Dog Muzzle Training

dog aggressionWhy is dog muzzle training important for all dogs?

Obviously if a dog is aggressive towards other dogs or people it is important that it should have dog muzzle training, but ideally even an easy going dog should be muzzle trained too. There are certain situations such as treatment at the vets or if a dog becomes injured where even a normally passive dog will become aggressive to fear/pain. If the dog has been trained to wear a muzzle not only will it make the necessity to wear a muzzle a little less stressful for it, it will also make it significantly easier and safer for the handler/vet. A basket style muzzle can also be an aid to stop a dog scavenging and eating things it shouldn’t, such as poop/dead animals etc.

What is dog muzzle training?

Muzzle training is training your dog gradually over a period of time – days/weeks to accept the muzzle and see the muzzle as something positive rather than a punishment.

How to muzzle train a dog?

Start inside by placing a treat inside the muzzle or cup your hand with a treat at the end of the muzzle. Offer the muzzle up towards the dog’s nose and let the dog put his nose in and take the treat and praise it. Let the dog take his nose straight back out of the muzzle afterwards. At this stage we want the dog to see the muzzle as a treat dispenser. Repeat this a few times. Remember not to rush this and perhaps just repeat this same exercise for a few days or until the dog seems happy and relaxed with the muzzle. The next stage is when your dog puts his nose in to get the treat, do the muzzle up behind its head and praise, then take it straight off. Repeat this several times over a couple of days. Gradually build up the time that you leave the muzzle on the dog for several seconds to a few minutes. Praise the dog while wearing the muzzle. Once the dog is at ease wearing a muzzle, practice putting the muzzle on and letting the dog wear it outside. Most dogs even when used to wearing a muzzle will at some point will attempt to get it off so make sure the muzzle fits sufficiently well and is tight enough to prevent this (without hurting the dog of course).

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What types of dog muzzles are available?

You will find that there a range of muzzles available in various sizes and options to fit both long and short nosed dogs. You have a choice of cloth, wire, plastic and mesh muzzles. If you use a cloth muzzle ensure that it is not possible for the dog to still nip through the end opening of the muzzle. If the dog is going to be wearing the muzzle for a reasonable amount of time (for walks etc) it is important to choose one that allows it to both pant easily and drink, a baskerville style basket muzzle is ideal for this.

How can dog muzzle training help you with your aggressive dog?

If you have a dog which has the potential to be aggressive towards people or dogs it is necessary to be very careful in the handling of your dog, and seek professional help if required. The muzzle not only helps prevent your dog from the possibility of injuring other people or dogs it also allows you to relax a little. As a dog can pick up on human emotions and anxiety this can help calm the fear aggressive dog.

When a muzzle can be useful for any dog

As mentioned before muzzle training for any dog can be incredibly useful. Situations in which some dogs may need a muzzle include grooming, nail clipping, trips to the vet and when injured.

Click here for the most comprehensive guide to dog training

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