Why are dog muzzles so polarizing?
Dog muzzles can look controversial. After all, they have an unfair association with “aggressive” dogs or “attack” dogs. But most canine experts agree that at one point or another in every dog’s lifetime, there may be a situation when an owner needs to use a muzzle. It might be for the safety of the dog, the safety of a person, or both. Muzzle Training is key for every dog to have in case of emergency and safety for those who are handling them.
When is it appropriate to use a dog muzzle?
During an emergency
History of biting/Bite Risk
Threatening situation
Grooming Sessions
Breed-specific legislation
When you should not use a muzzle?
It seems obvious, but muzzles are used to prevent dog bites. They are not for preventing problem behaviors by forcing your dog’s mouth closed. Do not use a dog muzzle for barking, chewing, or other ongoing behavioral problems. There are two important reasons for this.
- A muzzle is only meant to be used for short periods of time, and only when your dog is supervised.
- Behavioral problems like barking and chewing are, by their nature, ongoing issues, so a muzzle, a tool meant for temporary and short-term use, is not a solution.
Different Types of Muzzles?
Basket Muzzle Baskerville Basket Dog Muzzle
Soft Muzzle- Soft Neoprene Padding
Short Snout Muzzle Short Snout Muzzles
How to Train a dog to accept a muzzle?
Over a period of several days, here’s what we did—using small, soft treats, and making sure he was comfortable with each step before going on to the next.
Let him sniff the muzzle. Give a treat. Repeat a few times.
- Touch his nose with the muzzle. Treat. Repeat until he indicates that the muzzle looks interesting in a good way.
- Hold the muzzle with one hand and a treat with the other hand, so he needs to put his nose inside the muzzle to get the treat. Repeat until this step is no big deal.
- Gently slip the muzzle onto his nose and give him a treat. Remove the muzzle immediately. Repeat a few times.
- Put on the muzzle and fasten the buckle. Treat. Remove immediately. Repeat a few times.
- Put on the muzzle, fasten it, and count slowly to five. Treat. Remove the muzzle.
- Each time you put on the muzzle, gradually increase the time the muzzle is on. Hold his collar and give treats.
How do you properly fit a muzzle?
The right fit is key to using a muzzle correctly. Too loose and your dog will be able to remove it; too tight and it will inhibit his ability to breathe, pant, or drink and can cause painful chafing. Straps should be fitted so you can just fit one finger between your dog’s head and the strap.
Want help training your dog to wear a muzzle? Contact me today to set up a session.