When dealing with wounds, surgical incisions, or skin irritations, it is crucial to prevent your dog from licking or biting the area. However, some pets (and pet parents) may prefer something other than the standard rigid plastic cone. That's where the best dog cone alternatives come into play — while there are a variety of types to choose from, Dr. Michelle Lugones, DVM, tells Bustle in an email that the most important factor is "their Safe to use, reasonably "comfortable, and they'll actually work." ” Dr. Alex Schechter, DVM, also stresses taking your pet’s size and shape into consideration. “Replacements should fit the animal and be comfortable to wear without affecting their mobility,” he explains.
Experts
Dr. Alex Schechter, DVM, is the founding veterinarian of Burrwood Veterinary in Michigan. He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine. He also completed advanced training in small animal medicine and surgery at BluePearl Veterinary Partners in Manhattan.
Dr. Amari Wells, DVM, is the managing veterinarian at Small Door Veterinary . She attended Bucknell University and earned a bachelor's degree in animal behavior, cum laude. She then earned her veterinary degree from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Dr. Anna Massey, VMD, is director of the emergency and critical care unit at Red Bank Veterinary Hospital. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, New Jersey.
Michelle Lugones, PhD, DVM, is a veterinarian at Best Friends Animal Society in New York City. She is also an associate adjunct professor in the Veterinary Technology program at LaGuardia Community College.
What to look for when shopping for the best dog cone alternatives
type
Consider replacing your dog's cone of shame with one of the options below and talk to your veterinarian to determine if this product is right for your puppy.
- Inflatable collars: As the name suggests, these collars are inflated and wrapped around your dog’s neck. They are soft, lightweight, and generally more comfortable than plastic picks. "Inflatable collars are less restrictive than traditional cones, allowing your pet to move more freely and perform daily tasks more easily, such as drinking and eating," explains Dr. Schechter. However, several veterinarians Bustle spoke with mentioned that they've seen dogs stab them (rendering them ineffective), so consider your pup's habits.
- Soft e-collars: While soft e-collars have the same conical shape as plastic collars, these options feature more flexible, lighter materials for improved comfort. The downside, however, is that "some pets may still be able to reach the affected area, especially if it's not installed correctly or if the pet is identified," notes Dr. Schechter.
- Recovery garments: Recovery garments (sometimes called coveralls or surgical gowns) "provide a barrier to the surgical site" without impeding movement, explains Dr. Amari Wells, DVM. These specialized garments fit closely to your pet's body (providing some compression) and are made from breathable materials. Some recovery suits cover your dog's entire body, while others protect specific areas. It’s important to note that recovery servers are not suitable for every situation. "Some surgical sites and wounds may heal better without coverage or need to be easily visible to ensure they are healing properly," Dr. Lugones explains.
- Neck control collars: These products wrap around your dog's neck to restrict movement; they may not be suitable for head injuries. The neck control collar does not hinder the dog's vision and the dog can drink, eat and play normally. However, Dr. Schechter mentioned that these products may cause anxiety in some dogs "because they will feel restricted and unable to move their heads freely."
fit
The dog cone alternative you choose must fit your puppy, a product with the incorrect size will never be effective. Most products come in a variety of sizes - pay close attention to the size chart provided by the manufacturer.
Shop for the Best Dog Cone Alternatives
hurry? Here are our top picks for the best dog cone alternatives:
- Amazon’s best-selling cute inflatable collar: BENCMATE Protective Inflatable Collar
- Expert-recommended soft e-collar with adjustable drawstring neck: KVP EZ Soft Pet Cloth Recovery Collar
- Breathable recovery garment that covers your pet’s torso: Suitical Original Recovery Garment
- Editor's Pick: Soft E-Collars with 11,000+ 5-Star Reviews: All Four Paws Original Comfort Cone
- Recovery clothing that covers your pet’s body and legs: Yeapeeto Dog Onesie
- Neck control collar that doesn’t restrict vision: BiteNot Collar
- Recovery Sleeves for Pets’ Front Legs: Suitical Recovery Sleeves
In short: The best dog cone alternatives "ultimately are alternatives that meet your pet's unique needs, are practical, and are comfortable to use," explains Dr. Schechter. Here are seven standout options that are Amazon pet parent-approved:
1. Best Selling Cute Inflatable Collar on Amazon
advantage:
- Over 44,000 reviews, overall rating 4.1 stars
- Comfortable; many Amazon reviewers note that their dogs use this as a pillow
- Cover is machine washable
shortcoming:
- May need to be re-inflated occasionally
This inflatable dog collar has over 44,000 reviews on Amazon and an overall rating of 4.1 stars, giving you confidence that other pet parents have used it successfully. The exterior material is very soft (in fact, many reviewers noted that their dogs rested their heads on it, using it as a pillow), and the adjustable straps ensure a secure fit. The collar does not impede your pet's vision, and they should be able to eat, drink, and play while wearing the collar. It is recommended to measure for breeds with longer noses or limbs, or if your pet falls between sizes.
Available in a variety of sizes and fun patterns, including this donut or colorful rainbow pick. This product comes with a one-year warranty; if it gets punctured, the manufacturer will replace it.
One reviewer wrote: "Highly recommended! My dog had surgery and the vet recommended he had to wear a cone for three weeks. Bought this donut for him, didn't expect much but hoped it would work out for my son Said it would be more comfortable. It did! He slept comfortably and didn't seem to mind the donuts at all! It survived being bumped against the wall, the side of the brick house, and being dragged around on the ground when it smelled like outside, and it stood up! Holds air as I only have to re-inflate once in two weeks Highly recommend purchasing one if your animal will need to be kept in captivity for a long period of time!
Type: Inflatable Collar | Sizes: X Small - XL | Colors: 7 | Machine Washable: Yes (Exterior)
2. Expert-recommended soft electronic collar with adjustable drawstring around the neck
advantage:
- Adjustable size via switch on the neck
- Soft, flexible and comfortable
- Machine washable
shortcoming:
- Some reviewers report that their pets can bend the cone to reach wounds
Dr. Anna Massey, VMD, says this soft e-collar is one of her personal favorites. It's made from a lightweight fabric material (Lycra collar adds comfort) and internal stays help maintain its tapered shape. A toggle at the drawstring collar adjusts the collar for a custom fit, and a Velcro closure ensures it stays closed.
If you find that your pet has difficulty performing normal activities while wearing this collar, Dr. Massey notes, "In some cases, you can turn them back so they look like capes (super dogs!), pet owners You may feel these making it easier to eat, drink and move around the house,” but be aware that this will affect their effectiveness, so proceed with caution.
One reviewer wrote: “This is the first time our dogs have worn cones that they actually love. We always worry about our dogs needing to wear them, but not with this one…they really do. Don't mind either. It's great quality, easy to put on and take off, and very flexible. ”
Type: Soft Electronic Collar | Sizes: 3.5 - 14" Neck | Colors: 1 | Machine Washable: Yes
3. Breathable recovery clothing that covers the pet’s torso
advantage:
- Allow head to move freely
- Adjustable turtleneck for better neck protection
- Interior light blue fabric for fluid viewing
- Machine washable
shortcoming:
- Available in black only
Made from cotton and lycra, this recovery suit is the ultimate combination of soft, breathable and stretchy - it even has super-soft straps around the legs, collar and tail for added comfort. This onesie covers your pet's entire belly (the turtleneck is adjustable if more neck protection is needed) and has snaps near the bottom and around the tail for easy on and off. The light blue fabric layer on the interior allows for fluid viewing, while the loose air bladder feature on the belly keeps air flowing to keep your pet's wound dry. If your dog licks the area excessively, you can place a pad inside for added protection. If your dog is between two sizes after measurements, please size down.
One reviewer wrote: "This product is perfect. My dog is neutered and this suit protects him best. I tried a large donut but he could still reach the area. Wear this suit clothes so he can't lick them and to protect his wounds from getting stained. My dog is very furry and the suit fits perfectly. There is a snap that allows the suit to be rolled up close to his front legs so I can use it. He feels much more comfortable when walking with a leash than with a cone or donut around his neck, but this suit apparently allows for dogs with tails to be seen inside. Thank you for creating this outfit!"
Type: Recovery Wear | Sizes: XXXS — 2X Large | Colors: 1 | Machine Washable: Yes
4. Editor's Pick: Soft e-collar with over 11,000 5-star reviews
advantage:
- Soft and padded yet removable plastic pieces provide structure when needed
- Can be worn tapered or upside down
shortcoming:
- Not machine washable
This soft e-collar is made of foam-filled nylon with a removable plastic stand that allows you to fold the cone back onto your dog's body for easier access to eat, drink, and play when needed. Multiple hook and loop closures allow for a more customized fit, and a loop at the neck means you can secure the cone with your pet's regular collar. The fabric is reflective for better visibility during night walks, but this option is not machine washable; wipe it clean with soap and water.
Editor's Praise: "We used this cone when neutering a 10-pound adult rescue dog. It's lightweight enough for a puppy to carry around, and because it bends and flattens better than a plastic cone, He will be more comfortable in it - especially when lying down I wish we had made him less sensitive to the noise of the velcro before using it and gave him high value treats when the velcro is open nearby - the velcro lets. He was a little scared."
Type: Soft E-Collar | Sizes: X Small – XX Large | Colors: 2 | Machine Washable: No
5. A recovery suit that covers your pet’s body and legs
advantage:
- Covers body and legs
- Machine washable
shortcoming:
- Not suitable for most dogs under 16 pounds
- Some reviewers reported that it was a bit difficult for dogs to use the toilet while wearing it
This surgical gown is designed to cover your dog's entire abdomen and all four legs to provide maximum protection while still allowing complete freedom of movement. Made of 95% cotton and 5% spandex, it's breathable, soft, slightly stretchy, and fits snugly to your pet's body (but shouldn't be too tight ) for a calming effect. The zipper makes it easy to put on and take off, but leaves your belly open when you need to use the bathroom. If your dog is in between sizes, size up.
One commenter wrote: "My 5 year old, 60 pound German Shepherd had surgery on her knee and the vet sent us home with a plastic cone which of course she hated - she is an anxious I have only had it for about a month and I wanted to make sure she was comfortable but also making sure her wounds were healing […] I decided to order this and it has been a lifesaver and it really works. Not only does she love it. And basically doesn't realize it's on, plus she looks adorable and it protects her wounds. It relieves a lot of stress for me and my dog, I highly recommend! ”
Type: Recovery Wear | Sizes: 2XL — 7X Large | Colors: 6 | Machine Washable: Yes
6. Neck control collar that does not restrict vision
advantage:
- Does not interfere with peripheral vision
shortcoming:
- Some reviewers report irritation and hot spots with long-term use
- Not recommended for eye or ear protection
Many people choose the BiteNot collar as an alternative to the traditional Elizabethan collar because it does not impede the dog's peripheral vision - they can still carry out all their favorite activities (such as eating, sleeping and playing) as normal. The collar is made of flexible plastic and foam and fits around your pet's neck, and the harness helps keep it securely in place.
One reviewer wrote: “After having surgery on our puppy, we had two traditional Elizabethan collars worn. He knocked everything out, was stressed out, and looked miserable. We thought we’d give it a try As an alternative I will only use them from now on and he seems happier from the moment we put it on him and can see where he is going and drink when he needs to. water, and being able to go out and relieve himself without being affected by everything. So far he can't chew the surgical site and I can comfort him without risking being beaten by the Elizabeth collar. I totally trust this product!"
Type: Collar | Dimensions: 3.5 x 16 inches - 8 x 32 inches | Colors: 1 | Machine washable: Yes
7. Get a recovery sleeve for one of your pet’s front legs
advantage:
- Great if you only need to cover one of your pet's legs
- allow freedom of movement
- Adjustable snaps and elastic straps for a better fit
shortcoming:
- Some reviewers noted that it runs large
If your pet has a wound on only one front leg, you may prefer this recovery sleeve (can be used on the left or right leg) that only covers that specific area. It's made from two layers of soft cotton and features adjustable fasteners and elastic straps to ensure a perfect fit. If your pet has shorter legs, you can always fold the sleeves if they are too long. If your dog is in between sizes, size down.
One reviewer wrote: "Great for the purpose and preferable to a cone of shame! Our golden retriever is not opposed to wearing it and it is well designed to stay comfortably in place. The large size suits her perfectly. "
Type: Recovery Wear | Sizes: XXXS — XXL | Colors: 1 | Machine Washable: Yes
expert:
Dr. Alex Schechter, DVM, founder veterinarian at Burrwood Veterinary
Dr. Amari Wells, DVM, managing veterinarian at Small Door Veterinary
Dr. Anna Massey, VMD, Director of Emergency and Critical Care at Red Bank Veterinary Hospital
Michelle Lugones, Ph.D., DVM, veterinarian at Best Friends Animal Society and associate professor in the Veterinary Technology program at LaGuardia Community College
