This patient does not have any learning history with a muzzle. This video demonstrates the beginning steps of muzzle training using the shaping technique as described above. The pet learns that the last behavior performed during the marker signal earns reinforcement. When the marker (tongue click, clicker, or word “click”) is audible, treats should follow. In this situation, the communication is the marker.
The behavior is molded by the communication the trainer gives the pet. Shaping is the process of “building” a behavior by successively reinforcing bits or “criteria’ of the behavior that are approximations of the final behavior. Using marker training allows dogs to make their own choices and learn through shaping. The result is that when we begin to place the strap over their head, they may display stress, fear, and panic.
Dogs may choose to place their head inside the muzzle for the peanut butter but may not truly understand the behavior they are being reinforced for. This can create fear, stress, and anxiety. This can be helpful, but moving from one step to the other too quickly risks pushing the pet too far and putting on the muzzle before training is complete. Using this technique, we can teach dogs that muzzles are treat dispensers that make fantastic things happen.įor instance, muzzle training can be taught by using a luring technique in which treats are placed into the back of the muzzle to create a positive experience. The best way to teach a patient to enjoy wearing a muzzle is through positive reinforcement: adding something to the situation to strengthen the likelihood of a behavior. Using Marker Training and Positive Reinforcement Muzzles keep dogs safe when in public or around unfamiliar people, animals, and situations. Those situations include emergencies such as being hit by a car as well as introductions to new challenges. This stigma needs to go because we never know when a pet will be in a situation where a muzzle may be beneficial. The bad news is that dogs wearing muzzles are viewed as scary. Using and recommending muzzle training can help prevent a bite on your patient’s record and potentially save a dog’s life. As veterinary professionals, our job is to enhance the human-animal bond and keep our patients safe, happy, and healthy. But if a dog makes this choice, it can mean a bite, lawsuits, and potentially euthanasia. For us, that situation, if not escalated, may lead to an apology or resolution. Not only can muzzle training help keep veterinary teams safe during examinations and procedures, it can also provide opportunities for person and pet long term.Īs humans, we may get stressed, fearful, anxious, or concerned about a situation and lash out aggressively. Muzzle training is an important skill for every dog to have.
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