Wearing a Muzzle: Is it Right for My Dog?
Muzzles get a bad wrap! Many people associate muzzles with “aggressive” dogs or “attack” dogs. However, muzzles are a fantastic tool to help keep dogs and people safe.
There are many reasons a dog may need to wear a muzzle including:
- Being nervous around other dogs or people during walks
- Frequently eating rocks or other non-food items that can be toxic or life-threatening
- Wanting a cue to tell other owners to give your dog space
- Needing a muzzle while healing from a painful injury that leaves the dog more sensitive to touch
- Having an extra source of security during a veterinary appointment
- Required for travelling in other countries (Regulations in European countries include Italy, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, etc.)
Well-fitted and conditioned muzzle will allow your dog to comfortably perform regular activities such as taking treats, drinking, and panting.
Should I Muzzle Train My Dog?
At Our Companions, we highly encourage all dog owners to properly condition their dog to wearing a muzzle regardless of their underlying behavior. In many cases, muzzles are used during emergency situations where your dog is in severe pain and/or distress. By having a previous, positive training relationship with a muzzle, an owner can drastically help manage their dog’s stress and safety in these scenarios as well as the safety of themselves and/or veterinary professionals.
If you are struggling with aggressive or reactive behavior in the home and would like more assistance in deciding the best training and management option for your dog, please call 860-242-9999 or email [email protected]
When NOT to Use a Muzzle
- Muzzles should never be used when the dog is unsupervised
- Muzzles should never be used to keep your dog’s mouth closed for periods of time
- Muzzles should never be used to prevent barking or destructive chewing
- Muzzles should never be used in order to put your dog in a stressful or unwanted situation
Choosing the Right Muzzle for Your Dog
The Baskerville Ultra Muzzle is the gold standard in muzzle training. It is a rubber basket muzzle that offers safe and comfortable wear for most breeds at an affordable price for owners.
Short-nosed breeds (Pugs, Boston terriers, Boxers, English bulldogs) require a short-nose or flat-face muzzle due to their head and face shape. We recommend buying a custom muzzle for your flat-face companions as many mesh muzzles will restrict taking treats/drinking/panting. Check out Dog Muzzles online store
Long-nosed breeds (Greyhounds, Whippets, Afghan hounds, etc.) may require a breed-specific muzzle due to their head and face shape. We recommend buying from a respected rescue organization to ensure you are not giving money to racing groups.