There are several reasons why you might need to muzzle your dog, but most muzzled dogs don't bite and aren't necessarily dangerous. However, the muzzle provides a sense of security in many situations, such as when riding on a crowded airplane.
Commercially available muzzles usually allow full movement of the dog. Some people can eat and drink with a muzzle on. Modern dog muzzles are very different from the cruel devices of years ago.
However, dog muzzles are a specialty item. It's not everywhere. In fact, you usually have to order online to get quality options. In a pinch, he may be forced to use DIY options as a stopgap measure. Fortunately, there are many plans you can consider taking advantage of.
We do not recommend either of these plans as a long-term solution. However, it works well when there are no other options.
4 DIY dog muzzles
1. DIY dog muzzle using a leash from Honest Kitchen
Difficulty: | easy |
effect: | Moderately |
material: | lead |
In an emergency, you can muzzle your dog using a dog leash. As you can imagine, this process is quick and easy. It's also very effective and should be relatively comfortable as long as you don't tighten it too tightly. However, there is always a chance that your dog will slip out of this muzzle as there is no neck constriction.
If you suddenly need a muzzle, this may be one of the few options you have time for. However, dogs cannot wear it for long periods of time because the wearer cannot drink water.
2. Dog muzzle made from gauze by Dog Time
Difficulty: | easy |
effect: | Moderately |
material: | cloth or gauze |
You can make a slightly more effective muzzle using gauze or cloth. This design is effective and doesn't require a lot of materials, so it works well in a pinch. However, this is also not a permanent solution as the dog may become completely immobile or unable to drink water. Therefore, we recommend that you use it only for the following purposes: very Short term use.
3. DIY Head Halter from Instructables
Difficulty: | difficult |
effect: | low |
material: | Clippers, cloth tape measure, O-rings, triglide clasps, soft nylon net or fabric covered nylon net measurements, clasps |
This head halter is much less effective than other options. Although not technically a muzzle, it can be used to desensitize a dog for commercially available muzzles. While your dog's muzzle is starting to show, we recommend using something like a head halter to get him used to the sensation. Additionally, this head halter allows you to have a little more control over your dog during that time.
However, this pattern is not for beginners. This may be difficult if you are not accustomed to using a sewing machine. For this reason, it is recommended only for those with sewing experience.
4. Knitted dog muzzle from Instructables
Difficulty: | difficult |
effect: | Moderately |
material: | Yarn of any color, knitting needles, scissors |
This knitted dog muzzle is a little more effective than other options. It actually covers your dog's entire mouth, making it more comfortable than other options. However, since it is made only of thread, it is not effective for dogs with strong chewing force. The threads break easily, and your dog may chew through them.
However, for nonreactive dogs that require a muzzle for policy reasons, this muzzle works well. It's very easy to make, but some knitting experience is recommended. Even if you have never knitted before, please give it a try.
Things to consider
You can make a homemade muzzle for your dog. However, it may not be as effective as other options. Commercially available dog muzzles are made using durable materials and highly effective designs. In a home environment, this can be quite difficult to recreate.
There are several situations where a homemade dog muzzle is needed. If your dog is injured (or encounters an injured stranger dog), dog bites suddenly become a very serious problem. Even the sweetest dog can suddenly bite if it's in pain. Therefore, it is a good idea to create a simple muzzle whenever you need to move or treat an injured dog.
Fortunately, fabric or a dog leash may be all you need to make a muzzle. These muzzles are not as effective as other options and should not be used for long periods of time. However, rushing your dog to the veterinarian could save your dog's life.
We have others, too slightly more effective DIY muzzle for non-aggressive dogs. Dogs may be required to wear a muzzle for policy reasons when traveling on airplanes or in certain spaces. If you do not want to buy a real muzzle in this situation, you can make one yourself.
However, please note that these muzzles may not meet policy standards. Be sure to check in advance whether your dog legally needs to be muzzled for any reason.
Is it cruel to muzzle a dog all day?
Modern muzzles are much more comfortable for dogs than the ancient muzzles that most people are accustomed to. Modern commercially available muzzles allow dogs to effectively pant and drink water. Therefore, it is perfect for long-term wear. Your dog should feel comfortable and completely safe when wearing a basket muzzle designed for long-term use.
Muzzle training can help reduce the fear and discomfort some dogs feel when wearing a muzzle. Training is essential for your dog to get used to the muzzle. But over time, your dog should become desensitized to it, even with little training.
That being said, the homemade DIY muzzles on this list do not fit into this category. Instead, these muzzles are designed only for short-term emergency use. It is nearly impossible to make a DIY basket muzzle that meets comfort and safety standards. If you are looking for a muzzle that will last for a long time, choose a high-quality commercial option.
final thoughts
If your dog is injured or sick, you may need to easily DIY a muzzle to prevent dog bites. Using the above scheme, you can quickly make a muzzle or even a dog leash from gauze. With this quick muzzle, you can safely handle your dog even if he is in pain. When transporting your dog to the vet, one of these muzzles is essential for everyone involved.
However, such makeshift muzzles should not be used for long periods of time. The dog is unable to pant or drink properly. In extreme cases, your dog may overheat. Therefore, it is best used in emergencies rather than when spending long hours on a plane.
Featured image credit: Annie Spratt, Unsplash