Officials at Dogs Trust Snetterton have shared the real reasons why many dogs are trained to wear a muzzle and are asking the public to consider adopting one of those waiting for a new home.
Muzzled dogs often spend longer in kennels before being adopted, due to the stigma associated with the items.
Kelly Smith, centre manager at Snetterton, said: “For some dogs, wearing a muzzle means they can safely do more enriching activities.
“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.
“A dog that is wearing a muzzle does not make them a bad dog.”
Lilypad, a two-year-old Belgium Malinois, had a difficult start to life, but is "very clever and cannot wait to learn new tricks in her forever home".
She is worried by other dogs as she has had no previous socialisation, so a muzzle means she can safely learn to mix with other dogs.
New people also worry Lilypad, so her muzzle also helps her in public places.
Bubba, a ten-year-old terrier cross, who is Snetterton’s sponsor dog, is worried by new people.
Wearing a muzzle is useful when meeting new carers and, hopefully one day soon, meeting his new owners.
Bernie, a nine-year-old basset hound, is a "lovely, friendly pooch", who can live with children aged over 12. He is "super affectionate and loves being around people".
However, he is worried by restraint, especially at the vets, so wearing a muzzle helps.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here