How to Make Dog Muzzles at Home

Every dog owner knows that sometimes dog muzzles are needed. Any dog, even the most even tempered ones, can react when hurt, or scared. Muzzling your pet is appropriate in this situation for both your own protection as well as the pet's. Muzzles come in various styles and can be expensive. However, you can make one quickly out of almost anything in case of an emergency or sew one together in a matter of hours instead of buying one. Below, the steps for making an emergency muzzle and a custom one can be found. You will learn both for any case you may come across.

Step 1: Quick Method Muzzle

To make a muzzle quickly all you need is a long piece of cloth that can be tied around the pet. Nylon leashes, neck ties, and pantyhose are just a few examples of what can be used. Loosely make a loop in the center of the material. Either have someone hold the animal by the head or stand behind the dog’s head and over its body to prevent bites. Gently, slip the dog’s nose and snout through the loop. Tighten the loop so that it is snug but not tight. Pull the ends up behind the pet’s ears. Tie into a bow to snugly secure the muzzle. Use a bow instead of a knot to ensure a quick release if necessary.

Step 2: Measure

In the case of custom made muzzles, take measurements of your dog in order to cut the nylon. You will need to measure around the dog's snout, along the jawline to behind the ear, and across the back of the head. Add 1 inch to the snout and jawline measurements. Add 6 inches to the piece for across the back of the head. These additions are for hem allowances and the buckle.

Step 3: Cutting the Pieces

Cut the nylon webbing according to the measurements. Remember to cut the piece for across the head in half. This is where the buckle will be attached. Heat the ends of each cut slightly to seal the edges and prevent fraying.

Step 4: Assembly

Sew the snout piece in a circle. Next attach the jawline pieces on either side of the snout piece. Thread each outside end of the buckle 3 inches on each piece of the head piece. Fold the nylon webbing back over itself and sew it to secure the buckle in place. Do this on each of the top halves.  Finally, sew each half to the already sewn muzzle. The best way to make the hems on all the places stitched together is to sew a rectangle and then make an x pattern in the center of the rectangle. This ensures a strong stitch that will not come loose.

Step 5: Final Touches

After the muzzle is completely assembled, you need to ensure that it fits properly. Gently, put your pet into the muzzle.  Now that you know it fits, you can remove it and decorate it if you want to. This is not necessary but some choose to add embellishments. The custom muzzle is good for vet visits, walking your pet in unfamiliar territory, or in any situation one may be needed.