24/05/2026
Although we are all getting to grips with the XL Bully legislation and need for muzzling dogs, and in light of the 'Just In Case' campaign, we think it's an important reminder that we should NOT be using closed mouth muzzles to walk dogs, and dogs must be able to pant.
Note that many dog muzzles are not made in a way that allows full panting. Even some basket muzzles, like the ones you often see us use in a veterinary practice, does not allow a full pant and isn't suitable for exercise.
They MUST be able to pant or they risk heat stroke, especially in warm weather but this is important no matter what temperature!
If you need a bite proof muzzle, that also allows dogs to pants, look at communities such as The Muzzle Movement and The Muzzle Up Project for help and support.
➡️Muzzles are an essential piece of equipment in in the dog world.
➡️A properly fitted muzzle can allow people to safely exercise and socialise their dogs in a safer environment.
➡️Sadly dogs wearing muzzles are subject to judgment.
➡️There are a number of reasons dogs need to wear a muzzle, and none of them mean you have a bad dog! What we do have is a dog that is experiencing the world and an owner who has safe control of their pet.
✅Muzzle training should always be a very positive experience so the muzzle becomes associated with enjoyable experiences like walks, socialising, activities or safe off lead exercise, for example. Training may be a slow process but is worthwhile to allow your pet to safely navigate their environment.
➡️There are a number of reasons why a dog may be wearing a muzzle. If you see a dog wearing one:
✅ Recall your dog in case the dog is fear reactive or dog reactive
✅ Communicate with the owner.
🗨️"Hello, how are you? Is your dog okay with my dog or would you like me to move further away?"
In many instances you may help reduce the anxiety of a fear reactive dogs owner who can then safely pass without worrying about unexpected confrontation.
You may also learn that their dog is perfectly fine with dogs and would love to play, and they are wearing the muzzle for other reasons.
These reasons can be:
✅Behaviour
Some dogs need a muzzle to safely exercise in public because they may be reactive of aggressive in certain circumstances. An owner walking a muzzled dog is taking excellent care to provide for their welfare needs to enjoy natural behaviour while still considering the safety of others.
✅ Dogs that scavenge on walks.
This could result in the dangerous ingestion of mouldy foods, or other dangerous objects like stones, large pieces of wood or rubbish and litter left around (P.s please bin your litter!!)
✅ Dogs that are on a medical elimination diet and are not allowed to eat anything else to check for food allergies
✅ Dogs with medical issues like pancreatitis meaning scavenging high fat treats could cause a nasty flare up. Or dogs with diabetes that need to stop grabbing sneaky treats on walks to help control their blood glucose levels.
✅ Dogs who have a high prey drive and may try to catch little animals or even nip other smaller dogs on walks
✅ Dogs that's are perfectly lovely but have been put under restrictions by Breed Specific Legislation like a Pit Bull Terrier or XL Bully.
Post Pictures of your happy muzzled dog✅🐾💞
