A dog cone has many different names. However, no matter whether you refer it to a pet cone, buster collar, E-collar, Elizabethan collar, or a pet lamp shade, this device is designed to prevent your dog from scratching or licking at a hot spot, surgical incision, or other irritation. When purchasing this protective medical device, you need to consider your options carefully because you want to make sure that your dog is safe and comfortable. With that being said, read on to discover more about the top nine dog cones, as well as some extra advice regarding what to consider when buying dog cones and how to use them effectively.
The Best Dog Cone
Taking the number one spot is the Comfy Cone, which is a cone-shaped e-collar. This is a soft cone, designed to allow your pet to recover in comfort. All Four Paws, who have designed and made this cone, having used padded nylon and foam backing to create one of the most comfortable dog collars available for sale today. Not only is the cone easy for your dog in terms of wear, but it provides easy cleaning for you too. It is also water repellent and resistant.
You will also have no trouble getting the cone on and off your dog quickly, as the Velcro closures offer ease of use yet a tight closure. This cone can also be reversed inside out, as well as front to back, providing support for upper back and shoulder injuries.
Custom fit
Reversible
Three sizing straps for a comfortable fit
Velcro closures
Water resistant and repellent
Veterinarian tested and approved
Works for cats too and other small mammals
- Brand: All Four Paws
- Model: CCLBlack
- Weight: 7 ounces
Next, we have this Bencmate recovery collar, which is inflatable, offering comfort and preventing your dog from biting or scratching the injured area. The key feature of this collar has to be the inflatable design, which makes the collar soft and comfortable. You don’t have to worry about your pet’s vision being blocked. With this collar, your dog can play, sleep, drink, and eat as normal.
This protective collar is also easy to look after. It can be washed with ease and you don’t have to worry about it scraping and marking furniture around the home. Stabilisation is provided via the inner ring loops and the strap means it can be adjusted to suit your dog. Plus, as the collar is inflatable, storage is a breeze. Simply deflate it when it is not in use.
Inflatable design
Durable and stable
Adjustable
Easy to store
Comfortable
Bite and scratch resistant
- Brand: BENCMATE
- Model: BM-COLLAR-L
- Weight: 1.6 ounces
This is another inflatable collar that is worth considering. You can choose from different sizes with this collar. Simply refer to the company’s size chart for more information on this. This ensures you end up with the right collar for your dog, no matter whether you have a Golden Retriever, Labrador, or a small size breed. This collar will not get in the way of your pet’s ability to drink and eat or their peripheral vision. Also, similarly to the Bencmate Protective Inflatable Collar for Dogs and Cats mentioned above, it will not mark any of your furniture around the home.
Inflatable design
Washable
Suitable for all dogs
Sizing chart provided for the best fit
- Brand: KONG
- Model: EL1
- Weight: 8 ounces
Allow your pup to recover in comfort with Pet Link’s Inflatable Cone. Specially designed to prevent dogs from irritating their injuries, scratches and stitches as they heal after surgery or other procedures, this cone features a soft but sturdy dog collar with an adjustable strap and an inflatable cone that maximizes agility while promoting recovery. Thanks to its unique bumper design, the cone will allow your dog to eat, sleep and even play but will stop them from scratching at their wounds and rashes. This shortens the healing time and makes recovery as comfortable as possible. It should be noted, however, that while these types of cone models are perfect for preventing dogs from touching their front body injuries, they don’t do much to keep them from licking injuries on the front half of their body.
Inflatable design
Adjustable collar
Plush and comfortable
Thick, durable fabric
Easy to store
- Brand: Pet Link
- Weight: 6.4 ounces
Coming in three different sizes, the IN HAND Recovery Dog Cone provides effective protection for your dog after surgery. In order to choose the right size dog cone after surgery, you will need to take two measurements. The first is the size in inches from the neck to the snout, and the second is the size in inches around the neck, i.e. the circumference. This will help you to determine whether to go for S, M or L. No matter what size your dog needs, you can be sure they will be comfortable in this dog cone collar. Not only is it made from a polyester fabric material, but also it is lightweight and has a built-in padded inner liner.
Added protection and comfort is provided thanks to the extra soft fabric edge. The ergonomic design also makes this one of the most popular cones on the market. The unique button closures make it easy to loosen or tighten. Plus, your pet will not be able to bend over the cone due to the plastic Snap Closure safety fixing. This product provides a humane and safe way of stopping your dog from aggravating a healing injury or wound.
Made with polyester fabric
Comfortable
Unique button closures
Snap Closure safety fixing
Ergonomic cone design
Convenient to use
Multi-size options
- Brand: IN HAND
- Model: FBA_inhandku86
- Weight: 0.5 ounces
Not only does this collar provide effective recovery assistance for both dogs and cats, but also it adds a fun and cut element too, as it doubles up as a lion costume. Say goodbye to those ugly cone designs and go for something fun instead! As well as looking good, this is a soft collar for dogs, which is comfortable, and light in weight. It features a unique Velcro closure, which is easy to use and ensures the perfect fit because you can easily loosen and tighten as needed. Another way this product promises the perfect fit is because you can choose from six different sizes.
Cute, unique design
Lightweight
Soft and comfortable
Unique Velcro closure
Different sizes to choose from
- Brand: Alfie
- Model: FBA_AC-NoahRecoveryCollar-Lion-M
- Weight: 3.2 ounces
One of the more cost effective collars available online today, this product features a simple yet very effective design. The drawstring collar makes it easy to use and ensures the perfect fit for your dog. Plus, you can choose from two different sizes. This soft e-collar has been constructed using pliable fabric, making it ideal for post surgery, rashes, and injuries. It is great for small dogs and cats especially.
Fits neck sizes from 5.5 inches to 6.5 inches
Drawstring collar
Made using pliable fabric
Flexible
Available in two sizes
- Brand: KONG
- Model: EZ3
- Weight: 1.44 ounces
Coming in four different sizes, this dog collar has been especially designed to help your dog recover while also promising maximum visibility. One of the great things about this collar is that it works with your pet’s collar, which makes it very easy to use and fit. The hybrid design creates a healing and soothing environment for your dog. If you are looking to get rid of the “shame” feeling that usually comes with dog cones, this is a good option.
Stress-free recovery
Works with your pet’s collar
12 years of veterinary use
Adjustable Velcro
- Brand: ZenPet
- Model: 5922
- Weight: 4 ounces
Another inflatable dog cone, the E-KOMG’s protective cone is comfortable enough even for the fussiest of canines out there. Soft and adjustable, this cone is comfy and non-restricting in the best possible way – it allows for normal eating, drinking, sleeping and playing – yet it’s protective as it doesn’t allow dogs to scratch and irritate their injuries. The cone is durable and stable too, so it should keep its shape and function even after many uses. It’s also washable (though not in a washing machine) and easy to store as you can deflate and fold it after your pup is done wearing it.
Inflatable design
Adjustable collar
Soft and comfortable
Durable and stable
Washable and easy to store
- Brand: E-KOMG
- Weight: 12 ounces
Specifically designed to help dogs recover faster after surgeries and injuries, the ProCollar’s Protective Inflatable Recovery Cone is comfortable and easy to use and wear. Thanks to its sturdy but soft design, the cone allows pets to see, eat, sleep and play normally, but restricts them from licking, biting and scratching their wounds. The E-Collar design is also water-resistant and repellent, which is great news for dogs who spend most of their time outside, as well as those who like to play in the rain. Importantly, the ProCollar cone is also bite and scratch resistant, so perfect for rambunctious pets as well. Since you can deflate and fold it, it’s also easy to store.
Durable nylon fabric
Inflatable, water-resistant design
Comfortable and protective
Easy to store
- Brand: ProCollar
- Weight: 7.2 ounces
Best Dog Cone Buying Guide & FAQ
Things to Consider When Buying Dog Cones
There are many different factors you need to consider when you are looking for a dog cone. This includes the type of cone. There are many different cone designs available today, including comfy cones and inflatable collars. You need to consider what type of cone is going to be the best for your pet, depending on the size of your dog. You also need to consider the material of the collar, as cones can either be soft, i.e. made from fabric, or they can be hard, i.e. a plastic dog cone. The shape of the cone also plays a pivotal role, as they can come shaped like a donut neck pillow or they can come with the standard cone style. Some pets will find the former more comfortable, especially when they need to wear it for extended periods of time.
Of course, you also need to take the time to read reviews so that you can make sure the dog cone you have chosen is of a high-quality. After all, the last thing you want is for your pet to feel uncomfortable or for the cone to be of a poor quality and, therefore, easy to break. Luckily, you don’t need to go hunting far for all of this information, as we have already put it in one place.
The cone you select will also depend on where your dog’s injury is located. For example, some of the comfier cones are great but if your dog has an injury on his paws, they aren’t going to do much good. On the flip side, if your dog’s wounds are on his belly or flanks, they will provide effective protection. What if your dog seems to have a knack for chewing through just about anything? If this is the case, you would probably be better off going for a traditional e-collar. If you are still unsure, don’t hesitate to talk to your vet to see if he or she can offer any recommendations.
Taking Care of Your Pet After Surgery
There are many different steps that you can take in order to look after your dog once he has had surgery. This includes the following:
- Preparing in advance: There are numerous steps you can take to prepare in advance if you know that your dog is going to undergo surgery. This includes creating dog-safe areas, as well as obedience training and crate training. The latter will give your dog a safe place to rest. You should also consider the timing of the surgery with care. After all, you will want to make sure that your home is peaceful and quiet while your dog is recovering.
- What the vet can do: Your pet will be miserable and sore after the anesthetic wears off, so you should make sure that you get painkillers from the vet.
- Prevent licking: This is where the dog protective collar comes in. Of course, there are dog cone alternative options available, such as neck braces and you can even get creative with clothing. Nevertheless, if your vet has recommended a collar, it is definitely better for you to go down this route.
- Take things easy: You will want to make sure that your dog is allowed to take things easy while recovering. There are a number of ways that this can be done. If your dog feels groggy or sore, mental stimulation can help to reduce boredom. You can also take your dog for gentle lead walks once a few days start to pass.
- Caring for wounds: It is also important to make sure you care for your dog’s wounds while he is recovering from surgery. This includes making an effort to ensure that dressings are dry at all times. You should also monitor the incision, checking it two times per day for discharge, swelling, or redness. If you notice any of these, you should give your vet a quick call for some advice.
Best Dog Cone FAQ:
Q: What is a cone collar for dogs?
A: Quite simply, a dog cone is an aid designed to help dogs with healing after surgery or any type of injury. The cone is placed around the dog’s neck so that it is unable to lick the area of the wound. This discourages re-injury, infection, or contamination while facilitating the fastest possible recovery for your dog.
Q: Why do dogs need neck cones?
A: Lots of animals lick themselves to facilitate healing. It’s not only the norm for domesticated cats and dogs. Many animals in the wild do it, from primates to rodents. However, this can cause complications when your dog is trying to heal from surgery or any other medical issue. It’s not the act of licking itself that is the problem, but more the quantity of licking and the impatience that dogs feel because they want to be better. In your pet’s mind, if one lick is good, 100 licks will be even better, and this is where it starts to become problematic. Therefore, a dog neck cone is required to prevent your pet from licking the wound excessively.
Q: Are dog cones comfy?
A: Yes, so long as you purchase with care. All of the dog cones that we have recommended have been suggested because they are comfortable. You can also get comfy collars, which are designed to reduce stress and ensure that dogs have an alternative to the rigid and stiff Elizabethan cones.
Q: When do I remove my dog’s cone?
A: If your dog is wearing the cone because of surgery, it should remain on until the stitches have been removed. After all, the purpose of the cone is to make sure the dog cannot chew or lick the incision. This can cause an infection or severe inflammation by either contaminating the wound or opening it up. This is why you should ensure the cone is kept on until the dog is fully healed.
Q: Can dogs eat and drink with a cone?
A: You may be wondering how your dog is going to manage to eat or drink while wearing the cone. Well, your dog should be able to reach his food and water bowls. If you have chosen the correct size cone, this is not something you should need to worry about. Of course, there are a few things that you can do to help, as your dog is likely to feel a little bit awkward. In order to make the process easier, why not raise your dog’s bowls or change them to something easier? If your dog’s water and food bowls are usually combined, i.e. the two sides are linked, you should utilize two separate bowls while your dog is wearing the collar, otherwise it will be very difficult for him to maneuver between the two bowls. Elevating the bowls is also beneficial because it means that your dog will not have to lean down so far in order to drink and eat.
You may also like our article on Raised Dog Bowls.
Q: How do I measure my dog’s neck for a cone?
A: Your vet can help to make sure that your dog has the right sized cone. However, in general, you need to make sure that the base fits around your dog’s neck in the same manner that his collar does. To do this, you will need to measure the size around the neck (the circumference, and the size from the neck to the snout. Some cone collars are easier to fit because they are designed to fit around your dog’s normal collar. You will know that your dog’s cone fits correctly if the wide end is a little bit shorter than your pup’s nose when he pokes it out straight. Plus, as mentioned in the former section, your dog should be able to get his mouth to his water bowls and food bowls.
Q: Can I trim my dog’s cone?
A: You could cut your dog’s cone, so long as it is long enough to keep your dog from licking the incision. However, if you use the advice that has been provided in this guide and you choose a dog cone with care, you shouldn’t need to do this.
Our Top Pick
Now that you know more about the different factors that need to be considered when choosing a dog surgery collar, it is not hard to see why the All Four Paws Comfy Cone for dogs was awarded our top position. Not only is this collar comfortable, but it is convenient too. It features a soft cone-shaped design, which has been patented. Comfort is assured thanks to the foam-backed padded nylon and the Velcro closures, offering a custom fit and ease of use. In terms of convenience, not only is the cone easy to take off and put on, but also it is easy to wipe clean with water and soap. Plus, it loops at the neck to securely thread the pet’s collar through and it is resistant to water. If that was not enough, the collar can be used on multiple pets, and it offers high levels of flexibility. It is reversible, from front-to-back and inside-out, as well as featuring removable plastic strays that can be added to the structure when required.
Hopefully, you now feel more prepared in terms of choosing the best dog cone for your furry friend. With so many pet cones for dogs to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. Nevertheless, if you consider everything that has been mentioned above, you should have no trouble narrowing down your search and finding a cone that is not only effective but comfortable for your dog too.
Sources:
- Dr. Phil Zeltzman, DVM, The Cone of Shame: Elizabethan Collars and Your Pet, Pet Health Network
- Chris Miksen, The Best Ways to Give Water to a Dog With an E-Cone, The Nest
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