{"id":2691,"date":"2022-10-12T08:45:03","date_gmt":"2022-10-12T08:45:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/prettypetskennel.com\/?p=2691"},"modified":"2022-10-13T02:54:03","modified_gmt":"2022-10-13T02:54:03","slug":"how-to-use-a-dog-muzzle","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/prettypetskennel.com\/how-to-use-a-dog-muzzle\/","title":{"rendered":"Dog Muzzles: When To Use Them and How"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Why exactly do dogs need muzzles sometimes? It\u2019s not for reasons most people would assume like these dogs are aggressive or untrained. It usually gets a bad rep that tends to intimidate people. The truth is, there are many reasons why dogs wear muzzles, which depend on the situation and the place they\u2019re in. Part of that includes the pet owner\u2019s responsibility of keeping the dog and the people around them safe. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Especially since it is required in Singapore\u2019s law<\/a> that certain breeds of dogs are required to wear muzzles when in public places. Those breeds include: Bull Terrier, Doberman Pinscher, German Shepherd Dog (and related breeds), Rottweiler, Mastiffs including the Bull Mastiff, Cane Corso, Dogue De Bordeaux, and any cross combination of the breeds aforementioned. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are interested to know more about dog muzzles in Singapore<\/strong><\/a>, their functions, types, and how to properly use them on your dog, read on further!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Introduction to Dog Muzzles<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Dog muzzles are used to prevent any bites or snarling from dogs that are in vulnerable situations, most especially those who are in pain, afraid, or defensive. It can be applied to any dog breed, size, and age – whether they\u2019ve displayed aggressive behaviour or not. Having a dog wear a muzzle can let the owner gauge and see how they respond to their surroundings and different situations (mostly during potentially problematic situations). It helps control their behaviour around people, kids, and other dogs and curbs the instinct to destroy or eat items in the household. It also helps the dog roam around freely and play with other dogs safely, without any risk. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dog muzzles are not bad for them, but they can be cruel and harmful to your dog if they are used inappropriately. They are not used to punish your dog and should not be used for long periods of time. If your dog has not worn one before, it\u2019s best to introduce it to them slowly and properly. Usually, the earlier they get acquainted with it, the better. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to Use Dog Muzzles & When to Use Them<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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If you plan to use a dog muzzle on your pet for the first time, the best approach is to desensitize them to it. This means you have to expose them to dog muzzles and let them get used to it over time, so they can be comfortable with it. When introducing the muzzle to your dog, be calm and do not inflict any fear to it. Instead, show it to them slowly, and let them see and sniff it to familiarize them with it before putting it away. Repeat many times and let them have a positive association with the muzzle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Next, place the muzzle opening in front of their face and let them grab the treat inside the muzzle. Repeat this and gradually put the treat further inside the muzzle until their snout is inside it, for them to get the treat. Slip it in and do not fasten it just yet, then if the dog is still calm, take the muzzle out, and reward them afterward. Do not force it when they are fussing or pawing at the muzzle. It\u2019s important to let the entire experience be pleasant and comfortable for you and your dog. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lastly, it\u2019s important to not let dogs wear muzzles for long periods of time and unsupervised. Some dog muzzles can be restricting and may inhibit dog movement such as panting, drinking, and eating. Do not use it on your dog when they display normal behaviour such as chewing or barking – it is only used as a temporary and short-term solution. If you see them display behavioural issues, you might use one to consider training them or consult with the veterinarian for the best ways to address these problems. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The only times dog muzzle must be used is during the following situations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n