What can I use instead of a dog cone?
Olivia Hensley
Updated on February 28, 2026
Store-Bought Dog Cone Alternatives:
- Soft Collars.
- Flexible Fabric E-Collars.
- Inflatable E-Collars.
- Onesies or Clothing.
What can I use if I don't have a dog cone?
Combine a towel and duct tape to create a soft, comfy cone collar for any size of dog—small, medium, and large.
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Instructions
- Pick a towel size suitable for your dog's size.
- Fold the towel lengthwise in third.
- Wrap around your dog's neck. Be careful not to get it too tight.
- Secure it with duct tape.
Can I put a shirt on my dog instead of a cone?
If your pet struggles with the cone, there is actually a pretty easy DIY alternative to keep your furry friend comfortable while they recover at home. You can make your pet a “jacket” out of an old T-shirt, and it can cover wounds or scars just like the cone.Can I use a neck pillow as a dog cone?
These neck pillows come in several different sizes and can be a comfortable alternative to the e-collar. To use one of these, simply inflate the pillow then place it around your dog's neck and secure it with Velcro. The pillow will prevent your dog from biting, scratching, or licking without impeding his vision.How do you make a dog cone with a towel?
How to Create a Towel Dog Collar
- Step One: Choose a Towel Size. Depending on the size of your dog, choose a thick towel that can easily be folded into thirds and covers your dog's neck area only. ...
- Step Two: Fold Towel. Fold the towel into thirds lengthwise. ...
- Step Three: Don't Wrap Too Tightly. ...
- Step Four: Tape in Place.
DIY Comfy Dog Cone | How to Make a Homemade Dog Cone Alternative
How do you keep a dog from licking a wound without a cone?
Alternatives to the “cone of shame” are inflatable collars, soft E-collars and neck brace collars. Try covering the wound with soft fabric secured by medical tape to prevent licking. Keep pets busy with other fun things to distract them from licking wounds.Is there an alternative to the cone of shame?
The Soft E-Fabric Collar would be most effective on a relaxed dog that has an injury on the back or upper extremities. Sometimes an alternative to the cone can be made at home. Bandages, boxer shorts, booties, and baby onesies can help keep injured areas protected.What can I put on my dog's stitches to stop licking?
Cone collars are also known as Elizabethan collars or “e-collars.” This is the most common prescription after dogs get surgery. They are designed to wrap around your dog's neck and head and keep your dog from licking their stitches. In general, dogs dislike the collar.Do donut cones work for dogs?
A dog doughnut cone gives your dog an increased range of vision and movement. It is similar to an inflatable dog cone. As a side benefit, you can actually see your dog while they wear a donut cone.Can I put my dog in a onesie instead of a cone?
One of the simplest alternatives for the cone of shame is to dress your cat or small dog in a onesie. A onesie will provide full coverage for your pet, covering their torso, preventing them from licking or tearing at any stitches. It's also a far more adorable option.What happens if a dog doesn't wear a cone?
If your dog doesn't like the feel of a plastic cone, here are some dog cone alternatives:
- Inflatable collars. Inflatable collars resemble neck pillows and are a softer option than the traditional cone. ...
- Neck Collars. Neck collars are similar to the cervical neck braces a human might get. ...
- Soft Collars. ...
- Surgical Recovery Suit.