The Pros and Cons of Different Types of Dog Surgery Collars

If your dog has undergone surgery, your veterinarian may recommend using a protective dog collar during the recovery period. Also known as Elizabethan collars or e-collars, these cone-shaped devices prevent dogs from licking, biting, or scratching their wounds while healing.

There are several styles of dog surgery collars to choose from, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. This guide examines the pros and cons of the main options to help you select the best recovery collar for your pet.

Traditional Plastic E-Collars

The plastic or rigid Elizabethan collar is the most commonly used surgery collar for dogs. This style has distinct pros and cons:

Pros

• Provides maximum wound protection and security. The thick rigid plastic prevents access most effectively. It blocks dogs from turning their heads to reach incisions.
• Generally inexpensive and easy to find. Plastic cones are readily available at pet stores and veterinary offices. They range from $5-$20 in cost.
• Durable and long-lasting. They hold up well to cleaning and reuse. Hard plastic survives normal wear and tear.
• Easy to put on and remove as needed. The plastic slips right over the head without fuss. You simply loosen it to pull it off.
• Allows you to monitor wound sites visually. The transparency allows you to inspect incisions and surgical areas for problems.

Cons

• Can be uncomfortable and awkward for dogs. The hard plastic limits natural head motion. Dogs have difficulty turning and lying down comfortably.
• Obstructs peripheral vision entirely. Dogs can not see sideways or behind them while wearing the cone. Their field of view is severely limited.
• Dogs may run into objects and walls. Their navigational vision is impaired, especially around corners and tight spaces.
• May irritate the skin and chafe the neck over time. The hard edges rub the neck with movement and can cause sores.
• Makes eating and drinking more challenging. The cone rim gets in the way of bowls. Dogs resort to unnatural eating postures to access their food and water.
• Can get hot for dogs to wear. It does not allow airflow to the head and neck. Dogs may overheat, especially in warm climates.
• Makes sleeping difficult. Dogs have trouble getting comfortable and resting with the plastic barrier around their face. They can not use their normal sleeping postures.

Overall, the plastic e-collar provides maximum protection for wounds but lacks comfort and flexibility for dogs. It is the go-to choice for preventing wound access but has drawbacks in daily use.

Inflatable E-Collars

Inflatable Elizabethan collars offer a more flexible option than rigid plastic. Pros and cons include:

Pros

• More comfortable than solid plastic. The inflation allows for some give and flexibility. Dogs can turn their heads slightly within the collar.
• Adjustable fit. You can add or release air to customize the size and shape. This allows you to accommodate swelling or achieve the ideal snugness.
• Allows for better peripheral vision when less inflated. Dogs can see more to the side when the collar is partially inflated. Full inflation still blocks a peripheral view.
• Collar edges are soft and padded. This prevents neck irritation from plastic. There are no hard surfaces rubbing the skin.
• Easy to put on and take off. You simply place it over the head then inflate or deflate the air chambers. Adjustments are quick.
• Allows for airflow to the head and neck. This prevents overheating associated with solid plastic. The breathable construction keeps dogs cooler.

Cons

• Still obstructs overhead vision. Dogs cannot look up well or see above them. Their overhead view is blocked.
• Not as rigid and secure as plastic. Dogs may be able to reach some wounds by stretching the air-filled collar. Inflatables are less sturdy.
• Easier to puncture and rip. Dogs’ nails may damage the material, causing air leaks. Deflated collars lose effectiveness.
• Require occasional re-inflation as air leaks out. You will need to add air periodically as slow leaks develop.
• More expensive than basic plastic cones. Inflatables cost $25-$60, pricier than hard e-collars.
• Limited color and style options. Inflatables mainly come in clear, gray, black or blue. There is little variety.

The inflatable design offers more comfort and flexibility while still protecting wounds fairly well. For dogs that won’t tolerate rigid plastic, they provide a decent alternative.

Fabric E-Collars

Collars made of fabric, canvas or other soft materials provide another alternative to plastic and inflatables.

Pros

• The fabric is lightweight, flexible and breathable. This increases comfort. Dogs can turn and lie down more easily.
• Allows for the best visibility. Dogs can see in all directions outside the collar. Their field of vision is unobstructed.
• Easy to clean by throwing it in the wash. Just launder the fabric as needed to keep it clean.
• Great for reducing neck irritation from plastic. The fabric is soft against the skin instead of rigid and abrasive.
• Simple Velcro closures make sizing adjustable. You can set the tightness as needed and accommodate minor swelling.
• Fun patterns and colors exist. They allow you to choose a collar that reflects your dog’s personality.

Cons

• Not as protective and secure as plastic. Dogs may be able to reach around the edges and access wounds. Fabric bends more readily.
• Easily torn or chewed through. Sturdy, determined dogs can damage the material, rendering it ineffective.
• Must be taken off for bathing. The fabric is not waterproof. You cannot get fabric collars wet.
• Sizing is less accurate. The Velcro does not offer an exact customized fit. It relies on your best estimate of proper tightness.
• Needs more frequent replacement as fabrics wear. The durability and longevity are limited compared to other collars.
• Warmer for dogs to wear. The material can trap heat since it is not ventilated. Dogs may get too hot.

The fabric collars provide comfort at the expense of protection compared to plastic. They work well for less determined dogs, unlikely to try to damage them.

Custom Fit E-Collars

For a more customized option, there are specially molded dog e-collars:

Pros

• Designed to your dog’s exact measurements for optimal fit. This prevents slipping and moving around, which can irritate wounds. The collar stays firmly in place.
• Allows for the greatest range of motion while protecting wounds. Your dog can move their head freely while the collar base stays immobile and protective.
• Well-ventilated to prevent overheating. Air circulates better in the custom shape. It does not close up around the neck tightly.
• Provides good wound protection with comfort. Your dog can see and move but not access injuries. The custom mold blocks problem areas.
• Durable and long-lasting. Made from moldable plastic that holds its shape without distortion. Properly cared for, it can be reused if needed.

Cons

• Far more expensive than standard collars. Custom molded collars cost $80-$200, substantially pricier.
• Require an exact mold from measurements or a scan. You must provide very detailed dimensions of your dog’s unique shape. This can be tricky.
• Limited quick-release capability. The molded shape does not slip on and off easily like other collars. Putting it on takes more time.
• Rarely available in stores. Custom collars typically require online special ordering and several weeks for delivery. You cannot obtain it quickly.
• Fewer style and color options. You generally get basic black or white. There are no patterns or colored designs.

The custom fit of molded collars provides enhanced comfort, visibility and protection for healing dogs. However, specialized sizing and materials do make them much more expensive.

Cervical Dog Collars

Cervical collars that wrap all the way around the neck are another choice:

Pros

• Provide protection while allowing dogs to use their mouths more normally. Dogs can pant, bark, eat and drink without obstruction. They can engage in natural motions pain-free.
• Permit better peripheral vision. Dogs can see to the side of these collars since they do not encircle the face. Their line of sight is unblocked.
• Comfortable for long-term wear. They do not rub the neck as much since they lay flat versus protruding out. extended use.
• Easy to put on and remove. These slip over the head easily without forcing the head through an opening. Taking them on and off is simple.

Cons

• Do not protect overhead areas well. Dogs can potentially reach wounds above the neck. The top of the head and neck areas are still exposed.
• Can be slipped off more easily by dogs. They are not as secure as attached cones. Stubborn dogs can more readily remove them.
• Less protection overall for wound sites. Dogs may be able to reach problem areas with their hind legs or tails. The neck wrap leaves areas accessible.
• Limited style selection. They mostly come in basic plastic or fabric. There are few colors, patterns or styles available to choose from.

The cervical collars allow for more normal functioning but less protection than traditional cones for dogs healing from surgery or injuries. They work best for less serious wounds located only on the neck.

Additional E-Collar Options

Beyond the main collar categories, there are a few additional options worth mentioning:

• Custom cervical e-collars – These combine the around-the-neck design with a customized fit for your dog using molds or scans. They carry the same pros and cons as regular customs and cervical collars.
• Inflatable cervical collars – These fuse the inflatable concept with a neck-wrapping shape for adjustable protection and fit. They are pricier but provide good flexibility.
• Partial coverage collars – Some styles just cover the head or neck portion, rather than the whole area. These provide minimal protection for very minor injuries.
• Splint collars – In addition to protecting wounds, these collars immobilize the neck and limit motion if your dog has experienced a neck or spinal issue.

Discuss any of these secondary options with your veterinarian to see if they could meet your pet’s needs better than a standard e-collar.

Selecting the Right Dog Surgery Collar

When choosing a dog surgery collar, key considerations include:

• Wound location – Select a style that physically blocks your dog’s access to wounds. Measure how far their reach is.
• Determination to interfere – The more obsessive interference, the stronger the collar is needed.
• Tolerance levels – Pick rigid plastic for high tolerance. Choose fabric or inflatables for low-tolerance dogs.
• Costs – Evaluate how much protection is needed versus how much you are able to spend.
• Collar fit – The collar must be snug enough to prevent slipping off or wound access.
• Veterinary advice – Ask your veterinarian for personalized guidance based on your dog’s recovery needs.

Your dog should keep their e-collar on at all times except when eating, drinking or playing carefully under supervision. Periodic breaks must be monitored closely. Never leave an unsupervised dog unattended without their collar if they are still prone to interfering with wounds.

Caring for Your Dog Wearing an E-Collar

Caring for your dog while they have an Elizabethan collar requires some adjustments:

• Hand feed them small portions or wet their food to make eating easier. Elevate bowls.
• Watch for choking hazards from scarfing food too quickly around the collar.
• Help them navigate through narrow spaces and prevent collisions with the collar edges.
• Supervise them outdoors for potty breaks – they may need assistance positioning.
• Check for skin irritation, sores or bald spots from collar friction and adjust the fit accordingly.
• Provide ample cushioned resting areas since comfort is reduced.
• Offer verbal praise, treats and extra affection for tolerating their collar.
• Follow your veterinarian’s directions for proper wearing, cleaning and monitoring of the collar.

With some modifications, you can keep your Elizabethan collar-wearing dog content during the post-operative recovery period. Be diligent about putting it back on after any authorized break times.

Conclusion

When your dog is recovering from surgery or trauma, an Elizabethan collar is an indispensable tool to prevent wound interference and speed healing.

However, dog e-collars come in various styles, each with their own pros and cons. Consider factors like your dog’s tolerance, wound location, cost, and protective abilities when selecting the optimal recovery collar.

Some trial and error may be needed to find the right option for your pet. With the appropriate collar and proper care, your canine companion can progress comfortably through their recovery period and return to their happy, healthy selves more quickly.

Your veterinarian can recommend the best collar choice and management guidelines tailored to your dog’s specific healing needs. Work as a team to help your four-legged friend heal properly.