At DTCE we alway embrace different methods of training as we have found there isn't a one size to fit all dogs. Everything we do at training is to enable the handler to get the best from their dog. As instructors it gives us really satisfaction to help people the struggle with their dogs to find the bond that makes everything click into place.
Out naughty dog class on Monday evening is a very good example of this; when they turn up for their first visit the owners are understandably on edge. This is where the use of a muzzle comes into its own, every dog that comes to our Monday session at DTCE has to wear one because it makes the dog safe; the handler can then begin to relax and concentrate on the handling instead of worrying in case another dog or person walks too close.
Copper and Mable - both learned to play with muzzles on
I know some very responsible dog owners that have been given verbal abuse or just down right rude behaviour just for taking their dog for a walk with its 'hat' on; our view of the muzzle is all positive.
We use the muzzle to ENABLE dogs to be socialised; it is never done to the dog or used as punishment. I've just been reading comments from someone who thinks dogs in muzzles shouldn't be allowed out in public places. This seems to me to be a very narrow minded view on muzzled dogs; there was also a comment from someone who was having some issues with a dog they had rescued so had it in a muzzle; to me this dog will have a much better chance of learning to relax than a dog that is kept away from everything. What would the first person do if they rescued a dog and then found it had anti-social issues?
Would they give it back?
Would they keep it indoors?
Would they take it out with no muzzle?
I'm sure their response would be that they would socialise it in a safe environment (not sure where that would be ) and once the dog is relaxed they would then be able to take it out into the public domain. This all sounds fine, the problem is that until you take your dog out into meet the public, you don't know how it will react as it is now away from its 'safe' environment, so would you be irresponsible and take it out knowing it could grab something or be responsible and use a muzzle so both dog and handler can relax and are safe?
To all of the responsible dog owners that take grumpy dogs out in muzzles well done and good luck!
