Buying Guide, Health

The 7 Best Dog Cone – Block the Access to Wound!

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Author: Jacob Kay

If you have a dog who is wounded, has a surgical incision, or a skin irritation then you might need a dog cone. The reason is simple, it helps prevent licking, scratching, or biting behaviour and protects the affected area. It is commonly known as the Elizabethan collar and is also referred to as the cone of shame. But, finding the best dog cone is not easy as there are many aspects involved.

You will find many options in the market but, you cannot simply buy one without analysing prospects such as features, price, perks, drawbacks, tips on usage and so on. So, there is a buying guide included which helps you get clarity regarding these aspects. Keep reading and by the end of this article, you will find the dog cone that meets your preferences.

Best Dog Cone

A dog cone is a useful protective accessory that helps dog owners protect their dogs from their own actions. It prevents the dog from licking their own wound, scratching, or biting. The idea is to stop them from making the wound worse. There are ample choices available in the market. From traditional dog cones to innovative ones.

To help you pick the cone that will be suitable for your dog, below is the list of best dog cones curated by our Wewantdogs team. You can pick any of these dog cones for your furry friend as our team has considered and analysed various parameters before including them in the list.

1. Supet Dog Cone

The majority of dog owners like to have a strong dog cone for long use and Supet Dog Cone is the one which manages to provide that. This plastic dog cone is adjustable and has a slip-on closure. So, it can be directly put on the dog without having to fasten as a snap, buckle or zipper.

It is made using lightweight PVC material and is durable. The leather edges of this dog cone will not stick to the dog’s hair.

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Key Features:

  • Adjustable
  • Plastic material

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As per the manufacturer, the cone is versatile and is useful in helping dogs recover from an injury or surgical wound.

Perks
  • Easy to clean
  • Waterproof and translucent
  • Durable hook and loop design
  • Stops dog from self-inflicting pain in wounds
Drawbacks
  • The size is smaller than anticipated

2. In Hand Adjustable Recovery Dog Cone

If you need a dog cone that is adjustable and stops the dog from accessing the wounded area to boost the dog’s recovery then you need the In Hand Adjustable Recovery Dog Cone for your furry friend. The velcro and button used on this dog cone provide a unique combination which prevents the cone from falling off.

Hence, the itch-scratch or lick-bite cycle of the dog is handled and there is no damage done to the wound or the injury site.

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Key Features:

  • Plastic material
  • Clear and transparent
  • Hook and loop closure

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According to the manufacturer, this dog cone can be also used while grooming, or bathing as well.

Perks
  • Soft and washable
  • Doesn’t block dogs’ vision
  • Padded inner line for comfort
Drawbacks
  • Some dogs easily get rid of the cone

3. BENCMATE Protective Inflatable Collar for Dogs 

For dog owners seeking an inflatable dog cone for their dogs then BENCMATE Protective Inflatable collar dog cone is suitable for them. This dog cone is inflatable and also deflates easily. Using mechanism is simple, Insert the pet’s collar into the inner loop rings and inflate the collar through the air valve. The pinch and blow method should help.

The design of this dog cone ensures that it protects the dog from injury, post-surgery wounds, and rashes.

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Key Features:

  • Deflates
  • Zipper closure

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As per the manufacturer, the outer cover of this dog cone is washable. You have to simply unzip the cover and wash it.

Perks
  • Deflates for easy storage
  • Dogs’ vision is not blocked
  • Removable machine washable cover
Drawbacks
  • Difficult to blow without using a pump

4. Vetoo Dog Cone Recovery E-collar

If you are in need of a dog cone that helps with recovery then, Vetoo Dog Cone Recovery E-collar is an option they must surely consider. This dog cone is lightweight, breathable, and comfortable for dog owners. The material used in this dog cone is polyester and poam. Compared to the usual plastic dog cones these cones are more soft.

In addition, the velcro fastening makes it a good fit and you can expect the cone to stay on dogs’ necks for a longer duration. Also, it won’t fold back

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Key Features:

  • Breathable
  • Soft edges
  • Hook and loop closure

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Further, the manufacturer also claims that their dog cone can be helpful in showering, for hair care, medical treatment, etc.

Perks
  • Washable
  • Doesn’t hurt the dog’s neck
  • Adjustable and comfortable
Drawbacks
  • Fabric is soft

5. Emwel Pet Inflatable Dog Cone

Emwel Pet Inflatable Dog Cone is feasible for dog owners who are seeking both a protective and comfy dog cone for their furry friend. This inflatable dog cone is a good alternative to a plastic dog cone. It is durable and comfortable for the dog. The material is soft and comfortable for a dog’s neck.

There is a valve in the collar to pinch and blow. Once you fill the collar stick the straps together and adjust it as per the dog’s neck.

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Key Features:

  • Plush and PVC
  • Hook and loop closure

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The manufacturer provides an after-sale warranty for this dog cone. So, you can report any issues you face on delivery or while using.

Perks
  • Easy to use
  • Doesn’t compromise dogs’ peripheral
  • Adjustable collar to fit the neck properly
Drawbacks
  • Some dogs manage to stretch their neck and access the wound

6. Mogokoyo Dog E-collar Protection

For dog owners who are seeking a dog cone which is durable yet soft then, Mogokoyo Dog E-collar Protection is the one. This dog cone is made using cotton and plastic material. The cotton flannel as the edge will never cause discomfort to the dog. The hook and loop closure mechanism is good and works swiftly.

The dog cone design ensures there is no self-licking, itching, or biting to prevent the wound or injury from getting worse.

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Key Features:

  • Hook and loop closure
  • Plastic and cotton material

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As per the manufacturer, this dog cone is sewn double using the machine to ensure it fits accurately.

Perks
  • Suitable for dogs recovering from surgery
  • Padding on both inside and outside edges
Drawbacks
  • Sewing is not that good

7. SlowTon Inflatable Dog Recovery Collar Cone

If comfort is your top priority then SlowTon Inflatable Dog Recovery Collar Cone is the one you should consider buying. This dog cone uses soft and comfortable cotton flannel fabric for their furry friend. Unlike a traditional dog cone, this one allows dogs to have their meal and sleep properly. The strap of this dog cone is easy to fasten and it stays on the dog firmly.

In addition, the durable fluffy cover used in SlowTon dog cone is strong and anti-scratch. This means it will not get damaged easily and work for a longer duration.

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Key Features:

  • Flexible
  • PVC and cotton
  • Hook and loop closure

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According to the manufacturer, to provide more stability,

Perks
  • Thick and waterproof
  • Doesn’t block dogs’ vision
  • Adjustable and quick-release
Drawbacks
  • Doesn’t restrict the area below the knee

Buyers Guide: Best Dog Cone

Now that you have had a peek at some of the best dog cones for your furry friend, you might have picked the suitable one for your furry friend. However, some of you may have felt like two or more cones are feasible for the dog. So, if you have such confusion, you can sort it out after going through this buying guide.

You will find insights into features, factors affecting cost, perks, drawbacks, and tips on how to use it for your furry friend. But, before that, it’s important to know why dog cones are needed in the first place.

Dog cones – why do dog owners need them?

One of the common reasons why dog owners need dog cones for their furry friends is to contain their aggressive behaviour such as biting, or scratching. But, it’s not limited to this. There are some other reasons and instances which mandate dog owners to use the dog cone. Below are some of the reasons and instances explaining the need for dog cones:

Reasons

  • To stop dogs from licking their own wound, scratching, or biting on the wound. This prevents injury from getting worse and also, helps the dog heal faster.
  • Make sure the dog doesn’t inflict wounds on themselves. This usually happens when the dog is going through trauma, or has skin allergies, problems, or behavioural issues. Using a dog cone ensures that there is no physical injury caused to the dog.
  • To stop dogs from ingesting random food items or things which could cause harm. Dogs have a tendency to explore new stuff and in the process, often they end up swallowing the item. A dog cone helps prevent it and ensure dogs’ safety.

Instances

  • Post-surgery – if the dog has been spayed, neutered, or went through any surgical procedure or physical treatment, a dog cone becomes a necessity. Dogs might lick, bite, or scratch their wounds and the cone ensures that the stitches are not broken or there is no physical damage done to the wounded or surgically operated area of their body.
  • After an injury – when a dog sustains an injury while playing, walking, or performing any physical activity then using a dog cone is crucial. It will restrict the dog from licking the wound minimising the risk of infection.
  • Ear infection – otitis externa, interna, or media are some of the prominent dog ear infection issues. if dogs scratch or rub, the infection will worsen. A dog cone blocks the movements and protects dogs from increasing the damage.
  • Skin irritation – rash, hotspot, or allergy on the skin can make a dog lick, scratch or bite. But, it’s risky for them. Using the dog cone will make sure that they don’t make the rash worse also, prevent them from getting infected.

Features of dog cone

While buying any gadget for the dog you assess different features and other prospects. Now, a dog cone is a simple product but, you still need to analyse the features before buying. Consider features as one of the buying prospects. Here are some of the prominent features to look for in a dog cone:

#1. Size of the cone

The size of the cone should match the size of the dog’s head and neck. The dog cone should be long enough to advance past the tip of the dog’s nose but, not extra lengthy blocking their vision. A dog cone that is too big or small can cause issues for the dog. In addition, a big dog cone will not only interfere with dogs’ vision but, also compromise their mobility.

Likewise, a dog cone that is too small in size will fail to block the dogs’ access to the surgical site or wound. The dog will easily lick the wound, bite, or scratch it. So, it’s crucial to measure the length of dogs’ necks and the distance from the neck to their noses to find the perfect size. The general measurement is 3-4 inches beyond the tip of the nose.

#2. Shape of the cone

A dog cone comes in different shapes. It is available in doughnut or cone shape. The dog cone of doughnut shape is stable compared to the cone shape. But, based on the dog’s head shape you might have to pick the one which fits properly. For example, a pug might need a different shape cone compared to a Doberman even with the same neck size.

#3. Material of the cone

It is crucial to check the material the dog cone is made of. The reason is simple, the material of the dog cone directly affects the durability and comfort of the cone. The material of the cone should be lightweight, flexible, and easy to clean. Here are some of the materials which are used in making dog cones:

  • Plastic dog cone- is one of the most common, traditional, and widely used materials that is used to make different dog cones. The dog cones made of this material are strong, waterproof, and inexpensive.
  • Fabric dog cone – compared to the plastic material, the dog cones made of fabric are soft and comfortable for the dogs. They are breathable, adjustable, and washable.
  • Inflatable dog cone – in comparison with the plastic and fabric dog cones, the inflatable ones are more innovative. The collar inflates like a balloon and wraps around the dog’s neck.

Buying prospects

You saw how the different features of cones are crucial to consider before buying the dog cone. But, apart from the features, there are some buying prospects as well. Below are some of the prominent buying prospects for you to consider:

  • Visibility – refers to how a dog can see around or through the cone. A transparent or clear cone will ensure that the dog is able to see things ahead of them without getting stressed or anxious. The colour of the cone must be pleasant otherwise the dog will get distracted by the colour of the cone itself.
  • Durability – the durability of the cone refers to the strength of the dog cone. Strong materials keep dog cones intact. The plastic dog cone is considered durable and is easy to clean as well. The fabric dog cone and inflatable ones are not as durable as the plastic ones.
  • Comfort – your dog should feel comfortable while wearing the cone. It should not be too tight or too loose. A dog cone that is tight may cause injury around the neck. On the contrary, a dog cone that is loose will fall out and cause issues for the dog.
  • Cost – the dog cone you select should not exceed your budget. But, this doesn’t imply you have to buy a cheap one. This might compromise your furry friends’ safety.
  • Personal preference – some dog owners prefer durability, some like the cone to be comforting for the dog, and others might like the ones that are easy to clean. So, based on one of these preferences you can select the one which suits your preferences the best.

Factors Affecting the Prices of Dog Ones

When buying any dog cone, the cost is one of the prominent buying prospects. It is important to buy a dog cone that is within the budget and meets the majority of the requirements. As a responsible dog owner, you need to know how the prices of a dog cone are affected. Here is a detailed view of how different factors influence the price of the dog cone:

#1. Type of dog cone

There are different types of dog cones available in the market. Standard, soft, inflatable, recovery etc. Each dog cone serves a distinctive purpose. Based on the perks and drawbacks of each type and your preferences, the prices of these dog cones will vary. Also, the material used in each of these dog cones is different and the prices change accordingly.

#2. Quality of the dog cone

A dog cone should withstand behaviour like scratching, biting, or chewing. So, it should be durable enough. Not every type of dog cone fits the criterion of durability. Some of them are made soft on purpose to extend the comfort feature for the dog. The quality of the cones will influence the prices directly. Higher the quality (regardless of the type) higher the prices.

#3. The brand of the dog cone

A reputed brand is known to provide the best features of a product. They use top-notch materials to make the dog cone, also, the process of making is different and extensive compared to other manufacturers. So, the prices are high. Also, they have a loyal customer base who keep buying the product from them. Regardless of price hikes, they continue to buy the product.

#4. Availability of the dog cone

Dog cones are available in the market but, at times, the availability of a specific type or brand of dog is more. This elevates the prices significantly. So, higher the demand, more prices, and less availability. Likewise, if the demand is low and there is an abundant supply of the dog cone, you can expect the prices to be low even for the branded cones.

#5. Features of the dog cone

Some dog cones have different shapes, sizes, designs, patterns or features which require additional investment. This means that the manufacturer has to spend extra money and change the production method to achieve the specifics of that additional feature.

A dog cone with a unique shape, material, or technology will be expensive. So, this additional money used to provide different features or patterns will influence the prices of the dog cone.

Types of Dog Cones

It is important for dog owners to know the options available in the market not in terms of brands but, the types. Each type is made to serve a specific purpose or meet a requirement. Based on personal preferences and dogs’ behaviour, dog owners can pick the right type of dog cone for their furry friend:

#1. Plastic e-collar dog cone

This dog cone is made using hard plastic. It is also referred to as the Elizabethan collar. The shape of the cone is effective in blocking the majority of areas of the dog’s body. However, it’s not comfortable for all the dogs.

Perks of using plastic e-collar dog cone

  • Easy to clean and durable
  • Affordable prices (branded might cost a bit more)
  • Stops dog from licking, scratching, or biting their wound or skin irritation

Drawbacks of using plastic e-collar dog cones

  • Heavy and uncomfortable for some dogs
  • Hinders dogs’ movements, and blocks vision

#2. Soft e-collar dog cone

Some dogs have sensitive necks and a soft e-collar dog cone will be perfect for them. The fabric material used in making these dog cones is soft and flexible. So, a dog’s neck is not under any sort of distress or discomfort.

Perks of using soft e-collar dog cone

  • Lightweight and comfortable for the dog
  • Doesn’t block dogs’ vision, eating, or other movements
  • Foldable and adjustable based on dogs’ preferences

Drawbacks of using soft e-collar dog cone

  • Cleaning is difficult
  • Not durable enough
  • Less effective for wounds, or irritation near ears, or paws
  • The price is high compared to other dog cones

#3. Doughnut dog cone

A dog cone that looks like a balloon or a doughnut is referred to as a doughnut cone. The fabric used in this dog cone is made of soft fabric and is generally known as an inflatable or a recovery collar as well.

Perks of using doughnut dog cone

  • Lightweight and comfortable for the dog
  • Easy to put on dogs and take it off
  • Will not block dogs’ vision, eating, or movement

Drawbacks of using doughnut dog cone

  • Expensive purchase
  • The possibility of deflating or leakage is high
  • Not effective for irritation or wounds on the face, ear, or paws

#4. Brace collar dog cone

This type of dog cone is designed to stop a dog from bending its neck while accessing the irritated area or wound. It is strong and covers dogs’ neck and chest parts as well. It is also known as a neck brace collar.

Perks of using brace collar dog cone

  • Breathable and comfortable for the dog
  • Easy to put the collar on the dog
  • Will not block dogs’ vision, eating, or other movements

Drawbacks of using brace collar dog cone

  • Can be too loose or too tight for some dogs
  • Not helpful for irritation, or wounds sustained on paws, tail, or front legs

Additional types of dog cone

You saw some of the prominent types of dog cones. Now, let’s have a peek at some other dog cone types that come in handy for use:

  1. BiteNotcollar – this dog cone wraps around the dog’s neck and upper back. As the name itself hints, it doesn’t allow dogs to bite or reach the wound or surgical site. However, it is not easy to put on the dogs.
  2. Neck hug – this type of dog cone has a pillow-like shape and it connects to the regular collar of the dog. The neck hug dog cone is lightweight, comfortable and less obstructive for the dog. But, it’s not as effective as other types of dog cones. Also, it might not be ideal to use on dogs having wounds on the chest or long noses.
  3. Cardboard – this is a DIY option. You can make it yourself at home. All you’ll need is cardboard, some tape, string, and a scissor. This is the cheapest option but, not as durable or effective as other dog cones.

How to Pick the Perfect Dog Cone for the Dog?

Once you analyse the features, buying prospects, and cost of the dog cone, the job is only half done. To make sure you are buying the perfect dog cone for the dog, you’ll have to analyse your dog as well. Yes, you read that right! Below are some prospects related to the dog that you need to consider to make sure you are buying the perfect dog cone for the dog:

#1. Get measurements of the dogs’ neck

This is one of the most important prospects. You don’t want to end up buying the dog cone that doesn’t fit your dog’s neck or causes discomfort. Here is how you’ll measure the dogs’ neck circumference and nose length:

  • Take a measuring tape and wrap it around your dog’s neck. Mark the points where the tape meets.
  • Measure the length of the string using a ruler
  • Follow the previous procedure to measure the distance from the tip of the dog’s nose right to the base of the ear.

After following this procedure, you will have the exact measurement of a dog’s nose length and the circumference of the neck. Measuring will reduce the chances of the dog cone not fitting your furry friend’s neck.

#2. Consider the location of the injury and the type

The location of the injury and its type are important to consider before you buy the dog cone. For instance, if the dog is wounded in their chest or the front leg, you’ll need a doughnut or inflatable collar. A regular dog cone would be of no help in these situations.

#3. Dogs’ behaviour and personality

A dog’s behaviour and personality play a huge role in deciding which dog cone you should buy. Some dogs are not comfortable with certain dimensions of the dog cone. You’ll have to analyse their behaviour to make sure that they don’t feel uncomfortable.

For instance, if your furry friend is obedient, calm, and gentle in terms of personality and behaviour, a soft fabric dog cone will be the perfect fit for them. Now, if your furry friend is aggressive, curious, or energetic by nature then you will need a rigid dog cone made of plastic or other sturdy material. Thus, observe the behaviour of your furry friend and pick the dog cone accordingly.

#4. Duration of use

This might seem unusual but, it is crucial to know how long you plan on using the dog cone for your furry friend. Different dog cones have different effects on dogs and based on the behaviour, mobility, comfort, and strength of the cone, you can roughly expect the dog cone to sustain longer.

For example, some dog cones are bulky and rigid with cone-shaped collars and velcro closures. While others may not have such features. But, these types of cones often restrict dogs’ movements, vision, and eating. Also, the dog might bump into things and possibly injure them. So, these types of dog cones are suitable for dog owners who are looking to use the dog cone for a couple of weeks. ]

Now, if you need a dog cone that will be of use for more than two weeks then, you need to seek the soft dog cones with doughnut shape. These dog cones have straps to hold onto the neck without causing any discomfort or injury to the dog. However, these dog cones are not strong and susceptible to dog chewing, scratching, or biting behaviour.

#5. Ease of cleaning

The dog cone you plan on buying should be easy to clean. They get dirty from the saliva, blood, or dirt and if not cleaned properly, could lead to health issues for the dogs. It can cause irritation, bad odour, or infection issues for the dog. Dogs’ fur might get stuck on the cone and it could also cause problems for the dog. You don’t want your furry friend to end up wearing the dirty cone and get unhealthy.

So, make sure the dog cone you pick for your furry friend is easy to clean using simple cloth or rinsing. Yes, that’s simple, you should be able to wipe the dust off the dog cones easily. If needed you can use soap as well. Some dog cones are machine washable but, their cost might be high.

Lastly, it’s important to consult the vet before you plan on buying a dog cone. A vet can explain to you the structure of your furry friend’s neck and suggest the best dog cone shape to consider.

Tips on Using Dog Cone

Even if you manage to buy the best dog cone with the proper features, material, and dimensions, it will be of no use if not used effectively. You have to make sure that your furry friend is comfortable with the use. Here are some basic tips you can consider while using dog cone on your dog:

#1. Introduce the dog cone

Your furry friend needs to feel comfortable so, it’s important to make them feel good about the use of the dog cone. They must not feel threatened or anxious while you try and put the cone on them. Here is how you can proceed with the introduction of the dog cone:

  • Put the cone in a suitable location – your furry friend has a fixed spot where they like spending their time or prefer sleeping. Putting the cone in such a location will make them feel calm. Think about it. If you directly put the con in their path, it might spook them.
  • Allow the dog to sniff the dog cone – this step is common when introducing different items to the dog. You may have already done this while introducing a toy, lead, or other gadget to your dog. So, if your dog starts to sniff or lick the dog cone, allow it. It helps them get used to the scent of the dog cone.

Some dogs might comprehend the dog cone as a thing to play with. So, if your furry friend is playing with the dog cone then you should not stop them but, also make sure that they don’t continue to do so. Otherwise, they will resist you when you actually put on the dog cone on their neck.

#2. Reward the dog

If your furry friend is showing positive behaviour towards the dog cone then, you need to provide them with rewards. Use their favourite toy or food item. This will help them associate the dog cone positively. So, when you try putting on the cone, they will not resist it.

#3. Try putting the dog cone on the dog

You must not get excited when your dog responds positively because they haven’t had to wear it. Try putting the dog cone on your furry friend. Observe their reaction. Some of the dogs will show positive reactions while others will resent it due to restrictions of movement or blockage of the vision. If you notice their behaviour shifting, immediately take out the cone.

You can try holding the cone in your hand and make them walk. This will develop the premise that they have to walk with the cone. Now, before making them walk with a cone on, you can try putting the cone on their head and see the reaction.

#4. Make the dog walk with the cone

At some point, you’ll have to completely use the dog cone. So, when you feel like your dog is in a good mood try putting the dog cone on. Also, keep some food treats nearby to minimise the chances of resentment. Once the dog begins to walk and have the food treats, you can feel assured that they are not feeling any discomfort.

#5. Provide puzzles

Simple walks when the cone is on won’t work. Your dog might get bored and their focus might shift back to the dog cone. So, to keep them engaged or distracted, you can try using puzzles, or chews that are designed to challenge dogs. This will make sure that their focus doesn’t revert to the dog cone. In fact, if they are suffering from pain or an injury for which you used the cone in the first place, the puzzles might help distract them from the pain as well.

Perks of using dog cones

There are ample benefits to using dog cones if you have trained your dog to wear them. Below are some of the prominent perks of using dog cones:

#1. Protect dogs’ wound

One of the prominent reasons to use a dog cone is to protect the wound the dog has sustained. Along with that, there are surgical wounds, skin conditions or allergies as well. A dog cone prevents the dog from scratching, licking, or biting on the wound to prevent it from getting worse.

However, this is not it. Some dogs are known to bite themselves when they get anxious or stressed. The cone is like a protective shield and it stops this self-mutilation. In addition, some dogs are also known to explore everything and accidentally ingest certain items while walking or while playing by themselves in the house.

#2. Increase the speed of healing

The speed of healing is increased significantly when there is less interference from the dog. Less licking, biting, or scratching behaviour ensures that the wound can recover quickly. Here are some reasons explaining the speedy recovery:

  • Less self-trauma – dog stops licking, biting or searching their wounds which ensures the wound is not exposed. The cone ensures there is a significant blockage and it is difficult for the dog to access the wound.
  • Stitches and sutures remain intact – a dog who has been in surgery requires time to recover. To make sure they recover properly, the cone is used. It stops the dog from scratching, licking, or biting on the stitches or sutures.
  • Minimal swelling and bruising – swelling is caused by excessive licking, scratching, or biting. It delays the healing process and can hinder the process. A dog cone will make sure there is less swelling or bruising due to such behaviour and the blood flow is not restricted.

#3. A visual reminder to handle the dog with care

A dog wearing a cone will become noticeable and it’s an instant reminder to people around that they need to be handled with care. Not only for the people around but, dog owners also need continuous reminders regarding the injury they have sustained. Because often dog owners forget that their furry friend has sustained injury.

Perks for the dog owners

Dog cones are not only beneficial for dogs but, there are benefits for the dog owners as well. Below are some of the significant perks that dog owners get from using dog cones for their dogs:

  • Saves frequent vet visits – dogs tend to break their sutures, and stitches and make the condition worse. This often leads to dog owners having to take their dogs to the vet. Using a dog cone reduces the risk and saves lots of time.
  • Sense of comfort – when the dog is wearing the dog cone, the owner gets a sense of relief as they don’t have to worry about the dog licking, scratching or biting their wounds. Also, some of them tend to ingest different food items and this leads to different health issues for them. So, when the dog is wearing the cone, they feel assured mentally that the risk of injury or accidents happening is significantly low.
  • Improves the bond – the attention and care the dog receives when recovering even with the cone around the neck, improves the bond significantly.

Drawbacks of using dog cones

While there are ample benefits to using dog cones, there are some drawbacks as well. Here are some of the drawbacks of using dog cones:

#1. Blockage of vision

There are many dog cones which block the peripheral vision of the dog. This can often lead to accidents, and also, trigger stress or anxiety in them. They bump into different objects due to less vision and possibly get injured in the process.

#2. Limited environmental exposure

The dog cone forms a physical barrier between the dog and the surrounding environment. There is less interaction with the environment after wearing the cone. Also, the contact with the owners is less which can lead to frustration for both the dog and owner.

#3. Emotional behaviour changes

A dog cone is intended to help the dog but, frequent or long-term usage can impact their behaviour. This happens because of the physical damage discomfort and lack of movement. Some dogs are highly energetic in nature and won’t like the restriction. They get anxious and possibly depressed with the use of dog cones.

#4. Eating meals gets tougher

One of the worst things about dog cones is that dogs are not able to drink or have their meal properly. The cone interferes with the movement of the mouth and the dog is not able to access water or have their meal. So, dog owners have to put in extra effort to ensure their furry friends stay hydrated and have their meals properly.

Things to avoid while using dog cones

To make sure the use of dog cones doesn’t leave a negative impact on the dog, there are some prospects that dog owners need to avoid when using the dog cone for their furry friend. Here are some of the things to avoid while using dog cone:

  • Avoid forcing the dog to wear the dog cone – often dog owners make dogs forcefully wear the dog cone. While their intent is not bad, but, it becomes a painful experience for the dog. They will consider this a bad experience and it might even compromise the bond you have.
  • Using wrong size dog cone – sometimes dog owners make the rookie mistake of not measuring the neck of their dog and end up buying a dog cone of the wrong size. On top of that, they somehow use it as well. This is something dog owners must avoid. Otherwise, the dog is likely to face physical distress and it can also lead to choking issues.
  • Leaving the cone dirty – the cone that you plan on using must not be dirty. A dirty cone can cause issues like skin irritation, infection, and redness, and possibly cause injury to the dog. Hence, dog owners must not avoid this and maintain proper hygiene when it comes to using the dog cone.
  • Compromising on duration – cone needs to be used for a specific time period to get proper results. This means if there is a significant injury to the dog it needs to be used for a longer duration. But, often dog owners remove the cone before the dog has actually recovered from the injury i.e. midway thinking that the wound will heal without the dog’s interference. This is a huge gamble which they take. The majority of the time, it doesn’t work. The injury of the dog gets worse. Hence, as a responsible dog owner, you need to make sure that you avoid compromising on the duration.

FAQs for Best Dog Cone

How much to pay for the best dog cone in the UK?

To buy the best dog cone in the UK, you can expect to pay roughly between £5- £15. However, these prices vary based on the size, shape, design, brand, material, and other prospects like purpose. The dog cones are made with different materials to meet different requirements. For instance, some dog owners prefer durable ones while others would have both durability and comfort for their furry friend. These dog cones will cost more.

Are there any dog breeds that will resent the use of dog cones?

Certainly, there are many dogs that will not tolerate the dog cone collar. The reason varies per the dog breed. Greyhounds, or Whippets belong to sighthounds and these dogs have long, slender necks that are sensitive to pressure. Plastic dog cones will make them uncomfortable. Brachycephalic Breed dogs like bulldogs or pugs have short and flat faces so, the cone compromises breathing and they won’t feel comfortable. Likewise, dogs with anxiety issues, or small in size will feel overwhelming.

What can I use instead of a dog cone?

Some of the best dog cone alternatives are – Inflatable recovery collars, protective clothing for dogs, soft e-collars, soft inflatable collars, fabric e-collars, or possibly a homemade dog cone. Any of these alternatives will help you with your need to protect dogs’ wounds and facilitate quick healing. But, make sure you pick the one that meets your furry friends’ temperament, neck size, or other preferences.

How long does my dog need to wear a cone?

This is simple, based on the wound, the vet will suggest you put on the dog cone for a specific time duration. Some wounds might heal within a week or so whereas others might need about two or more weeks. The vet knows your furry friend’s body better and based on their previous healing timeframe, you will get a rough duration. It is crucial that you consult your vet to get the exact time frame.

Conclusive Remarks for the Best Dog Cone

Selecting the best dog cone for the dog is a tedious task. One has to make sure they cover all the bases and pick the dog cone that fits their neck the best. Also, there are factors like colour, material, brand, type, and preferences which influence the decision. Sometimes the dog cones you seek might not be available.

So, it becomes crucial to assess the options in the market thoroughly. From traditional dog cones to innovative inflatable dog cones, there are plenty of options available in the market. The buying guide in the article does provide detailed insights and I hope you were able to filter out the options. But, you must ensure that you consult the vet when you decide to buy it.

Lastly, make sure you follow the proper steps to introduce the dog cone and put it properly without causing distress to the dog. If you are not confident, try getting help from an experienced dog owner or a professional dog trainer to put on the cone. This will ensure your furry friend’s safety. In addition, if there is any concern that you need to be resolved, do share it. Our team will help you sort it out.

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About
Jacob Kay
Jacob Kay is a Veterinary Advisor and Editor at WWD. He’s also a dog lover and has two pet dogs of his own. He has extensive knowledge in the field of veterinary medicine and is always happy to share his insights with others.

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