Muzzle Conditioning with Positive Reinforcement

 There are many reasons why you may want, or need, to muzzle your dog. From scared reactive dogs to restrictions when flying certain airlines.

The way you approach muzzle conditioning will ultimately determine how your dog views it, as either a punishment or a fun game.

I highly recommend this video by Woodgreen Pets Charity that provides simple clear steps for muzzle conditioning.

Two key things to remember about muzzle conditioning...

Unless there is a safety reason never just force a muzzle on a dog. That will only set them up to learn to move out of the way and associate a negative experience.

The best person to muzzle condition a dog is someone who the dog already trusts. A trainer can help you, but it is normally safer for everyone, and far less stressful for the dog when the muzzle conditioning is done by the owner.

Below are a selection of articles and videos that provide detailed information on what to do.

Don't assume a dog trainer is better suited to muzzle condition your dog. We can help, but it's generally safest for people, and less stressful for the dog, if the owners that it knows and trusts are the ones to muzzle condition a reactive dog.