My sweet little dog recently had to go through emergency surgery, so I ended up needing to buy some comfortable cones for dogs at the last minute. The cone the vet provides does its job, but it just doesn't seem cozy enough for long-term wear. So, I ended up buying two other options for my dog (an inflatable cone and a fabric cone) to keep her more comfortable during her recovery.
I wish I had gotten these cones ahead of time just in case of an emergency so I would've had them ready, but obviously, I can't go back in time. Instead, I decided to create this list of comfortable cones for dogs so you can have an idea of what cones to get. Cones are necessary for post-surgery care, but it's also important for your dog to feel as comfortable as possible.
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Why Do Dogs Need Cones?
After surgery, such as a spay or neuter, your dog's body might feel itchy and uncomfortable as they recover. As a result, there's a good chance they'll try to excessively lick and chew the surgery site. A cone prevents them from reaching that area. If the injury is on their face, it can stop them from scratching it with their paws.
It might seem annoying to your dog, but it will keep their injuries safe so their body can heal properly. I always feel bad when my dog looks upset while wearing a cone, but I keep reminding myself that it's for her safety.
Most Comfortable Cones for Dogs
The most comfortable cone for dogs could vary based on your dog’s preferences. Some dogs might prefer a soft fabric cone while others feel like they can navigate the world better in an inflatable cone. I’ve chosen a variety of options to ensure there’s something that is cozy (or at least tolerable) for every dog.
As the name implies, this is one of the most comfortable cones you can get for your dog. It’s made of thick fabric instead of the uncomfortable plastic that the cones at the vet’s office have. Plus, the fabric is waterproof to ensure your dog stays dry even when they drink water or play in the snow. It’s available in six different sizes, and each size has three different sizing strips so you can further adjust the fit. They can wear it the traditional way or over the chest and shoulders.
This is one of the cones I bought for my dog after her surgery, and it worked really well. It has panels of fabric and panels of plastic to make the cone more flexible and soft while also letting your dog see some of their surroundings. It’s available in four sizes, and each one is adjustable. I believe I got the small one and used it on the largest setting for my 15-pound rescue dog.
To me, this is the cutest soft cone for dogs out there. It’s an inflatable “cone” that’s patterned like a donut (although there are other cute designs available too, such as a watermelon). Many dog parents prefer this inflatable design because it offers more visibility for dogs and acts as a pillow. This one has a removable cover that you can hand-wash, and it’s made with non-stick fabric to keep fur and dust away. There are seven sizes to choose from (and 15 color patterns).
After my dog’s surgery, I also bought a cone that’s almost identical to this one. I definitely recommend it, but the one I bought was a little too small for my dog, so she could still lick herself if she tried hard enough. This collar is made of soft fabric that’s comfortable for your dog to rest on. The fabric cover is also removable and machine-washable for easy cleaning. It comes in five sizes, all of which are slightly adjustable. There are also 18 fabric patterns to choose from, including donuts, rainbows, and sharks.
If your dog still finds a way to lick themselves even with an inflatable collar on, this option provides extra protection. It has a small cone attached to the top of the inflatable portion to make it even harder for your dog to reach their injury. If needed, you can separate the cone part from the inflatable collar. Then, you can also remove the cloth cover for easy cleaning. You can choose between five sizes to ensure you get one that fits your dog perfectly.
This inflatable recovery collar comes in several adorable styles, including a lion’s mane, a sun, and a dinosaur head. The soft fabric exterior can be removed and washed separately. When it’s not in use, it can easily be deflated for storage. Choose between five different sizes, all of which come with an adjustable Velcro strap for a better fit.
This dog collar is a different style than the fabric and inflatable options. It has two loops of thick stuffing-filled circles around your dog’s neck. All you have to do is slide it around your dog’s neck and tighten it. It’s a bit bulky, but it acts as a pillow when your dog is napping. Plus, the fabric is waterproof for added comfort. This unique dog cone design comes in five sizes and four colors.
This soft fabric dog cone is ideal for small dog breeds (and cats). It comes in five small sizes and four colors. It has snap closures that can adjust to multiple sizes, and it has a drawstring around your dog’s neck to help it fit snug. The material is water-resistant and non-stick to keep it clean while your dog wears it. Plus, it’s a lightweight design so it won’t bother your dog too much while they wear it.
This adorable pink polka-dot dog cone is perfect for small dogs and cats. It’s also available in light blue or black. It’s made of soft, machine-washable fabric that your dog won’t mind relaxing in. It comes in a few small sizes, which can each be adjusted slightly to ensure it fits your dog perfectly. It’s a great way to keep your dog relaxed and stylish after surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Can You Buy Dog Cones?
You can buy cones for dogs at most pet supply stores. They're also available from online retailers like Amazon and Chewy.
How Do You Put on a Cone for Dogs?
Wrap the cone around your dog's neck and fasten it so it's tight enough not to fall off but still loose enough to slide two of your fingers between the cone and your dog's neck. The exact process of putting it on might vary based on the exact cone.
Are Dog Cones Cruel?
No, cones for dogs aren't cruel. They can be uncomfortable, but they're a safe way to prevent your dog from damaging their wounds and surgery sites.
Are Dog Cones Necessary?
Yes, cones for dogs are necessary in many cases. If your dog recently had surgery, they need a cone to prevent them from licking and biting the incision.
Can Dog Cones Cause Ear Infections?
No, cones for dogs don't typically cause ear infections. If you're concerned about your dog's ear health, frequently examine their ears during their time with the cone.
Healing Dogs Deserve Comfortable Cones
Cones obviously aren't comfortable for most dogs, but they're a necessity in your dog's recovery process. So, a great alternative is to get a soft cone to make them more at ease. Any of the cones listed above are great for comfort. You may also be able to find some soft cones for dogs at your local pet supply stores.