THE reasons why many dogs are trained to wear a muzzle are explained by Dogs Trust West London at Harefield as it asks people to consider adopting one of its pets.

A number of dogs currently available for rehoming are muzzle-trained, but many people are puzzled as to why.

Quite often, muzzled dogs spend longer in kennels before going off to new homes.

Karla Haines, assistant manager at Harefield, said: “Dogs are muzzled for a range of reasons; prevention, social skills, to stop them from eating things on their walks, for the vets, grooming and lots more.

“Dogs can learn to feel comfortable wearing muzzles in the same way that they learn to wear a collar. They can still enjoy their walks, pant freely, drink water and have treats.”

There are several muzzle-trained dogs currently waiting for homes, including:

Foxy, a nine-year-old terrier cross. She adores human company, but is worried by other dogs due to no previous socialising.

Duke, a four-year-old greyhound, still has a strong chase drive towards anything small and fluffy. Wearing a muzzle keeps smaller, fluffier animals safe, while allowing him to exercise in rural, wildlife-filled areas.

Milano, a six-year-old German shepherd cross, deserves new owners willing to spend the time bonding with him before taking him home. He is worried by new people, especially at the vets, so wearing a muzzle keeps him and those around him safe.

If you are no longer puzzled by muzzles, visit: https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/rehoming/our-centres/harefield