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Muzzling

Introduction ─

Although muzzling is not required under Ohio law, some jurisdictions have more restrictive laws and require that dogs identified as "pit bulls" wear muzzles.  Not all muzzles are appropriate for all situations and using the wrong muzzle can result in serious issues and even death of the dog in certain circumstances.  Please do your homework prior to using any muzzle. 

We have noticed that pet stores generally sell only the mesh type muzzle, which is often used by vets and groomers and, in our opinion, should not be used if you are merely trying to comply with Ohio's laws and there is no other reason or circumstance to have your dog wear a muzzle.  If it's warm out, you are walking your dog, exercising your dog, etc. you want to make sure to order a muzzle that will not result in health issues for your dog.  Please read this page and conduct additional research or consult a professional if you need help determining which muzzle is right for your dog and the circumstances in which your dog must wear a muzzle.

The information provided on this page is not intended for owners searching for a muzzle for an aggressive dog - a dog you are worried might bite people or other dogs without a muzzle - or for any other reason other than comply with ordinances of cities in Ohio requiring the muzzling of so-called pit bulls.

Types of Muzzles*

It is imperative that "pit bull" owners and owners of other targeted breeds understand the types of muzzles available and which muzzles are safe for walking and using in public.  The information provided on this page will not help if you're looking for a muzzle for an aggressive dog - a dog you are worried might bite people or other dogs.  Please consult a local trainer or certified behaviorist for aggressive dog issues.
 

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  1. Mesh Muzzles -

DO NOT USE TO COMPLY WITH MUZZLE LAWS!

These muzzles are nylon (with holes or without).  Vets and groomers often use these muzzles.  These muzzles should NEVER be used for long periods or when walking or exercising your dog!!!!

DO NOT USE THIS MUZZLE TO COMPLY WITH MUZZLE LAWS!

Mesh muzzles don't allow the dog to open his/her mouth to pant, drink or take treats.  A dog wearing this type of muzzle can OVERHEAT, HAVE A STROKE or even DIE. 

DO NOT USE THIS MUZZLE TO COMPLY WITH MUZZLE LAWS!

Only use a mesh muzzle when you are supervising your dog and can free the dog if she/he shows signs of dehydration or distress; however, it may be too late to do much if the person acts too slow.  We've heard of many dogs having strokes and dying when wearing these muzzles. 


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  1. Basket Muzzles -

 There are many types of basket muzzles available.  From our research, wire basket muzzle appear to be consistently
 recommended for owners who are using muzzles only to comply with muzzling laws.  These muzzles allow a dog to pant,
 take treats and drink water.

 Please conduct research to determine which muzzle is appropriate for your situation and your dog.   

  Wire Basket Muzzles are made of wire formed into a basket around the nose and mouth of the dog, usually with a
  leather strap.  This muzzle gives the dog the ability to breathe, pant and drink water freely if fitted correctly. This
  muzzle is a good choice for complying with laws.  Look for leather straps with padding for comfort. 

Note:  When the weather is hot, the wire can become hot and burn your dog. 
    When the weather is cold, the dog's tongue may stick to the wire. 

Wire basket muzzle

Always supervise your dog when wearing a muzzle.

Make sure to order the correct size and to fit the muzzle correctly!

Please click on the links below to view online stores selling these muzzles:

Store #1

Store #2

Store #3

Store #4

(Note:  we have not tested these muzzles or purchased from the stores
listed above.  We are not endorsing the websites or muzzles.  Please make
sure to determine the appropriate muzzle for your dog and your needs.)

 

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               Rubber Coated Wire Basket Muzzles are similar to the wire basket muzzle described above, except this muzzle
               prevents the dogs nose or tongue from sticking in cold weather or burning in hot weather. 

Always supervise your dog when wearing a muzzle.

Make sure to order the correct size and to fit the muzzle correctly!

                   Please click on the links below to view online stores selling these muzzles:

                               Store #1

                                             Store #2

            (Note:  we have not tested these muzzles or purchased from the stores
             listed above.  We are not endorsing the websites or muzzles.  Please make
             sure to determine the appropriate muzzle for your dog and your needs.)

 

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  Plastic Basket Dog Muzzles are flexible plastic.  These muzzles are suited for occasional walks where a person is
  supervising the dog.  Although we have not tested this muzzle, it appears there is a greater chance that the dog could
  get this type of muzzle off because this muzzle does not have a separate strap that tightens around the nose.  These
  muzzles allow the dog to breath freely, pant and drink water (although drinking water may be more difficult than the
  basket muzzles listed above).  This dog muzzle also has a removable front grill that allows for added adjustment. 

Always supervise your dog when wearing a muzzle.

Make sure to order the correct size and to fit the muzzle correctly!

Store #1

Store #2

(Note:  we have not tested this muzzle or purchased from the store
listed above.  We are not endorsing the websites or muzzles.  Please make sure to determine the appropriate muzzle for your dog and your needs.)

  

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For more information on muzzles, please click here and conduct additional research and speak with local reputable trainers and behaviorists.

Getting Comfortable with a Muzzle  (this information was copied and pasted from eHow.  This is great information to follow but you may need to do additional research or contact a local trainer for assistance.)

 

"When you have decided on a type of muzzle, work with your dog to get him comfortable wearing it. One way to introduce the muzzle is to place a cookie or treat inside it and to then allow your dog to eat the cookie out of it. You can work up to having the dog wear the muzzle for short periods, and then longer periods. Observe your dog while she wears the muzzle and note anything she has trouble doing. If she is able to paw off the muzzle, you may need to tighten it or purchase a smaller size. Don't leave your dog in the muzzle for long periods until you are confident he can't get the muzzle off, and that he can breathe, pant, and drink well while wearing it.

"Things to Remember

"If your dog has aggression issues, a muzzle may not be the ultimate answer. A muzzle can make a fearful, aggressive dog feel more vulnerable than she does already, and while it may prevent the dog from biting, can contribute to other aggressive behavior. A dog behaviorist can help you and your dog work through aggression and fear so that a muzzle is rarely needed. If you intend to use a muzzle regularly for long periods, it is a good idea to check with a vet or dog trainer to make sure you are doing everything you can to make your dog as comfortable and safe as possible.

"Muzzle as a Last Resort

"Avoid leaving your dog muzzled when you are not there to supervise. If you are muzzling your dog to prevent her from getting into something while you are gone, consider changing the environment and removing the threat. Remember that there will always be a chance your dog can get the muzzle off, and that basket muzzles in particular can get caught in fences, holes and other small spaces."

Please visit eHow to read the entire article:  http://www.ehow.com/way_5141950_long-keep-muzzle-dog.html  

 

 

*   This is not a complete list of the types of muzzles.  This is just an overview.  Please do not rely only on this page in choosing a muzzle.  Additional research by you is necessary and we recommend you consult a professional.