Muzzle training is often misunderstood, leading to people believing that a muzzled dog is dangerous or difficult. In reality, muzzles are an important tool that can help dogs feel more comfortable and safe in certain situations.
Sadly, dogs that wear muzzles can take longer to find homes, something Dogs Trust Snetterton hopes to change by sharing the benefits of muzzle training and the various reasons a dog might wear one. These reasons include:
- To ensure safety when a dog is frightened, unwell, or in pain. Fear and discomfort can affect a dog's behaviour, and a muzzle allows a vet or owner to provide treatment quickly and safely in an emergency.
- To prevent dogs from eating things that could be harmful. Some dogs have strict dietary requirements, while others are prone to picking up and swallowing things they shouldn't. A muzzle can be an essential tool to help keep them safe.
- To support responsible ownership and ensure the safety of dogs and those around them. Some dogs may have a high prey drive, a history of chasing, or may become overwhelmed in certain situations. A muzzle allows them to enjoy walks and interactions safely.
Moose is a very handsome five-year-old Cane Corso cross, one of the muzzle-trained dogs currently waiting for their forever homes. Moose’s dream home would be somewhere rural where he can enjoy a slice of the quiet life away from strangers. Moose is a big dog with an even bigger heart and loves to show affection once he has gotten to know you. He loves to cuddle on the sofa and needs some help building his confidence.
Moose must wear a muzzle, as he can be very nervous around strangers. His muzzle has helped him gain more confidence around strange noises, new environments and to help him build positive associations with things that make him nervous.
Kelly Smith, Manager of Dogs Trust Snetterton, said: "Dogs are muzzled for a range of reasons, and doesn't necessarily mean they are aggressive as some may assume. There are a variety of different dog breeds in our care who wear muzzles, and our staff put in lots of work behind the scenes to ensure muzzle training is a positive and fun experience for the dogs in our care."
"It can be useful for all dogs to be comfortable wearing a muzzle as you never know when it might come in handy. Dogs can learn to happily wear a muzzle in the same way that they learn to wear a collar. They can still enjoy their walks, pant freely, drink water and have treats. I hope by highlighting some of our fabulous current residents who wear a muzzle, we can help people understand that wearing one is normal for many dogs and isn't anything to be concerned about."
Dogs Trust Snetterton wants to spread the message that muzzle training is a sign of responsible dog ownership, not a reflection of a dog's temperament. The rehoming centre hopes that by spreading awareness, more people will open their hearts and homes to these wonderful dogs who are ready to become loving companions.
To find out more information about muzzle training, please visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/muzzles, and if you'd like to learn more about the dogs available for rehoming at Dogs Trust Snetterton, please visit the website at www.dogstrust.org.uk/snetterton.