A dog muzzle is unnecessary for most dogs, but it can be helpful in certain situations. A muzzle can stop a dog with digestive health problems from snacking on inappropriate items during walks or at a dog park. Muzzles are also useful to prevent bites in stressful situations such as a painful veterinary procedure that cannot be performed under sedation. In some jurisdictions, certain breeds are required to wear muzzles in public. The proper use of a dog muzzle requires a correct fit, limited usage and a commitment to proper training.
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When to Use a Muzzle
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Muzzles should be used as a supplement to, not a replacement for, proper training. They should only be used when it is necessary. Many dogs feel threatened and restricted when wearing a muzzle and are more likely to behave aggressively in order to ward off potential threats.
A muzzle should be used if the law requires it for your breed where you live. On a cautionary note, many municipalities that begin by restricting the lifestyles of certain breeds eventually ban those breeds completely.
You should also muzzle your dog or allow him to be muzzled if he behaves aggressively during an examination that can't be avoided or performed in a way that makes him feel comfortable. Some dogs have a terrible fear of needles and must always be muzzled when receiving shots. If your dog repeatedly requires muzzling when visiting the veterinarian, try to address the underlying anxiety with training.
Dogs with digestive trouble might need to wear a basket muzzle while in public to stop them from snacking. Irritable bowel syndrome and pancreatitis are two of the many conditions that might require dogs to be muzzled to prevent snacking.
Types of Muzzles
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The most comfortable type of muzzle for most dogs is a wire basket muzzle. This type of muzzle allows dogs to drink and to eat small treats pushed through the "basket" portion of the muzzle. It prevents biting and snacking.
Veterinarians use a fabric muzzle that slips around the dog's snout and buckles behind its head. These muzzles are used in veterinary offices because they're cheap, come in sizes to fit most dogs and are sufficient to prevent a bite during a brief procedure. They're also uncomfortable and easy for the dog to remove. These muzzles shouldn't be used in the long term. They restrict a dog's ability to pant in hot weather and as a result could cause heat exhaustion.
Another option is a plastic basket muzzle. These are similar to the wire basket muzzles in that they are relatively safe and comfortable. However, they restrict airflow more and should be used only occasionally. For regular use, a wire basket muzzle is best.
Safe Use of Muzzles
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Muzzles should be introduced slowly and gently. Begin by showing the muzzle to your dog and giving a treat simply for looking at it. Next, if your dog sniffs or moves toward the muzzle, give another treat. Progress in this way until your dog allows you to rub the muzzle all over her body and head while giving her treats. Then slowly slip the muzzle on, take it back off and give another treat. If possible, repeat this process several times before requiring the dog to wear a muzzle for an extended period.
Never leave your dog wearing a muzzle without supervision. Muzzles can restrict airflow. The dog also might learn to remove the muzzle, which makes that muzzle ineffective for future use. Dog muzzles that don't allow the dog to drink should never be left on for an extended period. Use the muzzle only as long as it is absolutely necessary.
If your dog needs a muzzle because of persistent aggressive behavior, you should be working with a professional animal behaviorist to modify that behavior. An aggressive dog wearing a muzzle is still an aggressive dog. As such, it's a ticking time bomb in terms of safety and liability for its owner and anyone around it.
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