Short-Snout Mesh Dog Muzzle

Pugs, French Bulldogs and Boxers are routinely sent home from the groomer or the vet with a muzzle that does not fit, because standard designs assume a snout to wrap around and a flat-faced dog does not have one. A muzzle shaped for the face rather than the nose solves a specific and irritating problem, and it is the only reason to choose this over a conventional one.

The mesh cup follows the shorter, wider profile of a brachycephalic face, with padded edges where the material meets the skin around the eyes and cheeks, which is where a badly shaped muzzle rubs first. An adjustable buckle strap fastens behind the head to hold the position, and the open mesh keeps airflow as high as this type of design allows. It is offered in three sizes and three colours, weighing between 90g and 110g.

• Shaped specifically for short-snouted, flat-faced breeds - Breathable mesh construction - Padded edges to reduce rubbing on cheeks and around the eyes - Adjustable buckle strap behind the head - Sizes S, M and L in green, black or red - Weighs 90g to 110g

This needs more care than an ordinary muzzle. Flat-faced breeds already have compromised airways, and any muzzle reduces airflow further, so use it for short supervised periods only, never in warm weather, never in a car, and never with a dog left alone. It also is not bite-proof; mesh manages mouthing and scavenging, it does not stop a determined bite. If you need bite security, buy a basket muzzle.

Who it's for: Owners of brachycephalic dogs who need brief restraint for grooming or vet visits and cannot get a standard muzzle to sit.