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Quick Access To The Best Dog Cone Alternatives?
| Editors Pick | Brand |
| Best Overall | Surgi Snuggly Dog Recovery Suit |
| Best Runner Up | Tialove Dog Cone Collar |
| Best Soft E-Collar | ARRR Comfy UFO Pet Recovery Collar |
| Best Inflatable E-Collar | Bencmate Protective Inflatable Collar |
| Best Flexible Fabric E-Collar | The Original Comfy Cone |
It’s no secret that dogs hate the “dog cone of shame”. In fact, many dogs will do anything they can to get out of it – even if it means hurting themselves in the process.
Unfortunately dog cones are highly encouraged when dogs have an injury or just had surgery.
This is because dogs will often lick at their wounds or stitches which can cause infection, irritation and ultimately lengthen the healing process.
That’s where dog cones come in – they act as a physical barrier to prevent your dog from being able to reach their injury. The issue with classic dog cones (E Collar) is they’re uncomfortable and bulky.
However, the good news is there’s new dog cone alternatives on the market that can help keep your dog safe without making them completely miserable.
In this article, I’ll cover 7 of the best dog cone alternatives, their pros, cons, pricing, and even answer some frequently asked questions about them.
Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
What Is The Best Dog Cone Alternative?
Here are my #1 picks for the best dog cone alternatives:
- Surgi Snuggly Dog Recovery Suit
- Tialove Dog Cone Collar
- Suitical Recovery Suit for Dog
- The Original Comfy Cone
- ARRR Comfy UFO Pet Recovery Collar
- Bencmate Protective Inflatable Collar
- Belly Guard Dog Recovery Onesie
1. Surgi Snuggly Dog Recovery Suit
Best Overall
If your dog is recovering from surgery or has an injury they wont stop licking, the surgi snuggly suit may be a solution for you.
This high-performance fabric is breathable, soft and fully covers your dog’s belly.
The stretchy material ensures a perfect fit, while the flat seams prevent irritation or your dog from getting access to their wound.
Another reason this dog cone alternative is my #1 pick is designed by a veterinarian with over 40 years of experience.
The big key for making this work is sizing, make sure to properly size your dog before purchasing.
Some people mention getting 2 sizes when unsure to make sure if you’re wrong you have another option.
Key Features:
- 6 color options
- For dogs of all sizes (comes with complete sizing instructions to ensure perfect fit)
- Dog cone alternative for after surgery or if injured
- Vet approved (invented by Dr. Williams)
- Soft fabric covers with flat seams to prevent irritation
Pricing:
This product is listed on amazon and ranges between $29.79-$39.99 depending on the size and color you select.
Pros:
- Comfortable and stress relieving
- Might completely replace a dog cone
- Can help keep dogs warm
- Increased mobility and easy to eat while wearing it (unlike with dog cones)
- Prevents licking of wounds
Cons:
- If you get the sizing wrong it will be loose and wont work as intended (could also be too tight)
- Can get caught on things
- Wounds are fully covered so they don’t get much breathability
- They can still itch, bite, or scratch, the suit doesn’t restrict their head from getting to the wound
2. Tialove Dog Cone Collar
Runner Up
Although this next dog cone alternative is technically a dog cone, it’s designed much differently than the classic dog cones a vet will give you.
It’s flexible, soft and adjusts to your dog. This means they can lie down, eat food, and move without much restriction.
Unlink the plastic, stiff dog cones , this dog cone alternative is made of a lightweight, comfortable fabric.
The Tialove dog cone collar comes in sizes for all dogs and even has options for dogs with long noses that many dog cone alternatives don’t.
Key Features:
- Has sizes for 95% of dogs & cats
- Comes in black/gray color
- Can be used for wound recovery, hospital checkups, or pet grooming sessions
- Designed with security clips to prevent slipping down
- Design to help with healing injuries and protection against worsening them
- Stops your dog from licking, itching and scratching wound areas or surgical sutures
- Made of waterproof cloth material
- Interior material is made with a soft plush for comfort
Pricing:
The product is listed on amazon between $14.99-$29.99 depending on the size you require.
Pros:
- Same function as a normal dog cone but without the bulky, plastic, and immobile aspects
- Its flexible and soft material allows your dog to be comfortable laying down and moving without much restriction
- Doesn’t block much of your dog’s peripheral vision compared to classic dog cones.
Cons:
- Dogs peripheral vision is still slightly impaired by the cone
- Still less mobility then some other dog cone alternatives
3. Suitical Recovery Suit for Dog
The Suitical Recovery Suit is a professional alternative to a cone and full body bandage.
It’s made of a breathable stretchy cotton / lycra fabric, giving complete freedom of movement without compromising strength or durability.
The suit is easy to fit and comes in different sizes for all dogs.
This is a great dog cone alternative that will keep wounds protected and stop your dog from licking them.
Key Features:
- 3 color options (pink camo, blue camo, or black)
- For dogs of all sizes (comes with complete sizing instructions to ensure perfect fit)
- Dog cone alternative for after surgery or if injured
- Vet recommend alternative
- Machine washable
- Protective band on neck, all legs and tail
- Inner layer material is light blue so fluid loss can be checked by vet
Pricing:
This product is listed on amazon and ranges between $29.00-$32.00 depending on the size and color you select.
Pros:
- Comfortable
- No need for a dog cone
- Can help keep dogs warm
- Increased mobility and easy to eat & drink while wearing it (unlike with dog cones)
- No vision being blocked
- Prevents licking of wounds
Cons:
- If you get the sizing wrong it will be loose and won’t work as intended
- Can get caught on things
- Seams can cause irritation when moving a lot
- Wounds are fully covered so they don’t get much breathability
- They can still itch, bite, or scratch, the suit doesn’t restrict their head from getting to the wound
4. The Original Comfy Cone
Best Flexible Fabric E-Collar
Next up on the list is another semi-alternative to the classic dog cones.
This is the closest resembling alternative on the list. The shape and function is almost identical to a regular dog cone but this can be modified in ways regular dog cones can’t
For example, your dog can wear this in the same fashion as normal cones with the open end at the top.
But, you can also easily remove the plastic stays to fold down the cone and allow your dog to eat or drink.
You can also reverse it!
So instead of the cone blocking your dogs vision it instead covers their chest and shoulders while still restricting their access to healing wounds.
Key Features:
- Made with foam-backed padded nylon
- 2 Colors (tan or black)
- Water resistant and repellent
- Velcro adjustments for a custom fit
- Easily remove or reverse the dog cone
- Removable plastic stays to add or remove structure
- Vet approved
- Comfortable, flexible and can be used on all pets
Pricing:
The product is listed on amazon between $19.49-$40.29 depending on the size you require.
Pros:
- Same function as a normal dog cone
- Its flexible and soft material allows your dog to be comfortable laying down and move without too much restriction
- Removable stays allows for customization and for easy eating and drinking when wearing
Cons:
- Dogs peripheral vision is impaired when cone is set up
- Similar to regular dog cone aside from the flexibility, mobility, and customization this one gives
5. ARRR Comfy UFO Pet Recovery Collar
Best Soft E-Collar
The ARRR Comfy UFO Pet Recovery Collar is up next on the list!
This collar is made of high-density poly that’s lightweight and comfortable for dogs.
It also comes in three colors and multiple sizes to fit your dog perfectly.
The adjustable shape and angle makes it easy for your pet to move around, while the water resistant fabric keeps them dry.
There are no limitations when it comes to eating and drinking, so they can enjoy their favorite activities without having to take the collar off.
And best of all, there’s no peripheral vision impairments so they can still see everything happening around them.
The biggest drawback is it won’t be a good choice for big dogs, or dogs with long noses.
Although this is great for smaller dogs it’s not big enough to block some dogs from getting to wounds.
Key Features:
- 3 color options to choose
- Multiple sizes to fit most dogs
- Water resistant fabric
- No limitations when eating and drinking
- No peripheral vision impairments
- Adjustable shape and angle
- Made of 100% high-density poly that’s lightweight, and comfortable
- Adjustable drawstring to loosen or tighten around your dogs neck
Pricing:
This product is listed on amazon ranges between $25.99-$38.99 depending on the size you select.
Pros:
- Lightweight and dogs can use it as a pillow
- No vision impairments
- Can easily eat and drink while wearing it
- Really easy to clean
Cons:
- Dogs with longer noses may be able to reach wounds
- Not ideal for large dogs
- Some dogs seem to be able to get this cone off or chew it
6. Bencmate Protective Inflatable Collar
Best Inflatable E-collar
The Bencmate Protective Inflatable Collar is another great option to keep your furry friend safe and healthy while recovering from surgery or an injury.
This collar is made of scratch and bite resistant materials and is adjustable to fit any size dog.
It also comes with a ring loop to insert your dog’s regular collar and most importantly, it protects dogs from biting and licking injuries or surgical sites.
Key Features:
- 2 Colors (blue or gray)
- Made with soft outside material for a comfortable fit (your dog can even use it as a pillow)
- Sizes available for all dogs
- Full vision while wearing it (no restrictions with eating or drinking)
- Comes with a ring loop to insert your dogs collar
- Vet approved
- Protects most dogs from injuries, rashes, and post-surgery wounds
- Stops biting and licking injuries or surgical sites
- Adjustable collar strap for ideal fitting
- Requires inflation
- 1 year warranty
Pricing:
This is listed on amazon ranging from $14.98-$27.98 depending on the size you select.
Pros:
- Full visibility with the same benefits of a dog cone
- Scratch and bite resistant
- Lightweight and dogs can use it as a pillow
- No problems eating or drinking while wearing it
Cons:
- Dog with long noses may be able to reach wounds
- Dogs that can fold up really easily may also reach their wounds
7. Belly Guard Dog Recovery Onesie
The Belly Guard is our last pick and another perfect alternative to the cone of shame.
This onesie style suit is made with soft fabric and stretchy cotton to ensure your pup feels comfortable and can still move around easily.
Most importantly, this design completely covers wounds and deters licking or biting of affected areas – allowing your dog to heal quickly and comfortably.
Plus, the buttons in front make it easy for your pup to potty without having to take the whole thing off.
Key Features:
- For dogs of all sizes (comes with complete sizing instructions to ensure perfect fit)
- Dog cone alternative for after surgery or if injured
- Vet approved
- Soft fabric covers with flat seams to prevent irritation
- Designed to completely cover wounds and deter licking or biting
- Buttons in front for securing flaps to allow your dog to potty
- Created with soft stretch to fit cotton, that’s lightweight and breathable
Pricing:
This product is listed on amazon and ranges between $19.99-$25.99 depending on the size you select.
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Might completely replace a dog cone
- Can help keep dogs warm
- Increased mobility and easy to eat & drink while wearing it (unlike with dog cones)
- Prevents licking of wounds
Cons:
- If you get the sizing wrong it will be loose and wont work as intended (could also be too tight)
- Can get caught on things
- Wounds are fully covered so they don’t get much breathability
- They can still itch, bite, or scratch, the suit doesn’t restrict their head from getting to the wound area
What Is A Dog Cone Alternative?
A dog cone alternative is any type of product that serves the same purpose as a dog cone, but without some of the negative experiences that come with the classic dog cones.
Dog cones are often used to prevent dogs from licking their wounds or stitches, which can cause infection or irritation. However, dog cones can be uncomfortable and bulky for dogs to wear.
Dog cone alternatives do the same thing, preventing dogs from licking their wounds or stitches but they’re usually more comfortable, less bulky, and allow them to function better.
What Are The Different Types Of Dog Cone Alternatives?
If you’ve tried the traditional dog cone that your vet gives you and it didn’t work, or you’re simply just interested in dog cone alternatives, there’s a few different types that you can choose from.
Each type has its own set of pros and cons that you’ll want to consider before making your decision.
#1. Inflatable E-Collars
Inflatable dog collars are as the name suggests, a collar that’s inflated around your dog’s neck.
They work by preventing your dog from being able to reach their wound with their mouth.
Most inflatable dog collars have a velcro strap that goes around your dog’s neck, and an inflation valve that you can use to adjust the amount of air in the collar.
Inflatable dog collars are usually made from PVC or nylon, and they come in a variety of sizes to fit all dogs.
Some inflatable dog collars even come with a built-in leashing system, so you can take your dog for walks while they’re wearing the collar.
Although these can work for many dogs they are not as restrictive as a traditional E-collar.
#2. Recovery Suits
Recovery suits are full-body covers that wrap around your dog like a onesie.
They’re usually made from a lightweight, breathable fabric like cotton or polyester, and they have a velcro closure that goes around your dog’s body.
Recovery suits are most often used for dogs who’ve had surgery, as they prevent them from licking their stitches or biting at their incision site.
These are great options for abdominal surgeries or hot spots as they protect areas from licking.
#3 Flexible Fabric E-Collars
Flexible fabric dog cones are a type of dog cone alternative that’s made from a soft, flexible fabric with a hard skeleton.
They usually have a Velcro closure that goes around your dog’s neck, and they come in a variety of sizes to fit most dogs.
Flexible fabric dog cones the closest resembling alternative to dog cones.
They’re usually soft but come with a hard skeleton. Some even allow you to remove the hard plastic to have some added benefits a normal E-collar does not have.
#4 Soft E-Collars
Soft dog collars are a type of dog cone alternative similar to the fabric E collars but without the hard skeleton.
They come made with a flexible shape that allows you to change the angle.
Although they are more flimsy these can be used to prevent some dogs from chewing or licking injured or healing areas.
Their big downside is when used with bigger dogs or dogs with long noses.
What Is An E Collar (Elizabethan Collar)?
E Collars, also known as Elizabethan collars, are the most traditional style of dog cone.
They’re large, plastic cones that fit around your dog’s neck and prevent them from being able to reach their wounds or stitches.
E collars are the usual dog cone your vet will give you after your dog has had surgery.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
What Can I Use Instead Of A Dog Cone?
There are a few different types of dog cone alternatives that you can use, depending on your dog’s needs.
Inflatable dog E-collar, recovery suits, and soft or flexible fabric E-collars are all good options to consider.
What Can I Use Instead Of A Cone After Spaying?
A dog cone is not always necessary after your dog has been spayed. However, it is highly encouraged.
As an alternative, If your dog is licking their surgery site, you can try using a recovery suit or a soft dog collar to prevent them from reaching the area.
How Do I Keep My Dog From Licking Stitches Without A Cone?
If you’re looking for a dog cone alternative to prevent your dog from licking stitches, you can try using a recovery suit, inflatable dog collar or soft dog collar.
These can help to prevent your dog from licking their stitches without needing the traditional dog cone.
Can I Put A Shirt On My Dog Instead Of A Cone?
A dog shirt can be a good alternative to a dog cone, depending on the reason your dog needs the cone.
For example, if your dog is licking a hot spot, you can put a shirt on them to prevent them from reaching the area.
However, if your dog has had surgery they may need to wear a dog cone, a dog shirt may not be enough to prevent them from licking their stitches.
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