Exercise 2-4: Muzzle
Muzzle is put on and buckled for 5 seconds; dog remains calm & relaxed.
The muzzle is presented and the dog places its head into the muzzle OR the handler places the muzzle on the dog. The handler fastens the buckle. The dog remains calm and relaxed while wearing the muzzle for a count of 5. Handler may use a chin rest to gently steady the dog’s head if desired.
Exercise 2-4: Muzzle
Muzzle is put on and buckled for 5 seconds; dog remains calm & relaxed.
The muzzle is presented and the dog places its head into the muzzle OR the handler places the muzzle on the dog. The handler fastens the buckle. The dog remains calm and relaxed while wearing the muzzle for a count of 5. Handler may use a chin rest to gently steady the dog’s 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: Treats. Muzzle of an appropriate size and shape for your dog. In these early stages the muzzle can be larger to make training easier.
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. Once the muzzle is over your dog’s nose then secure the snap or buckle. 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, the muzzle is secured, and your dog is still.
Scoring: In order to pass this exercise the dog must willingly tolerate wearing the secured muzzle for the required time duration.
Non-qualifiers: The dog repeatedly moves away and tries to avoid the muzzle. The dog struggles or reacts negatively when the muzzle is fastened. The dog paws at or tries to rub off the muzzle more than once. The handler must use constant verbal cues and encouragement during the entire exercise.
Tips: Fastening the muzzle is a new piece of the process and should be taught separately. If you have a muzzle with a snap condition your dog to the sound of the snap starting at a distance and moving it closer and closer over time. Accustom your dog to you fumbling with the snap or buckle at the back of his neck by reinforcing him often during the process.
Video example:
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