A muzzle for a dog is like a shoe for a man, we cannot buy the first better one. It must be comfortable, convenient and, above all, fulfil its role well. So how to choose the best one for your pet?
First of all, two types of muzzles should be distinguished, these are physiological muzzles and veterinary muzzles. Why is this so important? Obviously for reasons of thermoregulation!
Unlike humans, dogs cool themselves down primarily by howling. This is so-called physiological thermoregulation. By breathing very quickly and shallowly, dogs can maintain their optimal body temperature. What’s more, yawning is one of the most natural and characteristic behaviours for dogs.
What is the second-best way?
Behavioural thermoregulation, that is, dogs reflexively look for places where they cool down. These can include shady spots in the garden or park, lying down on cool ground or tiles. Just like humans, during hot weather, they choose places with a lower temperature than their surroundings.
How does thermoregulation relate to muzzling?
Now that we know how dogs maintain optimal body heat, we can choose the right muzzle.
1. veterinary muzzle – is for short-term use only. We can use it during a short trip or a visit to the vet. Unfortunately, because of their low price, muzzles made of polyester are very popular, don’t make this mistake! They are not for everyday use.
2. physiological muzzle – used for everyday use during walks or longer journeys. Due to their construction, they are suitable for our pets to cool down safely and comfortably.
How to choose the best muzzle?
We can do it in two ways.
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The first one is to measure our pet carefully.
Eye Base ? Middle point between tearducts.
Snout Length ? Measure distance from one inch below eye base to tip of nose, along bridge of snout.
Snout Circumference ? One inch below eye base, with mouth closed and tape measure snug, wrap tape measure around the snout.
Snout Height ? One inch below eye base, with mouth closed, measure vertical distance from the snout top to snout bottom. DO NOT measure at an angle or curve the tape measure.DO NOT put an object into dog?s mouth.Snout Width ? At widest point below eye base, measure distance from left side to right side of snout. Keep tape measure horizontal in a straight line, do not curve around.
- If you don’t know how to measure properly or your dog himself doesn’t allow you to, just go with him to the shop, where the staff will show you the models and help you choose the right one.
