Dog cones, also known as Elizabethan collars or e-collars, are a necessary accessory for many dogs at some point in their lives. Whether it’s due to surgery, injury, or skin irritation, a cone can help prevent a dog from licking or scratching at a wound, which can lead to infection or slow down the healing process. Choosing the right cone for your dog can be a daunting task, as there are many different types and sizes available.
When selecting a cone for your dog, the most critical factor to consider is the fit. The cone should be snug enough that your dog can’t slip out of it, but not so tight that it’s uncomfortable or restricts breathing. It’s also essential to consider the material of the cone, as some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to certain materials. Finally, the type of cone you choose may depend on your dog’s personality and behavior. Some dogs may do better with a soft, fabric cone that’s less restrictive, while others may need a rigid plastic cone to prevent them from reaching their wound.
After researching and testing various cones on the market, we have identified the best cone for dogs: the KONG Cloud Collar. This collar is made of soft, comfortable fabric that won’t irritate your dog’s skin, and it’s adjustable to ensure a secure fit. The KONG Cloud Collar also has an inflatable inner tube that provides a cushioned barrier around your dog’s head, making it less restrictive and more comfortable for your furry friend.
In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into the benefits of using a cone for your dog, the different types of cones available, and why we believe the KONG Cloud Collar is the best option for most dogs.
Best Cones for Dogs
As pet owners, we understand the importance of keeping our furry friends safe and comfortable. One way to ensure their well-being is by using a cone when needed. Whether it’s for post-surgery recovery or to prevent them from licking a wound, a cone can be a lifesaver. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best cones for dogs based on their effectiveness, comfort, and durability. Read on to find the perfect cone for your pup.
1. BENCMATE Protective Inflatable Collar for Dogs and Cats
If you’re looking for a comfortable and effective alternative to traditional cones for your furry friend, the BENCMATE Protective Inflatable Collar for Dogs and Cats is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The inflatable function and soft material make it comfortable for your pet to wear.
- Scratch and bite-resistant material ensures durability and long-lasting use.
- Provides protective and gentle care for your pet after surgery or wounds.
Cons
- The collar may be a bit large for some dogs, making it easier for them to remove.
- It may take some time for your pet to get used to wearing the collar.
- The zipper opening on one side may not be very durable.
We recently used this collar on our dog after he had surgery, and it was a great alternative to the traditional cone. The inflatable function and soft outside material made it comfortable for him to wear, and it didn’t block his vision or hinder his ability to eat, drink, sleep, or play.
The scratch and bite-resistant material also made us feel confident that the collar would last for a long time. It was easy to adjust the collar strap for a perfect fit, and we appreciated the inner ring loops for stabilization. It was also easy to deflate and store when not in use.
Overall, we highly recommend the BENCMATE Protective Inflatable Collar for Dogs and Cats for anyone looking for a comfortable and effective alternative to traditional cones for their furry friends.
2. All Four Paws Comfy Cone Pet Cone for Dogs
If you’re looking for a comfortable and flexible cone for your dog, the All Four Paws Comfy Cone Pet Cone for Dogs is a great option.
Pros
- The Comfy Cone is soft and comfortable for dogs to wear for extended periods of time.
- It’s adjustable with three sizing strips for a secure fit.
- The cone can be reversed inside and out, as well as front to back to support shoulder and upper back injuries.
Cons
- The cone must extend passed pet’s snout to be effective.
- The Velcro closure could be improved.
- The sizing chart can be confusing.
We recently used the All Four Paws Comfy Cone Pet Cone for Dogs on our dog after a surgery, and we found it to be a great alternative to hard plastic cones. The soft, foam-backed padded nylon material is easy to clean and water-resistant, and it prevents cats from getting their claws into the material. The cone also has a reflective edge for safety and elastic loops at the neck to thread your petโs collar through.
The adjustable sizing with three sizing strips and hook and loop closures allowed us to get a secure fit for our dog. We also appreciated the removable plastic stays that let us determine how structured the cone should be for our pet. Once the stays were removed, the Comfy Cone could even be folded back for added freedom while eating and drinking or when checking wounds and irritations.
However, it’s important to note that the cone must extend passed pet’s snout to be effective, and the Velcro closure could be improved. We also found the sizing chart to be a bit confusing, so it’s important to double-check before purchasing.
Overall, we highly recommend the All Four Paws Comfy Cone Pet Cone for Dogs as a flexible and comfortable alternative to stiff recovery collars.
3. Supet Dog Cone
If you’re looking for a comfortable and effective way to prevent your pet from aggravating a healing wound or injury, the Supet Dog Cone is a great option.
Pros
- The hook and loop design makes it easy to tighten or loosen the collar for a perfect fit.
- The collar is made of high-quality PVC material and extra soft fabric edges, providing your pet with additional comfort and protection.
- It’s suitable for dogs and cats of different ages and sizes, and the size chart helps you choose the perfect size for your pet.
Cons
- The collar is not water-resistant, so you need to remove it before bathing or swimming.
- Some pets may not like wearing a cone, and it can take some time for them to get used to it.
- The collar may not be suitable for pets with short necks or flat faces.
The Supet Dog Cone is a great product that offers excellent protection for your pet. The collar is easy to use and adjust, and the soft fabric edges ensure that your pet is comfortable while wearing it. The collar is also durable and easy to clean, making it a practical choice for pet owners.
We’ve found that the collar is effective in preventing pets from licking or biting their wounds, and it helps to speed up the healing process. The collar is also a great way to prevent your pet from biting others during dermatology, beauty, or surgical procedures.
Overall, we highly recommend the Supet Dog Cone to pet owners who want to provide their pets with the best possible protection during the healing process.
4. MIDOG Dog Cone Collar
We highly recommend the MIDOG Dog Cone Collar for pet owners looking for a comfortable and effective alternative to the traditional cone of shame.
Pros
- The inflatable design allows pets to eat, drink, and sleep normally, which is good for recovery.
- The soft and breathable polyester fabric and environmental PVC material make it comfortable and easy to clean.
- The adjustable strap buckle ensures a perfect fit for your dog.
Cons
- Some dogs may still be able to reach certain areas due to the inflatable design.
- The collar may not be as durable as some other options.
- The collar may not be suitable for very small dogs.
Our experience with the MIDOG Dog Cone Collar has been very positive. The inflatable design allows our dog to move around freely and comfortably, while preventing him from licking his wounds. The soft and breathable materials make it easy to keep clean and reduce irritation. The adjustable strap buckle ensures a secure and comfortable fit.
We appreciate the non-stick pet hair feature, which makes it easy to clean and maintain. The fact that it is easy to deflate and store is also a plus. We did notice that some dogs may still be able to reach certain areas due to the inflatable design, but overall we found it to be a great alternative to the traditional cone of shame.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a comfortable and effective alternative to the traditional cone of shame, we highly recommend the MIDOG Dog Cone Collar.
5. BARKLESS Inflatable Dog Cone
We highly recommend the BARKLESS Inflatable Dog Cone for anyone looking for a comfortable and effective alternative to traditional hard plastic cones for their furry friend.
Pros
- The inflatable design creates a comfortable barrier that won’t affect your dog’s mood or mental state during the healing process.
- The soft plastic is clear, allowing your dog a wide field of vision, and won’t cause loud scary noises if he bumps into something.
- The detachable baffle and extra clear shield provide extra protection and ensure a stress-free and comfortable recovery process.
Cons
- The adjustable hook and loop strap may not be secure enough for very active dogs.
- The inflatable design may not be as durable as traditional hard plastic cones.
- Some dogs may still be able to reach certain areas despite the extra clear shield.
We have used the BARKLESS Inflatable Dog Cone on our own furry friend and found it to be a great alternative to traditional hard plastic cones. The inflatable design is much more comfortable for our dog and doesn’t affect his mood or mental state during the healing process. The soft plastic is clear, allowing him a wide field of vision, and doesn’t cause loud scary noises if he bumps into something. The detachable baffle and extra clear shield provide extra protection and ensure a stress-free and comfortable recovery process.
However, we did find that the adjustable hook and loop strap may not be secure enough for very active dogs, and the inflatable design may not be as durable as traditional hard plastic cones. Additionally, some dogs may still be able to reach certain areas despite the extra clear shield.
Overall, we highly recommend the BARKLESS Inflatable Dog Cone for anyone looking for a comfortable and effective alternative to traditional hard plastic cones for their furry friend.
6. ManaMax Extra Soft Dog Cone Collar for Dogs After Surgery Adjustable Dog Cones for Large Medium Small Dogs Lightweight Dog Recovery Collar Breathable Elizabethan Collar Stop Licking(Medium)
If you’re looking for a soft and comfortable cone collar for your furry friend after surgery, the ManaMax Extra Soft Dog Cone Collar is a great option. It works as a protective barrier around your dog’s neck and is deep enough to cover the mouth well to stop your pets from licking or biting the wound or surgical area. It’s also a great option for pet grooming, medical treatment, and nail cutting.
Pros
- The sandwich mesh design is breathable and elastic, making it more comfortable for your pets than inflatable collars.
- The extra soft and lightweight structure of the cone collar allows your dogs to sleep easily as usual.
- The velcro design allows you to adjust neck girth to meet your pet’s perfect fit.
Cons
- The collar may be too soft for some dogs, allowing them to scratch and lick themselves.
- The collar may not hold its shape well and can be manipulated around by the dog.
- The collar may not be suitable for dogs who are heavy chewers.
We recently used the ManaMax Extra Soft Dog Cone Collar for our dog after surgery, and we were pleased with its performance. The sandwich mesh design allowed our dog to breathe easily, and the collar was lightweight enough that our dog could sleep comfortably. The velcro design made it easy to adjust the collar to the perfect fit, and the collar was easy to clean.
However, we did notice that the collar was a bit too soft for our dog, who was able to scratch and lick herself despite wearing the collar. Additionally, the collar did not hold its shape well and could be manipulated around by the dog, which defeated the purpose of wearing the collar. Overall, we would recommend the ManaMax Extra Soft Dog Cone Collar for dogs who are not heavy chewers and who need a soft and comfortable collar after surgery.
7. TIALOVE Soft Dog Cone Collar for Medium Large Dogs
If you’re looking for a comfortable and adjustable cone for your furry friend after surgery, then the TIALOVE Soft Dog Cone Collar for Medium Large Dogs is a great option.
Pros
- The four-layer design is waterproof, durable, and comfortable for your pet.
- The Velcro paste and adjustable elastic band ensure that the cone collar stays in place.
- The addition of a small pocket allows for easy carrying of necessary medicine.
Cons
- Not suitable for dogs with long noses, long legs, long tails, and long bodies.
- May be heavier than other cones.
- May not be as sturdy as hard plastic cones.
We recently used the TIALOVE Soft Dog Cone Collar for Medium Large Dogs on our dog after surgery, and we were pleased with the results. The four-layer design prevented our dog from licking and biting the surgical site, and the plush lining made it comfortable for him to wear. The Velcro paste and adjustable elastic band kept the cone collar in place, and the addition of a small pocket allowed us to carry necessary medicine easily.
However, we did notice that the cone collar was heavier than other cones we have used in the past, and it may not be as sturdy as hard plastic cones. Additionally, it is not suitable for dogs with long noses, long legs, long tails, and long bodies. Overall, we would recommend the TIALOVE Soft Dog Cone Collar for Medium Large Dogs for its comfort and adjustability.
8. Supet Dog Cone Alternative After Surgery
We highly recommend the Supet Dog Cone Alternative After Surgery for pet owners looking for a comfortable and effective way to prevent their dogs from licking or biting their wounds.
Pros
- The two-tier design with soft cotton material and waterproof transparent upper part provides a comfortable and easy-to-clean alternative to traditional hard cones.
- The advanced 360 soft material around the neck and the imported magic stickers closing method make it easy to put on and take off without causing panic or discomfort to the dog.
- The adjustable elastic band ensures a better fit and prevents the cone from slipping off or choking the pet.
Cons
- Some reviewers reported issues with the velcro losing its stickiness after a few weeks of use.
- It may not be suitable for dogs with longer heads than the product’s depth.
- It may not be as effective as hard cones for preventing dogs from reaching certain areas of their body
We found the Supet Dog Cone Alternative After Surgery to be a great solution for pet owners looking for a comfortable and effective way to prevent their dogs from licking or biting their wounds. The soft cotton material and waterproof transparent upper part make it easy to clean and comfortable for the dog to wear. The advanced 360 soft material around the neck and the imported magic stickers closing method make it easy to put on and take off without causing panic or discomfort to the dog. The adjustable elastic band ensures a better fit and prevents the cone from slipping off or choking the pet.
However, some reviewers reported issues with the velcro losing its stickiness after a few weeks of use. It may not be suitable for dogs with longer heads than the product’s depth. Additionally, it may not be as effective as hard cones for preventing dogs from reaching certain areas of their body. Overall, we think the Supet Dog Cone Alternative After Surgery is a great option for pet owners looking for a comfortable and effective alternative to traditional hard cones.
9. Megeo Dog Cone Collar
If you’re looking for a safe and comfortable alternative to traditional hard plastic cones for your dog, the Megeo Dog Cone Collar is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The soft, breathable material of the collar makes it much more comfortable for your dog to wear than a hard plastic cone.
- The collar is adjustable, so you can get a perfect fit for your dog’s neck size.
- The reflective strips on the collar help keep your dog safe when you’re out for walks at night.
Cons
- The collar may not be as effective at preventing your dog from reaching certain areas as a traditional hard plastic cone.
- The collar may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
- The collar may not be suitable for all dogs, depending on their specific needs.
We recently tried out the Megeo Dog Cone Collar on our dog after he had surgery, and we were very pleased with the results. The collar was much more comfortable for him to wear than a traditional hard plastic cone, and he seemed to be much less anxious and stressed while wearing it.
The adjustable design of the collar made it easy to get a perfect fit for our dog’s neck size, and the reflective strips on the collar helped keep him safe when we were out for walks at night.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Megeo Dog Cone Collar to anyone looking for a safe and comfortable alternative to traditional hard plastic cones for their dog. Just be aware that it may not be as effective at preventing your dog from reaching certain areas as a traditional cone, and it may not be as durable as some other options on the market.
10. WZ PET Adjustable Dog Cat Cone
We highly recommend the WZ PET Adjustable Dog Cat Cone for anyone looking for a comfortable and effective way to prevent their pet from licking or biting rashes, allergies, or post-operative wounds.
Pros
- The cone is scratch and bite-resistant, which makes it perfect for pets who tend to chew on their cones.
- It is adjustable, which means it can be customized to fit your pet’s neck size and prevent it from being easily removed.
- The cone is made of soft cotton material, which is comfortable for your pet to wear and does not interfere with their peripheral vision.
Cons
- The velcro area is rather large for a small dog, and the neck is almost too tight.
- The cone may be too small or too large for some pets, so it is important to refer to the size chart before purchasing.
- The cone may not be suitable for pets with very short necks.
We found the WZ PET Adjustable Dog Cat Cone to be a great alternative to traditional plastic cones. The soft cotton material is much more comfortable for pets to wear and does not irritate their skin. Additionally, the self-adhesive design makes it easy to adjust the cone to fit your pet’s neck size and prevent it from being easily removed.
The cone is also very durable and can be machine-washed without losing its shape. If there are small stains, they can be gently wiped with warm water and dried. The cone can also be folded for easy storage when not in use.
Overall, we believe that the WZ PET Adjustable Dog Cat Cone is a great investment for anyone who wants to ensure their pet’s health and safety during the recovery process.
11. Cryptdogle Soft Dog Cone
We highly recommend the Cryptdogle Soft Dog Cone for any pet owner who needs to protect their dog from scratching or licking at a hot spot, surgical incision, or other irritation.
Pros
- The sufficient depth of the cone helps prevent the dog from scratching or licking at the affected area.
- The soft but sturdy material of the cone allows for comfortable wear.
- The adjustable drawstring stopper ensures that the cone stays in place without choking the pet.
Cons
- The white woven label on the external part of the cone may affect the protection of the dog if worn backwards.
- If your dog’s measurements are on the higher end of the listed range, you may need to choose one size larger for more protected area.
- The cone may not effectively prevent the dog from kicking back paws.
The Cryptdogle Soft Dog Cone is constructed with oxford padded and a sponge, providing extra support for the dog cone without collapsing. The PVC edge ensures that the cone maintains its shape. The adjustable drawstring stopper allows for a better fit, preventing the cone from slipping down or taking off. The large velcro strips for closure enable you to adjust the neck girth in a wide range, accommodating different neck sizes.
The pet cone collar has a fluorescent strip in the outer and inner rings for safe visibility, and reflective straps keep your dog visible while out for a walk. The cone is available in black, and it is suitable for dogs of all sizes, including large, medium, and small dogs, as well as cats.
In conclusion, the Cryptdogle Soft Dog Cone is a comfortable and secure option for pet owners who need to protect their dogs from scratching or licking at an affected area. The adjustable drawstring stopper ensures that the cone stays in place without choking the pet, and the reflective straps keep the dog visible while out for a walk.
12. FURTIME Dog Cone for Large Medium Small Dogs Alternative After Surgery
If you’re looking for a comfortable and effective cone for your furry friend after surgery, the FURTIME Dog Cone is a great option.
Pros
- The cone is adjustable and has a velcro closure that won’t damage your dog’s hair.
- The bottom of the cone is soft and can effectively protect your dog’s cervical vertebra.
- The edge of the cone is equipped with reflective strips to keep your dog safe while out for a walk.
Cons
- The cone may not be as sturdy as other options available.
- The sizing may be off, so make sure to measure your dog carefully before purchasing.
- Some dogs may still be able to reach their wounds despite wearing the cone.
We recently used the FURTIME Dog Cone for our dog after she underwent surgery and were pleased with the results. The velcro closure made it easy to adjust the cone to fit her comfortably, and the bottom of the cone was soft enough to prevent any discomfort. We also appreciated the reflective strips on the edge of the cone, which made it easy to spot her during nighttime walks.
However, we did notice that the cone wasn’t as sturdy as other options available, and our dog was able to bend it to reach her wound. Additionally, the sizing was a bit off, so make sure to measure your dog carefully before purchasing. Despite these minor drawbacks, we would still recommend the FURTIME Dog Cone for its comfort and effectiveness in preventing licking wounds.
Buying Guide
When it comes to finding the best cone for your dog, there are a few important things to consider. Here are some key features to look for when choosing a cone:
Material
The material of the cone is an important factor to consider. Most cones are made of plastic, but there are also fabric and inflatable options available. Plastic cones are the most common and durable, but they can be uncomfortable for some dogs. Fabric cones are a softer option that can be more comfortable for your dog, but they may not be as durable. Inflatable cones are a great option for dogs who are prone to scratching or biting at the cone, as they are more difficult to remove.
Size
It’s important to choose the right size cone for your dog to ensure that it fits properly and is comfortable. A cone that is too small can be ineffective, while a cone that is too large can be cumbersome and uncomfortable. Measure your dog’s neck circumference and choose a cone that is appropriate for their size.
Design
There are a few different designs of cones available, including traditional cones, soft cones, and inflatable cones. Traditional cones are the most common and provide the most protection, but they can be uncomfortable for some dogs. Soft cones are a more comfortable option, but they may not provide as much protection. Inflatable cones are a great option for dogs who are prone to scratching or biting at the cone, as they are more difficult to remove.
Additional Features
Some cones come with additional features, such as reflective strips for visibility or built-in collars for added comfort. Consider these features when choosing a cone to ensure that it meets your dog’s specific needs.
In summary, when choosing a cone for your dog, consider the material, size, design, and additional features to ensure that it is comfortable and effective.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best alternative cone for dogs?
There are many alternatives to traditional cones that can be more comfortable for dogs. Some of the best alternatives include inflatable collars, soft cones, and neck braces. Inflatable collars are great because they allow your dog to move around more freely while still protecting the affected area. Soft cones are also a good option because they are more flexible and comfortable than traditional cones. Neck braces are ideal for dogs with neck injuries or those who need to keep their head still.
Is a dog donut better than a cone?
Dog donuts, also known as neck pillows or neck collars, are a great alternative to traditional cones. They are more comfortable and less restrictive, which can help your dog feel less stressed and anxious. However, they may not be suitable for all dogs or all types of injuries. It’s best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best option for your dog.
Should your dog sleep in a cone?
It’s generally not recommended for dogs to sleep in a cone. Cones can be uncomfortable and restrict movement, which can make it difficult for your dog to rest and sleep. It’s best to remove the cone during sleep if possible, but make sure to monitor your dog closely to ensure they don’t lick or scratch the affected area.
What is the best dog cone for eye surgery?
For eye surgery, it’s important to choose a cone that is transparent and allows your dog to see. The KONG Cloud Collar and the ProCollar Premium Protective Collar are both great options for eye surgery. They are transparent and comfortable, and they won’t block your dog’s vision.
What are the features of the best dog recovery collar?
The best dog recovery collar should be comfortable, adjustable, and secure. It should also allow your dog to eat, drink, and move around easily. Inflatable collars, soft cones, and neck braces are all good options to consider.
What are the common problems with dog cones and how to avoid them?
One common problem with dog cones is that they can be uncomfortable and restrictive, which can make your dog feel stressed and anxious. To avoid this, consider using an alternative to a traditional cone, such as an inflatable collar or a soft cone. Another common problem is that dogs may be able to remove the cone, which can lead to further injury or infection. To avoid this, make sure the cone is properly fitted and secure, and monitor your dog closely.