Muzzle training dogs has become a hot topic recently, particularly with the new rules on the XL Bully breed. Many dog owners are asking us how to muzzle train their dog and what the best methods are. It is important to remember that dogs may need a muzzle for many different reasons, but it is vital that all dogs have a positive experience when their muzzle is first introduced and beyond. Here’s how you can make muzzle training fun for your four-legged chum:
- Show your dog the muzzle, make encouraging sounds and provide a reward such as a treat. Giving your dog rewards and positive reinforcement will help them associate the muzzle with ‘good’ before you even try and put it on.
- Encourage your dog to place their nose into the muzzle using a tasty temptation such as cheese, peanut butter (without xylitol) or meat paste.
- Continue to give treats and gently connect the neck strap for a few seconds
- Undo and repeat, steadily increasing the time the muzzle is worn, at home and in the garden.
- If using a Baskerville ultra muzzle, we always recommend using the collar loop and head strap provided while your dog gets used to wearing their muzzle.
- Once your dog is settled with the muzzle at home, then take your dog on a few short walks in quieter places so they continue to acclimatise.
- Steadily build up to all the everyday situations where the muzzle is needed
Things to remember when muzzle training
- Never reprimand your dog for trying to remove the muzzle. This just means you need to repeat step 4 and give the process more time.
- Muzzle training dogs can take time. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key. Make sure you constantly distract your dog with treats throughout the process, so the experience is always positive.
- It’s important to know that even after this process, your dog should not be left unattended with the muzzle on
- Remember, you are doing what is best for your furry companion. Do not let stigma or ignorance get you down.
There are many different types of dog muzzles you can buy but we would always recommend using a basket dog muzzle such as the Baskerville ultra muzzle or the anti-scavenge muzzle depending on what you intend on using it for. Always remember that Muzzle training dogs is an important part of being a responsible dog owner and should be treated positively and without stigma.