How to muzzle train a dog

Top dog muzzle tips:

• Muzzles are an ideal solution for taking fearful dogs to the vet or out in public
• It is vital your dog associates wearing a muzzle with positivity and fun
• Take your time with muzzle training – do not be tempted to put it on your dog straightaway
• Be prepared for the fact your dog may need a muzzle someday – you never know how your dog will react until it is in a frightening situation
• Baskerville-style muzzles are the kindest
• If you dog does have a problem (with other dogs, wildlife, humans) it is your responsibility to keep him/her safe
• For easy visibility, purchase a muzzle that is a contrasting colour to your dogs coat
• Learn more about muzzle training on our pet advice pages

What are the best dog muzzles?

Dogs that are used to wearing muzzles are very comfortable with them. The best type of dog muzzle is the Baskerville muzzle – its open basket weave allows the dog to breathe freely. Other types of muzzles that completely close a dog’s mouth do not allow them to pant to lose heat. The Baskerville is available from vets and good pet shops.

Make sure you get the correct size for your dog. The piece that goes across the nose mustn’t rub their eyes.

How do you muzzle train your dog?

To get your dog used to wearing the muzzle, put some of their favourite food in the bottom of it (cream cheese is useful as it’s sticky) and raise the muzzle to the dog’s nose. They’re likely to smell the food inside and put their nose into it themselves. Don’t try to fasten the muzzle at this stage, just let the dog eat the treat. Do this a few times and make sure that you behave in a jolly and positive way throughout.

With time, you can actually work up to fastening the muzzle. At first, just fasten it and take it off right away. Gradually leave it on for longer periods – but be unpredictable. Sometimes remove it immediately; other times leave it on for longer. Vary the places where you put the muzzle on (including doing it outside, in the garden or while you’re out for a walk) and vary the times of day that you practice. But remember to always associate wearing the muzzle with something your dog likes, such as going for a walk or being fed food treats while wearing the muzzle. By keeping your dog active and feeding them treats you’ll also reduce the opportunity for them to try and take it off.

How to properly fit a muzzle

When your dog is used to the muzzle, make sure it’s properly fitted. If it’s too loose, they may be able to shake it off. The clasp around the neck should not allow more than ONE small finger to be inserted under the strap. When you’re sure it’s tight enough stitch the strap so that it’s always the correct length and doesn’t work loose.

One of the most humane tools that you can use to train your dog is a muzzle, because it will help to manage their behavior while protecting them, you, and others. Of course, in order to actually use a muzzle on your dog, you have to get them to accept it, and that, in itself, takes training.

How do you do it?

Teaching your dog to wear a muzzle isn’t as tough as it seems, but you need to practice patience and consistency, and work to make your pup associate it with positive things, such as affection or treats. For the sake of this guide, we’re going to use positive reinforcement via the treat method. You’ll need:

• A bag of treats that your dog enjoys
• A muzzle
• A clicker (optional)

1. Associate rewards with a sound
   The first step is to make your dog associate the sound of the clicker (or some other sound; you can even choose a specific word) with getting a treat. You can do this by putting a treat in your hand while engaging in a completely separate activity such as reading a book or surfing the web.

   Your dog will most likely be excited by the treat, but wait until they calm down to give it to them. As soon as they stop behaving badly, use the clicker and then give them a treat. Repeat this until they start reacting to the sound of the clicker and looking around for their treat.
   Slowly introduce the muzzle
   While still holding a treat and the clicker, bring out the muzzle and attempt to get your dog to sniff it. As soon as they do, click and treat them. Repeat this to get them to put their nose in the muzzle and eventually to keep it there for longer and longer periods of time.

   After you can get them to keep their nose in the muzzle on their own, move the straps around as if you were going to strap the muzzle on. Continue clicking and treating for each step they let you take without pulling out of the muzzle. Once you finally get the muzzle on completely, click and take it off to give them another treat.
   Increase wearing time
   Once your dog can successfully get into the muzzle, your next goal should be to get them used to wearing it for longer and longer periods of time. Initially, this can be done by continuing the above strategy and clicking and treating as they reach various thresholds — 30 seconds, 60 seconds, and so on. Don’t scold your dog if they start to fuss with the muzzle, but do try to distract them.

   As soon as they can comfortably wear the muzzle for a few minutes at a time, head outside and there will be lots of things to help with that distraction! It’s all about getting them used to wearing the muzzle at this point, and that’s something that will happen with time.

One way to use a muzzle to help with the socialization process is to use the Funny Muzzle. Why? Because it’s designed to help other people react more calmly to your dog wearing the muzzle, and that, in turn, can help your pup to be more relaxed, too.

Remember: if you’re using a tube style muzzle that restricts your dog’s ability to pant, only use it for a few minutes at a time. If you’re going to have the muzzle on longer or have your dog engage in any strenuous exercise, you should use a basket style muzzle, which does allow them to pant. And, in all cases, never leave a muzzle on an unsupervised dog.

When muzzle training your dog it’s important to make sure you allow enough time for your dog to get used to the muzzle on their own terms before you need them to wear it out and about.

Muzzle training should take place over a series of short sessions, ideally over a period of at least a few days, taking care to make sure your dog associates the muzzle with fun and positive situations.

Here’s a step by step guide on muzzle training your dog.

What muzzle should I buy?

We recommend using a basket type muzzle as these allow you to feed your dog treats while they are wearing it. A basket muzzle will also allow your dog to pant and drink freely. The most important thing is to make sure that any muzzle you buy fits your dog correctly – with a basket muzzle there should be a small space between their nose and the end of the muzzle so it is not uncomfortable to wear.

Step 1 – Introducing your dog to a muzzle

Gently hold the muzzle in a cupped hand. You will need to be able to place a treat in the muzzle without it falling through. Take a treat and let your dog see you place it just at the opening of the muzzle. Allow your dog to take the treat from inside the muzzle. Repeat this as many times as required, ideally over a few sessions. Your dog should come to see the muzzle as a treat dispenser and be keen to put their face in it. Once your dog is willingly placing their head into the entrance of the muzzle to retrieve the treat, start putting treats further back into the muzzle, closer to the front, where their nose should eventually be.

Step 2 – Getting your dog comfortable with the muzzle

Hold the muzzle in your hand and wait for your dog to place their head inside. Once inside, take the treat and feed it to your dog through the side or end of the muzzle. At this point you may find it easier to use a treat in a squeezy tube that will fit in the gaps of the muzzle such as a small amount of pâté or spreadable cheese. Repeat as many times as required until your dog is happy keeping their face in the muzzle. The aim is to get them readily placing their head in the muzzle in anticipation of a treat whenever the muzzle comes out.

Step 3 – Introducing the straps behind the head

Next, instruct your dog to put their head in the muzzle using the treat. Once their head is in the muzzle, lift up the straps behind their ears, without fastening them. This will introduce them to the sensation of the straps. Treat your dog through the muzzle again. Remove the muzzle and repeat this step a few times, still without doing up the straps. This will familiarise your dog with the feeling of the straps around their head without the muzzle being closed.

Step 4 – Fastening the muzzle

When your dog is happy with the straps being lifted, fasten the muzzle. Reward them immediately and then calmly remove it. If your dog panics or tries to get the muzzle off then you may have moved too fast. If this happens, go back a few steps and try building up to it again. Repeat this step until your dog is relaxed about having the muzzle on and fastened. Once your dog is happy, you can slowly build up the amount of time you leave between fastening the muzzle and giving them a treat.

Step 5 – Wearing the muzzle regularly

Once your dog is relaxed wearing the muzzle for a short period of time, make sure you continue regular training so that wearing the muzzle is part of their daily routine. You could try putting the muzzle on as you get your dog ready to go for a walk or put it on at home and do some other fun training. This will keep your dog engaged with the muzzle and get them used to associating wearing the muzzle with fun things happening.

Download steps as a handy advice sheet and use it as a reminder to train regularly:

Learn which nine foods to avoid around your dog

Using the muzzle is mandatory for breeds considered potentially dangerous by law which often leads to members of the public thinking the worst of a dog wearing one. However, there are many instances where you might want to muzzle your dog regardless if they are aggressive (actually, the appropriate word is ‘reactive’) or not. It is helpful if your dog becomes nervous at the vet, it prohibits the dog eating things it shouldn’t when outside and it can be used effectively in certain training techniques. Using a muzzle as a method of punishment is not recommended. If they are given a muzzle at a time when they are being reprimanded, they will feel distressed wearing it when necessary.

In this AnimalWised.com article we will explain what you need to do when Training Your Dog to Use a Muzzle.

What is the Best Type of Muzzle?

The most suitable muzzle for a dog is the “basket” type, as shown in the picture below. Unlike those made of fabric, they allow the dog to breathe properly, drink water and receive treats without having to remove them. However, there may be different types of muzzle for different circumstances. Soft fabric muzzles allow for breathing, but are not as durable as basket muzzles.

Tube type muzzles are good for grooming, but should not be left on for long or be used when the dog is exercising as it can restrict breathing. Lastly, strap muzzles are ones with a simple fabric strap which goes over the dog’s snout. These are least effective in big aggressive dogs, but can be useful for tamer animals.

1. Create a Positive Association Between Your Dog and Their Muzzle

It is important to not put the muzzle directly on your dog if it is not familiar with it, since this has a greater chance making it permanently uncomfortable when wearing one. The animal will feel annoyed and confused, so it is better to go step by step. By using positive reinforcement, your dog will learn that putting the muzzle on is a happy experience which can result in rewards and praise.

To do this, put some tasty treats in the bottom of the muzzle. Let your dog eat them and congratulate it for doing so. The better the experience, the sooner it will let you put it on.

2. A Gradual Process

You should try putting the muzzle on your dog little by little everyday. At first, don’t strap it on, but simply introduce it to your dog. Reward it at every stage, even if this is merely involves them giving it a good sniff. Don’t force it on the dog if it doesn’t seem to enjoy it. Positive reinforcement will take time, but the effort you put in at the start will reap dividends later.

When you notice that your dog starts to positively relate to the muzzle, you can start tying it on for short periods of time. Games and fun should always be part of the process. If you induce fear and dread in your dog it is likely to feel nervous, anxious and sad every time you put the muzzle on.

3. Avoid the Following Situations

In order for your dog to let you put the muzzle on properly, you should avoid these situations at all costs or it will only relate to it negatively:

• Don’t force it on
• Save it for particular situations (e.g. going to the vet or on public transport)
• Don’t use it for too long
• Avoid using it if the dog suffers from stress
• Don’t use it as a method of punishment
• Don’t leave your dog alone with the muzzle attached

If you follow our advice and don’t put too much pressure on your dog, you should achieve very positive results. However, if the process becomes complicated and your dog doesn’t seem to accept the muzzle under any circumstances, it is best to go to a dog trainer who can recommend some guidelines.

If you are just beginning on the journey of training your dog, why not read How to Make a Dog Ethogram to get started. Then you can continue training with the basics by reading How to Teach Your Dog to Stay Still on Command.

If you want to read similar articles to Training Your Dog to Use a Muzzle, we recommend you visit our Basic education category.

John Gollop / Getty Images

Muzzles on dogs often evoke unfair stereotypical reactions. The dog may not be wearing the muzzle because it is aggressive and, even if it is, it doesn’t mean the dog is “bad” — just that the owner is responsible. As long as you have the right muzzle for your dog, guided by your veterinarian, a muzzle could be a practical choice.

Why Might a Dog Wear a Muzzle?

History of Aggressive Behavior

If a dog has a history of aggression, with other dogs or people, using a muzzle as a management tool can minimize the risk in certain situations.

Some dogs may always need muzzled, but it may be possible to teach your dog to offer an alternative, more desirable behavior and to help them feel more relaxed and safe, often with the support of a qualified Canine Behaviorist.

In Sudden Frightening/Painful Situations

Some dogs may not usually be aggressive, but if they are in a very uncomfortable situation, and their warning signs are ignored (often in the vets or groomers), they may feel they have no choice but to snap or bite. If your dog is in pain, they may react in a way that is out of character. If they have had a severe injury, a muzzle may be needed while moving them.

Breed Specific Legislation (BSL)

Sadly, some states have legislation that mandates particular breeds are muzzled when in public places. While BSL does not provide a solution for the real problem of irresponsible dog ownership and it is discriminatory towards dogs that are often extremely gentle, to avoid your dog being seized, these rules should be followed.

High Prey Drive

Some dogs, such as the Spanish Galgo, have an instinctual high prey drive and, while it is better not to have them off-leash where they could give chase, they may try to snatch smaller animals even when they are on the leash, and a muzzle could prevent injury or fatality.

Scavenging

Some dogs are notorious scavengers on walks, and they can end up with serious gastric upsets or blockages. While a muzzle is not a foolproof solution, it can help minimize what your dog may ingest. Working on strong “leave it” and “drop it” commands is also recommended.

Traveling on Public Transport

In certain countries and on certain modes of public transport, dogs may be allowed to travel but only if they wear a muzzle.

Which Muzzle is Best?

There are a variety of muzzles on the market. Many favor aesthetics over practicality, and it is crucial that you choose a well-fitting muzzle that allows your dog to pant freely, take treats and drink water. Also, take guidance from your veterinarian whenever possible.

Basket Muzzle

The basket muzzle, is generally the best choice, but people veer away from it as it tends to be the most noticeable. A well-fitting basket muzzle is effective while still allowing your dog the opportunity to pant easily.

Mesh Muzzle

This softer style muzzle is often popular as it is the least obtrusive. To allow it to be effective, it needs to be pretty tight-fitting, but dogs are at risk for overheating. While it is okay to use for short sessions at the vet or the groomer, it is not suitable for walks or extended periods.

Breed-Specific Muzzles

Sighthound muzzles are commonly used for breeds like Greyhounds and Whippets, with long, thin snouts.

It can be difficult to find a well-fitting muzzle for the flat-faced, brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs and Pugs, and there is a greater risk of them overheating in one too.

When Is a Muzzle Not the Best Solution?

Sometimes, muzzles are used for the wrong reasons. This can cause pain or discomfort, and it can lead to alternative problem behaviors.

For Punishment

If a dog has not been properly introduced to wearing a muzzle, it can be a frightening—even traumatizing—experience. Some owners will use it as a form of punishment for undesired behavior. Usually, the dog will not associate the two things, so it is not effective long term. It can also erode the bond of trust between you and could cause them to snap when the muzzle appears.

To Stop Barking

Muzzles are sometimes used to try to stop barking. While this may work temporarily (if the dog is terrified of the muzzle), the dog can still bark when wearing one unless it’s way too tight. It’s much better to use positive training methods with your dog.

To Stop Destructive Behavior

If your dog has been chewing on household items, a muzzle may seem a good solution. However, it is not a good idea to leave a muzzle on for prolonged periods, especially when unsupervised, and you are not addressing the underlying issue. You should establish why your dog is being destructive and work on resolving this. Perhaps they are bored and need more stimulation, or they could be stressed as a result of separation anxiety.

How to Train Your Dog to Accept a Muzzle

Always start by offering a tasty treat every time you bring the muzzle into your dog’s view. You want them to associate it with good things. Next, lay it on the ground and reward your dog every time they voluntarily move towards it, working up to them actively touching it.

Then, encourage them to put their snout into the muzzle for just a second. Never force their snout in. Build up the time they have their snout inside gradually. Initially, you could use a treat or doggy-safe peanut butter on the inside of the muzzle. Once they are relaxed with this stage, move on to fastening it around their ears. The length of time it is fastened should be built up over several sessions.

Always introduce the training sessions in a low-stress, familiar environment, and make sure that you keep the training sessions short (five minutes maximum), use high-value rewards, and don’t try to go too fast or skip any steps.

Make your dog wearing a muzzle can sometimes be controversial. Some people argue that you are abusing your dog or shouldn’t use it when working on reactivity because the dog can’t behave as he would typically do.

Well, it depends a lot on how you train your dog to wear a muzzle.

First, I want to list some of the reasons why every owner should train his dog to wear a muzzle :

• It protects your dog as much as the others around him.

A dog who has an issue being around people or other animals can’t harm anyone seriously while wearing a muzzle. Plus, your dog won’t be at risk of being put down because he would have bite someone. Preventing an accident to happen will also prevent this behavior to be reinforced. Make your dog wear a training muzzle that keeps everyone safe.

• Some public spaces or public transportations require your dog to wear a muzzle. Having your dog comfortable wearing a muzzle allows you to take him with you during your trips.

• Your vet could be more comfortable practicing cooperative husbandry without restraint if your dog wears a muzzle. I personally love using the dog muzzle as the start button during vet care.

• If your dog is really in pain, you could have to make him wear a muzzle to treat him or transport him in an emergency. Having him used to enjoy wearing the muzzle will make this moment less scary than if you put this thing on his nose for the first time of his life without training.

• Wearing a muzzle can help to create some space around the dogs who need it.

Better than any sign on a bib, most people will give your dog some space if he wears a muzzle (even just around the neck). Muzzles for dogs is safe to use and It can really help your dog feeling safer and prevent regression in your reactivity training caused by people letting their dogs run to yours or trying to pet him without asking.

• Some owners will feel more relaxed knowing their dog can’t harm anybody, and it will allow them to work on the issue more efficiently. The owner’s stress can affect the dog’s stress.

• In some areas, specific dog breeds have to wear a muzzle because of the law.

WARNING: If your dog is wearing a muzzle, it doesn’t allow you to put him in situations he is not comfortable just because he can’t harm anyone. Wearing a muzzle or not, you should always keep your dog emotionally safe.

Choice of the muzzle

You need to choose a dog muzzle that allows your dog to pant, drink, and eat treats while wearing it and prevent biting.

Prefer a basket muzzle from a mesh one for these reasons.

So how to train your dog to wear a muzzle?

Teaching dog to wear a muzzle is very sensitive issue. Merely putting the muzzle on the nose of your dog, having him trying to remove it till he just gives up, can put him in a state of learned helplessness. It is traumatic, and that’s why some dogs just shut down and stop behaving when they wear a muzzle. It is not because of the muzzle itself but because of how they “learned” to wear it.

You can teach your dog actually to enjoy wearing it. It should be a proactive training. You should start the training a dog to wear a muzzle before you actually need your dog to wear the muzzle.

• Associate the dog muzzle with good things. Whenever you show the muzzle, make good things happen just after your dog sees the muzzle like tasty treats ou playtime.
• Teach him to put his nose voluntarily in the muzzle while you hold it using positive reinforcement.
• Reinforce with treats for keeping his nose in the muzzle while you hold it for longer periods.
• While he keeps his nose in the muzzle, start touching behind his neck, then gradually manipulate the straps till you can actually clip on the muzzle. Reinforce each step when he stays calm in the muzzle.
• Once your dog can wear the muzzle for some seconds while being static, we want to teach them to move while wearing it. You can lure or cue some simple behaviors with a previous high history of reinforcement like touch and follow your hand/sit / down / spin/heelwork / recall from a static position…
• Again at each step, we want to use high-value reinforcers. It will help create good associations while moving with the muzzle on.
• The final step is switching from a “working mode” to “exploratory mode.” Mark and reinforce whenever your dog explores something: sniff the air, the ground, anything in the environment, look at something, listen to something. Gradually he will be able to do these activities, which are self-reinforcing for a longer time without your support.

Tags: dog, dog training, science of learning, szkolenie psów

TROMPLO Agnieszka Janarek,
ul. Jana Kowalika 7, Niegoszowice,
32-064, Rudawa, woj. małopolskie

Why this is useful for your dog to know: Like a bike helmet, a muzzle is a piece of safety equipment. A muzzle protects the dog as much as the people around him. Every dog can benefit from muzzle training, since any dog may need to wear a muzzle in the case of high stress or injury. Proper training makes it much less stressful (and maybe even pleasant) for a dog to wear a muzzle.

End behavior: The dog will comfortably and happily wear a properly fitted muzzle for up to 30 minutes.

Step 1: Show the dog the muzzle from a foot away; reward him with food whenever he looks at it. Do this 2-5 times. Gradually move closer to the dog until the muzzle is within touching distance.

• Tip: If the dog retreats from the muzzle, start from farther away. Hold it at a distance where he can see it but doesn’t try to move away. Toss him the food while the muzzle is in view, then take the muzzle out of his view (e.g., put it behind your back) and stop feeding him. Show him the muzzle again and start feeding, then take it away and stop feeding. Gradually move the muzzle closer until it is within touching distance.

Step 2: Wipe some wet food, peanut butter or soft cheese around the inside edge of the muzzle. As the dog approaches, let him lick the muzzle. When he will comfortably approach the muzzle and touch it, go to Step 3.

Step 3: Place high-value treats in the muzzle and allow the dog to eat the treats from the muzzle. Cup your hand under the muzzle to hold in the treats. Let the dog place his nose in the muzzle to get the treats. Slowly pull the muzzle away from the dog as he eats the treats, so that he wants to follow and push his mouth into the muzzle. Do not force the muzzle on to the dog. Gently remove the muzzle before the dog has a chance to remove his nose. This step will ensure that the dog does not develop a habit of taking the food and pulling away from the muzzle. When the dog will keep his nose in the muzzle for 30 seconds, go to Step 4.

• Tip: If treats fall out of the muzzle as you’re working on this step, try putting some duct tape inside the bottom of the muzzle to hold them in.

Step 4: Gradually require the dog to keep his nose in the muzzle for longer periods. For this and all following steps, use treats (e.g., jerky and Pup-Peroni) that you can easily give the dog through the muzzle. Even better, use tasty foods with paste consistency, such as soft cheese (e.g., Cheez Whiz), Kong filler and peanut butter, to squeeze rewards through the muzzle into the dog’s mouth. When the dog will wear the muzzle for 2 to 3 minutes, go to Step 5.

• Tip: If your muzzle does not allow for easy delivery of treats to the dog’s mouth, consider cutting out one small section of bars from the front.

Step 5: Allow the dog to place his nose in the muzzle and reward him with treats. Begin to fumble with the straps and clips, and attempt to touch the straps together. When you can hold the straps for 10 seconds, go to Step 6.

Step 6: Allow the dog to place his nose in the muzzle and reward him with treats, then clip the muzzle straps around his neck. Make sure the muzzle is snug enough that he can’t pull it off, but also not too tight. Give him treats quickly and constantly for the entire time the muzzle is on. Keep the sessions short — 20 seconds to start. When you can easily place the muzzle on the dog, and clip it, go to Step 7.

• Tip: If you notice that the muzzle seems to be chafing or looks uncomfortable, check to be sure that you are using the right size. If you are, then consider applying adhesive foam padding to the chafing points on the inside to make it more comfortable for the dog.

Step 7: Put the muzzle on the dog and immediately begin to reward him with treats while he is wearing it. Then, while he’s wearing the muzzle, take the dog for a brief walk inside the run or kennel. Keep giving treats frequently (every few steps). It’s helpful to have two people to do this at first: one to keep the dog moving and one to reward. Do this exercise a few times and then go to Step 8.

Step 8: Put the muzzle on the dog and and immediately begin to reward him with treats while he is wearing it. Take the dog for a short walk (outside, this time) while he’s wearing the muzzle. Click and reward at regular intervals. Do not remove the muzzle until the dog is back in his run.

• Tip: If the dog starts to paw at the muzzle, keep him moving and reward more often. Do not remove the muzzle while the dog is pawing at it. If he gets very uncomfortable, wait until he stops pawing at it for a few seconds (feed him treats to distract him if necessary), and then remove it and end the session. In the next session, reduce the amount of time he wears the muzzle.

Step 9: Have the dog wear the muzzle for all walks. He should look forward to being muzzled at this point, because it predicts a walk. Give the dog treats frequently during walks.

Proofing

Proofing means teaching the dog to generalize the behavior in different contexts.

Location: Have the dog wear the muzzle for short periods in places where he’ll be likely to need it. If you are training him to wear the muzzle for grooming or medical purposes, make several visits to the vet’s office or the groomer before the actual appointments. Put the muzzle on the dog and give him lots of treats. During the actual appointments, continue to reward the dog periodically while he’s muzzled. Make sure he wears the muzzle for walks or other enjoyable activities more often than he wears it for medical reasons.

Handler: Have different people practice putting the muzzle on the dog.

Notes

The goal of muzzle training is to make wearing the muzzle a safe, happy game that the dog loves to play. If at any time during muzzle training the dog appears anxious or unhappy about the muzzle, back up in the plan to the previous step.

I’ve encountered many clients whose dogs have such a negative association with a muzzle that they either leave the room when they see it, or are too afraid to approach it for food. This happens if dogs have been forced to wear a muzzle, or only wear muzzles during unpleasant activities like the veterinarian. It also happens when a dog has severe fear or anxiety. While going slow is important to ensure any dog is completely comfortable with the muzzle training process, it’s imperative for dogs who have existing negative associations to focus solely on changing those emotions before moving forward in the training plan.

The first step in the muzzle training plan is desensitization and counterconditioning: The muzzle appears, the trainer drops food, and once the dog eats the food, the muzzle disappears. After repetitions at random intervals, the dog will learn that the muzzle predicts food, a signal that it’s time to move to the next step in the training plan.

If you are struggling getting past this initial step, don’t panic. Your dog simply needs more time to realize that the appearance of the muzzle will not be a tip-off to something scary. Dogs remember scary events, and remember them well, so it takes time to erode those negative associations. Along with patience, here are some tips to help your dog overcome fear of the muzzle:

• If your dog is suspicious of being forced to wear the muzzle when it appears, place the muzzle on the ground, drop food, and then leave the room. Wait for your dog to explore the muzzle and eat the food on his own time, instead of pressuring him to explore before he’s ready.
• If your dog is hesitant to approach the muzzle, place the food three to five feet away from the muzzle, gradually placing the food closer as your dog becomes more comfortable.
• Make sure your dog has plenty of space to gain distance from the muzzle. Drop it a good distance away from his safe space (his crate, bed, etc), so that he can retreat if he needs. Remember, the goal isn’t pressuring your dog to be OK with the muzzle; it’s creating an environment where your dog feels safe enough to explore and eat food around the muzzle.
• If your dog chooses not to approach the muzzle, it’s OK. Let your dog set the pace of training. If he isn’t approaching for food, he isn’t comfortable. Adjust the environment and training set up with the tips above so that he feels safe.
• Give your dog a fresh start, and avoid using the muzzle for scary experiences until he is ready. Otherwise you will erode your hard work overriding the negative associations and implementing positive ones.

Don’t worry if your dog’s muzzle training is progressing slower than you think is normal. Train the dog in front of you, and be kind to yourself. Your dog will let you know when he’s comfortable and ready to move forward, and by using the above tips, you’ll be engaging in clearer conversation with him.

2 Comments on “How long does muzzle training take? Wrong question.”

My 19month female boxer wants to attack my male boxer but only in the house or bedroom. The situation is effecting the household . My female can sleep in the same room with my male UNTIL it’s either light where she can see him or it’s time to go out . I don’t want to get rid of her so I am going to try to train her to use a muzzle hopefully 🤞🏻 This works and my boxers can be happy

Long Island, NY

The Importance of Muzzle Training

Believe it or not, the use of a muzzle can come in handy even if your dog does not have aggression issues. For most of us the typical response to hearing about the use of a muzzle may be to feel a little uneasy, and that’s not a surprise as there is often a negative stigma attached to the thought of a muzzle on a dog. So, I’ll say it again, muzzles can come in really handy!

Yippy, The Muzzle.

You might be surprised to know that we can train animals to enjoy and tolerate wearing a muzzle. While we as humans may think of a muzzle as a bad or negative thing, most dogs, unless they’ve had a bad or traumatizing experience with one, don’t have an opinion one way or the other. That’s where training comes in! With the right techniques and enough time, most dogs can learn to love wearing a muzzle, just as they are comfortable wearing a collar or a harness.

Times that dogs may need to be muzzled include at the vet’s office or for grooming appointments. These are stressful events for many dogs and putting a muzzle on an untrained dog adds more stress! And while we never like to think of our dogs getting hurt, if your very gentle and friendly dog is badly injured a muzzle may be necessary so he or she can be handled by medical personnel. Even the gentlest dog may bite if they are in extreme pain.

As mentioned above, it takes time to acclimate a dog to wearing a muzzle, and most dogs can learn to think it is something great. I have attached two popular videos here on how to train a dog to wear a muzzle. Because every dog learns and processes things differently, you will need to tailor your muzzle training plan to your own dog. If you train the muzzle to be a fun thing, chances are your dog will learn to love the muzzle!

Micheal Shikashio Muzzle Training

Chirag Patel Muzzle Training

Muzzle Training Tips: For more information and a plan of action, you can also visit The Muzzle Up Project website by clicking here.

When is Muzzle Training Helpful?

In addition to the reasons stated above, we generally think of muzzles for dogs that display aggressive behavior. Dogs may display aggressive behavior for a variety of reasons. Some of those reasons could be:

• Fear, Anxiety, Stress
• Predatory Behaviors
• Resource Guarding
• Territorial Behavior
• Physical Pain
• Conflict
• Getting Startled
• Lack of Impulse Control

Muzzles come in useful during the training and behavior modification process to keep everyone, including the dog, safe. If your dog has a history of biting, I encourage you to take the time to train your dog to wear a muzzle. Muzzles are tools that provide a layer of safety for the reasons listed above. Muzzles do not stop or cure reactive or aggressive behaviors. This is where hiring a certified behavior consultant can help provide behavior modification.

Some dogs need muzzles if they have the potential to display aggressive behaviors and/or potentially bite someone. I describe the word biting as a dog’s teeth making contact with a person or other animal. A bite does NOT need to cause a scratch, bruise or puncture to be considered a bite. Plain and simple, a bite is when a dog’s teeth make contact with the skin of a human or other animal.

What Type of Muzzle is Right For Your Dog?

There are many different types of muzzles out on the market. My advice would be to buy one that allows your dog to eat and drink while wearing it. The most popular brand is the Baskerville Ultra Muzzle, which can be found at most pet stores and online.

WARNING! There are many knockoff brands that look similar to the Baskerville Ultra Muzzle. The issue is that these muzzles are made from weaker materials. Some of these knockoff muzzles are very soft and flimsy, which can allow most dogs to bite someone through the muzzle.

My advice would be to stick with the name brand Baskerville Ultra Muzzle if that is the type of muzzle that you are looking to purchase. The difference in price is not worth the liability of having a dog who will bite in a substandard muzzle.

There are many other types of muzzles out on the market, so if you need something other than a Baskerville Ultra, take the time to watch this awesome video created by aggression expert, Michael Shikashio to learn more about each muzzle so that you can decide which muzzle is right for your dog.

Choosing A Muzzle:

Muzzle Up Project

To learn more about muzzles, the use of muzzles, additional muzzle training videos and exercises and anything else you want to learn about muzzles, I encourage you to visit The Muzzle Up Project website.

Hire a Professional to Help

Did you know that the dog training industry is not regulated? This means that hiring the closest trainer or the one recommended by your friends might not be the right choice for you and your dog. Below are links to organizations that have high standards for certifying trainers. This means you have a better chance at hiring someone who is reputable.

And of course, I also provide in-home consultations and virtual video consultations. Feel free to check out my website to learn more! Get in contact with me to find out more about how I can help you and your dog.

If you are seeking professional help for behavior issues such as aggression, fear, anxiety etc. then read my blog post on what behavior modification is. This will help you know what to expect in your consultation and what to look for when hiring a professional.

Need a Veterinary Behaviorist? Click here to learn more:

BSc (Hons), PGDipCABC

BSc (Hons), PGDipCABC

Rosie is a qualified Clinical Animal Behaviourist with a degree in Zoology & Psychology from the University of Bristol & a Post-Graduate Diploma in Companion Animal Behaviour Counselling from Southampton University.

She is a full member of the Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors, a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (No. 1006), and registered as both a Clinical Animal Behaviourist & as an Animal Training Instructor with the Animal Behaviour & Training Council (the regulatory body that represents trainers & behaviourists to both the public & to legislative bodies).

Dave is Clinical Director at Bath Vet Group and Natures Vet in Somerset.

He lives near Frome with his wife, their two children and their ginger cat, Baker.

There’s no reason your dog can’t be comfortable when wearing their muzzle. Let’s take a look at the best ways to get your dog muzzle-ready, happy and cooperative.

Finding the best dog muzzle

There’s lots to take into account when finding the best dog muzzle: do you want a small dog muzzle, or is your dog a large breed that may need something stronger? You might be torn between soft muzzles and hard muzzles. The best thing to do when looking to get a muzzle for your dog is to have a chat with your vet – they’ll understand your dog, their reasons for needing a muzzle and will be able to alter their recommendations based on this.

I have a dog muzzle, how do I train my dog to wear it?

Much like crate training a puppy or teaching a kitten to use the toilet, the best muzzle training technique is to get your dog used to their new accessory slowly, and in stages.

Use food

Use a tasty treat like peanut butter (assuring it’s free of xylitol of course!) and put it at the end of the muzzle on the inside. Feed it to your dog, but don’t attach the muzzle just yet. Once you’ve done this a few times, they’ll form a positive association with their muzzle.

Baby steps

Once your dog is used to voluntarily popping their nose into the muzzle – they don’t jerk away from it or regard it with fear – hold the straps around the back of the head for a second. Feed your dog a treat through the muzzle and then take it off. Build up the length of time spend holding the straps, feeding treats into the muzzle as you hold them. You want to form a strong association that the muzzle = delivery of tasty things. Then you can fasten it, feed a treat and immediately remove it.

Gradually build up the length of time your dog is wearing their muzzle, starting with just a few seconds. Make sure it isn’t so tight that it’ll hurt, but also not so loose that it will fall off when your dog moves around. Keep your dog distracted when wearing the muzzle – do some training with them, rewarding them all the while. Take it off before they start to paw or rub at it. If this happens, just distract them with some training and then take it off. Make a note not to leave it on so long the next time.

Practice makes perfect

Based on your dog’s progress, begin to leave their muzzle on them for longer periods. Try not to do this in a linear way, instead, apply your dog’s muzzle at random – for different lengths of time, in different places and at different parts of the day. This will help them to accept and understand that the muzzle just comes and goes, and that it’s nothing to be feared. Never just strap a muzzle onto your dog and force them to accept it – this can cause distress and injury.

Need more help with dog muzzle training?

Because your dog might need a muzzle for a number of reasons, and no two cases are ever the same, it’s always best to chat with your vet if you need more help with muzzle training.

How to train a dog to a muzzle?

The training of a dog to a muzzle. The puppies of large breeds are trained since they are 5 months. A muzzle is chosen according to the size of a puppies head. A blind muzzle, made of a solid piece of leather with holes for air, is supposed to be the most comfortable. A puppy should smell a muzzle before wearing. Put some delicacy in a muzzle and put it on a puppy. Then they take it off after 2-3 minutes and give the delicacy to a puppy and flatter it. Repeating this approach every day, the time of wearing of a muzzle by a puppy should be gradually prolonged. If it is made every time before walking, a puppy is not very depressed with the procedure of putting on of the muzzle and it gets used to it soon. While a puppy grows, a muzzle should be changed several times. Try to put it on in such a place, where a puppy has no chance to hide. Does your dog perform the orders? For example, call it to a kitchen and order ‘sit’. Put it before feeding for a minute or two and let it know that a muzzle is uncomfortable, but it is not for long and there is something good waiting after. At first a muzzle can be a little loose-fitting in the order to make it possible for a dog to half-open a mouth and take a delicacy.

Put a muzzle on with a delicacy in your hand, then praise your dog, at once draw it away with a play, pat it, flatter, ask a couple of orders (showing delicacy in your hand) and take a muzzle off sitting a dog . It is better if you do not give a chance to a dog to take off a muzzle itself. Let it know that it is only you who takes a muzzle off and only for a good behavior, no matter what does the dog do good.
Look at our Wire Dog Muzzles here
Collection of Leather Dog Muzzles

It’s for the vets. She’s terrified and gets fear aggressive. I’ve heard that baskervilles can still allow a dog to bite? She has vaccinations booked for September so I have till then to get her used to it. She is not aggressive at all in any other circumstances, only at the vet due to various cock ups as a rescue pup before we got her and poor socialising. Any advice?

A correct fitting baskerville will not allow the dog to bite

I had a baskerville for my dog because he was fear agressive. It worked very well, you need to make sure that it is the right size. I also had a cloth one to stop him from barking everytime someone moved past our window.

Thanks both. I’ll look again at the baskervilles. I hate the idea of ones which would hold her mouth completely shut as it would stop her panting etc. It’s so sad she gets so terrified but I can’t risk her biting.

Your vet will have various sizes of muzzles that they use daily and will generally put it on themselves and for the least possible length of time. These muzzles will hold the mouth closed but the dog can still breathe, just not pant. I find it much easier if the owner just tells me that the dog may want to bite and then I can judge the situation myself very sympathetically and strategically. Also, you may not like this but we find that most dogs behave much better away from their owners, with our trained staff doing the handling. It’s a bit like a kid who is naughty with his parent and good for his teacher. In lockdown we’ve been doing all the handling ourselves, with owners waiting outside, and honestly it has been so easy.

Hi Villainous, yes I agree re:talking to the vet and I have done, when I called to book her vaccinations I explained the situation. Unfortunately she’s not better without me as she had to be taken to the vets by our dog walker with a piece of stick lodged in her hard palate and was so horrendous she had to be pinned down by the dog-catching implement (whatever that’s called). I’m not even sure if the vets I go to are the best or most sympathetic. The vet didn’t seem to believe she wasn’t showing aggression in other circumstances, even though I told him she absolutely wasn’t.

I would consider switching practises and trying to build up a positive association with the new vets.

Ours encouraged me to bring my puppy in regularly, even if we didn’t have an appointment. He’d get lots of fuss and treats from the reception staff, nurses and vet. Then slowly build up to appointments – lots of treats and praise etc.

He now tries to drag me in every time we go past because he wants a pig snout

Muzzle Training a Dog

It is vital that your dog perceives the muzzle as a positive experience. Quite often the dog’s first encounter with a muzzle is in a stressful and fearful situation,

This could be at the Vets, when the dog may become aggressive or difficult to handle because of fear, panic or injury. It is therefore prudent to introduce a dog to a muzzle over a period of time, irrespective of whether you ever intend to muzzle.

Remember a muzzle may be a necessity at sometime during the dog’s life. Click on the muzzle on the right, to go to my shop Therefore you should introduce this aid in a non-confrontational positive manner before you need one. All my dogs are muzzle trained despite never having to use one yet.

Which One to Choose
Depending on what muzzle you are using, there are numerous on the market, ranging from the Baskerville type which is normally either a plastic or rubber type, canvas or a mesh muzzle. The one I normally prefer is a ‘mesh muzzle’, which has tiny pinpricks that stop it overheating of the skin, and allows treats to be fed directly into the dog’s mouth.

This type seems to be acceptable to most dogs. click on the image above for more information on sizes or to purchase a muzzle.

Introducing the Muzzle
Irrespective of which type you choose, you must make the experience rewarding and positive. Most dogs will not be over happy with this type of restriction. We are therefore going to use treats and a gradual desensitisation program.

Initially just take out the muzzle and let the dog sniff it ,then treat and praise; I always use Dried Sprats for this as they are a great totally natural treat. Brilliant for the coat with essential oils and Omega 3.

They also smell great, you can also break the Sprats into any size you want very easily, because they are air dried. After allowing the dog to just sniff treat and praise a number of times, putting the muzzle away in between,.

Then either hold a titbit up to the open end of the muzzle and bring it up to the dog’s nose, or if a Baskerville drop the treat inro inside.

The dog will smell the food and press forward to get at the titbit, pushing its face a little bit into the muzzle, when he does this either roll or push the treat toward the dog in the inside of the muzzle and praise.

Do this on a number of occasions over another day or so. Then do the same thing but gently slide the muzzle a little way over the nose so he can get the treat, easier then immediately remove it praising at the same time.

Do this regularly but never attaching the muzzle or forcing the issue at this time. You can use a word like good, or even muzzle whilst you are sliding it over the nose.

Continue these exercises over a number of days in different places in the house and garden, say 4/5 times a day, if possible. After 4 or 5 days actually clip the muzzle on for a few seconds, then take it off immediately. Do this on a number of occasions gradually increasing the time the muzzle is left on from seconds to minutes then longer.

Make sure it is not too restrictive and tight around the mouth and nose as this can restrict drinking and breathing and could distress the dog. I do not recommend muzzles for anxiety related problems such as separation anxiety, whereby the dog is destructive, or for barking or howling problems, there are much safer and more appropriate techniques for these types of behaviour. Never leave the muzzle on for long periods and always supervise the dog when he is wearing one.

The use of a muzzle can be advantageous in a number of circumstances:

1. In certain veterinary procedures a muzzle may be required

2. When introducing another dog or puppy into the household.

3. In cases of pain related temporary aggression.

4. When introducing cats and other animals.

5. Certain breeds are required by law, other breeds may be added to the list in the future.

6. Some behavioural modifications or training procedures may require a muzzle

Whatever the reason, the earlier you introduce a Muzzle the easier it will be to accept. I muzzle train all my dogs when puppies. For instance when taking blood tests or they are injured and need handling or manipulation or when they are in pain.

None of my dogs have ever shown aggression or bitten either a dog or a human. That is not the point, I still feel more comfortable knowing if they need one it will not need to be forced on them when they are injured, hurt or fearful. A muzzles can be very helpful when desensitising a fearful or aggressive dog to certain situations., such as children or other dogs,

If you need the muzzle for outside and the dogs run a lot then a Baskerville one would be the best.

• Created August 16, 2016
• Author Michael D’Abruzzo
• Category Dog Training Tools

More and more people are training their dogs to wear a muzzle so that they have one in hand in case it is needed at the Veterinarian’s office and for introducing their dog safely to another pet, guest, or child. I am happy to see that muzzles are being more accepted as a tool to help make your dog’s life easier. When a dog is happy to see a muzzle and put it on the benefits are obvious.

We use muzzles a lot with aggression cases and have used just about every different type of muzzle there is. Many people have a hard time finding the right muzzle for their dog and training situation so I decided to post this quick article to help people out.

Certain muzzles will clamp your dog’s mouth shut which prevents them from being able to drink, eat, pant, and otherwise be comfortable.

Metal basket muzzles are heavier and more likely to cause injury when the dog bumps into you. These also are more likely to damage furniture.

We mostly use plastic basket muzzles. These are light weight, comfortable, and allow the dog to drink, pant, and take treats. The fact that the muzzles are plastic also allows us to modify them for training (we make a larger treat hole in the front). There are now new muzzles that are already modified for this purpose. This blog post has a video which explains how we get a dog to not only wear a plastic basket muzzle but also to enjoy wearing one. Also, for your convenience I mapped out some little steps you can take to do what you see in the video. It is important not to skip steps until your dog has no problem with the step you are currently working on. Lastly, I posted a link where you can buy the same muzzles that we now use. This is the best price and quickest shipping I have found. If anyone has any questions feel free to post in the comments.

For the new muzzles in the link I have found that size 4 works for most average sized pit bull type dogs and we use size 5 for most German Shepherds. Size 6 for exceptionally large German Shepherds. The old style muzzle that is in the video you can find here although I strongly recommend the newer variety since it is stronger and has better ability to adjust the fit.

Woof woof! Your dog may bark to alert you to danger or to just say hi. But constant barking can be a problem. Here’s how to keep the peace.

Dogs bark to communicate with each other and with their owners, but sometimes all that barking can get out of hand. Constant barking can fray a family’s nerves and create turmoil in a neighborhood.

But keep in mind that your dog is trying to tell you something by barking. Before you quiet him down, you will first need to figure out what he’s trying to say.

What’s Behind the Barking?

These are some of the reasons dogs bark:

• To protect their territory. Dogs guard their territory from people, other dogs, and animals. That territory includes your property, but it can also include other places where the dog has spent a lot of time.
• Because they sense danger. The dog could be reacting to an alarming situation.
• To communicate. Sometimes dogs bark to get attention from people.
• Out of frustration. Barking can result from becoming frustrated by a situation, such as being in a confined space or being unable to locate an owner or playmate.
• Because they’re anxious. A dog’s anxiety can be caused by separation from the dog’s owner.
• Because they’re in pain. Barking can communicate pain caused by injury or illness.
• To say hello. A friendly bark could be how a dog greets people or other dogs.

Tips to Get Your Dog to Stop Barking

There are a lot of stop-barking devices available on the market. The most commonly known are bark collars that deliver an electric shock, high-pitched squeal, or stinging spray of citronella mist whenever a pet dog barks. Other devices include ultrasonic emitters that are placed in a room and activated by barking and muzzles that keep the dog’s jaws held shut.

These devices may offer a short-term fix, but they do nothing to address the underlying cause of your dog’s barking. Eventually, the problem may surface through other behavioral problems, as your dog continues to try to communicate his need or problem to you. A dog prevented from barking caused by separation anxiety may instead take to destroying furniture or urinating indoors when his owner is away.

The devices also can be inhumane. Any dog’s bark can set off a bark collar or ultrasonic device, meaning your dog may end up receiving punishment for another dog’s behavior. Also, a muzzle will keep a dog from being able to eat, drink, and cool off through panting.

For these reasons, an owner frustrated by his dog’s barking is better off using some simple tricks to head off the behavior or taking the time to train the dog out of the behavior. Try these tips:

• Offer distractions. Bored dogs will be less inclined to bark if they are given plenty of toys to play with. If your dog is barking due to outside noises, playing the TV or radio while you’re away can drown out those sounds. A TV or radio also can help soothe separation anxiety.
• Keep your dog active. A pooped pooch is less likely to overreact with a barking fit. Take your dog on regular walks or play fitness games like fetch or Frisbee.
• Work your dog’s brain. Obedience training, either in a class or at home, can improve your dog’s ability to discern threats. It also can lay the groundwork for other anti-barking solutions that require more intensive training.
• Desensitize your pet. If the barking fits are being caused by an outside stimulus, you can try to desensitize your dog. For example, ask friends to walk by your house while you work with your dog inside, encouraging your pet to be quiet.
• Teach the “quiet” command. Train your dog to respond to the word “quiet” by allowing three or four barks, then saying “quiet” in a calm, clear voice. When you say “quiet,” break the barking jag by holding his muzzle gently, dropping a loud object that distracts him or squirting him in the face with a spray bottle of water. In this instance, you could use a manually-controlled bark collar as a distraction method. Eventually your dog will learn that “quiet” means he should stop barking.
• Change up his routine. A dog barking compulsively or out of boredom might stop if you make some changes. If he is being kept in a backyard and barking there, bring the dog indoors and place him in a crate. If the dog is barking because he’s confined in a crate, try leaving him free in one room of your house.
• Teach her how to meet and greet. A dog that barks when greeting can be trained to meet people and other dogs more gently. Be sure to keep greetings at your front door very low-key and calm. Keep a toy near the door and encourage your dog to pick it up and hold it in his mouth before opening the door. On walks, distract your dog when passing other people or dogs by offering a tasty treat.
• Don’t reward barking. Above everything else, don’t inadvertently encourage barking through your own behavior. Don’t reward barking by giving the dog a treat after he has barked. Only treat when the dog has been quiet. Also, don’t encourage barking at outside noises by asking, “Who’s there?”

Training can be a lengthy process, but in the end you will improve your relationship with your dog and be better able to make sure his needs are met.

Home / Blog/Training Tips / Train Your Dog to Wear a Muzzle

Train Your Dog to Wear a Muzzle

A muzzle can be a fantastic tool to use in a variety of situations but it is (very, very!) important that the dog has a positive association with the muzzle. We do NOT want to slap a muzzle on a dog and put him in a situation in which he is uncomfortable. We actually want the dog to really LIKE it when the muzzle appears (and goes on his face)! Often, after a dog bites (a dog or human) he is then restricted and isolated. A muzzle can free that dog to be able to experience the world with many more activities that would not be safe for him to participate in without the muzzle. Sometimes a dog has no bite history but just likes to eat dangerous/disgusting objects on the ground and in order for that dog to be able to participate in fun, off-leash hikes, a muzzle may be needed. To get your dog comfortable in a muzzle follow these steps:

SUPPLIES NEEDED:

• Basket muzzle such as a Baskerville or Bumas.

• High value treats, both squeezable and small pieces. To begin, you will need small pieces (hot dogs, chicken, cheese, liver, steak). Once the muzzle is on the dog, you will need treats that can be squeezed through the sides of the muzzle. Options include using a food tube filled with peanut butter, liverwurst, baby food, wet food, cream cheese or cheese in a can – yum! Also, hot dogs or string cheese cut into sticks or using a pretzel or jerky treat that can be dipped in peanut butter or other soft food and delivered through the muzzle.
• Your patience! We must work at the pace of the dog so that we create a positive association for the dog with the muzzle. We want the dog to be happy when he sees the muzzle so great things happen when the muzzle appears! Initially, short (2-5 minute), fun sessions are best.

STEPS FOR MUZZLE TRAINING:

1. Show the dog the muzzle and give him a treat whenever he looks at it. Do this 2-5 times. Gradually move closer to the dog until the muzzle is within touching distance.
2. If the dog knows a targeting cue (“touch”) have him target the muzzle and treat. If you use a clicker or a verbal marker (“yes”), mark and treat for targeting the muzzle. If he does not know a target cue, go directly to step 3.
3. Wipe some wet food, peanut butter or soft cheese around the inside edge of the muzzle. As the dog approaches, let him lick the muzzle. When he will comfortably approach the muzzle and touch it, go to next step.
4. Place high-value treats in the muzzle and allow the dog to eat the treats from the muzzle by choice. Do not force the muzzle on to the dog. Pull (gently) the muzzle from the dog’s nose before the dog pulls his nose away.
5. Gradually let the dog to keep his nose in the muzzle for longer periods of time and treat continuously when the muzzle is on.
6. While the dog is comfortably eating treats from the muzzle, begin pull the straps over the dog’s head and attempt to touch the straps together. If using a marker: Click or “yes” and treat.
7. Allow the dog to place his nose in the muzzle, then clip the muzzle on. Make sure the muzzle is snug enough that he can’t pull it off, but not too tight. Give him treats quickly and constantly for the entire time the muzzle is on. Keep the session short: 5 seconds, 10 seconds, 20 seconds….
8. With the muzzle on, start doing some simple cues the dog already knows and treat through the muzzle. If the dog is not able to do known cues or his body language changes (stiffens, paws at muzzle) then go back to previous step where he is still relaxed and happy to have the muzzle on.
9. Take the dog for a short walk while he’s wearing the muzzle and reward frequently. If he starts to paw at the muzzle, keep him moving and reward more often.
10. Put the muzzle on the dog whenever you take him for a walk. The dog should look forward to being muzzled at this point, because it predicts a walk. Continue to give the dog treats frequently during the walks.
11. If you plan to have the dog wear the muzzle for grooming or medical appointments, make several visits to the vet’s office or groomer before the actual appointments. During these “trial runs,” put the muzzle on the dog and give him lots of treats. During the actual appointments, do the same. Make sure the dog wears the muzzle for walks, or other enjoyable activities. We do not want to only associate the muzzle with things the dog does not find pleasurable.
12. You can find several videos on teaching your dog to wear a muzzle on our Fear Free and Low Stress Handling Pinterest Board . There is also a ton fantastic information on using a muzzle and muzzle training on The Muzzle Up Project website.

About the Author

Danette Johnston
Danette Johnston, Owner, has been a Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) in the state of Washington and is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) as well as a Certified Fear-Free Professional Trainer. She has trained dogs (and people!) working in animal hospitals and shelters prior to opening dog’s day out in the beginning of 2000. She has published articles on dog day care and dog-dog interactions for The Society of Veterinary Behavior Technicians and the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT). She has lectured on dog behavior to Veterinary Technicians and students at the Society of Veterinary Behavior Technicians conference. Danette is a Licensed Canine Good Citizen and Tricks title evaluator for the the AKC and worked as a Delta Society Pet Partner’s (animal assisted therapy) Instructor and Team (with her dear departed dog Georgia). She is a “Be A Tree” presenter and the NW Coordinator for Doggone Safe, an organization dedicated to education on the prevention of dog bites. She created a comprehensive Shelter Training Program working with shelter and rescue organizations. Along with her group classes and private lessons at DDO, she teaches seminars including: Difficult Dog, Canine Body Language and Barks & Babes, a class for expectant parents. She currently shares her home with a brown tabby (with many extra toes), a Pittie/Border Collie mix, a growing (too fast!) human boy and a very tolerant husband.

How to Train Your Dog to Wear a Muzzle

Great Dane Wire Basket Dog Muzzle with Nose Padding

Besides, there are many types of dog muzzles which are suitable for different purposes. Each of them has its unique characteristics, for example, wire cage muzzles are very durable, so they are perfect choice for training, dog socialization, but it is not recommended to use some of them in winter because wire can stick to dog’s snout; leather muzzles are very comfortable and proper for everyday walking; bear-loop muzzles prevent dogs from excessive barking, and they are good for visiting public places. In any case, if you train your pet to wear one type of a muzzle you won’t have problems in use of another one.

We would like to offer you several steps how to train your dog to wear a muzzle. Please be advised that the best way to do that is to consult a professional trainer and we are only able to provide you with some information upon it.

Step One: Introducing the Muzzle
Let your dog sniff the muzzle to assure that there is no treat. Do not let him to play with the muzzle or to chew it. Wait until your pet turns away and give him a treat. In case if your dog doesn’t try to sniff the muzzle when you extend it to him, show him that you’re rubbing a bit of the treat on it. Then extend it toward him again. It will smell delicious, so he’ll probably sniff it.

Step Two: Teach Your Dog to Put His Nose in the Muzzle
Put a treat into the muzzle. If your dog wants it, he will have to put his nose into it. Do not put the muzzle on your pet’s snout; let him put it off himself. He should understand that this dog item is totally safe for him. But remember that your dog can try to get a treat in other way not putting his nose into the muzzle. Despite it, follow the rule: a treat will get a dog whose nose is in the muzzle. Repeat this step until your four-legged friend leaves his nose in the muzzle for several seconds waiting for the next treat.

Riesenschnauzer Nappa Padded Leather Spiked Dog Muzzle

Step Three: Teach Your Dog to Keep His Nose in the Muzzle
Once your dog is sticking his nose all the way into the muzzle, teach him to hold his nose in there by treating him. If you see that he stays calm almost muzzled for 5-7 seconds, try to fasten the muzzle, treat your dog, and then quickly unfasten it. It needs to be done several times until he is used to the click of fastened muzzle.

If you have a muzzle with leather straps, follow this advice. Take the strap and hold it up behind your dog’s ears, as though you are about to buckle or snap on the muzzle. Now move both of the straps at the same time. Take one strap in each hand and lift them up, as though you are about to buckle, snap or hook the straps together. Treat your dog. Continue until your dog can stick his nose into the muzzle and hold it there while you fasten the neck straps behind his ears. Right after you fasten the straps, unhook the straps and allow your dog to pull his nose out of the muzzle to get his treat.

Step Four: Teaching Your Dog to Wear the Muzzle for Longer Periods of Time
Now you’ll build up the length of time your dog wears the muzzle, remove it and deliver a treat. It’s normal for your dog to fuss with the muzzle a little, but do your best to distract him and give him something else to do instead. Ask him to walk with you, let him sniff the ground, watch a bird, whatever interests him. You can also teach your dog to take treats that you pass through the side of the muzzle. Now it’s just a matter of letting your dog gradually get used to wearing the muzzle for longer periods of time and in a variety of circumstances and locations.

Painted German Shepherd Dog Muzzle

There are several rules you must follow during training your pet to wear a muzzle:

A muzzle is an effective humane tool for dog training.
The wire basket or the Italian basket muzzles are the best for the dog because the basket muzzle will allow them to pant and drink water.

Muzzle training your dog does not need to be hard and stressful.

You should slowly introduce your dog to the muzzle.

Let the dog sniff the muzzle.

Put treats in the muzzle and let him put his nose inside to get the treats out.

Some customers use peanut butter, dog food, cheese or any treat that your dog likes. Make the muzzle a happy and positive experience.

For some dogs getting them comfortable with the muzzle can be done within 20 to 30 minutes, for other dogs it might take a few days.

Once you feel the dog is not afraid of the muzzle put it on him.

During this time be sure to praise him.
Some dogs actually associate putting the muzzle on with getting to go outside.

Basket Dog Muzzle Information