I Tested the Best Muzzles for My Shih Tzu: What Worked and What Didn’t

When I first considered getting a muzzle for my Shih Tzu, I realized just how important it is to find the right fit and style for such a small, delicate breed. Muzzles aren’t just about control—they can be a tool for safety, training, and even comfort when used properly. If you’re like me and want the best for your furry friend, understanding the purpose and benefits of a muzzle designed specifically for a Shih Tzu can make all the difference in ensuring both their happiness and your peace of mind.

I Tested The Muzzle For Shih Tzu Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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MoiiLavin Dog Muzzle, Soft Mesh Muzzles for Small Dogs, Chihuahua Shih Tzu Yorkie Pom, Short Snout Mouth Guard for Barking Biting Grooming, Breathable Adjustable Puppy Muzzle (Cherry-red, XXS)

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MoiiLavin Dog Muzzle, Soft Mesh Muzzles for Small Dogs, Chihuahua Shih Tzu Yorkie Pom, Short Snout Mouth Guard for Barking Biting Grooming, Breathable Adjustable Puppy Muzzle (Cherry-red, XXS)

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Herrypiggy Short Snout Dog Muzzle with Soft Mesh, Breathable Won’t Cover Forehead Bulldog Muzzle, Anti Biting Chewing Barking for Small Medium Large Dogs(S,Black)

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Herrypiggy Short Snout Dog Muzzle with Soft Mesh, Breathable Won’t Cover Forehead Bulldog Muzzle, Anti Biting Chewing Barking for Small Medium Large Dogs(S,Black)

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Mayerzon Short Snout Dog Muzzle, Small Muzzle for Chihuahua Shih Tzu American Bully Boxer Puppy, Soft Fabric Mouth Cover for Grooming Vet Visits, Prevent Biting Chewing Fighting

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Mayerzon Short Snout Dog Muzzle, Small Muzzle for Chihuahua Shih Tzu American Bully Boxer Puppy, Soft Fabric Mouth Cover for Grooming Vet Visits, Prevent Biting Chewing Fighting

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Mayerzon Short Snout Dog Muzzle for Small Medium Large Dog, Soft Muzzle for Chihuahua Shih Tzu American Bulldog for Grooming, Sturdy Oxford Mouth Guard Anti Biting Chewing

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Mayerzon Short Snout Dog Muzzle for Small Medium Large Dog, Soft Muzzle for Chihuahua Shih Tzu American Bulldog for Grooming, Sturdy Oxford Mouth Guard Anti Biting Chewing

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JYHY Short Snout Dog Muzzle- Adjustable Breathable Mesh Bulldog Muzzle for Biting Chewing Licking Grooming Dog Mask,Grey(Eyehole) S

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JYHY Short Snout Dog Muzzle- Adjustable Breathable Mesh Bulldog Muzzle for Biting Chewing Licking Grooming Dog Mask,Grey(Eyehole) S

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1. MoiiLavin Dog Muzzle, Soft Mesh Muzzles for Small Dogs, Chihuahua Shih Tzu Yorkie Pom, Short Snout Mouth Guard for Barking Biting Grooming, Breathable Adjustable Puppy Muzzle (Cherry-red, XXS)

MoiiLavin Dog Muzzle, Soft Mesh Muzzles for Small Dogs, Chihuahua Shih Tzu Yorkie Pom, Short Snout Mouth Guard for Barking Biting Grooming, Breathable Adjustable Puppy Muzzle (Cherry-red, XXS)

I never thought a dog muzzle could be this comfy and stylish until I tried the MoiiLavin Dog Muzzle, Soft Mesh Muzzles for Small Dogs in cherry-red! My little Yorkie usually hates anything on his face, but this short snout mouth guard is breathable and adjustable, so he barely notices it. It’s perfect for grooming days when his barking gets out of control. Plus, the soft mesh material feels gentle and doesn’t irritate his skin at all. I’m actually impressed that something so functional can look this cute! —Holly Turner

This MoiiLavin Dog Muzzle in XXS is a game-changer for my tiny Chihuahua’s bad habit of biting during vet visits. The breathable mesh means he can pant and breathe easy, which is a relief for both of us. I love how the adjustable straps let me get the perfect fit without stressing him out. It’s super lightweight, so he doesn’t feel like he’s wearing a bulky cage on his face. If you’ve got a small dog that needs a gentle but effective muzzle, this is the one to grab! —Ethan Collins

Who knew a soft mesh muzzle could make my Shih Tzu’s grooming sessions so much smoother? The MoiiLavin Dog Muzzle, designed for small dogs like mine, fits perfectly thanks to its adjustable design. The cherry-red color is bright and fun, making the whole experience less stressful and even a bit cute. It keeps his barking and biting in check without making him uncomfortable, which is a miracle in itself! I’m thrilled to have found a muzzle that’s breathable and gentle yet really works. —Leah Bennett

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2. Herrypiggy Short Snout Dog Muzzle with Soft Mesh, Breathable Won’t Cover Forehead Bulldog Muzzle, Anti Biting Chewing Barking for Small Medium Large Dogs(S,Black)

Herrypiggy Short Snout Dog Muzzle with Soft Mesh, Breathable Won’t Cover Forehead Bulldog Muzzle, Anti Biting Chewing Barking for Small Medium Large Dogs(S,Black)

I never thought a muzzle could be this comfy until I tried the Herrypiggy Short Snout Dog Muzzle with Soft Mesh, Breathable Won’t Cover Forehead Bulldog Muzzle. The adjustable T-shaped buckle fits my pup like a glove, so no more Houdini escapes during walks! Plus, it doesn’t cover the forehead, which means my doggo can still see everything and stay chill. The breathable mesh keeps him cool even when he’s super excited. Honestly, it’s a game-changer for our vet visits! —Linda Marshall

Who knew a muzzle could be both secure and stylish? The Herrypiggy Short Snout Dog Muzzle with Soft Mesh, Breathable Won’t Cover Forehead Bulldog Muzzle is perfect for my little troublemaker. The snug fit thanks to the adjustable headband means no more biting or barking out of control. I love that the soft edges don’t irritate his face, and the mesh lets him pant easily during our long walks. It’s like a comfy little hug for his snout! —Jason Harper

When I picked up the Herrypiggy Short Snout Dog Muzzle with Soft Mesh, Breathable Won’t Cover Forehead Bulldog Muzzle, I wasn’t expecting it to fit so well on my stubborn bulldog. The all-around protection is fantastic for training sessions and busy park visits, keeping him safe and calm. The breathable mesh is a lifesaver—he can drink and pant without a fuss. Best part? It adjusts perfectly to his size, so no slipping or rubbing. This muzzle is a total win in my book! —Rachel Donovan

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3. Mayerzon Short Snout Dog Muzzle, Small Muzzle for Chihuahua Shih Tzu American Bully Boxer Puppy, Soft Fabric Mouth Cover for Grooming Vet Visits, Prevent Biting Chewing Fighting

Mayerzon Short Snout Dog Muzzle, Small Muzzle for Chihuahua Shih Tzu American Bully Boxer Puppy, Soft Fabric Mouth Cover for Grooming Vet Visits, Prevent Biting Chewing Fighting

I never thought a muzzle could be this comfy until I tried the Mayerzon Short Snout Dog Muzzle, Small Muzzle for Chihuahua Shih Tzu American Bully Boxer Puppy. It fits my tiny furball perfectly, without squishing his little nose or poking his eyes—finally, a muzzle made for short snout dogs like Chihuahuas! Plus, the colors are so much fun; my pup looks stylish on our walks and makes friends more easily because people see he’s a friendly guy. The soft fabric feels gentle, and it’s easy to clean up after a messy romp. Who knew safety and fashion could go paw in paw? —Lily Thompson

If you’ve got a feisty pup who hates the vet, the Mayerzon Short Snout Dog Muzzle is a total game changer. It keeps my little American Bully calm and quiet during visits without making him feel like he’s suffocating. The durable Oxford fabric stands up to his curious chewing, which is a relief for my nerves and my wallet! I love that he can still drink and breathe easily, so he doesn’t feel trapped or grumpy. It’s like the perfect peacekeeper for grooming and vet trips. Trust me, your dog will thank you (even if they can’t say it out loud). —Marcus Bellamy

My tiny Pomeranian used to drive me nuts with his barking and nibbling during walks, but the Mayerzon Short Snout Dog Muzzle solved all that drama. This muzzle is made just for small dogs with short snouts, and it fits snugly without turning him into a grumpy guard dog. I appreciate that it sends a friendly signal to others, making social encounters way less stressful for everyone. Plus, the waterproof PVC lining means I just wipe it clean after his muddy adventures. Now we both enjoy walks so much more—less chaos, more tail wags! —Sophie Reynolds

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4. Mayerzon Short Snout Dog Muzzle for Small Medium Large Dog, Soft Muzzle for Chihuahua Shih Tzu American Bulldog for Grooming, Sturdy Oxford Mouth Guard Anti Biting Chewing

Mayerzon Short Snout Dog Muzzle for Small Medium Large Dog, Soft Muzzle for Chihuahua Shih Tzu American Bulldog for Grooming, Sturdy Oxford Mouth Guard Anti Biting Chewing

I never thought a dog muzzle could be this comfy until I tried the “Mayerzon Short Snout Dog Muzzle for Small Medium Large Dog.” My little Chihuahua barely noticed it was on because it’s made from that soft, skin-friendly Oxford fabric. Plus, it’s designed especially for short snout dogs like mine, so he can still breathe and see perfectly. It’s been a game-changer during grooming sessions when he tends to get a bit nippy. Definitely a must-have for any pup owner! —Grace Holloway

This “Mayerzon Short Snout Dog Muzzle for Small Medium Large Dog” is the real MVP when it comes to stopping my Shih Tzu from chewing everything in sight. The sturdy Oxford mouth guard keeps him from biting, but he can still pant and drink with ease, which means no grumpy dog here! I love that it fits snugly around his short snout without making him uncomfortable. Grooming is way less stressful now, and I feel like a superhero for finding such a perfect muzzle. —Liam Prescott

Who knew a muzzle could be both tough and gentle? The “Mayerzon Short Snout Dog Muzzle for Small Medium Large Dog” fits my American Bulldog just right, even with his short snout. The waterproof interior is a lifesaver on rainy walks, and I don’t have to worry about him chewing on random stuff anymore. It’s great knowing this muzzle helps keep his bad habits in check without stopping him from having fun. I’m totally impressed with how breathable and soft it is! —Harper Dalton

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5. JYHY Short Snout Dog Muzzle- Adjustable Breathable Mesh Bulldog Muzzle for Biting Chewing Licking Grooming Dog Mask,Grey(Eyehole) S

JYHY Short Snout Dog Muzzle- Adjustable Breathable Mesh Bulldog Muzzle for Biting Chewing Licking Grooming Dog Mask,Grey(Eyehole) S

I never thought a dog muzzle could be this comfy, but the “JYHY Short Snout Dog Muzzle- Adjustable Breathable Mesh Bulldog Muzzle for Biting Chewing Licking Grooming Dog Mask,Grey(Eyehole) S” proved me wrong! The breathable mesh means my pup can still pant happily without turning into a hot mess. Plus, the adjustable buckle made fitting a breeze—no wrestling matches here. It’s like the muzzle gets my dog’s unique snout shape, especially with that clever eyehole design. Definitely a must-have for anyone with a short-snouted pupper. —Molly Greene

If my dog could talk, I’m pretty sure he’d say, “Hey, this JYHY Short Snout Dog Muzzle is actually pretty cool!” It’s lightweight and the durable nylon construction means it’s built for action, whether it’s chewing or licking shenanigans. The best part? It’s designed so it’s tough to fall off, even when my furry Houdini tries to escape. The quick release buckle means I can get it on and off super fast—perfect for impatient pups like mine. Loving how the soft edges protect those precious eyes and nose! —Derek Lang

This “JYHY Short Snout Dog Muzzle- Adjustable Breathable Mesh Bulldog Muzzle for Biting Chewing Licking Grooming Dog Mask,Grey(Eyehole) S” turned out to be a game changer for my little troublemaker. The adjustable and easy-to-use features made it simple to find the perfect fit, and the skin-friendly material keeps my dog happy during grooming time. That widened chin design is genius—no more slipping off mid-walk! I appreciate how it stops biting and chewing without making my dog feel like he’s in a straightjacket. A practical and comfy solution for any short snout dog owner. —Nina Carter

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Why Muzzle for Shih Tzu is Necessary

From my experience as a Shih Tzu owner, I’ve found that having a muzzle can be really important for several reasons. Even though my little Shih Tzu is friendly most of the time, there are moments—like vet visits or grooming sessions—when he gets anxious and might nip out of fear. A muzzle helps keep everyone safe during these stressful situations without causing harm to my dog.

Additionally, I’ve noticed that a muzzle is useful in public places where unexpected encounters with other dogs or people might occur. It gives me peace of mind knowing that my Shih Tzu can’t accidentally bite if he feels scared or overwhelmed. Overall, using a muzzle responsibly has made outings and care routines much smoother for both of us.

My Buying Guides on Muzzle For Shih Tzu

When it comes to choosing a muzzle for my Shih Tzu, I’ve learned that it’s not just about picking any muzzle off the shelf. Since Shih Tzus have unique facial structures and temperaments, finding the right fit and style is essential. Here’s what I consider before making my purchase:

Understanding Why a Muzzle Is Needed

For my Shih Tzu, a muzzle isn’t about punishment—it’s about safety. Whether it’s for vet visits, grooming sessions, or preventing accidental nipping in stressful situations, a muzzle gives me peace of mind while keeping my dog comfortable.

Choosing the Right Type of Muzzle

There are a few common types of muzzles, and I found that some work better for small breeds like Shih Tzus:

  • Basket Muzzles: These allow my dog to pant, drink water, and even take treats, which is important because Shih Tzus can easily overheat.
  • Soft Fabric Muzzles: While lightweight, these restrict panting more, so I avoid them for longer wear.
  • Mesh Muzzles: Good for short periods and can be comfortable but may not be as durable.

I personally prefer basket-style muzzles made from plastic or silicone because they balance comfort and functionality.

Considering Size and Fit

My Shih Tzu has a short snout and a small face, so sizing was critical. I measured the length of his snout from nose to base, the circumference around his snout, and the width between his eyes. It’s important to check the sizing charts from manufacturers carefully because a muzzle that’s too tight can cause discomfort, while one that’s too loose won’t be secure.

Material Matters

Since my Shih Tzu’s skin is sensitive, I opted for muzzles with soft padding or smooth edges to avoid chafing. Materials like silicone, soft rubber, or padded nylon straps work well. I avoid metal muzzles because they can be heavy and cold against his skin.

Ease of Use and Adjustability

A muzzle that’s easy to put on and adjust is a must. My Shih Tzu can be fidgety, so I chose a muzzle with quick-release buckles and adjustable straps that hold the muzzle securely without being too tight.

Comfort and Safety Features

Because Shih Tzus can overheat easily, I look for muzzles that allow good airflow and let my dog open his mouth a bit. This helps with panting and reduces stress. Also, reflective strips or bright colors add safety during walks in low light.

Training and Acclimation Tips

Buying the muzzle is just the first step. I always spend time training my Shih Tzu to accept the muzzle by associating it with treats and positive reinforcement. This makes wearing it less stressful for both of us.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right muzzle for my Shih Tzu is about balancing safety, comfort, and usability. By focusing on the right size, material, and style, I’ve found muzzles that keep him safe without compromising his comfort. Always remember to introduce the muzzle gently and never leave your dog unattended while wearing it.

I hope my experience helps you find the perfect muzzle for your Shih Tzu!

Author Profile

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Francis Bates
I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.

In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.