Why Some Dogs Wear Muzzles During Social Class

Hey there, I wanted to share something unique about our social classes:

Some of our favorite dogs wear muzzles. They are all good dogs who need extra management to succeed.

A muzzle isn’t a punishment. It’s a safety tool that gives dogs opportunities they’d never have otherwise.

Think of it like a seatbelt – you don’t wear one because you’re planning to crash, you wear one because it keeps everyone safer if something unexpected happens.

Which Dogs Might Need Muzzles?

The “99%” Dogs: These are actually some of our favorites. They’re wonderful 99% of the time, but if the wrong dog on the wrong day pushes their buttons just right, they might overreact. The muzzle means they can still socialize, play, and learn – just with a safety net.

The Reformed Fighters: Dogs who’ve had serious conflicts in the past but are working on better social skills. Without a muzzle, they’d be banned from social activities forever. With one, they get to keep learning and growing.

The Resource Guarders: Dogs who might guard toys, water bowls, or even people. They’re learning to share, but while they’re learning, the muzzle keeps everyone safe.

If we ever recommend a muzzle for your dog, please know:

• It’s not punishment
• It doesn’t mean your dog is bad
• It might be temporary as they learn better skills
• It might be long-term management that gives them freedom they wouldn’t have otherwise

Our Safety Standards

While most daycares see weekly fights requiring vet visits, we have less than one fight per year. Part of this incredible safety record comes from using muzzles proactively rather than reactively.

Your friend with treat-filled pockets,

Ryan