uzzles are an essential safety tool for many groomers, but they often carry an unfair stigma for pet owners. When introduced correctly, a muzzle can make grooming safer, especially with more challenging dogs. Dogs that are not muzzle trained might try to scratch at the muzzle, avoid putting it on by biting or move away. This can put both the dog and the groomer at risk for injury.
Some groomers choose not to use muzzles at all. Instead, they might dismiss dogs from the salon that show the potential to bite or opt for alternative methods to prevent biting in challenging dogs. There is no right or wrong answer to whether or not muzzles should be used in the grooming salon. A trainer’s perspective on how muzzles are conditioned for use in training might answer some common questions about this tool.
As a trainer, I am contacted about muzzle training for a variety of reasons. Sometimes a veterinarian has requested it, other times it’s a groomer, and occasionally it’s due to behavioral challenges like dog reactivity or aggression. For reactive dogs, muzzles can be a helpful tool. Not only do they prevent incidents during unexpected encounters, but they also signal to others that the dog is in training and needs space.
Interestingly, many training clients who take their dogs out in muzzles report that people are more respectful of their dog’s space compared to when they’ve tried leashes that say “Do Not Pet.” However, just because a dog is wearing a muzzle doesn’t mean it’s aggressive. While the public might see muzzles this way, trainers know there are many cases of muzzle training with dogs that are not aggressive.
Muzzle training has become a common skill in many dog training circles, whether or not a dog needs to wear one. Why train dogs who don’t need a muzzle? It sets a great example by showing that muzzle training can be positive, and it prepares dogs for unexpected situations. If there’s an emergency that requires the dog to be muzzled, prior training removes one layer of stress from the scenario.
A well-fitted basket muzzle is ideal for training. Since the dog will be gradually conditioned to the muzzle, there is not much concern about the dog trying to get its nails in the muzzle and remove it. The dog can easily accept treats and engage in training while wearing it.
The first step in muzzle training is to teach the dog a nose target. Start by having the dog target your hand, then transition to targeting objects, and finally, to the muzzle. When the dog willingly places their nose in the muzzle, reward them for some duration. Just a few seconds is a great start.
A verbal cue like “muzzle” can be added once the dog is consistently targeting it. Gradually secure the muzzle starting with short periods around 10-30 seconds, then extend to a minute or longer. While the dog wears the muzzle, engage them with tricks, easy skills or a short walk. When these steps are comfortable, begin incorporating the muzzle into real-life scenarios, including the situations that prompted the muzzle training initially.
One key tip is to avoid using the muzzle solely for stressful moments. If the dog associates the muzzle only with negative experiences, it can become a source of stress.
While groomers don’t have to take dogs through muzzle training, simply understanding the process can help shape salon policies. Consider whether muzzles will be used, under what circumstances and whether to encourage owners to complete muzzle training with a professional trainer before using one during a groom.
Even if you decide not to use muzzles in your salon, I hope this article gives you some insight into answering customer questions and a better understanding of the importance of the training process.