8 Best Bichon Frise Muzzles + Snug Fit Tricks And Muzzle Use Tips

So you’ve got an adorable little Bichon Frise on your hands, but you need to train them just a bit to get rid of incessant barking or little love bites that might be a little too painful at times.

A dog muzzle can be a great way to teach your Bichon Frise the behaviors you want and get rid of the bad habits they have.

But how do you go about choosing the right muzzle? Today, we will take a look at seven of the best Bichon Frise muzzles on the market. We’ll also dive into the details of the types of muzzles available so that you can make the best choice for your Bichon.

Different Types Of Bichon Frise Muzzles

When you start shopping for a Bichon Frise dog muzzle, you can quickly get overwhelmed by the different options available. There are different types of muzzles that offer different benefits, fits, and even styles. Before you settle on one, it’s important to know the different types of muzzles you will encounter. Let’s go over them.

Basket Muzzle

The first type of muzzle common for a variety of dog breeds is a basket muzzle. A basket muzzle sounds exactly as the name implies. The muzzle is made out of different strips of material fashioned together into a basket-shaped cover. While you most commonly find basket muzzles in leather and plastic materials, they also come in rubber and even wire.

Basket muzzles are great choices for Bichon Frises because the basket construction allows for excellent air circulation. However, basket muzzles can seem unappealing because of their intimidating look.

The different strips of material fastened together give off an inhumane look, but in actuality, they are one of the best options to go with because they allow your Bichon to open their mouth, drink, pant, and even eat. Basket muzzles are also really great for training your Bichon because you have plenty of room to slip in treats during training sessions.

Soft Muzzle

Soft muzzles are a lot different than basket muzzles because soft muzzles wrap around your Bichon’s mouth and hold it closed. As the name implies, soft muzzles are made out of comfortable fabrics. They will typically be made out of meshed or webbed nylon, allowing them to be breathable and comfortable. Though they are usually made out of a cloth construction, you will also find them and leather constructions too.

While soft muzzles may sound and look a lot more comfortable for your Bichon than basket muzzles, they’re not. Soft muzzles are designed to keep your Bichon’s mouth closed, so it’s challenging, if not impossible, for your Bichon to pant or lap up water in it. Because panting is so important for your Bichon, panting is your Bichon’s way of sweating, using a soft muzzle should be done in limited increments of time and not extended periods.

Soft muzzles also keep your Bichon from barking and eating. Because of this, it can be difficult to train your Bichon using a soft muzzle. Rather, soft muzzles should be used for dogs who are being trained in barking and biting.

Short Snout Muzzles

Some dogs like Bichon Frises, Boston Terriers, or even Bulldogs, have small snouts requiring a muzzle small enough to fit them. Basket muzzles can be a little too big if not appropriately sized, and soft muzzles may not have a good hold. Short snout muzzle allows your Bichon Frise to have a full facial cover while giving them the ability to pant. However, many short snout muzzles make it difficult for your Bichon to drink water or eat.

Homemade Muzzle

If you need to muzzle your Bichon but don’t have a muzzle on hand, then you can make a temporary homemade muzzle. When you improvise with a homemade muzzle, you want to use soft but sturdy materials. Some common materials can include a scarf, a pair of pantyhose, or even a soft leash.

Because they are homemade, you should keep a backup muzzle in your canine first aid kit just in case. It doesn’t have to be a top of the line muzzle as the basic one will get the job done. You can find several do it yourself muzzle ideas online if you need to make a muzzle at home.

When To Use A Dog Muzzle

If you would like to start training your Bichon to curb their barking and are friendlier with people and other dogs, a dog muzzle can be a helpful tool. Although Bichon Frises can be small, they have big personalities, so using a muzzle can reduce the amount of barking they do.

Bichon Frises are also known for snapping but not so much biting. If you want to curb the snapping, then a muzzle can help you do this. For larger breeds, a muzzle can help with eliminating biting as well.

When Not To Use A Dog Muzzle

There are certain times when you should not use a muzzle, and it’s primarily related to discipline. Do not use a dog muzzle to punish your Bichon. If you use a dog muzzle as a punishment tool, your Bichon Frise will develop a negative association with the muzzle and fight off wearing it.

You should also never use a dog muzzle when you are trying to curb common dog behaviors. For example, barking, chewing, and panting are things your Bichon does because, well, they are a dog. If you want to curb certain behaviors in your Bichon, the best way to do this is by using a professional dog trainer to help you teach your Bichon positive reinforcement.

If your Bichon is home alone or unsupervised in their cage, don’t leave them in a muzzle. Some muzzles, especially soft muzzles, make it difficult for your Bichon to pant, which can cause them to overheat.

Lastly, do not keep your Bichon in a dog muzzle for an extended period. Even if it is a basket muzzle, your Bichon needs a break from the muzzle now and then.

Tips For Determining The Best Bichon Frise Muzzle

When you have a Bichon Frise, there are a couple of features you should look for. They include the following:

1.Size

Most dog muzzles will come in different size options, and some brands will even offer custom sizing. If you can’t find the exact size for your Bichon, no worries. Most dog muzzles come with adjustable straps so that you can make sure the muzzle fits the best it can. The straps can either be a neck strap or a head strap. Either way, you can adjust them for the right fit.

2.Fit

With Bichon Frises, it is super important that the fit of the muzzle is just right. This is because they have smaller faces and snouts. Some basket muzzles can work great, but you want to make sure that it’s not too big. Luckily many basket muzzles come in a variety of size options so that you can find the right one for your Bichon.

3.Quality Construction

Bichon Frises are small and are fluffy, cuddly dogs that are not intimidating. Don’t let their size fool you, however. They can be full of energy and attitude, scaring away breeds much larger than them. Because some Bichon Frises might fight off a muzzle, you want to make sure the muzzle you invest in features quality construction.

If you’re using a basket or soft muzzle, then anything made out of leather or a durable rubber can be a good choice to go with. Even under stress, these materials will stay put. You can also use a cloth muzzle made out of mesh nylon. Just make sure that you keep it out of your Bichon’s reach when it’s not in use. your Bichon could very well chew through it and ruin it.

Overall Best Muzzle For Bichon Frises – Four Paws Walk-About Quick-Fit Dog Muzzle

The Four Paws Walk-About Quick-Fit Dog Muzzle soft muzzle can be a good fit for your Bichon Frise if you want to help curb biting, barking, and chewing. The material used is durable nylon, and it is machine washable.

The larger sizes might be an awkward fit for your Bichon Frise, but there are 7 different size options you can choose from. You will also be able to achieve a tight fit with the fully adjustable strap. Plus, there’s only one strap that wraps around the head, allowing your Bichon Frise to be comfortable throughout their time wearing it. Overall, the Four Paws Walk-About Quick-Fit Dog Muzzle has a very simplistic design that is comfortable yet effective.

Pros:

• The material is breathable, durably, and can be machine washed.
• This is a great muzzle for aggressive dogs because it is difficult to remove.
• The head strap is fully adjustable for a tight fit.
• There are seven different size options you can choose from.

Cons:

• Some dog owners wish there were more straps for additional security.
• Larger sizes may be an awkward fit for some Bichon Frises

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6 More Top Rated Bichon Frise Muzzles

Though our top pick certainly stands out as a quality Bichon Frise muzzle to invest in, there are several more that came close. Let’s take a look at six high rated Bichon Frise muzzles.

Baskerville Ultra Dog Muzzle

Our winner for the overall best Bichon Frise Dog Muzzle goes to the Baskerville Ultra Dog Muzzle. The Baskerville Ultra Dog Muzzle can be a great Bichon Frise muzzle if your little pup is easily excited, stressed, or just overly active. This basket muzzle has an incredibly flexible structure that lends itself well to wide noses and both long and short snouts.

The great thing about it is that your Bichon will have ultimate comfort because there’s a small opening that allows your Bichon Frise to open their mouth, drink water, and even eat. This can be a great muzzle to invest in if you are training your Bichon because you can easily feed them treats.

The muzzle is made out of a durable yet comfortable and heavy-duty rubber that allows it to bend and flex with ease. Plus, there are no annoying fasteners connecting the muzzle pieces together, so your Bichon will be comfortable while wearing it.

The nylon straps are adjustable, and there are two additional points of secure attachment that keeps the muzzle from falling off your Bichon’s face. There’s also an overhead strap you can use for additional support, but you can remove it if it doesn’t fit your Bichon Frise comfortably.

Pros:

• The muzzle is lightweight, flexible, and made out of durable thermoplastic rubber.
• There is a metal buckle that allows you to adjust the muzzle for a good fit quickly.
• There are different size options ranging from size one all the way to size 6.
• The head and neck straps are fully adjustable.

Cons:

• Although the material is durable, your Bichon may be able to chew on it and break it apart if you do not find the right fit.

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PetSafe Dog Muzzle

The PetSafe Dog Muzzle is ergonomically designed and constructed to help train your Bichon with barking and biting. This soft muzzle features an adjustable neck and snout closure so that you can get the right fit for your Bichon. The material used is a breathable mesh webbing that is softly padded on the inside so that your Bichon stays comfortable.

This will allow you to work with your Bichon for longer periods with a muzzle on than other muzzles might allow you to. With the mesh webbing, your Bichon will still be able to pant and lap up water, and though it can be tricky to reward them with treats, you can easily loosen it up if you need to. While you can use this PetSafe dog Muzzle for training, it is also a great muzzle to use when taking your Bichon in for a grooming session or the vet. There are three size options, including medium large and extra-large

Pros:

• The adjustable fit keeps your Bichon from biting, barking, and nibbling.
• There is an open front, which makes panting much easier for your Bichon Frise.
• This soft muzzle is ideal for grooming and vet visits.

Cons:

• For smaller Bichon Frises, it can be tricky to get a good fit.

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Coastal Pet Products Best Fit Adjustable Mesh Dog Muzzle

If you are looking for a breathable and comfortable soft muzzle, then the Coastal Pet Products Best Fit Adjustable Mesh Dog Muzzle could be a great fit for your Bichon Frise. This soft muzzle is crafted from durable nylon and features a mesh webbing that allows for optimal ventilation when your Bichon is wearing it.

The free-flowing air makes this muzzle a great product to choose if you’re going to be training during hot summer months. You can purchase this muzzle in a size 3, size 6, or a size 7. The lonesome adjustable strap around the neck allows you to get a closer fit, and it wraps around the head, keeping the muzzle secured. Lastly, the Coastal Pet Products Best Fit Adjustable Mesh Dog Muzzle features a simplistic design that is not intimidating or cumbersome to put on.

Pros:

• You can almost get a custom fit with the adjustable strap.
• The mesh webbing does a great job of encouraging air circulation.
• The open front allows your Bichon to pant effortlessly.
• This is an excellent muzzle to use if you are training your Bichon during the summer months.

Cons:

• There is only one adjustable strap, and if not adjusted correctly, the muzzle may slide off.

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Coastal Pet Products Soft Basket Dog Muzzle

The Coastal Pet Products Soft Basket Dog Muzzle can be a great training muzzle to use on your Bichon Frise because of its size, effectiveness, and comfort. The Coastal Pet Products Soft Basket Dog Muzzle features optimal comfort in its padded straps that are lined with neoprene. The basket is constructed out of flexible silicone that will not only withstand nips from your Bichon, but it is flexible and comfortable and does away with any uncomfortable fasteners.

The straps are also well designed because they feature padding that keeps your Bichon relaxed while they are wearing it. The straps are adjustable and go over the head as well as around the neck for a tight and secure fit. The open basket construction allows your Bichon to pant freely, and you can sneak in treats. This can be helpful during training.

Pros:

• This basket muzzle features high-quality construction thanks to the flexible silicone.
• The adjustable straps are padded, allowing your Bichon Frise to have optimal comfort.
• There are breed-specific sizes that you can shop for to have the right fit for your Bichon.

Cons:

• Although it is designed to prevent chewing and barking, your Bichon can still display these behaviors if you don’t get the right fit.

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CollarDirect Adjustable Nylon Dog Muzzle

If you have got a larger Bichon Frise, then the CollarDirect Adjustable Nylon Dog Muzzle might be a good muzzle to go with. This muzzle comes in three different sizing options, so you should find a good fit for your Bichon. This soft muzzle is great for calming your Bichon down during grooming visits and vet check-ups.

The CollarDirect Adjustable Nylon Dog Muzzle is made out of soft yet durable nylon. The material is comfortable and flexible, allowing you to keep it on your Bichon Frise for extended periods. When it comes to comfort and ease of use, a side release buckle allows you to adjust the snout’s tightness. Though there is only one strap that wraps around the head, your Bichon will still get a snug and secure fit.

Pros:

• The snout offers full coverage that keeps your Bichon from wriggling out.
• The snout strap and head strap are both adjustable so that you can get a close fit.
• The nylon straps are durable yet comfortable, while the plastic buckles are strong and dependable.

Cons:

• There is only one strap to secure the muzzle on.
• You must keep the muzzle out of reach from your Bichon because the straps can easily be chewed through.

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CollarDirect Leather Dog Muzzle

If your Bichon Frise is a rare mix with another breed like a boxer or larger dog, then you might need something that gives your Bichon a little more support. The CollarDirect Leather Dog Muzzle could be a good fit for mixed Bichon Frises because it offers comfort, support, and durability. This leather basket muzzle features sturdy construction with different straps of leather secured together with metal fasteners.

This basket muzzle’s durability is perfect for vet and groomers visits, training, or limiting barking in high-stress situations. The muzzle comes in one size option, but you do have the ability to adjust it using the adjustable strap that wraps around the head and secures at the top of the head. Lastly, because this is a basket muzzle, your Bichon will have the freedom to breathe, pant, lap up water, and even nibble on treats.

Pros:

• The open basket offers great air circulation.
• The leather is durable and sturdy.

Cons:

• Only works with Bichon Frise mixes because it is a bit larger and wider in construction.

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7 Tips To Using A Muzzle On Your Bichon Frise Muzzle

1. Make sure the muzzle is the right size and fit for your Bichon Frise.
2. When you’re starting off with a dog muzzle, you want to give your Bichon enough time to get acclimated to it.
3. Start by letting your Bichon sniff and play around with the dog muzzle, so they do not fear it.
4. When putting on the muzzle, start with small increments of time, then build up to longer periods where you Bichon Frise wears it.
5. Be consistent in rewards so that they get positive reinforcement for doing the behaviors you want.
6. Never use a dog muzzle as a means of punishment.
7. Be sure that you regularly remove the muzzle so that your Bichon can eat and drink. This is especially important during the summer months.

FAQ About Bichon Frise Muzzles

If I Have Another Dog Of A Different Breed, Can I Use Their Muzzle On My Bichon Frise?

Generally, no. Bichon Frises are relatively small dogs with smaller mouths and snouts. A muzzle made for a different breed may be too big for your Bichon. It’s best to shop for smaller sized muzzles and even muzzles that are directly designed for Bichon Frises.

What Is The Best Type Of Muzzle To Use On A Bichon Frise?

Soft muzzles typically have a better hold and offer a better comfort level for small dogs like Bichon Frises.

How Long Should My Bichon Frise Wear A Muzzle?

You should not keep your Bichon Frise in a muzzle for longer than 15-20 minutes.

Final Thoughts On A Bichon Frise Muzzle

Not all Bichon Frises need muzzles. But, if you want to work on specific behaviors like barking and biting with your Bichon, then using one can be a great starting point. If you have a Bichon Frise pup who has trained with a muzzle, let us know what muzzle has worked best for your Bichon!