Alaskan Malamutes are beautiful dogs and can make great companions. If your Mal barks incessantly or is known to nip while playing, a muzzle can be a great way to train your Alaskan Malamute.
There are many reasons why you might purchase and use a muzzle with your Mal, and it doesn’t mean that the dog is aggressive, by any means. When it comes to muzzles, it’s important to choose one that fits correctly and is comfortable for your Mal.
There are many options to choose from and it can be overwhelming to make a choice that is going to be best for your Mal.
We’ve done all the hard work for you. We’ll discuss the 7 best muzzles for your Mal, how to get the best fit to ensure your Mal’s comfort, and much more. Let’s get into it.
The topic of muzzles is often a controversial one, even among dog owners. While muzzles are useful for dogs who bite when anxious, the common misconception that a muzzle automatically means a dog is aggressive is unjust.
There are multiple reasons why your Mal may need to wear a muzzle, such as state or local guidelines. The use of a muzzle may also be required in public spaces like national parks, busy streets, and even some dog parks.
Of course, if your Mal is prone to excessive barking, destructive chewing, and biting when they feel frightened, a muzzle is a must-have accessory for public outings.
Despite assumptions that muzzling your Mal is cruel, modern muzzles are designed to fit comfortably so that they won’t cause added distress. This is especially important if your Mal is incredibly energetic, as some Alaskan Malamutes tend to be.
Alaskan Malamutes are intelligent dogs, but getting them used to a muzzle will take some time. Depending on the style of muzzle you use, your Mal won’t be able to eat or drink while they’re wearing their muzzle. It’s a good idea to ensure you’re able to remove the muzzle for short periods if they’re wearing a restrictive muzzle.
Acclimating your Mal to wearing a muzzle is an essential step in obedience training. However, muzzles should never be used as a form of punishment, as your Mal will come to associate their muzzle with negative experiences and become more reluctant to wear it. (Punishment can also lead to increased aggression in dogs.)
When you’re looking for the best muzzle for your Alaskan Malamute, you’ll want to find one that’s sturdy and durable without sacrificing your Mal’s comfort. Ensuring a snug fit that isn’t too constrictive is essential. If you’re wondering what you should look for in a muzzle, first you need to decide which type you want for your Mal.
Dog muzzles come in two main types: basket muzzles and sleeve muzzles (also called wrap-around muzzles.) Let’s take a closer look at each muzzle type to help you figure out which is the best option for your Mal.
When you think of dog muzzles, the chances are good that the first image which springs to mind is a basket muzzle. Basket muzzles cover the snout and mouth entirely, which means you don’t have to worry about your Mal chewing through the muzzle if you have the right size. To ensure a proper fit — and prevent chewing — make sure the muzzle basket is longer than your Mal’s snout.
One of the perks of a basket muzzle is that your Mal will still be able to eat dry food and drink water while wearing it. Because they allow for panting, dining, and drinking, basket muzzles are a great option if your Mal needs to wear their muzzle for a prolonged period.
A sleeve muzzle is typically made from a soft, breathable fabric like mesh or nylon. They wrap securely around your Mal’s snout and mouth. Most come with an adjustable strap that wraps around the back of the head and clips or snaps into place.
Because sleeve muzzles can restrict your Mal’s ability to pant, they’re best for use indoors, such as grooming visits and trips to the vet. But don’t worry about your Mal gnawing through a wrap-around muzzle; as long as the muzzle fits properly, they won’t be able to turn their muzzle into a chew toy.
Dogs primarily sweat through their paws, but panting helps them cool off much more efficiently. You’ll want to make sure you look for a muzzle made from flexible, breathable material that allows your Mal to pant freely. This is especially important if you live in a hot climate, as your Mal can quickly overheat if they’re unable to cool off through panting.
You should also look for a lightweight design if your Mal needs to wear their muzzle for an extended period. Some of the most commonly used materials for muzzles are nylon, leather, and metal, and most muzzles use a buckle or snap closure. Keep an eye out for muzzles you can easily adjust and remove, which will make muzzling your Mal a quick, simple process for the both of you.
A proper fit not only ensures your Mal can’t bite when they feel threatened, but a snug fit is also vitally important to your Mal’s comfort while wearing their muzzle. Here are a few tricks to ensure you get the best fit possible for your Mal.
Once you’ve collected the measurements above, you’ll be able to choose the right size muzzle to allow your Mal to pant freely, meaning your Mal will be comfortable while muzzled.
Muzzles come in all different sizes, so you’ll be able to find the perfect muzzle for your Mal no matter how old they are. While you can train your Mal to wear a muzzle at any age, it’s easier to get them accustomed to wearing one at a young age. Older dogs may have had negative training experiences in prior households, while puppies are clean slates.
Muzzles are a humane way of controlling your Mal’s behavior, and they may be required in some public locations. In addition to being lightweight, breathable, comfortable, a good muzzle protects you, your Mal, and others.
However, if you want your Mal’s muzzle to be effective, you have to teach them how to wear it. Here’s how you do it.
Some dogs may respond to muzzles with fear, so helping your Mal adjust slowly is critical. Teaching your Mal to associate their muzzle with a treat or playtime with a favorite toy is a great way to overcome their anxiety.
Start slowly, and reward your Mal as they make progress. Please give your Mal a treat when they sniff or lick the muzzle, so they’ll associate the muzzle with treats. Heaping on praise and affection helps your Mal feel safe, too, so they’ll soon realize their muzzle isn’t a scary thing.
From there, you can encourage your Mal to put their nose in the muzzle, rewarding them with love and treats each time. You’ll soon be able to put the straps on without your Mal trying to pull away from the muzzle. Once your Mal is familiar and comfortable, you’ll be able to put their muzzle on entirely without issue.
your Mal may try to wriggle out of their muzzle, but it’s best not to fuss at them when they do. Try to keep them distracted instead. If they continue trying to get free, remove the muzzle, give your Mal a treat, and then try again later. Give them a treat for each milestone, and try to keep your training sessions short in the beginning so as not to overwhelm your pup. (Around 15 minutes is ideal to start.)
It takes a bit of time and effort, but teaching your Mal to wear a muzzle is well worth it in the end. Not only will your Mal be able to accompany you in public without fear of biting, but training your Mal is an excellent bonding experience, too.
Once your Mal can wear their muzzle for several minutes at a time, try taking them for a walk around the block or playing with them in the backyard. If your Mal is prone to the zoomies, a basket muzzle is a better choice than a more restrictive sleeve muzzle, as the open design allows your Mal to pant freely.
Even if the muzzle fits your Mal correctly, you should never leave your furry friend unattended while wearing it. Consult your veterinarian before purchasing a muzzle if you have any concerns, as specific health problems could make wearing a muzzle uncomfortable — or even dangerous — for your Mal.
As we mentioned earlier in the article, muzzling your Mal as a form of punishment can provoke aggression. Training your Mal to wear a muzzle doesn’t have to be a battle, but it requires consistency, patience, and positive associations.
Using positive reinforcement like playtime, treats, or belly scratches instead of fear-based training or punishment is the best way to help your furry friend adapt to wearing a muzzle. In most cases, you should be able to teach your Mal how to accept a muzzle on your own, but you may need to consult a professional if your Mal is too stubborn.
There are a few things you should take into account when you’re shopping for the best muzzle for your Mal. Let’s do a brief recap before we delve into the best muzzles for your Mal.
Now that you know what to look for in muzzles, how to help your Mal adjust to wearing a muzzle, and when to use each type, let’s take a look at the best Alaskan Malamute muzzles on the market. (Fun fact: even the swanky leather ones are budget-friendly.)
If you’re looking for a sleeve muzzle that won’t hinder your Mal’s ability to pant, eat, and drink, the Walk-About Quick-Fit muzzle from Four Paws is a great option. It prevents your furry friend from biting, aggressive barking, and getting into things they shouldn’t — like your neighbor’s trash can or flower beds — while allowing your Mal enough range of motion to drink, have a snack, and pant comfortably.
Available in seven different sizes, this muzzle is made from durable, machine washable nylon and has a fully adjustable strap for ease of use. The muzzle is almost impossible for dogs to remove, and it’s also extremely affordable, meaning you have more money to spend on the important things in life: dog treats and toys.
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Final take: Because of the sleeve design, this muzzle is best for use when your Mal only needs to be muzzled for a short time. That being said, it’s a fantastic option for leisurely walks, trips to the vet, and during grooming.
Available in two stylish colors and six sizes, this muzzle is perfect for preventing your pup from biting strangers or other pets while allowing them to snack on treats, pant comfortably, and drink with ease. The safety straps are ergonomically designed and have two secure attachment points to prevent your Mal from removing their muzzle.
The muzzle has a loop to accommodate your Mal’s collar and a removable overhead strap for extra customization. The metal buckle is fully adjustable, too, so putting the muzzle on and taking it off is a quick, simple process. Best of all, you can heat the muzzle in hot water and bend it for the perfect fit.
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Final take: Perfect for active dogs who need to pant freely, this lightweight, durable muzzle also allows your Mal to eat and drink. It’s affordable, fully customizable, and durable, making it a great all-around option for your Mal.
If you’re looking for a tough, puncture-resistant muzzle, this one from Guardian Gear is a great choice. It’s made from durable Cordura nylon, so it’s washable, durable, and comfortable for your Mal. It has a unique, removable snap-on strap that allows your Mal to eat and drink while muzzled, making it a good option for any situation.
This budget-friendly muzzle is available in five different sizes, and it’s easy to put on, too. All you have to do is slip it over your furry friend’s snout, adjust the strap to make sure the fit is secure, and then snap it closed.
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Final take: Looking for an affordable, two-in-one muzzle for your Mal? This might be your best bet. You can cover your pooch’s snout entirely with the snap-on strap, but you can also remove it to let them have a drink and a snack.
While many muzzles aren’t breed specific, this option from Coastal Pet Products is designed with larger breeds — like Alaskan Malamutes — in mind. The silicone basket offers flexibility and comfort while preventing your pup from barking excessively and taking test nibbles. At the same time, this muzzle allows your Mal the freedom to pant, drink, and snack on treats.
It provides padded, neoprene-lined straps and an adjustable buckle so that you can customize the fit. Because the basket is made from silicone, it’s remarkably easy to wipe clean. A high-quality muzzle doesn’t have to cost a fortune — this one is relatively inexpensive.
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Final take: If you want a muzzle designed specifically for Alaskan Malamutes and Alaskan Malamute-sized dogs, this is a great option. It’s lightweight, affordable, and it lets your pooch eat and drink. The only downside is that it’s not machine washable, but it’s still easy to keep clean.
Perfect for walks, trips to the vet, and an afternoon at the groomer’s, this mesh muzzle is a cheap and cheerful way to keep your Mal from barking and biting. The opening is large enough to allow your furry friend to breathe and pant efficiently, but it’s not designed to be worn for prolonged periods of time, as the mesh covering prevents eating and drinking.
In addition to being extremely affordable, this padded mesh muzzle is adjustable at the neck and snout so that you can get the best fit for your Mal. It also comes in four different sizes, so you can start your puppy off with one of the smaller sizes and stick to the same brand when your Mal is fully grown.
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Final take: If you’re looking for the perfect, lightweight muzzle to see your pup through a trip to the groomer’s, this might be a good choice. Not only is it affordable, but it’s breathable enough to allow your Mal to pant comfortably.
This muzzle comes with a hook and loop chin strap for a custom fit available in three different sizes to fit Alaskan Malamutes of all ages. The nose bridge is padded, providing comfort for your pooch’s snout, and the open end of the sleeve allows for your Mal to nibble treats and drink water while preventing them from biting and barking.
The muzzle is made from durable nylon, so it will hold up well over time. Nylon is breathable as well as durable, meaning you can rest assured your pooch is comfortable while wearing their muzzle.
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Final take: While it’s not the cheapest option available, this adjustable muzzle provides great value for money. It offers your furry friend comfort, durability, and the freedom to eat, drink, and pant comfortably while muzzled.
This breathable mesh muzzle is perfect for those hot summer months when the humidity makes the air feel like pudding. The nylon strap provides a fully adjustable comfort fit, and it’s available in five different sizes, so it accommodates Alaskan Malamutes of all ages. The open sleeve design allows dogs to breathe and pant easily while preventing barks and bites.
your Mal can also drink with ease while muzzled, and you’ll be able to reward your best buddy with a treat without having to remove the mask. If you’re looking for a wallet-friendly option that will help your pooch stay cool during the dog days of summer, this might be the one for you.
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And there you have it — our list of the seven best muzzles for Alaskan Malamutes. We know you’ll find one your Mal will love.
Related: Best Dog Collars For Alaskan Malamutes
Here are answers to a few of the most commonly asked questions.
Because of their fierce intelligence and strong will, Alaskan Malamutes can be more difficult to train than other breeds. Establishing your place as pack leader and using reward-based training will go a long way in helping you train your furry friend. Make sure you spend plenty of time with your Mal in between training, as the quiet moments help establish trust and love.
The short answer is, “only if they’re misused.” You should never use your Mal’s muzzle as a form of punishment. Anxious dogs may bark and snap at people and other animals, making a muzzle your best option to prevent bites. Behavioral training can help your Mal overcome aggression, so you may want to work with a professional if you’re unable to curb your Mal’s tendencies on your own.
It depends on how long your Mal needs to wear a muzzle and what they’re doing while wearing it. Sleeve muzzles can hinder the ability to pant, so they should never be worn on hot days or while your Mal is engaging in rigorous play. On the other hand, many sleeve muzzles prevent your Mal from opening their mouth at all, so they’re great for grooming visits.
Muzzling your Mal doesn’t have to be cruel. If you ensure the muzzle fits perfectly and spend time teaching your Mal how to wear their muzzle, they’re a great accessory for public outings and trips to the vet. A high-quality muzzle is an affordable way to prevent your Mal from biting strangers and other animals, and it can help cut down on nuisance barking, too.