Does the word “muzzle” conjure up an image in your mind of a cruel steel contraption that forces a dog’s mouth painfully closed? It used to for me, but not anymore! When I decided to get a Rottweiler, a little research changed my way of thinking! It’s all about safety, friends.
Both the safety of our Rottweilers, and the humans and other animals that encounter them! In this article, you’ll learn what you must know about muzzles and the reasons why there are times when YES your Rottie should definitely wear one!
Why Muzzle a Rottweiler?
So your Rottweiler is a big ole baby who never bit anyone? So is my Maximus! But, I’ll tell you something: There are times when Max does wear his muzzle, and there are times when your Rottie should, too!
I’d like to use an old friend named “Beauty” to illustrate my point. Beauty was a six-year-old Rottie who belonged to my friend. Loving, gentle, and smart as a whip, Beauty was the star of that family and popular with both the humans and the other animals in her community. She was well-socialized, well-trained, and never caused a single problem. Ever.
When the State Fair came to town, the family took Beauty along without a second thought. At the fair, they encountered another dog who startled Beauty when he approached the family. Immediately, Beauty went into “protect my humans” mode, lunged and attacked the other dog. The owners quickly broke the two dogs apart, but Beauty did injure the smaller dog that startled her.
Legal issues ensued and long story short, the beautiful creature named Beauty was euthanized, breaking many human hearts. In retrospect, we’re sure a muzzle would have saved Beauty’s life!
WE DON’T MUZZLE BECAUSE OUR DOG IS MEAN, WE MUZZLE BECAUSE HE’S A DOG!
We must grasp this concept! My four-legged friend Beauty thought her humans were in danger. In a split-second, her instincts kicked in and surpassed her manners and training. The whole scuffle that cost Beauty her life lasted less than 30 seconds. Her life wasn’t spared despite testimonies on Beauty’s behalf provided by her family, neighbors, trainer and even her veterinarian.
Beauty’s humans learned a valuable lesson in the hardest way possible! A muzzle would have saved one dog from injury and another, her life.
Do Rotties HAVE to Be Muzzled?
The Rottie Resource strongly urges you to check the laws where you live today regarding muzzles and restraints for your Rottweiler. Here where I live, a muzzle must be worn only if your Rottweiler has been legally declared a dangerous dog. Ironically, regular use of a muzzle might have prevented him from ever having been declared dangerous in the first place!
A responsible owner of a large breed dog uses a muzzle to ensure the safety of all parties involved (including his Rottie!) not because he has to use a muzzle.
Will a Muzzle Make a Rottie Look Mean?
A muzzle will only make a Rottie look mean if you want it to! With today’s vast selection of styles, fabrics, and brands, you can find a muzzle that displays your (or your Rottie’s) unique personality. People needn’t think “Mean Dog!” when they see your muzzled Rottie. Rather they’ll think, “Safe Dog!”
Although you couldn’t imagine fearing your lovable “smooch-ums wooch-um”, some people are struck with fear the moment they encounter your Rottie’s broad muscular body and menacing (in their minds) massive mouth full of sharp teeth! The muzzle allows others to feel safe while they get to know your Rottweiler (or he gets to know them) or even just as they pass by.
We’ve done our research to save you time and found some great looking muzzles on Amazon. After you’re finished reading, you’ll find them on our Resource Pages (Coming Soon!).
Where and When to Muzzle Your Rottweiler
We went over an example that illustrated why a muzzle should be worn at certain times. A little further along, we’ll look at how to select the right muzzle for your Rottie and talk about training your Rottie to wear a muzzle.
Right now, though, let’s address the subject of where and when you should be putting a muzzle on your Rottie.
10 Must Muzzle Scenarios:
- When entering a New Environment like a new dog park, neighborhood, etc
- When entering a Public Building, including daycare, the groomer, pet-friendly stores, etc
- When in Highly Populated or Congested Areas: Carnivals, fairs and crowded sidewalks or busses may not be overwhelming to you, but they sure can be to your Rottweiler!
- When your Rottie is Among Many Animals: When your Rottweiler is surrounded by other animals, especially unfamiliar ones, utilize the “Better Safe Than Sorry” rule of thumb!
- In People Parks: No matter how social or people-loving your Rottie is, you have no assurance the people you encounter while out are going to be Rottweiler-loving.
I can remember being scared to death as a young mother when a huge dog would be near to my playing child!
- At Campgrounds or Hotels: When making reservations, inquire about their pet policies. Then, muzzle your Rottie when in any public area of your lodging facilities.
- On the Beach: You’ll probably have the opportunity to remove his muzzle for that game of frisbee or frolicking in the waves, but at least arrive at the beach with your Rottie muzzled.
Carefully select the spot you’ll claim with your beach blanket and umbrella. Chose the best time for playtime, and keep everyone around you safe via your Rottie’s muzzle the rest of the time.
- On Hiking Trails on Jogging Paths: If there are other humans on your trail or path, keep that muzzle on! Sudden and quick movements, along with unexpected ones are things that can “trigger” your Rottie’s protective instincts.
Strangers popping out on a trail or jogging quickly up behind you may not bode well with your Rottie.
- Around Small Children: I’ll say that again. Around Small Children. Your Rottweiler is stronger than he thinks he is and kids are just… well… kids. They can play rough without realizing. Some poke and Squeeze. Some have loud voices and can startle your Rottie.
The best way to handle a miscommunication between Rottweiler and a child that could get ugly is to avoid one! Please, when there are small children about that aren’t your own, muzzle that Rottie!
- In Your Home when entertaining guests. This may seem like a ludicrous notion to you, but here at Rottie Resources, we think it’s a good idea! Let me tell you why…
Why Should You Muzzle Your Rottweiler in Your Own Home?
When receiving guests, salesmen, clergy, or other various humans into your home, it is wise to put a muzzle on your Rottie. It allows the opportunity for your guests and your Rottie to become accustomed to one another without risk of any danger to your guests.
Guests like not feeling in danger when they visit, I promise! Remember, your Rottweiler will grow to almost the weight of an average adult!
You may always see the tiny loving pup he once was when you gaze upon him, but your guests see a big black dog who weighs almost as much as they do! Your guests will feel reassured that you have guaranteed their safety in your home, and they’ll be able to get acquainted with your Rottie without fear.
If the guests visit frequently, include them in deciding when the muzzle is no longer needed when they drop by.
Doing this will let your guests know they are respected. You may NEVER need the muzzle with some guests, but others will NEVER feel completely comfortable around your Rottweiler! Don’t take that personally, some people have had a frightening experience with dogs in the past, and some are simply not “dog people”.
I know, it’s hard for me to believe, too. But we don’t hold it against them, do we? ALWAYS muzzle your Rottie when accepting a stranger (to him) into your home!
Remember! You see a cuddle bunny when you look at your beloved pet, others see a potential threat from a dog who tops 100 pounds! Whether the threat is real or imagined, if it makes your guest feel afraid, it is a REAL THREAT to them!
With the motive of being respectful toward others and ensuring their safety, don’t nix the muzzle until your guest expresses consent.
4 Different Types of Muzzles
- The Basket Muzzle is the most popular muzzle to prevent dog bites. As the name implies, the Basket Muzzle has strips of material woven in a basket fashion, allowing for your Rottie to pant, to breathe easily, drink water, and even receive a treat! The strips will be woven from leather, nylon, or metal.
The Rottie Resource likes a Basket Muzzle because it allows freedom for panting and accessibility for drinking water.
- The Tube Muzzle is the common muzzle used for grooming. Again, the name describes the product. It is a long cloth or nylon tube that goes around a dog’s snout. This isn’t the safest muzzle when it comes to preventing bites, and may only be used for short periods as it keeps the dog’s mouth closed.
Your groomer is familiar with and accustomed to their tools. Decide between the two of you whether they should use their Tube Muzzle for grooming or your Rottie’s own muzzle.
- The Circular Muzzle is exactly what it sounds like. A band of varying widths made from a variety of materials circles your Rottweiler’s mouth and nose, forcing the mouth to be fully or almost fully closed. If you opt for a Circular Muzzle, use it for the shortest time durations possible, and be sure you’ve trained with it at home before using it in public to learn its limitations.
- The Soft Muzzle is usually made of a breathable cloth or nylon mesh and slips over your Rottie’s entire mouth and nose. It is lightweight and comfortable, but lightweight may not be the best bite protection. However, it may be useful in training your Rottie Puppy to be comfortable and relaxed while wearing a muzzle. It is less intrusive to the face, but less convenient for drinking or giving your dog treats.
For your convenience, we have compiled a collection of safe, effective and stylish muzzles available on Amazon right on our helpful Resource Pages (Coming Soon!)
Which Muzzle is Right for Your Rottweiler?
When considering a product that has the potential to be life-saving, choosing the most protection available just makes sense! For this reason, The Rottie Resource recommends selecting a Basket-Style Muzzle that offers full bite protection while allowing your Rottweiler to easily breathe, pant and drink water.
Before you purchase any muzzle ask yourself these relative questions:
- How big is my Rottweiler?
- How much of a potential bite threat does my Rottie pose?
- How long will my Rottweiler be wearing a muzzle?
How to Properly Fit for Your Rottweiler’s Muzzle
Before buying a muzzle for your Rottweiler, you’ll want to take a couple of measurements. An ill-fitting muzzle will be ineffective at preventing bites, and could even cause your Rottie Harm! A muzzle shouldn’t pinch or bind anywhere.
A muzzle that is too small might interfere with your Rottie’s breathing or ability to pant, and a muzzle too large runs a risk of slipping off when you’d most need it to be on!
The three measurements to take are: (1) From the top of your Rottie’s nose to one inch below his eye. (2) Around his snout (from an inch below his eye-line) (3) Around his neck, right behind his ears.
Does a Muzzle Hurt My Rottweiler?
No. A correctly fitted and properly applied muzzle will not hurt your Rottweiler. However, do your research and use a muzzle responsibly. Some allow your Rottie to drink and some don’t. Some allow for panting and some don’t.
And please keep in mind from experience that anything close to your face can be restrictive and agitating.
DO NOT leave your Rottweiler muzzled when he is unsupervised! If he nibbles couch cushions and your slippers while you’re at work, FIND AN ALTERNATIVE SOLUTION. A muzzle isn’t it.
You may be interested to know that Tough Toys and Adequate Exercise can combat unwanted chewing. Your Rottie should only be muzzled for the time of the event that has caused you to put the muzzle on him. Events like a veterinary appointment, walk through the park, or a quick trip into the pet-friendly coffee house.
What About a Homemade Muzzle?
We would be remiss to neglect the subject of a homemade muzzle. Should there be an emergency before you have acquired a muzzle for your Rottweiler, you most likely have the supplies to make a quick muzzle at home.
Should your Rottweiler be injured, for example, he may snap at you or even bite you in his pain or confusion.
One method to construct an emergency muzzle is to use a roll of gauze from your First Aid Kit. Any soft fabric will work for this method, as well.
- Gather a 3-foot strip of gauze or other thin fabric and scissors.
- Approach the dog calmly and try to find the most comfortable position possible.
- Take a long strip of gauze or fabric and double it, holding one end in each hand.
- Place the gauze under your dog’s chin, centered
- Bring each side up to the top of his nose and make a snug knot. Criss-cross the gauze to create a second loop around the nose and take it back under the chin and making another snug knot.
- From under his chin, bring the two ends behind the ears and make the third and final knot, adjusting your “muzzle” for safety and security.
Please Note: The homemade muzzle is intended to suffice only until help is available! It is much less effective than a muzzle designed to stop biting and may constrict his airway. Additionally, a homemade muzzle prevents your Rottweiler from panting, a crucial component in regulating his body temperature.
Muzzle 101: Training for Your Rottweiler
Quite understandably, your Rottweiler might initially object to having a muzzle interfere with his natural way of doing things. For this reason, a muzzle should be introduced long before you intend on using one. The younger your Rottie is when muzzle training begins, the more natural it will feel to him. The attitude you approach the muzzle with is likely the approach your Rottweiler will develop.
Sometimes dogs hate a muzzle because one is only used during times that are stressful to him, like going to the veterinarian, during an emergency, or some other situation that caused them to associate a muzzle with unpleasantness. The way to avoid that situation is to reverse it! From the beginning, you can manipulate the situation and train your Rottie to associate his muzzle with pleasure!
Introducing Your Rottweiler to His Muzzle
Right after your Rottie Puppy learns the 5 Basic Commands, he is ready to be introduced to wearing a muzzle. These five commands are: Come! Heel! Sit! Down! And Stay! The reason The Rottie Resource recommends waiting until your Rottie has mastered the 5 Basic Commands is that by then, he is beginning to understand which of his behaviors is desirable to you.
We never give a “kindergarten” Rottweiler “high school” lessons! Training and learning are life-long events. Help your Rottie associate his muzzle with pleasure by following these steps:
5 Steps to Muzzle Train Your Rottie
- Introduce the muzzle during a relaxed bonding, grooming or “snuggle” time. Let your Rottie see it, smell it, maybe even give it a little taste test! End the first introduction by gently rubbing the muzzle around his neck and head area. Give him a little treat or a whole bunch of praise and affection (the BEST reward). You’ll show your Rottie the muzzle is harmless and that it’s “no big deal”. Set the muzzle to the side and finish what you were doing with your Rottie before you introduced the muzzle. Do nothing more until the next muzzle training session (the following day is ideal).
- On your second session of muzzle training, begin as you did in session one; by letting your Rottweiler thoroughly investigate the muzzle. Follow that by stroking him gently with the muzzle as you speak soft, affectionate, and encouraging words. Remember, your tone sets the whole tone for any interactions you have with your Rottie! The two of you are now ready for the next step…but please DO NOT perform the next step until you’ve read “How to Properly Put on a Muzzle” just below this section!
- Gently try to put the muzzle on your Rottweiler and immediately offer a small treat. Tell him “muzzle” and try to just put it up on the nose and take it off. Do this several times. He may let you just hold it on his mouth…that would be great! My Max allowed me to put it on his nose right away. But don’t fasten the muzzle just yet. Your goal is to spend about five minutes petting your Rottie affectionately while praising him. Freely express your pleasure so he comes to understand clearly that muzzle=happy human. There is nothing more in this world your Rottie would rather do than please you! Take advantage of that in any training! After five minutes (less if your Rottie freaks out, more if he is calm) calmly and gently remove the muzzle. Hold the muzzle or lay it on your lap (in his sight) and show your Rottie some affection. Having something over one’s face can be intimidating and feel restrictive. Recalling the feeling of wearing a Halloween mask in your youth might help you to remember that it was constricting and just felt weird! The same is true for that muzzle on your Rottie.
- At your next muzzle training session, introduce the muzzle and put it on your Rottweiler with less “fanfare” than in the previous session, but still affectionately and in a way that conveys, “This is good!’ You may have to assert a little firmness in insisting the muzzle will be worn, but as a responsible Rottie owner, I am sure by this point you have learned how to assert your authority in a kind and loving way. Your goal in this session is to double the time the muzzle was worn in the last session. In this session, feel free to move around with your Rottie. While in the last session, you displayed calmness and pleasure, in this session you can display activity and pleasure. If things are going okay at this point, a jaunt outside might be in order. If your Rottie is genuinely struggling with the muzzle concept though, you may want to keep it to an indoor petting/treating training session.
- Repeat training sessions by increasing the time the muzzle is on and exposing your Rottie to varying situations while he is wearing it. Offer him water, take him for a walk, run around the back yard with him. Do whatever!
When your Rottweiler is comfortable with his muzzle being on for at least 20 minutes, he is ready to wear it in the places and during the times he really should be wearing it!
Don’t Forget! Training your Rottweiler to associate a muzzle with pleasure is key!
How to Properly Put a Muzzle on Your Rottie
So you’ve selected the muzzle right for your Rottweiler according to his measurements (see “Proper Fit for Your Rottweiler’s Muzzle” above) and your style preference, and have let him give it the once-over with his nose, eyes, and mouth. It’s time to fit the muzzle on your Rottie properly!
PLEASE NOTE: These instructions are for putting a muzzle on your pet, and not on an aggressive or strange dog.
5 Steps to Properly Put On Your Rottie’s Muzzle
- Inspect the muzzle and clasp(s) for integrity and any damage
- Stand with your Rottweiler alongside you restrained on his leash.
- Hold your Rottweiler by his collar at the base of his head.
- With your other hand, slip the muzzle over his mouth and snout.
- Secure clasps to be snug but not tight, making sure there is no pinching, binding or twisting on the muzzle.
An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure
It is my great hope that by this point in the article, you have dropped any fears and reservations you may have had about muzzling your Rottweiler. It’s just part of responsible pet ownership and not a testimony about your Rottie’s behavior. Training, socialization, and using a muzzle are some of the ways you can prevent accidents or even tragedies!
Trust me when I tell you that training your Rottweiler to wear a muzzle is easier than dealing with the aftermath of an event gone horribly wrong by a dog whose instincts surpass his manners and training.
Better to Muzzle Your Rottweiler Than to be Sorry
As you learned from my little story about Beauty, regret is a harsh teacher. I am very happy that when Beauty’s protection instinct kicked in that the other dog made a quick recovery and that no humans were injured! But my heart breaks to know that such a simple step, putting a muzzle on her, could have saved HER life in the long run.
How many dog attack incidents do you think could have been so much less tragic by a simple and affordable device like a muzzle?
Don’t let your beloved Rottweiler become a statistic, or be registered as a “Dangerous Dog”. MUZZLE YOUR ROTTIE UP!
The life you save might be his own.
A collar (and/or harness) is another way to keep your Rottweiler safe! Learn more about the best kinds of collars for Rotties HERE.
*This article has been reviewed in accordance with our editorial policy.
