How to Use a Basket Muzzle on a Dog
Basket muzzles allow excellent airflow for dogs and allow them to drink with the device in place. They are less constricting than other types of muzzle and easier for dogs to become accustomed to. It is best to gradually introduce your dog to the constraint of a muzzle.
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Instructions
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Find a muzzle that is comfortable and fits your dog properly. There are a number of different types of basket muzzle on the market, including the wire basket muzzle, plastic basket muzzle and the Italian basket muzzle.
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Introduce your dog to the muzzle slowly, allowing him to sniff and get familiar with it. Repeat the procedure for a number of days. You may offer him a treat after each episode so he begins to associate a positive experience with the muzzle.
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3
Slip the muzzle over your dog's nose while offering him a treat from the outside with your fingers. Repeat several times until your dog is comfortable placing his nose inside the muzzle.
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4
Slip the muzzle over your dog's head without a treat, but do not tie the straps. Remove the muzzle after a few moments and offer him a treat. Increase the time you leave the muzzle on, offering him a treat each time you take it off, provided he does not struggle.
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Fasten the strap on the muzzle once your dog is used to having his mouth in it. He may struggle, but he needs to learn he cannot remove the muzzle himself. Offer your dog a treat only when he is relaxed and not struggling with the muzzle.
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Increase your dog's time spent strapped into the basket muzzle gradually, working your way up to 30 minutes. The longer the dog leaves the muzzle on, the greater the treat should be once you remove it.
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Take your dog for a short walk with the muzzle on once he has accepted it for half-hour increments. Place the muzzle on him before leaving the house, but avoid taking him places where there will be other animals or excitement. You may remove the muzzle on the way back from the walk, giving your dog lots of praise once it is off.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not muzzle your dog only in situations of conflict. Continue to occasionally muzzle him so he is used to it and will not associate the muzzle with negative situations.
Take your time. It may take a number of weeks before he has worked up to wearing it for 30 minutes.
