Muzzle dog training is a common training method used by dog owners for dogs that have aggressive tendencies. A muzzle is a mouth guard that is placed over the dog's mouth to prevent it from being used violently. Some dogs can be very aggressive, and require this form of special training to calm down and become more acceptably behaved.
Kinds of Dog Muzzles
In order to start muzzle training correctly, the kind of muzzle should be taken into consideration. If the dog is very aggressive, a basket muzzle is recommended. A basket muzzle is a dog muzzle that covers the mouth in a cage-like manner, allowing the dog to drink water easily and access small bits of food. The lesser extreme option is the nylon muzzle. This muzzle isn't recommended for very aggressive dogs, since small nips can still be made through the muzzle. Another element that should be addressed is the comfort of the muzzle. Muzzle training is harmless as long as the muzzle fits properly and comfortably on the dog's head.
Training Methods for Beginners
After a comfortable muzzle is purchased, it is important to build up a positive association with the muzzle for your dog. To achieve this, the muzzle shouldn't be instantly placed on the dog's mouth. It's important to let the dog sniff the muzzle first, letting it investigate it on its own and then providing it with a treat every time before taking the muzzle off. Once the dog accepts the muzzle, start increasing the amount of time the dog wears the muzzle gradually. This will keep the dog from having a violent reaction to being muzzled and will cease all escape attempts. If the training starts off well, the dog should be calm and content with the muzzle.
Muzzle Training Exercises for Dogs
After the dog is fine with the muzzle and is able to wear it for long periods of time, it's recommended to start putting the muzzle on the dog for everyday walks. One important thing to keep in mind is that muzzle training is easier when there is nothing around that would easily excite the dog. Walks should be planned out before hand, and it's commonly recommended to reward the dog for wearing the muzzle for each walk.
Cautionary Measures
If the dog is ever found trying to remove the muzzle itself, it should not be removed. Keeping the muzzle on during these times will eventually teach the dog that it will have to accept it and leave it alone. Eventually these facts will register to the dog and the dog will start becoming content with its muzzle. Another important fact to keep in mind is that not all dogs will learn at the same rate. It is important to find out what learning rate is comfortable for the dog so that the muzzle training can be introduced slowly and comfortably for the dog.
Once the dog is fine with wearing a muzzle for every day walks, it should be fine with wearing the muzzle more often. As long as the muzzle fits correctly and comfortably, muzzle training is perfect for dogs with aggressive tendencies.