What dog has to wear a muzzle?
- Those considered PPP (Potentially Dangerous Dogs): nowadays these breeds, classified as potentially dangerous dogs, are obliged, at least in Spain, to wear a muzzle on public roads.
- Any dog in the PT (public transport): any dog that accesses public transport such as the metro or commuter train, also in Spain, is required to wear a muzzle, regardless of its size or breed.
- Those that as a result of their behavior may pose a risk of bite: a dog that has a behavior that can inflict damage on third parties, should wear a muzzle due to responsibility. In addition to participating in a behavior modification program led by a canine behavior professional.
What happens if I muzzle my dog?
If we put a muzzle on a dog that is not used to it, what it will do is try to take it off. You can achieve it, and if not, give up or insist until you even hurt yourself.
Therefore, if we are facing one of the 3 assumptions above, and we must put a muzzle on our dog, it is important to spend time (weeks) training. The goal is to get him to see it as normal and not cause him discomfort.
How to get my dog used to the muzzle?
- Choose the model and size: there are different types of muzzles on the market and yet there is only one recommended muzzle model and that is the basket muzzle (right in photo 1).
The basket muzzle has straps like a cage and allows the dog to pant, eat and even drink. You have to choose a size and design that is comfortable for the dog. See that it molds to his snout and allows him to open his mouth to perspire.
The funnel muzzles (left of photo 1) that close the dog’s mouth, are used to inhibit behavior and punish. They do not respect the welfare of our dog, by not allowing him to pant or drink, so they are not recommended, much less with high temperatures.
- Associating it with prizes and food: show it the muzzle and give it food several times and then reward it each time it is held in its mouth and lengthen the time are the keys to success.
- Put the muzzle on him to play and sniff: so that he is entertained and does not bother to take it off.
What happens if a dog sleeps with a muzzle?
Nothing would happen if he fell asleep for a nap with the basket muzzle that lets him pant and drink. Sometimes it is a security measure at a certain time.
However, too many people think that since their dog breaks things or barks when left alone, a muzzle is the solution. And anything farter from the reality.
Dogs suffering from loneliness anxiety need urgent help from a professional. Leaving him with a muzzle is equivalent to putting a punishment that can even aggravate the emotional problem of a dog that is suffering . These types of poorly decided remedies inhibit the emotional response of the dog that stops barking or breaking things, but they will never solve the root of the problem.
How long can a dog be left muzzled?
A muzzle should be seen by our dog as his walking harness. We all put it on our dog when we go out for a walk and during it, but we release it when we get home. We do this because we know that you are actually more comfortable . Sort of like taking off your bra or shoes when you get home!
The muzzle, however, is not an element for walking , but for prevention or legality, and once these types of circumstances pass, we should remove it from the dog. Because they also need comfort.
How to put a muzzle on a bulldog?
Today, there are already muzzles for brachycephalic dogs on the market. Of course, we must ensure that they meet the welfare standards and allow you to sweat and drink . If necessary, we can slightly modify them by making a cut in some of their strips.
