Don’t Be Puzzled by Dogs Wearing Muzzles

Dogs Trust Manchester is raising awareness about why some dogs are trained to wear a muzzle, hoping to change perceptions and encourage more people to consider adopting one of the muzzled dogs patiently waiting for their forever homes.

Muzzle training is often misunderstood, leading to people believing that a muzzled dog is dangerous or difficult. In reality, muzzles are an important tool that can help dogs feel more comfortable and safe in certain situations. 

Dogs Trust Manchester wants to spread the message that muzzle training is a sign of responsible dog ownership, not a reflection of a dog’s temperament. Sadly, dogs that wear muzzles can take longer to find homes due to the misconceptions of muzzles only being worn by aggressive dogs, but there are many reasons why a dog might benefit from wearing a muzzle, including: 

1. To ensure safety when a dog is frightened, unwell, or in pain. Fear and discomfort can affect a dog's behaviour, and a muzzle allows a vet or owner to provide treatment quickly and safely in an emergency. 
      

2. To prevent dogs from eating things that could be harmful. Some dogs have strict dietary requirements, while others are prone to picking up and swallowing things they shouldn’t. A muzzle can be an essential tool to help keep them safe. 
      

3. To support responsible ownership and ensure the safety of dogs and those around them. Some dogs may have a high prey drive or a history of chasing or become overwhelmed in certain situations. A muzzle allows them to enjoy walks and interactions safely. 

One of the muzzle-trained dogs currently waiting for her forever family is one-year-old Crossbreed, Hestia. Hestia is a bouncy, playful girl who loves to be around people and can live with children aged eight and over, but when it comes to her four-legged friends she isn’t as confident and she has a high prey drive, so when out and about she happily wears a muzzle. 

Hestia loves heading off on a day trip with staff and volunteers and when she’s back at the centre her favourite pastime is spending time with her carers, enjoying a cuddle and having lots of fuss made of her. 

Lisa Eardly, Rehoming Centre Manager at Dogs Trust Manchester, says, 

“Dogs are muzzled for a range of reasons, and it doesn’t necessarily mean they are aggressive as some may assume. Hestia is incredibly friendly, but she is anxious around dogs and, if given the chance, will chase small furries too, so she has been muzzle trained. 

“It can be useful for all dogs to be comfortable wearing a muzzle as you never know when it might come in handy. Dogs can learn to happily wear a muzzle, like they learn to wear a collar. They can still enjoy their walks, pant freely, drink water and have treats. 

“We hope that by highlighting the different reasons why some of our fabulous canine residents wear a muzzle, we can help people understand that wearing one is normal for many dogs and isn’t anything to be concerned about.” 

The rehoming centre hopes that by spreading awareness, more people will open their hearts and homes to these wonderful dogs who are ready to become loving companions.  

To find out more information about muzzle training, please visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/muzzles.  

To find out more about Hestia and all the dogs waiting for their forever homes, please go to www.dogstrust.org.uk/manchester