Dangers You Should Be Aware Of When Using A Muzzle Or Choke With Your Dog

When training your dog, it pays to use the right tools in the right way at the right time. Two tools that are often misunderstood and misused are training collars (choke collars) and muzzles. In this article, we will discuss the proper time and place for using these tools along with the hazards inherent in misusing and/or abusing them. Read on to learn more

The first thing you should know about training collars and muzzles is that they are intended to be used with fairly mature dogs. You should never use either of these tools with a puppy under six months of age. It is simply inappropriate, and collar can do permanent damage both physically and emotionally.

Choke Chain

If you are going to use a training collar, you should use it only for training. This type of chain collar is intended to be used during obedience classes and for walks. It should never be left on an unsupervised dog, and it should never be used for tying your dog. This type of collar goes by the nickname, choke collar.

You should not use a training collar if you don't know what you're doing. Get proper instruction from your vet or a dog trainer in correct use of this tool. This type of collar gives you good control over your dog, when used correctly.

Dog Muzzle

A muzzle can be a useful tool for performing necessary procedures. If your dog is insecure, aggressive or frightened, use of a muzzle can help keep everybody safe.

It's good to teach your dog about use of a muzzle during bathing, toenail clipping and other common procedures you perform at home. In this way, you will be able to take the muzzle with you to the vet and apply it appropriately to your dog for inoculations and other procedures. When you train your dog correctly in the use of a muzzle, it will even give your dog a sense of security in frightening situations.

If your community mandates the use of a muzzle for your type of dog, of course you must comply. Be sure to take the muzzle off when your dog is not out in public. Never leave your dog unsupervised with the muzzle in place. A muzzle can cause distress and problems in that it will prevent your dog from being able to eat or drink so make sure you use basket muzzles that allows your dog to pant and drink.

With proper use and common sense, both a training collar and a muzzle can be very useful tools in dog care and training.

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