The 4 Best Recovery Collars and Cones for Dogs

Published Dec. 17, 2023
human adjusting plastic cone on senior bulldog lying down

JulPo/E+ / via Getty Images

All products in this article have been reviewed by our trusted vets and experts. PetMD is owned by Chewy.

If you’re shopping for a dog recovery cone, your pup is most likely on the mend from a surgery or recovering from a skin condition or injury.

An important part of the healing process is ensuring that the area is left alone to heal, and a dog recovery cone keeps them from licking, biting, and scratching their wound dressing or stitches.

As you might expect, dogs usually don’t love wearing these cones, so choosing a soft recovery cone or recovery suit may be a more comfortable option for your dog.

An important part of the healing process is ensuring that the area is left alone to heal, and a dog recovery cone keeps them from licking, biting, and scratching their wound dressing or stitches. As you might expect, dogs usually don’t love wearing these cones, so choosing a soft recovery cone or recovery suit may be a more comfortable option for your dog.

Our expert panel of veterinarians rounded up their top choices for the best recovery cone for dogs, based on their personal experience when helping pet parents find the best cone for their dog.

Finding the Best Recovery Collar for Your Dog

The best dog recovery cone will depend on your pup and where their wound or incision is located. A hard cone will be more durable, while a soft cone will be more comfortable.

Consider whether you want a clear cone so your dog can keep their peripheral vision, or an opaque cone so that it will block shadows that may scare a timid pup.

A dog recovery suit may be a good alternative for dogs that don’t handle cones well in general.

You’ll also want to think about mobility, and if your pup would prefer a soft cone that allows them to get through doorways or a doughnut cone that lets them eat and drink with ease.

Recovery cones are meant to stop your dog from licking so that they can heal, so whichever one you choose should be the primary consideration.


Help us make PetMD better

Was this article helpful?