Muzzle (mouth guard)

The shape and construction of the muzzle might differ depending on whether the intent is to prevent an animal from biting or from eating, for example.

Muzzles are sometimes used on trained and untrained dogs, large or small, to prevent unwanted biting, scavenging, or wound licking.

Muzzles of this kind give enough freedom for a dog to eat, drink and freely pant.

Other types, known as "grazing muzzles", have a small opening in the center that allows limited intake of grass, and are used on those animals prone to obesity, laminitis or choke, to prevent them from eating too much or too fast.

[1] Horse muzzles may be purchased in tack shops or from equestrian supply companies, and are available as a halter attachment, or as a separate piece of equipment.