What's the best way to introduce my horse to the muzzle?Updated a year ago

Whether your horse has used a traditional grazing muzzle in the past or has never worn one before, it is always a good idea to take some time to introduce your horse to a new type of muzzle. We recommend introducing it to them with a treat inside to give them a positive association with putting on their grazing muzzle, even something low-calorie like hay can be helpful.  Next, it's really important to make sure that everything is adjusted properly so it is comfortable and less likely to be removed. You can always send photos to our customer support team and we can help ensure that you have the correct adjustment before getting started. 

If your horse has previously used a traditional grazing muzzle, they must re-learn how to use the GreenGuard muzzle. Whereas traditional muzzles have a hole in the middle, the GreenGuard has slots on the sides. Horses may get frustrated initially because they are trying to get grass from the center. Just stick with it and follow the steps below! We also have this handy video on teaching a frustrated horse how to use the grazing muzzle if your horse is struggling to figure it out.

Hand-feeding grass and helping poke it up through the muzzle holes can help give your horse the right idea!

• Start by ensuring you have a 1/2" to 1" space at the bottom of the muzzle (about the width of your hand). This space allows the horse to move around and use the bottom of the muzzle like a slow feeder. The muzzle will not function properly and may rub the chin if there is insufficient space. If you notice the straps pulling the muzzle up against the nose after fitting it, we suggest wrapping a piece of tape around them to keep them flat.
• If possible, turn your horse out in a small area or hand graze so you can keep a close eye on them and adjust the fit if needed. Try introducing them on thicker mowed grass, around 3-6" tall, as this more manicured length is easier for grazing.
• Poke some grass through the bottom of the muzzle to show your horse how to eat through it. Then allow them some time to figure it out. Some horses figure it out faster than others. All of them will eventually figure it out. Even if they sulk or are frustrated initially, they *will* keep trying to eat. They are horses, after all! The good news is that once they figure out how the muzzle works, most (even Houdinis!) will accept it easily.

If you're still having trouble, you can try hand feeding them through the bottom of the muzzle to give them the idea or spread out something yummy like grain in the grass or on a flat surface to give them the idea. We also recommend checking out this Help Center article,  “My horse is frustrated and doesn't seem to be catching on.”