Mia’s Muzzles | The Adventurer Muzzle: Our Go-To Muzzle for Comfort and Safety
While there are many aspects of training and counterconditioning to consider when setting our reactive dogs up for success, these solutions aren’t a quick fix.
As responsible dog parents, it’s our job to ensure the safety and well-being not only of our dogs but also of those that they may encounter daily – including other dogs, wildlife, or people.
To a degree, this can be done through management by not putting our dogs into a potentially dangerous situation. But there will be times that we have to venture out in public with our pups, even if they aren’t 110% comfortable.
Something as simple as a trip to the vet could potentially turn bad and fast.
One tool that has proven invaluable for our journey with Lucifer is his muzzle. More specifically, we use The Adventurer Muzzle from Mia’s Muzzles.
This is not just a muzzle; it’s a lifeline that has allowed us to confidently navigate the world together, whatever that may bring.
Whether you’re considering muzzling for the first time or looking for a new muzzle option for your dog, this is for you. I will share the reasons why we chose The Adventurer and how it has transformed our daily routine.
We were gifted a muzzle from Mia’s Muzzles as part of a collaboration focused on helping spread education & awareness about reactivity & muzzling, but the opinions shared about the product are all our own. See my full disclosure policy for more details.
About Mia’s Muzzles
When I first started exploring the idea of muzzle training Lucifer, I joined several online communities and Facebook groups dedicated to the concept.
I quickly noticed that a few muzzle companies and custom muzzle makers were coming up time and time again. One of which was Mia’s Muzzles.
There were two reasons I was instantly intrigued:
- She’s based in Canada (we love supporting Canadian companies)
- I loved the way that the vinyl muzzles looked while still offering the protection and security that we needed
Mia is the proud mom of a nervous rescue pup, the inspiration for her business. This means she truly understands first-hand the concerns that dog parents have when considering introducing this tool into their routine.
Each muzzle is meticulously crafted with your dog’s needs in mind, including optimal airflow, pant room, the ability to drink and take treats, and, of course, the security needed for whatever reason you are considering using a muzzle.
Her muzzles are made from durable vinyl and brightly coloured Biothane, allowing you to create a fun and stylish muzzle that protects while offering a clear view of your pup’s face.
Muzzle Options Offered by Mia’s Muzzles
While the following review will focus specifically on The Adventurer model, as that’s the muzzle we use, it’s not the only model available.
In fact, there are five options to choose from depending on your dog’s unique needs:
- The Guardian: A standard vinyl muzzle made from 3mm vinyl with the option to add a bite guard for those needing extra security.
- The Guardian Light: A lighter-weight version of The Guardian made from 2mm vinyl for low-risk biters and dogs up to 30 lbs.
- The Foodie: Made from 2mm vinyl, this muzzle features either a solid front or removable Scavenger Guard, specifically for those who are muzzled to prevent them from eating everything they shouldn’t.
- The Double Trouble: Made from 3mm vinyl, this muzzle offers a higher level of protection but also offers the option of a solid front or the removable Scavenger Guard, for those pups that need a deterrent from snacking on forbidden goodies as well as bite protection.
- The Adventurer: Available in both 2mm and 3mm options depending on your dog’s size, this muzzle features additional ventilation for highly active pups while still offering light bite protection.
In addition to the different models, you can also choose from a wide variety of options including:
- Over a dozen different Biothane colour options plus hardware colour options
- An open-nose style for those who like to sniff
- Specialized Brachycephalic nose style for those specific breeds
- The option of a regular or a quick-release buckle
- Round or heart-shaped treat holes on the front
- Forehead strap
- Collar loop
- Nosepad patterns for an extra stylish touch
- The inclusion of a name/phrase badge
- Tinted vinyl for even more colourful fun
If a custom muzzle is a little too pricy for your current budget, she also offers Cookie Cutter Muzzles in 5 standard sizes and 2 specialized Bully sizes.
Why Did We Choose a Vinyl Muzzle?
One of the biggest questions we get from people when we are out is why we chose to use a vinyl muzzle for Lucifer.
This is a decision that we put a lot of thought into. We own several muzzles that we purchased and tried on our journey to find the best option for our little man.
One reason we were drawn to at least trying a vinyl muzzle was the fact that it allowed me to better see Lucifer’s face. The clear material makes it easy to see his facial expressions, which are an important piece of our communication when navigating difficult decisions and making decisions on the fly.
After all, how am I supposed to respond according to his feelings of stress and anxiety if he is having a difficult time telling me he’s stressed or anxious?
I had also heard several good reviews of people recommending them as an easy to clean option which is integral given our love for outdoor adventures (and his love for mud).
Our Experience: The Adventurer
If you have been around any of Lucifer’s social media accounts, you know that he leads a life full of adventure and activity.
As a German Shepherd/Australian Cattle Dog, our little pup has no shortage of energy. We embrace this aspect of his personality, giving him as many opportunities to run, play, and explore as possible.
When Mia’s Muzzles released The Adventurer muzzle, I was quickly intrigued.
Luckily for us, this release also happened to fall around the same time we were talking with Mia about working together to address the stigma surrounding reactive dogs and muzzles – a cause we are both passionate about.
All the pieces fell in place, and we soon had Lucifer’s custom The Adventurer model muzzle in his signature colour of red.
In terms of options, we chose an open nose hole, a round treat hole, and a quick-release buckle to make it easier to get his muzzle on and off.
Lucifer was already muzzle-trained at this point, which made introducing his vinyl muzzle easier. However, we quickly noticed how much more comfortable he looked in this muzzle versus the other options we had tried.
Since he started wearing it, Lucifer has been on many adventures, including hiking, camping, and swimming, with his muzzle on.
We also use it when heading into public spaces where he may encounter a man he doesn’t know (he’s fear-reactive toward men specifically).
A few things we have noticed:
- While the muzzle fogs slightly on the longest and most intense hikes, it’s minimal. The airflow is sufficient to not overheat or create any unsafe situations.
- The muzzle is cleaned SO easily after a romp in the mud. It can be rinsed out. If any mud or dirt gets stuck in the bottom where the rivets are located, we found it was easily addressed with a Q-tip.
- He is SO comfortable wearing this muzzle that he has fallen asleep several times with it on.
- Lucifer is more confident when he’s wearing his muzzle. This is due mainly to the more relaxed energy of everyone around him.
- Our bond and high level of communication have benefited from having the clear view of his face that the vinyl muzzle offers. He and I have always had a strong level of communication, but this makes it easier in many settings when it’s most important.
- The muzzle hurts ME a lot less if he turns his head in a hurry and slams the muzzle against my chin (or my face when in my lap. Ask me how I know… haha)
The public response to him is far less judgemental as the vinyl muzzle appears less “scary” than a more traditional basket muzzle.
It also opens the door for many more conversations with people interested in learning more about the topic, allowing for opportunities to educate the public. We LOVE this opportunity to answer questions and help others learn, challenging the stigma we often face.
All in all, we can’t recommend Lucifer’s muzzle enough! We don’t go anywhere without packing it.
Other Dog Muzzle Alternatives
While we LOVE our Mia’s Muzzle vinyl muzzle and highly recommend it, I recognize that no perfect option exists for every dog.
This is why we had to try so many different muzzles with Lucifer before finding the “best fit.”
Many factors may influence your decision, including your location, why your dog needs to be muzzled, breed/size, etc.
Some other great muzzle options you may want to consider include:
FAQs
How Do You Measure Your Dog for a Custom Muzzle?
When measuring your dog for a muzzle, you will need a soft measuring tape or a piece of string with a ruler or other measuring device.
The measurements you need include:
- Nose Length: The distance just below your dog’s eyes to the end of their nose
- Nose Width: The measurement across the bridge of your dog’s nose, not curving the measuring tape or string around the sides
- Closed Height: The vertical measurement of your dog’s snout from top to bottom when their mouth is closed
- Pant Height: The vertical measurement of your dog’s snout from top to bottom when the mouth is open while panting
- Nose Tip to Neck: The distance from your dog’s throat to the end of their snout, along the bottom jaw
- Forehead Length: The distance from just below the eyes up over the forehead to their ears
- Eye to Ear: The measurement along the side of your dog’s head from just in front of their eye to where their ear starts
A tennis ball can also be helpful when measuring pant height, as it helps hold your dog’s mouth open long enough to get the measurement.
I recommend checking out the “How to Measure” guide on the Mia’s Muzzles website for detailed instructions, including a video and photos.
Does Lucifer Always Wear His Muzzle?
No, not all outings. He wears it if we’re going somewhere where he may be forced to be in close proximity to a man he doesn’t know, which is his trigger.
However, if we’re heading out on a trail or hanging out on a campsite where no strangers are getting up close and personal with him, we don’t keep it on.
That said, we generally have it hanging off his treat pouch on my hip or sitting nearby so we can grab it in a hurry if the situation changes.
Can a Dog Drink While Wearing a Vinyl Muzzle?
Yes! The holes in the muzzle allow for a free flow of water in and out of the muzzle. However, you need to ensure the water dish is large enough to accommodate the muzzle’s size.
If your dog is unsure about drinking with their muzzle on at first, you can entice them to try by adding a little sodium-free broth to the water.
I also found that lifting the dish to help him navigate how to do it the first time showed him how to do it, making him feel more comfortable using the dish the next time on his own.
Our Final Thoughts About The Adventurer from Mia’s Muzzles
This muzzle has truly been a game changer for Lucifer and I. We can’t recommend it enough, especially for high-energy, adventure-loving dogs like our little man.
Mia’s Muzzles is an amazing option if you’re looking for a vinyl muzzle for your reactive pup.
But it’s important to remember that every dog is unique. What works for one may not work for another.
For those considering introducing a muzzle to their dog, I want to stress the importance of doing your research, asking professionals (Mia is super friendly and helpful), and experimenting with different muzzle types to find the best fit for your best friend.
Ultimately, the goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of your dog and those around them.
By using a comfortable, properly fit muzzle, you can help your reactive dog navigate the world with confidence and reduce the risk of unwanted behaviours.
Remember, a muzzle is not a punishment! It’s a tool.
When used responsibly and ethically, it can be a valuable asset in managing reactive behaviour and making it possible to enjoy positive experiences with your pup.