Deb D’Andrea, Nederland. Recently I had a lovely conversation with friends discussing muzzles and how they have used them with their pups to help alter less desirable behaviors. Muzzles had and still have a negative connotation, but in reality they are a tool we can use to help our dogs improve social skills, and manage aggressive tendencies around people and other dogs in instances such as fear aggression.

There are many types of muzzles, from soft muzzles which allow your dog to pant, drink and eat treats while wearing it; to plastic basket muzzles for training. Other muzzles are made of leather or metal but aren’t as frequently recommended as they may restrict your dog’s ability to pant, drink and receive treats; and metal ones may break at welds and injure your dog. In an emergency, you can make your own muzzle from gauze, being careful to not make it too tight and restrictive.

A muzzle should be comfortable for your dog to wear, gently riding on your dogs head without creating any wear marks on their fur and skin. The muzzle shouldn’t be able to be rubbed or scratched off or escaped from and should be a positive experience. When introducing a muzzle to a dog, take your time letting them sniff and see it, giving them treats to make wearing the muzzle a good thing.

Muzzle training is similar to you never putting your dog in their crate as punishment because the crate is their safe zone – a muzzle is for their and others safety. As the dog becomes relaxed around the muzzle, place a treat in it and gently slip it on, your dog will take the treat and then remove the muzzle. Rinse and repeat several times, and take it slow as you want this to be a good memory.

Muzzles vary in price and style, with custom made muzzles running about $60.00; other muzzles start around $10.00. You can get them in all kinds of colors and patterns to match other fashionable attire your dog may have in their wardrobe; but when choosing a muzzle, think long term and what is best for the type of training your dog requires. If you have questions, feel free to email me.

Till next time. Deb D’Andrea, founder of 4TheLuvOfDogz, provides mobile Canine Massage, Canine Agility and Petz Nanny Services for dogs, cats, birds, fish, horses, and other critters. 4TheLuvOfDogz home-made dog treats are sold at local stores, and K9Birthday Cakes are available direct. Contact Deb at 720-675-7078 or info@4theluvofdogz.com for more information.