Horses are physiologically designed to graze nearly constantly (up to 15 hours a day), but health issues such as obesity and high risk for grass founder can make it necessary to restrict their grass intake. Though the idea of strapping a contraption on a horse’s face can seem like cruel and unusual punishment, it’s important to remember that by not using one on an at-risk horse, you may be literally “killing him with kindness.”
No matter which type of muzzle you choose, it’s important to know a few things:
◆ The length of the pasture grass will affect how a muzzle works. If grass is very short, the horse’s teeth won’t be able to grasp it through the hole in the bottom of the muzzle.
◆ Horses should not wear muzzles 24/7, so a modified turnout schedule may be necessary.
◆ Muzzle use can affect herd dynamics; adjustments to turnout groups may be needed.
The original plastic basket-style grazing muzzles have seen many design upgrades to help keep them in place with less rubbing. Here’s a look at some of the different options on the market today.
Best Friend Grazing Muzzle
$39.99-$59.99; available from most online tack shops
Features:
◆ Multiple sizes available
◆ Comes with breakaway halter for improved safety
◆ Higher sides make it more difficult for horses to remove
◆ Five adjustment points
◆ Padded noseband helps prevent rubs
◆ Synthetic material deters mildew and rot
ThinLine Flexible Filly
$68.00; thinlineglobal.com
Features:
◆ Lighter and softer than other muzzles
◆ Durable yet pliable
◆ Easy on equine teeth
◆ Less restrictive of behaviors like mutual grooming
◆ Well-ventilated
◆ Size of grazing hole is customizable
◆ Has UV protection for sensitive skin
◆ Comes with six-month warranty
Green Guard
$99.95; gg-equine.com
Features:
◆ Less likely to rub
◆ Larger holes along basket allow moisture and debris to move through
◆ Multiple sizes available
◆ Drains water well after drinking
◆ Durable and lightweight
◆ Made of strong plastic material
◆ One-year warranty for breakage or wear
◆ Adjustable
Tough1 Easy Breathe
Mini to draft sizes available, $37.88-$52.88;
jtidist.com
Features:
◆ Large breathing holes for comfort
◆ Short sides offer improved airflow
◆ Bottom of muzzle is extra thick
◆ Added attachments available for ponies
◆ Can be purchased with or without attached halter
Best Friend Have a Heart Muzzle
$56.99; intrepidintl.com
Features:
◆ Adjustable noseband for hard-to-fit horses
◆ V-strap makes it harder to remove
◆ Two breakaway buckles for safety
◆ Durable
Shires Deluxe Comfort
$39.99; shop.shiresequestrian.com
Features:
◆ Cut-back design to avoid pressure points under chin
◆ Fleece padding around nose to protect delicate structures
◆ D-ring allows lead rope to be attached to muzzle
◆ Head and throat snap have anti-chafe padding
◆ Fully adjustable breakaway harness
◆ Taller sides of muzzle mean less chance for horses to remove it
Harmany Grazing Muzzle
$57.99-$98.99; shop.harmanyequine.com
Features:
◆ Crafted from strong plastic
◆ Hole size can be customized
◆ Moldable in hot water to each horse’s unique shape
◆ Lightweight and breathable
◆ Multiple sizes available
◆ Mold-resistant
This article about grazing muzzles appeared in the March 2022 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!
