A correctly used muzzle is a tool that can allow dogs access to environments they would otherwise be denied.

Almost every dog loves the sight of its leash and collar, if for no other reason than their connection with an outing. This positive association exists in spite of the role the leash and collar play in restricting the average dog’s overall freedom.

Although muzzles are passive restraint devices, they nevertheless elicit a Hannibal Lector visceral response from the average person. The distance between perception and reality is education. Muzzles will become more commonplace in North America with the implementation of restrictions on dangerous dogs and, in some areas, breed-specific muzzling.

It’s time for animal professionals to accept the fact that muzzles are going to be increasingly more common and to shoulder the responsibility of ensuring that muzzling is done in a humane and thoughtful manner.

Many dogs will never need to be muzzled. For others, it has already become a reality. But whether or not a dog needs a muzzle, the role of breeders and trainers must be to anticipate problems so they can help dog guardians acclimatize their dogs via positive-association strategies. Just as with a crate, accustoming a dog to a muzzle so that its reaction is either neutral or positive, not dread, will depend on the positive associations we instill.

One challenge associated with muzzles is that they often abruptly become part of a dog’s life. Sudden change can be stressful. In this case, it’s not the muzzle but rather its sudden introduction that causes stress.

Another impediment is the negative reaction that muzzling evokes in the average guardian faced with muzzling his or her dog. “Will a muzzle ruin my dog?” Unintentionally, they transfer their anxiety to the dog, making the process unnecessarily more difficult.

Without the guidance of professionals, many make a mistake that can compromise their dog’s physical well-being. The muzzle many choose, because of familiarity and for cosmetic reasons, is typically the snug-fitting nylon cone-shaped version. These are designed for momentary wear only, such as during a veterinary examination. Although they may prevent a bite, they also inhibit dogs from panting and can thus affect a dog’s body-temperature regulation. Even without exertion, the extended wear of this type of muzzle in hot weather has potentially dire results.

It’s important to note that a muzzle appropriate for one breed and/or level of aggression may not necessarily be appropriate for another. Communities incorporating dangerous-dog legislation need to educate individuals about muzzle types; their care and fitting; positive acclimatization; stress-release strategies; and stimulating activities as suitable outlets for muzzled dogs.

The reality is that, due to provincial law or as a proactive response by a dog guardian with an unreliable dog, the muzzle will become a more common reality. It is critical that professionals spread a greater understanding of muzzles and muzzling, in order to ensure that the process is as humane as possible.