If I had to make a list of my pup’s least favorite things, the ‘Cone of Shame’ would belong in the Top 5. I don’t blame him; those plastic cones are not only uncomfortable but they also prevent him from eating, sleeping, and walking around the house. I wouldn’t want to be in one, either!
Luckily, there’s a solution to this dilemma: inflatable dog collars!
Inflatable dog collars are soft, puffy, and padded, so they’re much more comfortable than a plastic cone. But this begs the question: are inflatable dog collars effective, or are they just another marketing ploy for pet parents to spend money?
Let’s find out!
What Is an Inflatable Dog Collar for?
Inflatable dog collars, also known as inflatable dog cones or neck donuts, prevent dogs from licking or scratching at wounds, dressings, rashes, and surgical sites as they heal.
They have the exact same purpose as solid plastic cones (also known as Elizabethan collars), except they’re more comfortable and allow a better range of movement.
Even with the collar on, a dog can eat, drink, play with his Kong toy, go up and down the stairs, and do a lot of other activities that aren’t normally possible with a standard cone.
Are Inflatable Dog Collars Any Good?
Inflatable dog collars are fantastic alternatives to plastic cones. In fact, I’d say they’re better than standard cones! They offer the same benefits with none of the drawbacks.
Unlike cones, they don’t push into a dog’s neck every time he turns around or looks down. Plus, they don’t block a dog’s range of vision. And since they’re puffy and soft, they allow dogs to comfortably play and sleep with them on with little to no issues.
Do Inflatable Dog Collars Work?
Inflatable dog collars are very effective. They might seem gimmicky, but they actually work exceptionally well for their intended purpose – preventing a dog from scratching or biting a wound or rash without limiting his range of movement.
How Do You Use an Inflatable Dog Collar?
To use an inflatable dog collar, you’ll first have to insert your dog’s everyday collar through the inflatable collar’s inner ring. Then, slowly inflate the collar until it’s nice and snug around your dog’s neck.
Test the tightness by inserting two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. If your fingers slide in easily but snuggly, the collar has just the right amount of tightness.
Once you’ve properly inflated the collar, secure your pup’s regular collar as you normally would.
How Do You Keep an Inflatable Collar on a Dog?
To prevent your dog from escaping out of the inflatable collar, you’ll have to ensure it’s properly secured around his neck.
When lifted as though removing a necklace, the collar should fit cozily around your dog’s ears. If it slips over his ears, you need to add more air to the collar.
3 Best Inflatable Dog Collars to Help With Recovery
Here are some of the best inflatable dog collars you can find today:
1. Supet Inflatable Dog Cone Collar – Best Overall
Available in Small, Medium, Large, and XL, the Supet Inflatable Dog Cone Collar is made from soft, breathable, non-stick fabric to prevent dog hair from sticking to the material. It’s easy to put on and clean; simply unzip, take off the outer layer, and handwash with warm water.
The Supet Inflatable Collar comes in two adorable designs: donut and hamburger. Both variants are adjustable, featuring a hook and loop for an extra perfect fit.
Pros
Cute design
Multiple size options
Non-stick material prevents dog hair from sticking to the fabric
Easy to wash
Cons
Might be a bit too large for small dogs
2. Bencmate Protective Inflatable Collar- Best Value
The Bencmate Protective Inflatable Collar is one of the most popular inflatable collars in the market—and for good reason.
Available in three colors, the Bencmate Inflatable Collar is soft, durable, and long-lasting. In fact, the company is so confident about the product’s quality that they’ll willingly replace the collar if it breaks or gets damaged within a year.
This collar is suitable for both dogs and cats. The extra-small option fits kittens and puppies, while the extra-large version fits Golden Retrievers, Huskies, Rottweilers, and similar large dogs.
The Bencmate Inflatable Collar uses hypoallergenic material so it works well with dogs with sensitive skin. It’s easy to inflate and put on, and large enough to prevent a dog from biting his shoulders, ribs, and belly.
Pros
One year warranty
Long-lasting material
Suitable for dogs of all sizes, even puppies
Cons
Difficult to deflate
Doesn’t prevent a dog from licking at its tail, paw, and rectal wounds
3. Babyltrl Dog Cone Collar – Best for Lower Body Injuries
Though it isn’t as “plump” as other collars on this list, the Babyltrl Dog Cone Collar is wide enough to prevent dogs from licking the lower parts of their bodies. This makes it a good solution for dogs who have injuries on their lower belly, paw, and anal area.
The Babyltrl Dog Cone Collar comes in multiple size options, from Medium with a neck circumference of 13 inches (Dachshund, Beagle, Basset, etc.) to XXL with a neck circumference of 22 inches (Husky, Great Hane, Boxer, etc.).
Unlike other inflatable collars on this list, this dog collar comes with an adjustable drawstring to secure the collar around a dog’s neck. This removes the need of using it alongside a regular collar.
Pros
Prevents dogs from licking both upper and lower body injuries
Made with soft material
Easy to inflate and secure
Cons
Has a larger diameter than other collars on this list, which can cause dogs to bump into things
Isn’t suitable for smaller dogs
Conclusion
Inflatable collars are better alternatives to cones. They’re soft and comfortable, plus they don’t prevent dogs from eating, playing, and running around with them on. They can even sleep in them!
My top pick for the best inflatable cone collar is the Supet Inflatable Dog Cone. It’s available in multiple sizes and comes in super cute designs. The fact that it’s easy to clean and inflate is a huge plus!
