Muzzle Training for Dogs

Muzzle Training for Dogs

The suggestion to muzzle train a dog is often met with resistance.  The main hesitation is that owners do not want their dogs perceived as aggressive.  While aggression is not the only reason people muzzle train their dogs it IS a reason that often warrants pro-active desensitization to the muzzle.  After all, the moment a muzzle is needed is the time you want to be introducing your dog to a muzzle for the first time. 

5 Reasons to Muzzle Train a Dog

1. Itching- Dogs that are itchy may perform a repetitive behavior called ‘Corn-cobbing.’  This is were they chew on their forelegs with their front teeth, often until they are raw and bleeding.  Muzzling your dog can prevent their ability to corn-cobb as a result of itching due to allergies.
2. Anxiety – Some breeds such as Golden Retrievers are prone to repetitive over-grooming as a result of anxiety.  They often lick the same areas over and over as a way to self-sooth and this over time causes ‘lick granulomas.’  Itching from allergies can also result in lick granulomas.  If allergies are ruled out but the condition persists, anxiety is likely the root of the behavior.
3. Pica – Some dogs engage in a compulsive behavior called Pica.  This causes them to ingest inappropriate items like mulch or rocks which can be detrimental to their health.  Muzzling a dog with pica prevents them from picking up items that they could ingest while out on walks.
4. Fear – Dogs who are fearful are at greater risk of biting.  When placed in situations that overwhelm them, a dog can learn that biting is an effective way to reduce the stress they feel.  While we ultimately strive to teach a dog coping strategies for managing their fear, ultimately they may require muzzling in order to reduce risk to handlers in situations such as vet visits.
5. Court Order – If your dog has injured another animal or person and animal control was involved you will likely end up in court.  The court can compel you to muzzle your dog as a condition of the judgement.  Failure to comply can result in confiscation or euthanasia of your dog plus additional fines or consequences.

Choosing a Muzzle for your Dog

There are several types of muzzles to choose from.  It is worthwhile to take the time to introduce early.  Muzzle introductions are a great addition to any early socialization plan for puppies.  Helping your puppy associate muzzles with fun and yum is a great proactive way to prepare them up for the possibility that they of muzzling in the even of in an emergency.  The type of muzzle chosen largely depends on the reasons needed for a muzzle.  Long term use at a minimum necessitates that the dog can freely open their mouth to pant enough to cool themselves on warm days or during activity.

Types of Muzzles

• Sleeve Muzzle – typically used for muzzling at a veterinary practice.  These muzzles are usually make from a mesh or nylon fabric that holds the dog’s mouth closed completely.  As dog’s cool themselves by panting, this means that sleeve muzzles are not great options for long-term use or for hot environments.  If the dog is already in a state of panic, muzzling of any form can be challenging and dogs can still use their front teeth to bite even while muzzled.  
• ‘Bite-Proof’ Muzzles – often made out of leather or vinyl, these muzzles are made specifically to mitigate the risk during a bite.  For this reason, they are generally used for dogs in bite sports.  The material fully encloses the nose of the dog and aside from small holes in the muzzle there is little chance of the dog that the teeth can cause damage.  One drawback is that reduced airflow makes it hard for dogs to cool themselves during prolonged use.  Also, it is challenging for the dog to eat or drink while wearing these types of muzzles.
• Basket Muzzle – a basket muzzle is made from leather, plastic, Biothane, or metal and fully encloses the snout while leaving large gaps through which air flows freely and the dog can take treats and drink water.  These types are typically recommended for Positive Reinforcement training purposes. It is easier to deliver food to the dog than other types while still mitigating much of the bite risk.  However, due to the open spaces of the muzzle it is possible for someone to slip their fingers through which could result in injury.

How to Introduce Your Dog to a Muzzle

Take the time to slowly introduce your dog to a muzzle. This ensures that the process is positive and tolerable for everyone involved.  Rushing or forcing your dog into the muzzle is likely to result in objection or refusal and potentially increased aggression.  Slow down, work at your dog’s pace, and keep the training sessions short.

How to Size a Muzzle

Ensuring the proper fit for your dog’s muzzle can be tricky but is vital for comfort and safety.  A muzzle that’s too short will rub against their nose and press into their face.  A muzzle that’s too long will obstruct their vision.  If too small, the muzzle will not allow enough room for your dog to open their mouth to pant.  Though it’s preferable to have a muzzle a bit too larger versus too small. TOO big, and it runs the risk of coming off when you need it most.  

Grab a measuring tape and an extra set of hands for snapping pictures as you work.  Start the measuring tape at the water line of your dog’s eyes.

Additional Muzzle Resources

As shown, muzzle training your dog is process.  It can take weeks or even months to appropriately introduce and acclimatize your dog to wearing a muzzle.  Take your time and be patient.  If your dog seems to be resistant or resentful of the muzzle it’s a sign you are moving too quickly.  Go back a few steps and reintroduce the concepts at a slower pace.  Increasing the value of your reward never hurts, either.

Facebook Communities

There are several communities on Facebook that serve as useful resources.  These include:

1. Muzzle Up, Pup! – The Pro-Muzzle Community – A group dedicated to providing education, support, and advocacy for muzzle training that aims to reduce stigma and offer a welcoming space where dog owners can share experiences, seek advice, and access valuable resources.
2. Force-Free Muzzle Training – A group dedicated to the education and support of responsible, safe, evidence based positive muzzle training that condones only the use of positive training methods.

Purchase a Muzzle:

1. The Muzzle Movement!
2. Baskerville Ultra
3. Birdwell Muzzles
4. Polymer Coated Wire Muzzle

Are you in market for a muzzle for your dog?