Measuring #1

At Muzzle Training & Tips, we use a specific and proven method for measuring dogs. While other sources may suggest different techniques, the methods listed here are the only ones we recommend when using our size charts specifically as we have spent years refining the best methods and system to help pick the correct muzzle.


⚠️ Important Disclaimer

  • Ensure you read BOTH Measuring 1 and 2.
  • If your dog is a bite risk or becomes stressed when touched near the face, do not attempt to
    measure them directly. It’s best not to proceed with hands-on measuring, instead approximate based on breed types.
  • Straight ruler or object that is marked with measurements is highly recommended for the first three measurements.

Length


Snout length is measured from 0.25”-0.5" below the eyes (GREEN arrow) to the tip of the nose (ORANGE arrow). This gives you the most accurate representation of your dog’s snout length.
Muzzle length is referring to the actual muzzle itself which you want approx 0.25” more than snout length when picking, as you want it to sit 0.5” from the eyes (GREEN arrow) but
also approx 0.25” off the nose (BLUE arrow). Any more and the muzzle may hit the eyes.


📏Ranges we have seen: (remember this is based on length, not general size of muzzle).

  • 0.5"-1": Extra Small dogs 
  • 1"-2":  Small dogs (Plus Medium short nose dogs)
  • 2"-3": Medium dogs
  • 3"-4": Medium-Large dogs (Plus XL short nose dogs)
  • 4"-5": Large Dogs 
  • 5"-6": Extra large dogs

Width


Snout width is the straight-line distance across the widest part of the snout 0.5” away from the eyes
(YELLOW arrow) , measured straight across (ORANGE arrows), NOT wrapped over the nose. A curved measurement will overestimate width and it is one the most commonly incorrect measurements taken
because of this. Muzzle width (BLUE arrows) is about 0.25”-1” more than your dog's snout width and refers to the muzzle measurements you’re looking for. Most dogs tolerate a slightly wider muzzle better than one that’s too narrow. A muzzle that's too narrow can restrict panting, cause discomfort, or lead to
rubbing.

 

📏Ranges we have seen:

  • 0.5"-1.5": Extra Small dogs 
  • 1.5"-2.5":  Small dogs (Plus Medium short nose dogs)
  • 2.5"-3": Medium dogs
  • 3"-4": Large dogs (Plus XL short nose dogs)
  • 4"-5": Extra Large Dogs 

Closed Height

Closed height is the vertical distance from the top of the snout to the bottom (ORANGE arrows), taken at the tallest point of the closed mouth 0.5” from eyes (YELLOW arrow).
This measurement should be taken with the mouth fully closed, not while yawning, panting, or partially open. The tape should lie flat, not curved. If the dog had jowls down to 5” (PINK arrow) you would still use the 4” measurement.

 

✅ If you can take a good panting measurement, this one becomes less important.
❗ If not, closed height is essential for estimating pant room. A misjudged closed height can throw off muzzle sizing and result in a poor fit.

Closed Circumference


This is the full circumference around the snout, taken at the widest part of the closed mouth,
usually toward the base of the muzzle (YELLOW arrow) Use a soft measuring tape or wrap a string and measure it afterward with a ruler. Take the measurement snug, not tight or loose. While closed circumference is not the most important measurement when paired with length, width, and height, it can still be helpful—especially if those other measurements are difficult to obtain.

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