Every foster dog who has come through our home, as well as each personal dog, has worn a muzzle at least a few times. Does that mean that they were all aggressive in some way? No. That means, should a situation ever arise where that dog needs to be muzzled, he will be comfortable with it and it won't add stress to the situation.
I have had people literally climb shelves at the pet store when I walk a muzzled dog pass them, even if the dog doesn't look their way. 99% of the dogs we've muzzled have never shown aggression towards people: that's just the stigma surrounding muzzles. Maybe that dog can't have a treat and she is learning 'leave it'. Sometimes, he may just be learning that a muzzle is no big deal. Sometimes, the dog may have aggression issues he is working through and the owner is being responsible to keep everyone safe.
You have to muzzle train your dog before you just throw a muzzle on and head out, otherwise the muzzle can add stress and/or the dog can form a negative association. I personally use basket muzzles so the dog can still eat treats when offered, drink water, and pant. I offer a treat through the muzzle until he is eagerly putting his face in, then I add the command 'muzzle' to it. Once he is comfortable with that, I strap the muzzle on and give a few more treats. Once he is relaxed while wearing the muzzle, we can head out. I believe all dogs should be comfortable wearing a muzzle should they ever need one.
If you take your dog to the vet and they need to be muzzled, your vet will appreciate that training. If you use a professional groomer, they may appreciate that training. If you're ever in a strange setting and your dog has a bad reaction, you'll appreciate that training. If your dog gets anxious, he or she will appreciate that training. Remember, just because a dog is wearing a muzzle doesn't mean they are a bad dog. Muzzle or no muzzle, you should still always ask before approaching a strange dog.
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