How to Get a Dog Used to a Muzzle

A muzzle is a safety device, like a seat belt. Dogs may need one for medical care, if they are in pain, or when they are frightened. Some dogs scavenge or eat dangerous things on walks, and a muzzle can prevent this. For dogs with a history of biting, a muzzle can reduce risk while training progresses. Teaching a dog to accept a muzzle in advance makes these situations less stressful.

A dog who has not been trained may panic when a muzzle is put on in an emergency. A dog who has learned to like it can wear it calmly. That makes muzzle training a gift to your dog, and a sensible precaution.

Not all muzzles are suitable for training. The best choice for most dogs is a basket muzzle, which allows the dog to open their mouth, pant, drink, and take treats. Avoid soft nylon or fabric muzzles for anything but very short use, since they hold the mouth closed, prevent panting, and can cause overheating.

• Basket muzzle: roomy, allows panting, drinking, and treats. Best for everyday use.
• Soft or cloth muzzle: holds the mouth nearly closed, and is only for brief, supervised use, such as a short vet visit.
• Choose a muzzle made of safe, durable material, with padding if needed.
• Get the right size: measure the length, circumference, and height of your dog's snout, and use the manufacturer's chart.

Note: Ask your vet, groomer, or trainer for help with sizing, and make sure your dog can pant freely.

Go slowly, and make sure your dog is relaxed at each step. Use high-value treats, and keep sessions short.

1. Show the muzzle, and give a treat. Repeat until your dog looks happy when they see it.
2. Hold the muzzle with a treat inside, so your dog puts their nose in to get it. Reward, and withdraw.
3. Hold the muzzle in place for a second while your dog eats treats through the front. Build up the time.
4. Touch the strap behind the ears, with treats, without fastening.
5. Fasten the strap for a moment, feed treats, and unfasten.
6. Increase the time, and add distractions, such as a short walk indoors.

Check the fit. The muzzle should be loose enough that your dog can open their mouth and pant, but snug enough that they cannot pull it off. There should be some space between your dog's nose and the front of the basket. Check for rubbing around the nose and behind the ears, and adjust if needed.

Never leave your dog unsupervised in a muzzle, and do not use it for long periods in heat, or during exercise that causes heavy panting, unless it is a basket design that allows ventilation. Always provide water when the muzzle is off.

A few errors can make a dog afraid of the muzzle, which defeats the purpose.

• Putting the muzzle on suddenly, or only when something unpleasant is about to happen.
• Using it as a punishment, or to stop barking.
• Fastening it before your dog is ready.
• Using a poorly fitting muzzle.
• Skipping rewards.
• Leaving it on too long, too early.

Practice regularly, even if you do not need the muzzle often. Use it sometimes with treats, and sometimes just for walks. Continue to reward your dog for wearing it, so the association stays positive. Make sure your dog is calm and relaxed, so that they will accept it when it really matters.

If your dog is fearful or aggressive, ask a qualified trainer or behaviorist to help with muzzle training. A muzzle does not solve behavior problems, but it can protect everyone while you work on them.