Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Aftab Tariq
A muzzle for dogs ensures proper usage for your pet’s comfort and safety. However, the idea of using a dog muzzle might make you feel uneasy.
You might worry if your pet can drink, pant, or even breathe while wearing it. Is a dog muzzle painful or cruel? If you think a dog muzzle is best for your dog, how do you know? There are times when a dog muzzle can be helpful or even necessary, but there are also times when it’s not the right choice.
What type of dog muzzle is best for your dog? These are common questions about this topic.
Understand when, why, and how to use a dog muzzle, and seek advice from a professional dog trainer.
Why Do People Have Different Opinions About Dog Muzzles?
Dog muzzles might seem controversial. Some people think they’re only for “aggressive” or “attack” dogs. But experts say there are times when every dog might need one. It could be for the dog’s safety, a person’s safety, or both.
For example, if your dog is badly hurt, they might bite out of pain when you try to help them, especially with a muzzle for dogs that bite. This can happen unexpectedly. So, it’s good to know why, when, and how to use a dog muzzle. It’s also important to teach your dog to be okay with wearing one. This helps them feel comfortable if they ever need it.
When is it Suitable to Utilize a Muzzle for Dogs?
There are times when it’s important to use a dog muzzle to keep everyone safe.
During an emergency If your dog is hurt or scared, they might bite out of fear or pain. Using a muzzle can prevent them from hurting you or anyone helping them.
History of biting or risk of biting, including a dog muzzle for biting, is a significant consideration. If your dog has bitten someone before or shows signs of aggression, a muzzle can serve as a safety measure.
Even if there hasn’t been a previous bite incident, but you’re concerned about the possibility, a muzzle can provide peace of mind. However, it’s essential to understand that a muzzle isn’t a solution to their behavior.
It’s merely a temporary measure to ensure safety while you seek help from professionals to address their behavior.
During grooming Most dogs can get used to grooming tasks like baths or nail trims with practice. But if your dog is still learning, using a muzzle might be helpful, especially if they’re not used to the groomer.
Breed-specific legislation In some places, certain breeds of dogs have to wear muzzles when they’re not at home. This is because of laws about “dangerous breeds.
When is it Not Right to Use a Muzzle?
Muzzles, including a dog muzzle for barking, are primarily used for preventing dog bites, not for stopping other behaviors like barking or chewing, including a muzzle for dogs who eat everything.There are two significant reasons for this.
First, muzzles are only for short periods when your dog is supervised. Barking and chewing are ongoing problems, so a muzzle isn’t the right solution.
If your dog is barking a lot, there’s usually a reason, like being anxious or bored. Instead of using a muzzle, you should find out why your dog is barking and work on fixing that with help if needed.
Second, never use a muzzle to force your dog into a stressful situation. If your dog doesn’t like the dog park, don’t use a muzzle to try to make them go. It’ll only make them more scared and anxious next time.
Using a muzzle as punishment is also a bad idea. It won’t fix the problem, and your dog will start to associate the muzzle with being punished. Then, when you need to use the muzzle for a real emergency, your dog will be even more scared.
What Kinds of Muzzles Exist?
There are two main types of muzzles. It’s important to choose the right style and size for safe use. In an emergency, you can also make a homemade muzzle. Here are some options to consider.
Basket muzzle
Basket muzzles look just like they sound – a basket strapped to your dog’s nose and mouth. They can be made of leather, wire, plastic, or rubber and can be bought ready-made or custom-fit for your dog.
Basket muzzle for dogs are a practical option, often more comfortable than soft muzzles. They allow dogs to pant, drink, and eat due to their design. Some even feature slots on the sides, enabling the owner to offer larger treats during training sessions.
Homemade muzzle
Sometimes, in an emergency or if your dog is hurt, you might need to muzzle them. If you don’t have a muzzle on hand, you can make one using things you have at home.
But this should only be done if you really have no other choice, and it should only be used temporarily. You can look up instructions online to make a makeshift muzzle using things like gauze, pantyhose, or even your dog’s leash. But it’s not the best idea to use these materials. It’s better to have a proper muzzle in your dog’s first aid kit.
Soft muzzle
Soft muzzles are usually made from materials like nylon, mesh, or leather. They wrap around your dog’s mouth and keep it closed. However, this design is not very comfortable for your dog. Soft muzzles can be risky because they stop your dog from panting, which helps them cool down. Since dogs can’t sweat like humans, panting is important for them. Soft muzzles should only be used for short periods and never in hot weather.
These muzzles also prevent your dog from barking, drinking, or eating, including a muzzle for dogs that chew. If your dog can’t eat, it’s hard to use treats to reward them during training. Instead, you might have to use items like squeeze cheese that your dog doesn’t need to chew.
How to Introduce a Dog to Wearing a Muzzle?
It’s important not to put a muzzle on your dog for the first time when they’re already stressed or scared. If they associate the muzzle with scary situations, they’ll resist wearing it in the future. Instead, introduce the muzzle gradually and with rewards when your dog is calm.
Beth Nash, who writes for the Vizsla Club of America, had to train her first Vizsla, Bartok, to wear a muzzle. Bartok was scared at the vet’s office, so they needed to muzzle him for everyone’s safety. The vet staff tried to be gentle, but Bart was still anxious, so they had to find a way to help him.
Here’s how we trained our dog to accept the muzzle, step by step, over a few days:
- We let him sniff the muzzle and gave him a treat. We did this a few times.
- We touched his nose with the muzzle and gave him a treat. We kept doing this until he seemed interested in the muzzle.
- With one hand holding the muzzle and the other hand holding a treat, we encouraged him to put his nose inside to get the treat. We repeated this until he got used to it.
- We gently put the muzzle onto his nose and gave him a treat. Then we removed the muzzle right away. We repeated this a few times.
- Next, we put on the muzzle and fastened the buckle. After doing this, we gave him a treat and then removed the muzzle. We did this a few times.
- We put on the muzzle, fastened it, and counted slowly to five. Then we gave him a treat and took off the muzzle.
- Each time we put on the muzzle, we gradually increased the time it stayed on. We held his collar and gave him treats to keep him calm.
If we introduced the muzzle to Bart before he got scared of it, we could have trained him to wear it much faster, maybe even in a day or less. We’ve used this method with all our dogs, including rescue ones we’ve looked after. If your dog doesn’t like treats, you can use other rewards like praise.
Dr. Sophia Yin’s website has a helpful guide on how to train your dog to wear a muzzle step by step. Additionally, the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior has a video demonstrating how to introduce a dog to a muzzle.
How to Correctly Size a Dog Muzzle?
Having the correct size is vital when using a muzzle, including a calming muzzle for dogs. If it’s too loose, your dog can remove it easily, but if it’s too tight, it might make it hard for them to breathe or drink. Straps should be snug but not too tight, with enough space for one finger to fit between your dog’s head and the strap.
It’s wise to try different sizes and consult with a knowledgeable trainer or experienced muzzle user. Taking measurements, especially when ordering online, is also important. Even flat-faced breeds like Pugs can wear muzzles, although a custom-fitted option might be best. Various styles are available, catering to different face shapes and bite risks.
Regardless of why you’re using a muzzle or the type you choose, it’s essential to understand that muzzles aren’t a fix for behavioral issues. Experts emphasize that consistent, positive training is irreplaceable.
Locate the Ideal Muzzles for Your Canine Companion
Baskerville Dog Adjustable Basket Muzzle
This type of muzzle is like a basket made of tough rubber. It’s strong to keep your dog safe but also soft for their comfort. It has different attachment points to keep it secure and allows your dog to eat, drink, pant, and open their mouth. It comes in six sizes, so make sure to check the sizing guide. Price: $14.
Gentle Muzzle Guard for Dogs – Soft Neoprene Padding
The neoprene padding prevents chafing, keeping your dog comfortable in the muzzle. GoodBoy’s Stay-Fit strap and strong buckles ensure a snug fit, allowing your dog to drink and pant. Price: $17.
This muzzle is made for short-snouted dogs like Pugs, Bulldogs, and French Bulldogs. It has an adjustable nylon strap and a quick-release buckle for comfort and easy cleaning. Price: $15.
Find the perfect muzzle for dogs at PetSmart to ensure safe and comfortable outings. Finding the variety of muzzles for dogs in NZ provides tailored solutions for every breed and size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Muzzles make Dogs less Aggressive?
Remember, muzzles won’t change how your dog behaves. For real behavior changes, “it’s best to work with a trained trainer who knows about aggression and uses modern reward-based training,” says Anderson.
What’s the Best Muzzle for Dogs that Bark Frequently?
The best muzzle for dogs that bark frequently is one that allows for comfortable breathing and panting while effectively preventing excessive barking. It should be properly fitted to the dog’s size and breed, ensuring both safety and comfort.
Is it Good to Put a Muzzle on a Dog?
Muzzles are handy tools to stop dogs from doing risky things with their mouths, not just biting. They’re great for dogs that like eating non-food items. Since dogs love to follow scents, muzzles help keep them safe from potential trouble.
I am a dedicated content writer with more than five years of experience, particularly skilled in the art of storytelling. My writing journey commenced during my college years, where I pursued journalism and unearthed my talent for creating captivating narratives.
