behavior with a treat.

3. Styling

There are different muzzle styles for different purposes.  For example, a muzzle for grooming will be different from a muzzle for preventing barking.  Consider the reason why you are purchasing a muzzle to help determine what style of muzzle you will need to purchase.

4. Sturdiness

It should be obvious that a muzzle should be sturdy.  If a muzzle is not sturdy enough it defeats the purpose of muzzling in the first place.  Additionally, if your dog can just paw it off or move out of it, it won’t do its job.

5. Muzzles are not a substitute for proper training

You should never muzzle your dog instead of investing time in training.  Many dog behavioral problems can either be prevented or curbed by training early on. 

Keeping your dog in a muzzle all day should never be a solution and is not safe for your dog.  Think about your reason for muzzling your German Shepherd, and only use a muzzle for short periods of time. 

Best Muzzles For German Shepherds Reviewed

CollarDirect Dog Muzzle

This muzzle is great for short stents like maybe a visit to the vet or a training session.  Many owners said their dogs can drink some small amounts of water while wearing this muzzle.

What I Love:

• Adjustable straps
• Leather
• Handmade muzzle
• Great fit for German Shepherds
• Good ventilation

Possible Downsides:

• Not good for eating
• Not recommended for long durations because of limited drinking capacity

Final Verdict:

The is a great muzzle size for German Shepherds who occasionally use a muzzle for short periods of time, it has a comfortable fit and allows for a good amount of ventilation.

BronzeDog Muzzle

The muzzle is perfect for training or time outside as the metal slits are big enough to give your dog treats, but not so big that they can pick up every foreign object while you are out.  This muzzle also allows for your pooch to easily drink water which is a huge plus.

What I love:

• Excellent ventilation
• Comfortable leather straps
• Good for warmer weather
• 3 sizes to fit any German Shepherd snout
• Your dog can eat treats
• Your dog can drink easily

Possible downsides:

• Not the best muzzle for the colder weather (dog’s noses can stick to the metal)
• Lack of padding on the side of the mouth could provide some discomfort for longer durations of use

Final Verdict:

This is a great muzzle that allows for proper ventilation as well as the ability to eat and drink, as long as you don’t plan on using it outside in the winter it is a great choice.

Baskerville Ultra Muzzle

The unique feature of this muzzle is that it can provide a custom fit through the use of heat shaping.  Additionally, it has strong straps for a secure and comfortable fit.

What I Love:

• Sizes available for all dogs big and small (Size 5 is perfect for German Shepherds)
• Can be customized through heat shaping for a better fit
• Sturdy
• Great ventilation
• Your dog can eat, drink and pant effectively

Possible downsides:

• Make sure to measure your dog’s snout to ensure proper sizing.  Sometimes the recommended size may not be the right fit.

And the verdict is…

This is an excellent inexpensive muzzle option that provides all the things you should look for in a muzzle, just double-check the sizing is right for your German Shepherd and you’re good to go. 

Heele Dog Muzzle

It is breathable and you can adjust it so that your dog can still pant but not pick up dangerous objects, bark, or bite. 

This muzzle comes in multiple sizes and has a 100% quality guarantee.

What I Love:

• Lighter weight
• Breathable
• Provides the ability to pant and drink
• Adjustable straps to provide a comfortable fit

Possible downsides:

• May run small – make sure to measure your dog for correct sizing
• Restricts the ability to eat

And the verdict is…

This is a great lightweight muzzle that is very comfortable for your dog.  So long as you are using it for short durations to curb certain behaviors the restriction on eating shouldn’t be a problem. 

Final Thoughts

Muzzles have a purpose for many dog owners.  If you are looking for the best muzzles for German Shepherds one of these options above should fit your needs. 

Remember that muzzling a dog is NOT a substitute for proper training and socialization, it is only a tool to aid in certain situations. 

Why do you have to muzzle your German Shepherd?  Let me know in the comments!