Has your furry friend ever sported that awkward, plastic cone after a trip to the vet? Those “lampshades,” as some owners call them, are essential for healing, but let’s be honest—they can be a real hassle. Watching your energetic dog bump into furniture or struggle to eat and drink is tough on both of you. Choosing the right protective collar shouldn’t feel like another challenge on top of your pet’s recovery.
The market is flooded with soft cones, inflatable collars, and traditional plastic designs. Which one actually keeps your dog comfortable while stopping them from licking that itchy spot or surgical incision? Getting this wrong means longer healing times and more stress. This post cuts through the confusion. We break down the best cone options available today, focusing on comfort, durability, and functionality.
By the end of this guide, you will know exactly which type of cone best suits your dog’s size, personality, and specific needs. Get ready to swap frustration for peace of mind as we explore the best ways to keep your pup safe and happy during their recovery journey.
Top Cone For Dog Recommendations
No. 1
Supet Dog Cone Collar Adjustable After Surgery, Comfortable Pet Recovery Collar & Cone for Large Medium Small Dogs, Elizabethan Dog Neck Collar Plastic Practical （L）
- GREAT PROTECTION FOR YOUR PETS: The dog cone collar is a safe and good method of preventing your pet from aggravating a healing wound or injury. Helps to overcome lick-bite, Itch-scratch cycle. Ending self-Inflicted wound aggravation or mutilation, prevent your pet bite others in the dermatology / Beauty / surgical procedure.
- PERFECT FIT: Suitable for different ages or sizes dogs and cats, Meet your different needs. Please refer to our size chart before ordering, if your pet's measurement is close to the maximum please order the next size up.
- CONVENIENT TO USE: Hook & Loop design easy to tighten or loosen. This soft pet cone with above design can keep the collar secure in place and keep it from being pulled off or from falling off.
- HIGH QUALITY MATERIAL: Made of high quality PVC material, extra soft fabric edge provides your pet additional comfort and protection, durable and healthy, this pet recovery collar is light enough which never make your lovely pets get tired. And it's easy to clean!
- Warm Reminder: Some dogs may initially feel uncomfortable with the dog head cone. To prevent them from licking their wounds, we encourage you to comfort your dog and accompany them through this challenging recovery period. If you have any questions, please contact us. Size for L: Depth: 9.8 in, Neck Girth: 14.0-17.0in
No. 2
BENCMATE Inflatable Dog Cone Collar Alternative, Soft Dog Cone for Small Medium Large Dogs and Cats, Neck Recovery ECollar Donut Collar After Surgery (Medium, Blue)
- COMFORTABLE FOR YOUR PET - While wearing the BENCMATE Collar, the inflatable function and the soft outside material will let your dog wear it comfortably and it does not block your pet’s vision, they can eat, drink, sleep and play at ease while staying protected.
- DESIGNED TO LAST - The protective dog cone is not just soft and washable but also featured scratch and bite resistance. It will not mark, scrape or damage your furniture. The materials we selected are meant for durable and long-lasting use. You can insert your pet’s everyday collar through the inner ring loops for stabilization.
- PROTECTIVE AND GENTLE CARING - The dog cone alternative after surgery is designed to protect your pets from injuries, rashes, and post-surgery wounds, it will prevent pets from biting and licking their injured area or surgical site and promote recovery from surgery or wounds. The comfortable material also provides gentle caring for your pets.
- ADJUSTABLE AND EASY STORING - You can easily adjust the collar strap for a perfect fit and put the strap side at the back of your dog’s neck in case of biting. Deflating and storing is also handy, store it in a small space for space-saving, and there is a zipper opening on one side, you can take the bag out and wash the outside cloth.
- USEFUL TIPS - ①Measurement differences may exist, hence BENCMATE sincerely recommends you measure your pet’s neck circumference before purchasing to get a perfect size. ②If the dog cone is a bit large for your dog and easily falls off, please try to loop the daily collar with the recovery collar, it would be helpful to prevent the collar from falling off.
No. 3
Vithael Upgraded Dog Cone Collar for Large Medium Dogs, Soft Dog Cone with Double-Layer Design, Adjustable Pet Recovery Collar for Dogs After Surgery, Elizabethan Collar (L, Blue)
- Innovative Double-Layer Design: The Vithael Dog Cone boasts an advanced two-tier construction. The Inner Layer is crafted with a soft breathable mesh material, ensuring your pet's comfort and protection without any added burden. The Outer Layer is made with durable, waterproof PVC, ensuring a sturdy structure that won't easily tear or damage, giving your furry friend the ultimate protection.
- Choose the Right Size: L (Neck Circumference: 15.4"-17.3") (Depth: 11.6"). Always measure your dog's Neck Girth and the Length between the tip of your dog's nose and the base of the neck (neck-to-nose) before buying. The cone should extend beyond the tip of the nose to prevent your pet from reaching the affected area and ensure effective recovery. If your dog's size is near the upper limit of a size range, it's best to order the next size up to provide extra comfort.
- Adjustable & Secure Fit: Featuring an wide-range adjustable hook&loop, this dog cone alternative ensures a snug, comfortable fit. In addition, this dog cone collar is equipped with an adjustable drawstring stopper that can be tightened and loosened to fit the dog's neck better, no need to worry about the pet will choke after putting on this soft cone, and make sure the cone will not slip down or take off even the dog tries to take it off. For added security, a collar can be threaded through for extra hold. Supervise your dog while they adjust to the cone to prevent them from finding ways to remove it.
- Soft Protective Edge & Waterproof: This soft dog cone for dogs has a soft protective fabric around the neck to protect your dog's cervical spine, ensuring they have a pleasant experience. The waterproof surface of this dog cone is incredibly easy to clean. You simply need a paper towel to wipe it clean, unlike other dog cones that are difficult to wash. Just get it for your lovely pet.
- Furniture-Friendly Protection: Unlike rigid plastic dog cones, Vithael dog cone minimizes noise when bumping into objects, protecting your furniture and surfaces. It also reduces friction on your dog's skin, keeping them calm and comfortable throughout recovery.
No. 4
GLADOG Soft Dog Cone Collar, 3 PCS (XL is Only 1 PCS) Flexible Plastic Cone for Dogs After Surgery, Dog Recovery Collar, Adjustable E-Collar for Large/Medium/Small Dogs Cat, Comfy Elizabethan Collar
- 【GREAT PROTECTOR】- This dog cones for pets can well protect your pets from injuries, rashes and post surgery wounds. Help to prevent pets from biting and licking their injured area or surgical site. Promote recovering from surgery or wounds. Make the recovery process more pleasant
- 【3 PCS FOR EXACT SIZE】- There are 3 similar & different sizes in each set（Except XL, only contain 1PCS）. No fear of getting the wrong size. If you have more than one dog, double the value. The soft cone for dogs can also be used for pet grooming, medical treatment and nail cutting
- 【LIGHTWEIGHT & COMFORTABLE】- Lightweight and extra soft fabric edges allow your dog to wear it comfortably with less stress on her neck. In addition, its transparent plastic will not block your pet’s vision, they can lie down, sleep, even eat and drink normally
- 【HIGH-QUALITY MATERIAL】- Adjustable dog surgery collar is made of high-quality PVC material, long-lasting and washable. Extra soft fabric edges provide your pet additional comfort and protection, and it will not mark or scrape your furniture
- 💗 Note: Please allow 0.4-0.8 inches, differs due to manual measurement, we recommend one size up for comfort if your dog's measurement is the higher end of the range listed
No. 5
QIYADIN Plastic Pet Recovery Collars & Cones for Dogs and Cats After Surgery Adjustable Dog Neck Cone Surgical Elizabeth E-Collar Prevent Biting and Stop Licking Wound (S)
- [FUNCTION] QIYADIN pet recovery cone is a professional and effective tool for postoperative cats and dogs. It prevents them from licking and biting incisions and helps them recover faster and better. It can also be used in pet grooming and skin disease treatment.
- [MATERIAL] It is mainly made of high-quality translucent soft and flexible plastic, it can be rolled into a cone to Keep your pet's head and body separate. Its edges are covered with cotton flannel, which makes it comfortable for pets to wear.
- [SIZE and WEIGHT] 9 sizes from XXXS to XXXL for choices. You can always find the right size for your pet. You can first measure the size of your pet, then compare it with our size chart, finally choose the appropriate size. Its weight is very light. Pets can move normally with it.
- [USAGE METHOD] Put the inner ring of this pet recovery collar close to the pet's neck and roll it into a cone, then stick the Velcro on. The large area of Velcro makes the cone firmly fixed on the pet's neck. You can fine tune the size by adjusting the adhesive area of the Velcro. Make sure it is in a comfortable state, not too tight to hurt the pet's neck, and not too loose to escape.
- [DURABLE] This pet recovery cone is difficult to be damaged by scratching of dogs and cats. It can be used repeatedly and has long service life. But it's plastic. Please stay away from fire!
No. 6
BENCMATE Inflatable Dog Cone Collar Alternative, Soft Dog Cone for Small Medium Large Dogs and Cats, Neck Recovery ECollar Donut Collar After Surgery (Large, Blue)
- COMFORTABLE FOR YOUR PET - While wearing the BENCMATE Collar, the inflatable function and the soft outside material will let your dog wear it comfortably and it does not block your pet’s vision, they can eat, drink, sleep and play at ease while staying protected.
- DESIGNED TO LAST - The protective dog cone is not just soft and washable but also featured scratch and bite resistance. It will not mark, scrape or damage your furniture. The materials we selected are meant for durable and long-lasting use. You can insert your pet’s everyday collar through the inner ring loops for stabilization.
- PROTECTIVE AND GENTLE CARING - The dog cone alternative after surgery is designed to protect your pets from injuries, rashes, and post-surgery wounds, it will prevent pets from biting and licking their injured area or surgical site and promote recovery from surgery or wounds. The comfortable material also provides gentle caring for your pets.
- ADJUSTABLE AND EASY STORING - You can easily adjust the collar strap for a perfect fit and put the strap side at the back of your dog’s neck in case of biting. Deflating and storing is also handy, store it in a small space for space-saving, and there is a zipper opening on one side, you can take the bag out and wash the outside cloth.
- USEFUL TIPS - ①Measurement differences may exist, hence BENCMATE sincerely recommends you measure your pet’s neck circumference before purchasing to get a perfect size. ②If the dog cone is a bit large for your dog and easily falls off, please try to loop the daily collar with the recovery collar, it would be helpful to prevent the collar from falling off.
No. 7
Supet Inflatable Dog Cone Collar Alternative After Surgery, Doggie Neck Donut Collar Recovery ECollar, Soft Dog Cone for Small Medium Large Dogs
- SCRATCH & BITE RESISTANT - This inflatable dog donut collar is a perfect cone for dogs after surgery. Inflated dog neck donut works like a plump barrier around your canine's neck, can effectively prevent your pets from biting and licking injured area or surgical site. With this collar on, the unique and cute donut shape makes it like a pet ornament instead of a dog surgery collar, your pet must be a million times happier with this.
- NON-STICK FABRIC - Unlike other common velvet inflatable dog collars for after surgery donut, the outside of this dog soft cone is made of upgraded non-stick fabric, then you won't have to keep cleaning pet's hair frequently. Also it is easy to clean if needed, just unzip to take off the outer cloth. Soft cones for dogs after surgery keeps your dog comfortable, can even act as a neck pillow which helps him/her fall asleep quickly and forget the pain of the wound.
- NO STRESS - We all know how pets hate the cumbersome cone, poor dogs and cats would keep tripping on it and could not get around. This inflatable cone e collar for dogs WON'T let that happen, the inner air bag provides full support for the neck while keeping it lightweight. It does not block dog’s vision like traditional Elizabethan collar, which allows your doggie chase butterflies, hummers and grass hoppers all with wearing its collar.
- ADJUSTABLE &PERFECT FIT - In case you are concerned of the dog neck pillow from slipping down or getting taken off, we designed a fixed position on the inner part of the dog head cone, just thread your pet's everyday collar through the strips to fix it. Furthermore, a velcro strap is equipped on the opening of the collar, which can allow you to adjust the the tightness to ensure a perfect neck fit. Please remember to put the strap side at the back of your dog’s neck in case of biting.
- WARM PROMPT - If your pet wants to escape when he/she put on the collar for the first time, we hope you can work with your dog to acclimate him/her. And due to differences in dog breeds, body sizes, and growing environments, this blow up dog cone collar may not be suitable for dogs with long noses, long legs, long tails, and long bodies. Any more questions, we are here to assist you, we sincerely wish your pet a speedy recovery.
No. 8
WinWeal Soft Dog Cone Collar for Dogs After Surgery, Transparent Breathable Pet Recovery Collar for Large Medium Dogs, Adjustable Dog Cone Collar, Elizabethan Collar (L, Black)
- Upgraded Double-Layer Design: WinWeal Dog Cone features an upgraded two-tier design. The inner part with Soft Mesh Material, it provides your pet with additional comfort and protection without burden. The outer part with Waterproof Transparent PVC, it promotes clear vision and makes it easier for your pet to eat, drink, and play.
- Perfect Fit：Neck Girth: 15.4''-17.3'', Depth: 11.6''. Sufficient depth helps to prevent a dog from scratching or licking at a hot spot, surgical incision, or other irritation. Please measure the size of your pet before purchasing, if you have any trouble feel free contact us.
- No Choke & Not Falling off: Is your dog still choking and uncomfortable after putting on a dog cone collar? Getting rid of the traditional single design, this dog cone collar has an adjustable drawstring stopper that can be tightened and loosened to fit the dog's neck better, no need to worry about the pet will choke after putting on this soft cone, and make sure the cone will not slip down or take off even the dog tries to take it off. In addition, there's an elastic band at the base for threading through your pet’s collar to keep the pet cone in place.
- Soft Protective Edge: This soft dog cone for dogs has a soft protective fabric around the neck to protect your dog's cervical spine, ensuring they have a pleasant experience. The waterproof surface of this dog cone is incredibly easy to clean. You simply need a paper towel to wipe it clean, unlike other dog cones that are difficult to wash. Just get it for your lovely pet.
- Safe & Secure: Pet cone collar has a fluorescent strip in the outer rings for safe. Reflective straps keep your dog safe all the time while out for a walk. Not just one or two neck girth, the recovery cone includes a large vèl-cro strips for closure, enable you adjust the neck girth in wide range.
The Essential Buying Guide for Your Dog’s Cone of Shame
When your furry friend needs a little help healing, a recovery collar, often called a “cone for dog,” is essential. Choosing the right one keeps your dog comfortable and stops them from licking wounds or bothering stitches. This guide helps you pick the best option for your pet’s recovery.
Key Features to Look For
A good dog cone must do its job without making your dog miserable. Look closely at these features:
Comfort and Fit
- Adjustability: The cone must fit snugly around the neck but not too tight. Adjustable straps or Velcro closures work best.
- Neck Padding: Soft fabric or foam around the neck opening prevents chafing and irritation.
- Coverage Depth: Measure your dog from the base of their neck to the tip of their nose. The cone needs to be long enough to prevent them from reaching injuries on their body or paws.
Visibility and Mobility
- Visibility: Traditional plastic cones can block a dog’s side vision. Look for clear plastic or soft, donut-style cones that allow for better peripheral sight.
- Lightweight Design: Heavy cones tire dogs out quickly. Lighter materials improve their willingness to wear the cone.
Important Materials Matter
The material directly affects comfort, durability, and ease of cleaning. Different materials suit different needs.
Soft vs. Hard Materials
- Plastic (Polypropylene): These are the classic, sturdy cones. They offer excellent protection and are very easy to wipe clean. However, they can be noisy when bumping into furniture.
- Fabric/Soft Cones: Often made of padded nylon or soft foam. These are much more comfortable for sleeping and eating. They usually look like large donuts or soft collars.
- Inflatable Collars: These look like neck pillows. They are very comfortable and allow full visibility. They work well for injuries on the head or neck but might not stop a determined dog from reaching injuries further down their body.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all cones are created equal. Some simple design elements make a huge difference in your dog’s recovery experience.
Quality Boosters:
- Easy Cleaning: Since cones get dirty fast, material that can be quickly wiped down with a damp cloth improves the quality significantly.
- Secure Fastening: Cones that slip off easily reduce their effectiveness. Look for strong snaps or reliable Velcro systems.
- Transparent Edges: If you buy a plastic cone, check that the edges are smooth. Sharp or rough edges can scratch your dog’s face or eyes.
Quality Reducers:
- Rigid Edges: Hard, unpadded edges make the cone uncomfortable when the dog tries to rest.
- Poor Sizing Charts: If the manufacturer’s sizing guide is vague, you might buy the wrong size, rendering the cone useless.
User Experience and Use Cases
How the cone works in real life determines if it’s a good purchase. Think about your dog’s daily routine.
Eating and Drinking
A major complaint about cones is that they make eating and drinking hard. Large, wide plastic cones often prevent dogs from reaching their bowls. Soft, donut-style collars usually allow easier access to food and water. Test this before your dog actually needs it!
Sleeping and Resting
Dogs need lots of rest while healing. A stiff plastic cone can feel like a barrier against the floor or couch. If your dog sleeps curled up, a softer, flexible alternative is usually better for their posture and rest quality.
Active Dogs
If you have a very active dog, they might bump into walls or furniture often with a wide cone. Inflatable or shorter collars might be better for these dogs, provided they still offer enough protection for the specific injury.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Dog Cones
Q: How do I measure my dog for the right cone size?
A: Measure from the back of your dog’s neck straight down to the tip of their nose. The cone you buy should be at least that length to stop them from reaching the injury.
Q: Can my dog eat and drink normally while wearing a cone?
A: It depends on the cone style and the dog’s height. Wide plastic cones often get in the way. You might need to temporarily lift the food bowl higher or use a flatter, softer collar.
Q: Are soft cones as effective as hard plastic ones?
A: Soft cones work well for many minor issues. However, very determined dogs can sometimes bend around a soft cone to reach stitches on their back or tail. Always check with your vet.
Q: How long will my dog need to wear the cone?
A: This depends entirely on the injury or surgery. Your veterinarian will tell you the exact duration, which could range from a few days to several weeks.
Q: What is the main benefit of an inflatable (donut) collar?
A: Inflatable collars allow your dog to see and move around much better than traditional cones. They are also softer for resting.
Q: My dog hates the cone and tries to chew it off. What should I do?
A: Ensure the cone is fitted correctly so it cannot be easily slipped off. Keep your dog supervised. If chewing persists, talk to your vet about alternative protective wear.
Q: Do I need to take the cone off for short walks?
A: Generally, no. Keep the cone on at all times unless your veterinarian specifically tells you it is safe to remove it.
Q: Will the cone interfere with my dog’s sleep?
A: Yes, at first. Stiff cones can make sleeping awkward. Soft or inflatable options usually cause less disturbance once the dog gets used to them.
Q: How do I clean a plastic recovery cone?
A: You can easily clean plastic cones with warm, soapy water or a pet-safe disinfectant wipe. Wipe it down daily to keep it sanitary.
Q: Can I use an old baby bib or human neck brace instead?
A: No. These items do not offer the necessary barrier length or sturdiness. Always use a product specifically designed and sized for dogs to ensure proper healing.