Muzzle Training, Stage 2: Buckling Up

Muzzles are for good dogs, too!

(Make sure to check out Stages 0 and 1 first!)

The right hand supports the muzzle while the left hand brings the strap up and behind the ears.

Step 1: Introduce Buckling and Unbuckling the Strap

  1. Allow the straps to open naturally

  2. Feed through the muzzle as usual—a lickable treat is easiest!

  3. While she’s busy eating from your right hand, use your left hand to bring the strap behind her ears

  4. Remove your right hand from her mouth so you can buckle the snap

  5. Feed

  6. While she’s busy eating, use your left hand to unbuckle the strap and remove the muzzle

Step 2: Delay the Treat

  1. Present the muzzle

  2. After your dog sticks her nose inside, buckle it up

  3. Feed

  4. Unbuckle

  5. Feed

Leighann Hurley, CPDT-KA

Leighann founded Koinonia Dogs in 2014 and has been a Certified Professional Dog Trainer since 2019.

She's a problem-solver by nature and loves creating cooperation through conflict-free communication so both ends of the leash enjoy life together.

Tap to watch the Dog Trainer work

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Muzzle Training, Stage 3: Duration

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Muzzle Training, Stage 1: Muzzle = Yay!