Description
When is it Appropriate to Use a Dog Muzzle?
- Emergencies
Such as an injured dog who may bite due to severe pain or fear. - There is a risk of biting due to a threatening situation
If your dog is aggressive and has bitten another dog or a person in the past, this behavior must be addressed proactively with a behaviorist, veterinarian, and/or trainer. However, if there is a specific occasion when you’re worried in advance that your dog may bite because he feels threatened, the temporary use of a muzzle should be considered. - Grooming sessions
When properly desensitized (hint: it starts in puppyhood), most dogs are accepting of grooming procedures. However, some just never seem to get used to it, so a muzzle may be a safe bet, especially when the dog is not familiar with the groomer. - When required due to breed specific legislation
Unfortunately, some states or provinces have breed specific legislation (BSL), which requires certain so-called “dangerous breeds” to wear a muzzle when not on private property.