Good dogs wear muzzles
Muzzles have long had a poor reputation, often perceived as being cruel and only meant for “bad” dogs.
The truth is that many different dogs wear muzzles, whether they have a habit of tasting whatever they find on the ground or are at risk of biting others.
When properly fitted and used as intended, muzzles are an effective tool for keeping dogs and everyone else safe and healthy.
Types of muzzles
There are different types of muzzles, and the choice of muzzle should depend on the dog’s facial structure, their specific needs and the situation in which it will be used.
Choose materials that can be washed and cleaned regularly and always make sure muzzles are the proper fit.
Remember that it’s essential to introduce muzzles gradually, creating a positive association to ensure your dog accepts them well.
Some of the most common muzzles include:
Basket muzzles
This type of muzzle can be made of leather, biothane, silicone, plastic or wire. Basket muzzles allow dogs to pant, drink water and take food, making them comfortable for wearing for longer periods of time.
Basket muzzles are an excellent option for dogs who must wear a muzzle during training sessions as they can still be hand-fed treats through the openings.
Some brands sell colourful muzzles, which add a touch of cuteness and visibility for those dogs who need a little space.
If your dog needs to wear a muzzle for an extended period of time, we recommend basket muzzles as long as your dog’s facial structure can accommodate one comfortably.
Basket muzzles might not be recommended for certain short-faced breeds. It is important to make sure you are getting the right size and type of muzzle for your dog.
A properly fitted basket muzzle should give your dog enough room to pant, drink water and take food, and it shouldn’t ride up into their eyes or cut tight into their neck at the base.
Enclosed muzzles
As their name suggests, enclosed muzzles have a less open design than basket muzzles. Taking food or drinking might not be as easy, but an enclosed muzzle that fits a dog well should allow them to pant.
They are usually made of the same materials as basket muzzles with some mesh, plastic or leather covering.
Slip-on soft-sided muzzles (aka grooming muzzles)
Slip-on soft-sided muzzles are made of fabric, mesh or nylon and meant to keep a dog’s mouth closed.
These types of muzzles usually restrict panting and should therefore only be used in short-term situations such as a vet exam or grooming procedure. Otherwise, dogs can overheat if these muzzles are left on too long.
Because slip-on soft-sided muzzles are easy to put on and take off, they might also be an option for emergency situations to keep in your emergency kit.
Muzzles for flat-faced dogs
Guardians of brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs, such as bulldogs and shih tzus, should choose a muzzle that’s designed specifically for their dog’s facial structure.
Muzzles for flat-faced dogs must be carefully fitted so they do not compromise the dog’s breathing or obstruct their vision. They come in different styles similar to basket muzzles and mesh muzzles that cover the dog’s face while allowing them to see.
Dogs who benefit from wearing a muzzle
Muzzles are a synonym for safety, and they are not, and should not be, scary. Dogs who wear a muzzle are good dogs too!
Muzzles are designed to prevent bites, keep dogs from scavenging, signal that dogs need space and ensure the safety of dogs and those around them.
Dogs who benefit from wearing muzzles include:
- Street-eaters: Muzzles help prevent those scavenger dogs from trying to eat whatever they find on the ground when on their walks or enjoying some time outside. Preventing this behaviour might save you some trips to the vet and help ensure your dog is only ingesting things meant to be eaten.
- Dogs at risk of biting: Muzzles do not address the cause or impulse to bite, but they prevent harm from biting incidents. It is still very important that you understand your dog’s body language and avoid those triggers and stressful situations that may push them over their threshold.
- Dogs who need some space: Not every dog wants to be petted or approached by other dogs, and that is completely fine. Your dog does not have to be friendly to everyone, and if they need some space, a muzzle will serve as a communication tool to let others know that.
- Some vet patients or grooming clients: Medical procedures and grooming sessions can be stressful, so a muzzle can help keep your dog and the staff at vet offices and grooming salons safe.
When NOT to use a muzzle
Muzzles are a great tool for preventing dogs from street-eating on walks or landing a bite in situations where they feel threatened, and for social awareness for dogs needing a little more space.
But even with all the benefits of muzzles, guardians should not use muzzles:
- in place of training
- to stop your dog from barking
- for long periods of time
Tips for training your dog to wear a muzzle
Dogs can be trained to love muzzles. You just need a little bit of patience to show your dog that muzzles are associated with a positive experience, like yummy treats.
Here are some tips to keep in mind for successfully muzzle training your dog:
- Keep the training sessions short (no more than three minutes per session)
- Make it a game so it is an enjoyable experience for your dog
- Work at your dog’s pace and only move to the next step when they are ready
- Make wearing a muzzle a regular activity and not exclusively for those activities that require it
If you need help training your dog to wear a muzzle, work with a humane dog trainer who can guide you and your dog through the process of muzzle training and make it a positive experience.
Learn more about muzzle training!
Muzzles: The good, the bad, and how to train your dog to wear a muzzle
Kind Corner: Dog trainer’s take on muzzles
