Kylie, one of our trainers, recently shared a beautiful insight into her journey with muzzle training her dog Gladys. It’s a great reminder that muzzles aren’t about punishment, they’re about support, safety, and giving dogs the opportunity to succeed.

“We’ve been working hard on muzzle training so that Gladys can safely enjoy more freedom and to help change the way people see muzzled dogs. Gladys is a friendly girl with people and dogs she knows, but unfamiliar dogs can feel overwhelming for her. She’s a sensitive soul who experiences the world in a big way, and we’re committed to helping her feel safe while also keeping others safe.

Muzzle training isn’t about punishment, it’s about responsible ownership and giving dogs more opportunities to succeed. Because of her muzzle (and her great recall), Gladys can get back to doing what she loves, like running freely while we continue to build her confidence around things she finds challenging.

Muzzled dogs aren’t “bad” dogs. They’re supported dogs. They’re loved dogs. They’re dogs whose humans are choosing safety, kindness, and understanding. If you see a muzzled dog, give them space and give their humans a little credit too!”