Kind Corner: A dog trainer’s take on muzzles
We asked AnimalKind trainer Laura McAlduff of Quest Canine Support and Education about muzzles and muzzle training.
Laura provides tips on muzzles for dog guardians who are considering having their dogs wear a muzzle.
Are dog muzzles cruel? And can dog muzzles be used kindly?
I like to think of muzzles like leashes. A necessary management tool to prevent the preventable. It’s the responsibility of dog owners to help our dogs understand and accept the equipment required for safe coexistence in unpredictable environments.
Used incorrectly, muzzles could be cruel. They inhibit normal mouthing during play, provide an obstacle to sniffing, take away the option to grab sticks and toys, prevent full range of sight and just generally feel weird!
It takes patience and care to help a dog see a muzzle as a normal and positive part of their routine.
Do dog muzzles work?
When it comes to biting, properly fitted basket muzzles will only prevent a dog from landing a bite. A muzzle will not solve the impulse to bite, and it will not keep the target safe from psychological trauma.
If your dog is muzzled because they eat foreign objects or poo, they might still be able to get something in their mouth. In some cases, guardians may need to consider an enclosed basket muzzle.
What types of dog muzzles are there, and when are they OK to use?
Most often I see custom basket muzzles recommended. These are typically made with biothane. Unfortunately, sometimes the softness of the biothane, while more comfortable, can lead to bites through the muzzle. If your dog is a serious bite risk, you might consider an enclosed muzzle or a hard plastic or wire muzzle basket muzzle.
Slip-on soft “grooming muzzles” can be useful in an emergency to prevent an injured dog from biting, but they should not be used while a dog is exercising or to stop unwanted barking.
What is the proper fit of a muzzle? What about short-muzzle breeds like bulldogs?
A basket muzzle should give the dog enough room to pant, drink water and take food. It shouldn’t ride up into the dog’s eyes or cut tight into the neck at the base. There are flat-faced muzzles available for short-nosed breeds, or you can get a custom muzzle.
How to muzzle train your dog?
It takes time! And food! And patience! If you are thinking about whether or not you should use a muzzle for your dog, I recommend getting started soon. The more time you take to properly train wearing a muzzle, the more your dog will grow accustomed to it.
I highly recommend checking out the Muzzle Up Project for tips on muzzle training.
Helpful resources
- Find a dog trainer to help you with muzzle training
- Learn some facts about muzzles and muzzle training
- Get the muzzle cheat sheet (available soon!)
- Download “How to use a dog muzzle” information pamphlet (PDF)