Muzzle Training & Fitting
Muzzles can be a fantastic way to ensure safety for others, ourselves, and our dogs - they provide an extra layer of protection in situations where life doesn't go to plan. By having a muzzle on our dogs, we can prevent bites from occurring, not only keeping others safe but also keeping our dogs safe from legal ramifications that come with a bite incident.
It is important that we don't just put a muzzle on our dog without doing any training. This can increase their stress and create long term negative associations with a muzzle. However, if we take the time to train happy muzzle wearing in the first place, the process is much smoother and more pleasant for everyone.
Muzzles are meant to be treated like a seat-belt: They're not permission to be reckless, but instead are a back up safety measure to lessen the potential harm in the case of an accident.
Muzzle Acclimation & Training
Here are two videos to teach your dog how to wear a muzzle all while remaining relaxed and happy.
The first video is one minute long, giving some great starter exercises on acclimation with the muzzle.
The second video is much longer, and breaks down the training into easy steps that you can work through one piece at a time. The Chirag Patel muzzle technique is what I use both in homes and in shelters for more active, engaged muzzle training.
We keep it fun; start with short rehearsals; and in the final stage we pop the muzzle on right before a fun outing to further create positive associations with wearing the muzzle.
If you are still choosing a muzzle for your dog, you can begin muzzle training right away with a large cup. The large plastic red cups being particularly handy for cutting some treat holes in the front for easy delivery.
Before getting muzzle...
Here is an excellent article with pictures on what a correct fitting muzzle should look like under different conditions: https://themuzzlemovement.com/blogs/muzzle-fit/muzzle-fit
Being able to open their mouths and pant freely is critical. Muzzles that keep a dogs mouth closed, such as material muzzles that are used in a vet clinic, are not appropriate for extended durations or in the case of any exercise occurring.
Muzzle Options
The type of muzzle you choose will come down to a variety of factors. For some dogs, a muzzle may be needed to prevent scavenging unsafe or unpleasant things from the ground. Some dogs may not require a muzzle for behaviour reasons but instead due to breed restrictions. In other cases, we may be needing a muzzle to keep everyone safe due to the risk of biting, in which case we need to ensure the muzzle we are using is fit for the job.
Softer Basket Muzzles
For scavengers, dogs who require muzzles due to breed restrictions, or dogs who have some reactivity without indication that they will attempt to actually bite, biothane muzzle can be a great choice. These muzzles can usually be customized to add extra scavenging shields, additional straps for preventing a stray tooth from making contact, and come in a variety of colours. Custom biothane muzzled can be ordered here from Kiwi Canine (locally in Christchurch, New Zealand). There are many options on the market that you can find online, such as the Muzzle Movement who also provide scavenger guards.
Bite-Proof Muzzles
For any dog who poses a bite risk, I recommend always opting for a bite proof muzzle for added reassurance and safety. These muzzles can come in different materials - wire (i.e., cage), thick vinyl (>2.5mm thick), and TPU among others.
There are a variety of places you can order these kinds of muzzles from, with most offering a custom option for the best fit along with premade options for more affordability.
For dogs who have sensory sensitivities, or otherwise negative associations with a muzzle, a custom muzzle may be your best option.
Custom or Premade Wire Muzzles
Other options include Wookie muzzles, however there are loads of options if you get your measurements right and give it a google!
Custom or Premade Vinyl & Biothane Muzzles
Lightweight Polyethelene Basket Muzzles
Custom 3D Printed TPU Muzzles
Note, these are heavier than wire muzzles and not necesarily my preference for a lighter framed or older dog. However, I comfortably use them both at the shelter and have some for my own dogs which they wear comfortably: