The word dog muzzles give a negative image. This is because people consider that dog who wear muzzles belongs to the aggressive and dangerous category.
It’s a common question that the majority of pet parents have, are muzzles bad for dogs? Is it cruel to put on a muzzle? When you can use a muzzle?
To clear your doubts, we have done some good footwork, which will give you answers related to muzzle usage and is it cruel or not to make your dog wear it.
Quickly, scroll down to get in-depth knowledge about the dog muzzles.
Contents
Are Muzzles Bad for Dogs?
The short answer is no, muzzles are not bad for dogs. But it solely depends upon the usage and kind of muzzle you are using on your dog. If you are using a muzzle to correct his behavior, giving punishments, making him wear for a longer period of time, etc.
Then it will be counted as cruel because dogs cannot communicate with you, and treating him like this hurt him, and it also leaves a negative impression on his mind.
VCA states, “Muzzles themselves are not cruel, but they may cause welfare problems if they are not used appropriately.“
It’s recommended, if you use the muzzle properly and do not torture your dog, then it will be a good usage for him.
When Is It Appropriate to Use a Dog Muzzle?
As you know, you cannot use a muzzle until your dog is ready to wear it. Plus, it should not be kept for a longer period of time. Here, are the situations where you can use a dog muzzle, and it will be helpful to you.
But, again a reminder do not keep it for a longer period of time like 10-15 minutes is more than enough.
Risk of Biting
If your dog has the habit of biting or attacking other people and animals. Then you can try a muzzle, it will help you to prevent him from harming others. Don’t force him to wear a muzzle, treat him first, and then put a muzzle on his face. This way, you can avoid biting and make him less cranky by not putting the muzzle on him too tightly.
During an Emergency
If your dog is injured or suffering from health issues due to which he gets cranky, it’s impossible to predict his behavior. In such a scenario, you can use a dog muzzle to prevent him from barking at others or biting them, or getting into fights with the other animals.
Grooming Session
One of the appropriate use of the dog muzzle is when you take your pup out for a grooming session. Some like to visit the pet salon, while others get cranky, or aggressive, and start barking. If your dog is one of them or is still under training period. In such cases, a muzzle can be used, it will help to carry out the session smoothly. Especially if your dog is not used to the groomer or gets scared because for them a pampering session can also be scary.
When You Should Not Use a Muzzle?
Every time, you cannot put a muzzle on your dog’s face. Especially, there are some situations in which it is prohibited to use a muzzle. According to animalhumansociety, “muzzles are no longer seen as a common and useful training tool, and instead, a punishment for aggressive dogs who can’t be controlled.“
Let’s dig in to know the situations, in which you should not use a muzzle.
Correcting Behavior
Muzzles should never be used to correct your furry pal’s behavior. Like, as chewing furniture, licking or biting others continuously, etc. If you use a muzzle to correct his behavior, you are forcing him to wear it, and muzzles should not be worn for a longer period of time.
As a Punishment
Muzzles are used to calm down your dog, and prevent him from biting, or attacking other people or animals. But, if you use it as a punishment weapon, then it’s not correct. Your action will leave an impression of cruelty.
For instance, if your dog is misbehaving and not listening to you, then to control him you use a muzzle to stop his action. In such a scenario, your dog’s mind will think that you are punishing him, forcefully commanding him to wear a muzzle. So, next time when you will be putting a muzzle on his face he reminds the forceful incident and will refuse to corporate with you. This is because he will think you are again punishing him or torturing him.
FAQs
How long can a dog wear a muzzle?
Generally, your dog should wear a muzzle for about 10-15 minutes and should avoid overcrowded places. This is because in that crowd he will not be able to breathe easily. In addition, don’t force your dog to wear a muzzle for a long time if he is not comfortable it’s recommended to open it instead of torturing him.
Can muzzles make dogs more aggressive?
It’s true that muzzles help to overcome the biting habit of your dog. But, it will not stop your dog from being aggressive, like it’s tricky to overcome the aggressive nature. However, if you are not using the muzzles properly and forcefully putting a muzzle on your dog’s face, then there is a high possibility he will become more aggressive. Because you are restricting his body movement.
Yes, with the help of a muzzle, you can socialize with your dog. If he is one of them who continuously barks or growls at other dogs. In that case, you can use a muzzle, this will prevent him from barking, and biting. With a calmer state of mind, he will interact with other dogs, and there will be no aggression.
Well, It’s a Wrap
Confidently, we were able to answer your question “are muzzles bad for dogs?”. So, now you know it very well, that dog muzzles are not bad for dogs, if it used it properly without torturing your dog.
Dog muzzle is such a thing that pet parents need to use them. Like, it’s not compulsory to use it only to prevent his aggression and barking habits. But also you can use it to prevent him from licking and eating anything from the floor.
It’s always a good idea to train him first and then execute the plan. This will help his mind to be in alert mode, and he will not be shocked by your behavior toward him.
Reference:
- An anti-barking muzzle for dogs and its short-term effects on behaviour and saliva cortisol concentrations. (n.d.). Retrieved December 19, 2022, from https://doi.org/10.1016/S0168-1591(03)00133-3
- Owner reports on the use of muzzles and their effects on dogs: an online survey. (n.d.-b). Retrieved December 19, 2022, from https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2020.07.006
- Muzzle choices. (2022b, July 25). Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/health-info/muzzle-choices
When it comes to dogs, Julia ignores nothing. Being an animal behaviorist, dog trainer and a dog parent she knows exactly how even a tiny change in a dog’s surroundings and diet can leave dogs disturbed for a longer duration. Hence, she always makes sure to review for us only the best products for dogs out there.
