The muzzle is an accessory that is usually associated with dogs that have problems to relate correctly with others of their species and / or with people. However, this is not the only reason why many dogs have to wear a muzzle; in fact, there are certain races that are forced by law, whatever their character.
But when to use a muzzle on a dog? If you would like to know when you have to put it on and why, do not stop reading.
What is the muzzle for dogs?
The muzzle is an accessory that prevents the dog from attacking someone. It is placed in the mouth, attached to the neck. There are two different types:
Tube muzzles
They can be made of fabric, nylon or leather. It is shaped like a cylinder or tube open at the front, and some of them have a velcro that better adapts to the dog's muzzle. With them, animals will not be able to pant (therefore, they will not be able to regulate their body temperature), drink or receive prizes in the form of candy. Added to this is the enormous risk to their health if they vomit.
For these reasons, these types of muzzles only have to be used for a short period of time and always under the supervision of a person, for example during a visit to the veterinarian. In the province of Barcelona its use is prohibited.
Basket muzzles
They are made of plastic, metal or leather. They completely cover the mouth of the dogs so that they cannot bite, but this does not prevent them from opening it, panting, drinking or eating treats. Although they give them an aspect of danger, the truth is that they are the most recommended since they can be used for much longer and are more comfortable.
Muzzles for brachycephalic dogs
They are muzzles that adapt to the shape of your snout and that they have two ribbons that go under the ears and close at the nape of the animal. In addition, they have a strip that passes in the front and that connects to the back straps.
And the head collar?
These types of collars are often mistaken for a muzzle, but they are not actually used for the same thing. These types of collars have a nylon handle that goes around the neck and another that goes around the muzzle that carries the strap attachment. They are used to teach them not to pull on the leash, but they cannot be used in situations where they are required to wear a muzzle as it does not prevent them from biting.
When should they take it?
Its use is mandatory when:
- Is going to travel, for example on RENFE Cercanías trains -unless they travel in a carrier-, by boat or on the metro.
- They are of a breed considered potentially dangerous, such as the Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Rottweiler, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Tosa Inu or Akita Inu.
- They are dogs that have an aggressive character or that, as we mentioned before, they do not know how to interact with other dogs and / or people, especially when the veterinarian advises the use of a muzzle.
- If they meet the characteristics described in the Royal Decree 287/2002 of the BOE, Which are:
- Strong musculature, powerful appearance, athletic setup, agility, stamina and endurance.
- Strong character and great value.
- Short hair.
- Thoracic circumference between 60 and 80 centimeters, height at the withers between 50 and 70 centimeters and weight greater than 20kg.
- Head voluminous, cuboid, robust, with a broad and large skull and muscular, bulging cheeks. Strong and large jaws, robust, wide and deep mouth.
- Wide neck, short and muscled.
- Solid, broad, large, deep chest, arched ribs and short, muscular loin.
- Parallel, straight and robust forelimbs and very muscular hindlimbs, with relatively long legs at a moderate angle.
We hope it has been useful to you 🙂.