A Muzzle Doesn't Mean a Bad Dog

A Muzzle Doesn't Mean a Bad Dog

This is Harley.

She's goofy, loving, hilarious... and she's also nervous around strangers and can be leash reactive in busy environments.

For a long time, I worried about what people would think when they saw her wearing a muzzle.

Now?

I see it differently.

Her muzzle gives both of us confidence. It keeps everyone safe, allows me to relax, and lets Harley enjoy adventures without me constantly worrying about the "what ifs."

A properly fitted basket muzzle (like this one) allows a dog to:
๐Ÿพ Pant
๐Ÿพ Drink water
๐Ÿพ Take treats
๐Ÿพ Sniff the world around them

A muzzle should never be used as punishment. It should be introduced slowly and positively so your dog is comfortable wearing it.

People often ask, "Have you tried training?"

Yes. We've worked with trainers, learned a lot, and have plenty of tools in our toolbox. Training has helped us tremendously.

But sometimes management is just as important as training.

Harley isn't an "everyone" dog.

And that's okay.

She doesn't need to love every person she meets to have a wonderful, happy life. She deserves to feel safe, and this is one of the ways we help her do that.

If you ever see a dog wearing a muzzle, try not to assume the worst.

Sometimes you're simply looking at a dog with an owner who loves them enough to set them up for success. โค๏ธ

(P.S. We don't currently carry muzzles, but this one is from The Muzzle Movement and has been a fantastic fit for Harley.)

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