I need to get a muzzle for my boy. He's 1 1/2 years old and 88 lbs. I need one for trips to vet, groomers, or just the random I need one moments. He's never bitten anyone but does make certain people nervous. I would like one that is comfortable, and roomy enough for him to drink, pant etc with it on. The problem is there are so many out there and honestly I don't know crap about them.
I used a fabric muzzle on Rocky, if your training the dog and just want a muzzle as back up it's fine. Rocky never bit anyone either but he was leery around strangers. I used it until he was comfortable with people and the first time or two to the vet.
It's not a "real" muzzle and the dog can work it off if given the chance but it sounds like it's what you need for now,
I like this muzzle - it is not one I would use on a wildly aggressive dog but I keep them around for if I need it. I did have to punch another hole in the strap. It seems to be comfortable for long wear and reasonably durable. EDIT, the size is off. You measure for the size; mine is a 9.
I would just feel better using one as needed. Diago is kinda weary around people he dont know and other dogs. He will get vocal and rarely tufts but Once he knows you he's just a big teddy bear. Unfortunately people around here are not exactly social or community oriented and he's had four occurrences last summer of dogs charging him out of no where (they just came flying out of their yards while we were walking). So he's only some what socialized but I'm trying g to work with him on these issues.
OK dogs charging him is not where you want a muzzle on your dog! A dogs first line of defense is you! Carry a big stick and use it if you have too or bear spray or mace!
If your dog gets attacked out in the field do you want him wearing a muzzle? That's a whole different story!
The woofing and the leery are cause he's fearful, Just let him be around people without engaging "No you can't pet my dog, he's in training" while you step between your dog and people. Dogs don't need to sniff each other on walks, no engagement after awhile he see dogs and other people as no big deal.
Then he can become the calm, I could careless about strangers and other dogs kinda dog he was meant to be!
comfort or look. A wire cage will give them some freedom but the looks could be scary to people. then you have the kind that fits their muzzle but no freedom there. It depends what you are looking for and your dog.
Definitely want comfort for him. The muzzle wouldn't be for general walks just for vets / groomers / etc.. And the other dogs never got to him I blocked them and stopped their forward momentum. I plan on taking him to parks a lot this summer to desensitize him. We've spent the winter on basic commands ( sit, stay, down, ect.)
For vets and groomers I would trust David Winners with the advice for the Jafco as he has more experience with dogs that might bite.
My Italian basket one is great for when you don't want a dog to bother with a bandage or as a back up for a slightly dog aggressive dog (not serious aggression but I would never use it if there was a risk my dog could get attacked), and to keep the dog used to the idea that muzzles are "ok" --- I use it at the vet with Beau. He has never shown any aggressive behavior towards a vet but I figure it is good insurance. A lot of folks get nervous around an intact male GSD and it calms THEM down a bit. They greatly appreciated it when he had is CERF exam where they are right in their face. The thing I like most about it is no air restriction and a good fit. Easy to open mouth and pant. Easy to drink. Has two layers in front of the teeth.
The baskerville muzzles look pretty nice but no experience.
Downside of them is it is hard to give treats through them and certainly not reward toys.
I really like the leather basket muzzle, but it's pricey. So far I've only been using it as a treat dispenser, to get my pup used to it. I've also used the plastic Italian basket muzzle and I really like how those fit. This leather one is softer, so it seems like the straps are too floppy when I leave room at the tip. Mind you, I haven't played with all the buckles yet, so we'll see.
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