Tips For Choosing A Muzzle For Your Dog
There are several situations where a responsible owner must put a muzzle on their dog.
While this contraption may seem synonymous with cruelty or neglect in canine education for many, from an objective standpoint, choosing a muzzle for your dog is key to your safety and that of those around you.
When is the muzzle needed?
In situations like the ones described below, a muzzle can be very helpful for your dog’s health and safety.
- In the event that your pet has been in an accident and is recovering from injuries, a muzzle will allow him not to poke them and therefore this will greatly reduce the risk of infection.
- If your dog’s personality makes you worry about the well-being of people he doesn’t know, or you know he’s going to be exposed to some kind of stimulus that causes him stress, a muzzle will provide calm and security.
- Some pets never get used to visits to the bath and groom or to the vet. A muzzle will therefore be needed in these cases.
- Some countries require by law that certain breeds considered dangerous to wear a muzzle in public spaces.
Types of muzzles, considering: shape, size and material
Depending on their circumstances, each animal will require the owner to know how to correctly choose the muzzle.
The most traditional muzzle is woven, similar to a basket. It is rigid and is usually made with wires that interpose between the dog’s teeth and the outside.
For many, the more traditional, uncomfortable-looking and restrictive muzzle may not be ideal for small dogs.
The soft muzzle, on the other hand, is made of flexible materials that adapt to the animal’s jaw and head.
Although more comfortable in appearance, it can be one of the most dangerous for the animal, as it can block the dog’s sweat glands and cause heat stroke in the summer months.
For an emergency, you can even make your own muzzle at home, thanks to different websites where you can find instructions for this.
The materials you can use are everyday items such as rope, socks or fabric, although this is not ideal.
For your dog to end up accepting the use of the muzzle, try bringing the accessory into your daily life and reward your pet with prizes each time he wears it for an extended period.