Owner reports on use of muzzles and their effects on dogs; an online survey

Abstract Specific situations and legal requirements in some countries require dogs to wear a muzzle on a regular basis. Ongoing discussions within different national authorities are trying to balance the safety of the public against welfare of dogs when being walked. However, detailed information on ideal type of muzzle, muzzle fit, introduction techniques to wearing a muzzle and effects of muzzle use on the physical condition and behavior on dogs is very limited. Hence, this study collected data via an online survey on frequency and circumstances of muzzle use and observed effects on dogs when wearing a muzzle by also incorporating training techniques and muzzle type used. Of 1,862 respondents, only 21.6% indicated their dog never wears a muzzle (average age: 5.8 ± 3.6 years). Around half of the owners stated that their dog wears a muzzle only when mandatory by legislation (47.8%) and/or when necessary to prevent a bite (47.5%). Public transport and crowded public places were situations, where muzzles were employed most often. While basket type muzzles (made of BioThane, plastic, wire) were used most often, only 71.3% reported a fit not clearly impairing dog welfare. Muzzle introduction technique (habituation, short training, intense training, no preparation) used, significantly impacted on adverse behaviors observed when wearing a muzzle for the first time, and on ongoing behavior when muzzled such as trying to pull the muzzle off, rubbing the nose against objects or freezing behavior. Using food during muzzle training significantly decreased levels of passive avoidance during fastening and increased the likelihood of dogs actively putting their nose into the muzzle. Negative effects on behavior when wearing a muzzle were reported by 19.6% of owners and labelled with the terms ‘insecure, apathetic, dull, passive, distressed, anxious, unwell, agitated, nervous, tense, sad or miserable’. Changes in dog behavior were perceived as an advantage with respect to inability to access food (41.9%) and when used for veterinary visits (30.9%). Observed physical damage of either fur or skin, effects on thermoregulation, the ocular or gastrointestinal tract were reported by 161 (12.9%) owners. The results of this survey indicate a need to educate dog owners on muzzle fit and training protocols to reduce negative effects on dog welfare. In addition, potential alterations in intraspecies communication, other social behaviors and welfare need to be explored in more detail.