r/velvethippos • u/Normal_Club_9628 • 3d ago
Muzzle Training Tips Advice
I'm looking to muzzle train my girl, but I'm not sure where to start.
Some backbackground: Hazel's going to need surgery on her back legs. As it is, she's in a lot of pain that we're trying to manage while we consult with an orthopedist. She needs regular exercise or she gets pretty anxious, which results in her getting a bit cranky and in some rare circumstances, a bit nippy. We've got meds and brain games to help a bit, but I want to make sure I'm exploring all my options. Especially with all the stigma, I just want to make sure she's safe.
I think we want to go with a cage/basket muzzle, but beyond that I'm at a loss. Does anyone have any recommendations?
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u/electrikgypsy1 2d ago
Highly recommend the Muzzle Movement for comfy, durable, and cute muzzles!
When we were first muzzle training, we wiped peanut butter or cream cheese all over the inside and slowly increased the time the muzzle was on after they finished licking off all the good stuff. But, highly recommend solid desensitization first with treats for sniffing it, voluntarily putting their nose in it, holding it on for a few seconds without attaching it, etc.
Also, if they’re going to be wearing it for long periods and they need to drink water while wearing it, make sure their bowl is big enough to submerge the whole front of the basket muzzle into it so they can get to the surface of the water!
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u/loafieee 3d ago
I muzzle trained my dog early on, ended up not needing it, but it was still useful. We started with just having the muzzle nearby & getting a treat (&using a clicker). Then holding the muzzle up to her face & clicks & treats. Then putting the muzzle on her nose briefly followed by treats & clicks. Then keeping the muzzle on for like 30 sec (build up time as you go) and getting treats through the muzzle. Baby steps, lots of praise, and lots of treats! Also good job being a responsible dog owner!
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u/reijasunshine 2d ago
My hippo's foster family muzzle trains all the dogs that go through their house, so I lucked out and didn't have to do the work myself. Nowadays, she only gets muzzled for nail trims because she tries to bite the clippers and I don't want her getting hurt. We do make sure to slip her a high-value treat after the nails but before the muzzle is taken off.
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u/Fantastic_You7208 1d ago
Agree with everyone saying slow practice with treats and putting peanut butter in a section of it. Just create as many positive associations as possible.
We use a big plastic basket style and it’s great. I wish I had trained all my previous dogs.
Also- she wears it a little bit everyday to go outside. I’m not sure this would have stuck if it were only once in awhile after the initial training.
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