Should I put a muzzle on my dog?

Question

I was at the park today and my dog tried to bite a nice young lady that tried to pet him! This was really embarassing and I was so pissed at my dog for doing that, next time I take him to the park, should I just get a muzzle and this will solve everything. Could he get used to being comfortable with the muzzle and being accustomed to people petting him??? I think the muzzle is the best solution, what do you dog lovers think??

Answer 1

Its definitely the safest way. I'm sure it's annoying at first. But they'll get used to it, and also hopefully become accustomed to other people and pets. I have 1 older female rot, 1 male mix rot, and a cocker spaniel. And occasionally muzzle them. For their little discomfort could save you a big liability claim if they hurt someone. Plus chances are you'll lose your loved pet. It doesn't hurt the animal, it doesn't impair breathing, it just doesn't allow them to open their mouth enough to bite. My dogs can still drink water.

Answer 2

It would be best if you didn't take him in public if he will bite--you're asking for a lawsuit. A muzzle would be a good idea if you had to take him around strangers. Muzzles, if fitted correctly, are very humane and will save you and your dog a lot of grief should he bite someone. You really do need an experienced trainer to work with you and your dog. Dogs that are properly socialized to have good manners don't bite for no reason.

Answer 3

I think that you shouldn't put a muzzle on the dog, because my dog used to do the same exact thing, but I tought him manners and tricks, and how to be a very smart social dog, and he never bit anyone ever again, so what im saying is, that you should teach it to not bite, instead of a muzzle. That will just make it more mean!

Answer 4

The only thing that the muzzle will 'solve' is your dog becoming physically unable to bite. What will not be solved is:
1. the causes for your dog biting
2. Your lack of understanding of how to train your dog.

Please seek the help of a pro before going any further. Learn how to recognize the signals that your dog (and just about every dog) sends when he is uncomfortable. Learn how to reward the good things that your dog is already doing, and how to avoid situations that make your dog uncomfortable.

Answer 5

The unwelcome visitor is to blame. Keep your dog leashed and tell people not to pet him. If he had wanted to bite her he would have. The muzzle will work but it isn't his fault. A person should never stand over an unknown dog and extend their hand. That is aggression to the dog.

Answer 6

This dog needs to get into a reality based training program. Not a click and cookie retail pet store trainer either.
Find a "REAL" trainer that has a lot of experience.

You need to be in the program as much as the dog.

In the mean time to ensure the public and your dogs safety by all means get a muzzle.

Answer 7

You need to watch the dog whisperer and start being the alpha dog to your dog. That behavior is unacceptable and you need to stop it NOW. Is this the first time it happened? How did the woman approach your dog? Was she slow and quiet or fast and crazy? Was he trying to protect you? How did you react? Did you scream and tug or quietly and firmly let him know that was a no-no? A muzzle is only to be used as a last resort.

Answer 8

If it was an issue with everyone, like you and your family, i would say that is somthing that needs to be trained out. But if he is just uncomfortable with strangers, i would buy a nice loose fitting muzzle that still allowed him to pant. Or just ask people not to pet your dog due to agression.

Answer 9

I think a muzzle is a good short-term solution -- the general public deserves to be safe. Training is the long-term solution.

Answer 10

Yes, you should because you have a responsibilty to protect the public. In my state, (NJ), you are generally "allowed" 3 bites and then the put the dog down, but that is only if it's reported.