This is our comparison of a Dog Recovery Suit vs Cone.

As a pawrent to both a dog and a cat, I have done hours of research to determine which method of licking deterrent is best after a surgical procedure. 

We’ve all had a good chuckle at a dog that hits the door frame when walking into a room wearing a cone.

Yes, we are horrible people!

Laughing at a poor, helpless pooch. Shame on us. Stop it!

Loss of dignity is just one of the reasons pet parents seek out alternatives to the ‘cone of shame’.

The alternative discussed in this article is the dog recovery suit. It deters dogs from licking the wound while preserving a little bit of dignity.

While both the cone and the recovery suit are effective at preventing licking, the best option for your dog will depend on their individual needs and personality.

Let’s get started!

Dog Recovery Suit

A dog recovery suit protects wounds, bandages, and hot spots in dogs.

A “onesie” for your dog. It’s made of soft, stretchy fabric that covers dogs beginning at the neck, along the body, and over the hindquarters.

There are holes for the legs and tails to pass through.

Recovery suits are specially designed to allow your pooch to potty while wearing them.

Take your time to measure the correct size for your pooch. I made the mistake of ‘winging it’ when I purchased a recovery suit for my cat.

It was too big and she escaped easily despite my best efforts. Fortunately, she left her surgical site alone for the most part so she didn’t need the suit.

It’s important to keep the recovery suit clean to prevent infection. You may want to purchase 2 so your pooch can wear one while the other is being washed.

The Cone 

Made from hard plastic and secured at the base of the neck, the cone, also called the Elizabethan collar, extends outwards in a large cone shape several inches past the tip of your pooches nose.

The cone is effective at preventing your pooch from licking its surgical site.

But it is quite cumbersome and your pooch could bump into walls, and door frames, and have an awkward time drinking and eating. 

Verdict

The dog recovery suit is the winner. 

It’s effective at preventing licking, doesn’t restrict movement, and your dog is happier.

As funny as it might be to watch your dog bump into things, it’s not funny to them.

In fact, it’s humiliating. Whenever I used a cone with my pooch, it seemed like the wind was taken out of his sails. He was just sad when he wore it.

But, cones are effective at preventing licking and irritations to the surgical site.

If you have a chewer or a dog that doesn’t mind wearing a cone, it just might be the best option for your pooch.

Always consult your veterinarian if you are unsure of the best option for your furry BFF.

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