WHAT IS THE BEST MUZZLE FOR MY MILDLY AGGRESSIVE G

A comfy, light nylon muzzle is best. I am thrilled that you have a trainer, but I REALLY hope that this ex canine cop is using positive, motivational (click and treat) methods. Defining boundaries for a dog who's just being bratty is one thing, but fear aggression requires a different approach. Being tough or too firm on fear aggressive dogs can stifle their responses, make the warning signs and the aggression all go underground... until the dog explodes long after we think the problem was 'fixed.'

Anyway, try an inexpensive, comfortable light nylon muzzle. It has a hole at the end. You can let the dog drink, pant, and even take treats through that hole. The headstrap adjusts so it fits comfortable and not too tightly on the dog. I have one here because dogs over 20 cm tall must be muzzled to ride the trains here.

Oh, by the way-- Emma Parsons wrote 'Click to Calm-- Healing the Fear Aggressive Dog.' It's a GOOD one!!

blackshep said:

I'd go with a basket muzzle over a nylon one, as the dog can still pant/drink in hot weather, and can still bark. It adds safety without making the dog feel as restrained.

Dogs use their teeth as their defense (if they can't get away), so I would think having a muzzle that kept their mouths shut, could make them feel trapped and more anxious?

I'm not a behaviourist or a trainer, but that's just my thoughts.

Same way as a dog who is fearful, their #1 defense might be to run, but if they are leashed we take that option away from them. They may feel trapped, and so then plan B is to go on the offense, if that makes sense?

Click to expand...

Just going to add here:

Fabric muzzles don't keep there mouths closed. They can still take treats, pant and drink with one on.

I had a mild case of "people aggression" and used a fabric muzzle while I trained my guy, when he "learned" what I expected off him and "knew" what he looked like when he was comfortable...I stopped using it and proceeded with training.

A fabric muzzle is "not" as secure as a basket muzzle a dog can remove if given a chance. As long as your right on top of your dog a fabric muzzle should be fine.

Plus going to add I dealt with my guy's issue like this:
Leerburg | Who Pets Your Puppy or Dog!
I'm not a pro but this worked out fine for me and my dog. I allowed "zero" interaction between him and the public till "he" was ready! He turned out fine!

Requiring a muzzle to "start" training seems a bit much to me?? Sounds like a "I'm going to cram people in the face of my clients dog kinda of approach??"

Has this dog done anything??