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Originally Posted by kdlmon  Since my last post I have taken Cooper to the vet for a full checkup . Luckily he seems to be in perfect health. Unfortunately this did not solve the aggression problem.
So, I met with a dog trainer who specializes in aggressive behavior. She spent four days with Cooper and has been guiding me through the process of helping him get back to the sweet dog he was. I have seen such great progress over the past week and am feeling very hopeful!
At this point, Cooper has certain things that make him anxious and lashing out is the only way he feels that he can keep himself safe. My trainer has recommended putting him in a basket muzzle so that we can desensitize him to things that frighten him, show him that these things won't hurt him (without getting bit in the process--those little teeth hurt!).
Unfortunately I have searched the forum on muzzles and this seems to be a very controversial topic. I am happy to listen to anyone's opinion but at this point I believe the basket muzzle is the best thing to help get Cooper safe and happy. Does anyone know where I can get a basket muzzle that will fit a 4.5 pound dog? I have used a nylon one a couple of times but feel that it is not the safest and most comfortable thing to use. Any suggestions would be very helpful. Thanks! |
I will research for you, but if memory serves my oldish mind correctly there is a website entitled workingdogs something.com. They do have small muzzles as well. Some larger pet stores will sell the basket muzzle. You need to have it fitted properly. I would have hoped your trainer had some recommendations for you on sourcing of this muzzle.
The muzzle properly used is a very good training/re training tool. Trust your trainer in this.