Muzzles 101

Let’s talk about an often vilified training tool, the muzzle.

If used correctly, they are a wonderful tool to help keep your dog, other pets, and other people safe while you train.

Muzzling will not solve any problem by itself BUT they can help your training be more successful while keeping your dog and others around them safe.⁠

Muzzles provide a net of safety that will work effectively while training around your dog’s triggers.

But did you know that muzzles can be used for more than just aggression? They’re a great tool for dogs that may be recovering from an injury, dogs that are nervous around strange people (vet, groomer), or dogs, etc.

• They should NOT be used for things like stopping your dog from barking, chewing, or eating things off the ground.

• When choosing a muzzle, ensure it allows your dog to pant, drink water, and take treats! My go-to is the Baskerville Basket Muzzle, but work with your vet or a trainer to help you pick the right muzzle.

It’s important to not shove a muzzle on your dog and take them out into the world without acclimating them first! Help create a positive association with the muzzle so that they don’t try to paw it off or dread wearing it.

Here’s how to acclimate your pup to a muzzle:
- Week 1: Spray cheese or peanut butter 2x per day for a week. Put on ground and let them lick the food like the muzzle is a bowl.
- Week 2: Let your dog move into the muzzle and create verbal cue. Reward every time they put their nose in the muzzle.
- Week 3: Hold strap for a few seconds, release, and reward.
- Week 4:  Strap muzzle and feed treats with muzzle on. Leave on for 30 seconds, 60 seconds, working up to a couple minutes, in home with no distractions.
- Week 5: If your dog is comfortable in home, start taking short walks with the muzzle on. Don’t rush the process and stay in “week 4” as long as needed.

How To Acclimate Your Dog To A Muzzle

Muzzles will not fix any problem on their own but are a great TOOL. Work with a certified trainer to come up with a training plan in addition to your muzzle conditioning.