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Oh, the cone of shame. You know, that plastic lampshade encircling some poor dog’s head when they’re recovering from a surgery or injury? The good news is that there are better options out there. Also known as Elizabethan dog collars, or E-collars, we’ve rounded up a selection of comfier choices for your doggo, plus some great alternatives, like the full-body recovery suit, which acts as a second skin to your pet, protecting their stitches and wounds.
Read on to find out why an Elizabethan collar for your dog is sometimes necessary.
When Do You Need an Elizabethan Dog Collar?
It’s important to follow your vet’s orders and use E-collars to prevent further serious health and safety complications that can be caused by your dog licking or chewing injured areas, ripping out stitches, or undoing wound dressings. We can’t lie, your dog is not going to love wearing an E-collar, but they do often come around to it with time.
In the case of Elizabethan collars, size matters. Look for adjustable collars to ensure a proper fit and be sure to measure your dog to determine if the length of the cone’s perimeter is right for your pup. Avoid collars that are too long—disrupting eating and drinking, or too short—allowing your dog to reach their injuries.
The Best Elizabethan Dog Collars
Now that you know more about Elizabethan collars, check out some of our favorites below.
Clear Elizabethan Collars
These upgrades to the basic hard plastic cone are affordable and a step above.
Alfie Pet Zumi Soft-Edge Dog E-Collar
Available in four sizes with red or blue fabric trim, this Elizabethan dog collar has transparent sides for visibility and a padded gingham neck and soft edges. It stays in place with a Velcro closure.
Shop on ChewyRemedy+Recovery Elizabethan Dog Collar
Made in the USA, this Elizabethan collar comes in five sizes for a range of dog breeds. The walls are not only clear, but have holes for ventilation, which can help keep your dog more comfortable. You’ll find padding at the base and edge of the cone, and it adjusts via three snap closures.
Shop on ChewySoft Elizabethan Collars
All the comfort, but none of the visibility of a transparent cone.
All Four Paws Comfy Cone for Dogs
Pop that collar! A unique feature of this padded Elizabethan dog collar is that you can wear it like a traditional cone (as pictured above) or flip it back and wear in a cape style, depending on your dog’s needs. Available in six sizes, the cone attaches with three fastener strips and is water-resistant. Bonus? The plastic stays are removable to adjust flexibility.
Shop on ChewyKong EZ Soft Elizabethan Collar
Made just for toy and small breeds (or cats), this Elizabethan dog collar is fuzzy on the inside and made of hearty materials on the outside. A toggle allows you to cinch the collar, which is soft Lycra, to the right size, while the solid Flexstay material helps the collar keep its shape as your doggy goes about their day.
Shop on ChewyInflatable Collars
Bulky, but they get the job done, and your dog might enjoy the visibility and head mobility.
Kong Cloud Collar
The Cloud comes in five sizes and inflates into a soft ring, similar to a pet parent’s travel neck pillow. Unlike traditional Elizabethan collars, your dog has more visibility with this style. Adjust and fasten it with the Velcro strap for a snug fit; it’s also machine washable. Kong recommends sizing up if your dog is long-limbed or between sizes.
Shop on ChewyZenPet Inflatable ZenCollar
Available in five sizes, this is another alternative to the cone. Attach your dog’s collar to the ZenCollar to help ensure a secure and comfy fit. Made from canvas, it’s is easy to clean; the flat ring design allows your dog to maintain sightlines. Like the Kong Cloud above, this also fastens with a Velcro strap.
Shop on ChewyCute Collars
Because, why the heck not?
SunGrow Elizabethan Recovery Collar
Who’s a pretty pretty flower? This oh-so-soft and water-resistant memory foam Elizabethan-style collar is a comfy option for your dog’s (and cat’s) recovery—and is super cute, to boot! Simply attach and adjust with the Velcro closure, and detach and throw in the washing machine as needed.
Shop on ChewyAlfie Pet Noah Lion Recovery Dog Collar
Protect your little lion cub’s wounds with this soft cone that is so. darn. stinkin’. cute. Available in four sizes, this machine-washable Elizabethan collar attaches with sturdy Velcro fasteners and can also be adjusted for fit. They can also be your little sunflower, if it suits your doggo better.
Shop on ChewyElizabethan Collar Alternative: Recovery Suit
Is your dog not a fan of the Elizabethan collars? Recovery suits are a great option that also protect stitches and wounds while they heal.
Suitical Recovery Suit for Dogs
Available in a whopping 10 sizes, plus three colors, this machine-washable suit is highly rated by Chewy customers. The Suitical is made from non-toxic materials and may be less stressful to your pet than the cone. Come potty time, simply undo the rear snaps and peel back the four-way stretch fabric.
Shop on ChewySurgi Snuggly Wonder Suit for Post Surgical Healing
Protect your stitches—but make it fashion! With 14 available sizes, there’s truly a Surgi suit for all breeds and shapes. This recovery suit was invented by a veterinarian and is made from a stretchy, cozy material that’s also antimicrobial, resisting germs and bacteria. It can keep bandages and diapers on. No need to remove the suit for bathroom breaks, just detach the Velcro on the bottom and pull back through the hind legs—the flap tucks into a back pocket for convenience.
Shop on ChewyTulane’s Closet Cover Me by Tui Dog Pullover
We can’t lie, half of the appeal of this suit is that it resembles a baby onesie. Made from Peruvian Pima cotton, this super-soft number comes in seven sizes and has long sleeves for covering legs. Designed with an open potty area, this onesie attaches at the tummy and features a super sweet all-over puppy print. It’s machine washable too.
Shop on ChewyDIY Recovery Outfit
Keep your doggo covered, literally, with a homemade recovery suit of their very own. Raid your closet for a clean human t-shirt, sweatshirt, or baby onesie and secure it in place with 3M VetRap bandages. Or check out our article with additional DIY recovery collar ideas.
Further Reading
Feature Image by Allison Peterson/Pixabay