Exercise 1-4: Muzzle
Voluntarily move head into muzzle and hold for 5 seconds.
Handler presents muzzle to dog. Dog moves head into muzzle or handler places muzzle on dog and holds it there for a count of 5. A chin rest may be used to steady the head if desired.
Exercise 1-4: Muzzle
Voluntarily move head into muzzle and hold for 5 seconds.
Handler presents muzzle to dog. Dog moves head into muzzle or handler places muzzle on dog and holds it there for a count of 5. A chin rest may be used to steady the head if desired.
Purpose: Muzzles are useful for all dogs! Being able to wear a muzzle comfortably can be quite helpful if a dog is ill, injured, or stressed. In addition to being a safety factor, a muzzled dog can make those working with him more comfortable and relaxed, which lowers the stress level for everyone involved.
Equipment: Muzzle of an appropriate size and shape for your dog. In these early stages, the muzzle can be larger to make training easier. Treats.
Exercise set-up: Stand or sit in front of your dog. Either 1) offer the muzzle and wait for your dog to move his head into it, or 2) place the muzzle on your dog. You may use a chin rest to steady your dog throughout this exercise. Time begins when your dog’s face is fully in the muzzle and your dog is still.
Scoring: In order to pass this exercise, the dog must willingly tolerate the muzzle for the required duration. If your dog moves his head out of the muzzle you may present it again or re-cue it once.
Non-qualifiers: The dog repeatedly moves away and tries to avoid the muzzle. The dog moves his head out of the muzzle more than once. The handler must use constant verbal cues and encouragement during the entire exercise.
Tips: I recommend that you practice both offering the muzzle for your dog and placing the muzzle on your dog. Both variations will be useful in different situations. Starting by feeding your dog through the muzzle is a great way to make it a pleasant event for your dog!
Video example:
Can’t see this video? Click here to view.