If your dog needs a muzzle to stop scavenging or a headcollar to manage pulling, life can already feel a little more complicated. Introducing new training tools can be a positive step toward solving these challenges, but it’s essential to help your dog adjust to them gradually. This process—called acclimatisation—can turn a potentially stressful experience into a smooth and successful transition.
Training tools like muzzles, headcollars, and no-pull harnesses are designed to make life easier for both of you.
What Is Acclimatisation?
Acclimatisation is about building familiarity. Taking small steps to introduce a new tool—like letting your dog sniff and explore it before putting it on—ensures it feels less like a sudden change and more like a natural part of their routine.
In this blog, you’ll find practical, step-by-step advice to guide you through the process and help your dog adjust in a way that feels natural and stress-free.
Why Is Acclimatisation Essential?
Comfort and Safety Matter Most: Training tools are designed with your dog’s comfort and safety in mind. Spending the addition to fully acclimatise and introduce new tools, means they simply become part of the daily routine.
Positive Associations Are Key: Your dog is more likely to accept a new training tool if it’s introduced with patience using treats, praise, or playtime. This process helps them associate the equipment with positive experiences. Avoid saying no or scolding your dog for trying to remove the tool; this can lead to negative associations.
Better Results in Training: A dog that’s comfortable wearing their muzzle or headcollar will focus on learning rather than trying to escape the tool. If the dog perceives the tool as negative, they may start to associate it with other dogs or their environment.
Easier Walks: A comfortable, cooperative dog means less stress for you and more quality time together.
How To Tell If Your Dog Is Struggling
It’s not always obvious when a dog is uncomfortable, but there are signs to watch for, including:
Scratching or Pawing: Persistent attempts to remove the tool often indicate discomfort. Rolling or rubbing their face are also common signs.
Whining or Whimpering: Vocalisations can be a sign of stress or unease.
Avoidance or Hiding: If your dog tries to hide when you bring out the tool, they may feel fearful. This means your dog is unhappy, and more work is needed to habituate them to the tool.
Chewing or Biting: Attempting to chew the tool suggests frustration.
Watch your dog’s body language closely for signs of discomfort. Subtle Indicators like turning or lowering their head or angling their body away from the tool can suggest they’re feeling uneasy.
Stronger signals include holding their ears back, a stiff posture, yawning and lip licking, brief submissive glances and heavy panting.
Recognising these signals early can help you adjust your approach and make the process less stressful.
Steps To Help Your Dog Adjust
- Take It Slow
Don’t rush the process. Pay attention to your dog’s body language to ensure they’re not feeling stressed. Only move to the next step when your dog is calm and comfortable. - Let Them Investigate
Before putting the tool on, let your dog sniff and explore it. Use treats or a favourite toy to create positive associations. For example, place treats inside the tool and reward your dog when they voluntarily interact with it. - Keep Sessions Short
Start by briefly placing the tool on your dog without securing it, then immediately remove it. Reward your dog frequently during these short sessions. - Gradually Increase Time
Slowly build your dog’s tolerance by increasing the duration in small steps. Be mindful that every dog is different—some may need more time than others to adjust. - Avoid Negative Associations
If your dog tries to remove the tool, avoid saying “no” or scolding them. Instead, redirect their attention with treats or play. Scolding can create negative associations with the tool. - Make It a Positive Experience
Use treats and praise to create a positive emotional response to the tool. This isn’t about training a behaviour but helping your dog feel good about wearing it. - Use Perfect Timing
Keep plenty of treats on hand (Our Coachi reward treats are perfect, both low in calories and nutritionally beneficial) reward your dog immediately for calm behaviour or positive interactions with the tool. - Add Play into the Mix
Incorporate your dog’s favourite games or toys to distract them while wearing the tool. This can be especially effective for muzzles or headcollars. - Ensure a Proper Fit
A well-fitting tool is essential. An uncomfortable or poorly fitted tool can hinder acclimatisation. Use fitting guides or consult a professional if you’re unsure. Making sure your dog has plenty of panting room when wearing a muzzle is essential. - Be Patient and Consistent
Dogs adjust at their own pace. Some may adapt quickly, taking days while others need more time and can take weeks. Stay patient, consistent, and focus on making the experience positive.
When Acclimatisation Isn’t Working
If your dog is still struggling despite your efforts:
- Take a Step Back: Remove the tool and restart the process more slowly.
- Seek Expert Advice: A dog trainer or behaviourist can provide tailored support.
- Consider Adjustments: Sometimes, a different style of tool or a better fit can make all the difference.
With each small step, you’re moving toward a path of happier walks and a more enjoyable experience, for both you and your dog.
We’ve spent over 40 years perfecting our understanding of pet behaviour and training. Our founder, Dr. Roger Mugford, a world-renowned animal psychologist, established the Pet Centre as a hub of expertise and innovation. Backed by our dedicated team of behaviourists and trainers, we’ve developed tools and techniques that are trusted by pet owners and professionals worldwide. When you choose our products, you’re not just buying a solution—you’re gaining the benefit of decades of knowledge and a passion for making life better for pets and their owners.