An Elizabethan collar, also known as a cone, buster collar, or E-collar, is a vital tool for pet recovery following surgeries, injuries, or medical treatments. While the purpose of the collar is straightforward—protecting the pet from licking or biting at their stitches or wounds—the process of putting one on can be a bit challenging for both owners and pets.
Check out the best dog collars for Border Collie to find durable, stylish, and comfortable options for your active dog.
I will walk you through why dogs need Elizabethan collars, the steps for fitting the collar correctly, and some tips to make the experience more comfortable for your dog. So, how to put on elizabethan collar?
Quick Fix Table for Fitting an Elizabethan Collar
| Issue | Quick Fix |
| Collar is too tight | Adjust the collar so that you can fit two fingers between the collar and dog’s neck. |
| Dog is resisting the collar | Use positive reinforcement like treats, affection, or praise to make the experience positive. |
| Collar interferes with eating or drinking | Elevate food and water bowls or use specialized feeding trays. |
| Dog keeps trying to remove the collar | Distract with toys or treats and ensure the collar is properly fitted. |
| Collar is too loose and falls off | Secure the collar with an additional strap or adjust the fitting. |
Why Do Dogs Need Elizabethan Collars?
Elizabethan collars are primarily used to prevent dogs from licking, biting, or scratching surgical areas or wounds. After surgery or injury, dogs have a natural instinct to lick or chew at their wounds, which can lead to infections, delayed healing, or dislodged stitches. The collar serves as a physical barrier, stopping them from reaching the affected area while it heals.
Some of the common situations in which an Elizabethan collar is used include:
- Post-surgery recovery (e.g., spaying, neutering, or orthopedic surgeries)
- Skin conditions that cause itching or irritation
- Injuries where the pet needs to prevent contact with the healing area
- Wounds or infections that require protection from further injury
Using an Elizabethan collar helps to prevent further complications during the recovery process. While these collars can be a bit uncomfortable or restrictive for your dog, they are essential for ensuring a smooth healing process. For guidance on choosing the right collar size for an Airedale puppy, check out this detailed guide.
Preparing for an Elizabethan Collar
Before you even attempt to fit the collar, there are a few things you can do to make the transition easier for both you and your pet:
1. Adjust the Home Environment
When your dog starts wearing the Elizabethan collar, they may struggle to navigate through tight spaces. It’s important to clear the area of any fragile or valuable items that could be knocked over as your dog adjusts to wearing the cone. Moving furniture and objects that may cause your pet distress if they are knocked over is a good precaution to take.
2. Choose the Right Collar
Elizabethan collars come in various types, including:
- Plastic cones (the traditional hard plastic style)
- Inflatable collars (softer and more comfortable, but not as effective for all pets)
- Fabric collars (more comfortable and less likely to irritate the dog’s neck)
The right size and type of collar depend on the size of your dog and the nature of their surgery. Your veterinarian will likely provide guidance on what collar is best for your pet’s recovery. For insights on whether Airedales are good off-leash, explore this comprehensive article.
How to Put on Elizabethan Collar to Dog | 6 Steps to Follow
Now that you have prepared the environment and selected the appropriate collar, it’s time to put it on your dog. Below is a step-by-step process for correctly fitting a traditional plastic Elizabethan collar:
1. Get Your Pet Comfortable
It’s important to approach your pet calmly. Use treats and positive reinforcement to ensure your dog is comfortable with the collar. If this is the first time your dog is wearing a collar, introduce it gradually to avoid causing anxiety.
2. Place the Collar Around the Neck
Hold the collar at the base and gently place it over your dog’s head. Make sure the collar does not touch the dog’s eyes or obstruct their vision. You should also ensure that the collar is wide enough to prevent your pet from reaching its stitches or surgical area.
3. Secure the Collar
Once the collar is positioned correctly, secure it with a bow or adjustable strap. This will keep the collar in place while your dog moves around. Make sure the collar is not too tight. The goal is to allow some breathing room for your dog’s neck while preventing them from pulling the collar off.
A good rule of thumb is that you should be able to fit two fingers between the collar and your dog’s skin. This will ensure comfort while also preventing the collar from being too loose, which could allow your dog to remove it.
4. Check for Comfort and Security
Once the collar is on, observe your dog for any signs of discomfort. Ensure the collar is secure, but not so tight that it causes pain or restriction of breathing. The collar should stay in place but still provide enough space to allow your dog to move around without difficulty.
5. Monitor Your Dog’s Behavior
For the first few hours or days of wearing the collar, monitor your dog’s behavior to ensure they are adjusting well. Some dogs may resist wearing the collar at first, but this usually improves once they become accustomed to it.
6. Consider Your Dog’s Food and Water Needs
Feeding and drinking with an Elizabethan collar can be tricky. Consider placing your dog’s food and water bowls in places where they can comfortably access them without bumping into the collar. Sometimes, you may need to elevate the bowls or use specialized feeding trays to accommodate the collar’s size. Discover the benefits of using a harness by reading this guide on should a Collie wear a harness.
Tips for Comfort and Positive Reinforcement
The Elizabethan collar, while necessary, can be uncomfortable for your pet. Here are some helpful tips to make your dog’s experience better:
1. Use Positive Reinforcement
Reward your dog with treats, praise, and affection for wearing the collar. This positive reinforcement helps your dog associate the collar with pleasant experiences rather than discomfort. This can make them more willing to wear the collar without protest.
2. Allow Breaks
If your dog seems stressed or agitated while wearing the collar, give them short breaks to relax. However, be sure to put the collar back on once the break is over to prevent the dog from licking or scratching the surgical area.
3. Comfortable Sleeping Arrangements
When your dog is sleeping, the collar can make resting difficult. Provide a comfortable bed where your dog can relax while wearing the collar. Elevating their bed slightly can also help them sleep more easily without bumping the collar.
4. Check the Fit Regularly
As your dog moves around, the collar may shift or become loose. It’s essential to check the fit regularly to ensure the collar stays in place and remains comfortable.
5. Consider Alternatives
If your dog seems particularly distressed by the traditional plastic collar, there are alternative options, such as inflatable collars or soft fabric collars, which can be more comfortable while still serving the protective purpose. Learn if Dachshunds need special collars to provide the right support and comfort for their unique body shape.
How Long Should My Dog Wear an Elizabethan Collar?
The length of time a dog needs to wear an Elizabethan collar largely depends on the nature of their surgery or injury. Typically, the collar should remain on until the surgical area has healed completely or until the stitches are removed. This usually means anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
For instance, if your dog had surgery like spaying or neutering, the collar may need to be worn for 7-10 days until the stitches dissolve or are removed. If your dog had more extensive surgery, the collar may need to stay on for 2-3 weeks.
Your veterinarian will provide specific guidance on how long your pet needs to wear the collar, depending on the nature of their procedure. Discover what size collar is best for a French Bulldog puppy to ensure both safety and comfort during their growing stages.
Frequently Asked Questions About Elizabethan Collars
1. Should I Take the Elizabethan Collar Off at Night?
No, it is essential to keep the collar on even during the night. This prevents your dog from licking or biting at their wound while you are asleep. The collar will not interfere with their ability to sleep, and it’s crucial for the healing process.
2. My Dog Keeps Trying to Remove the Collar, What Should I Do?
If your dog is struggling to keep the collar on, you can try distraction techniques, like offering them a favorite toy or treat. If they are persistently trying to remove the collar, you may need to consult with your vet for a better-fitting collar or an alternative option.
3. My Dog Is Having Trouble Eating or Drinking with the Collar On. What Should I Do?
Try elevating your dog’s food and water bowls to a height where they can comfortably eat and drink without bumping the collar. You can also use wider bowls or specialized feeding trays designed for dogs wearing cones.
Wrapping Up
Fitting an Elizabethan collar properly is an essential part of your dog’s recovery after surgery or injury. While the collar can be uncomfortable, it is a necessary tool to protect your pet from harming themselves during the healing process. Hope so, now you know how to put on elizabethan collar. Understand if French Bulldogs can wear dog collars and how it affects their neck structure and overall health.
By following the steps outlined above, and using positive reinforcement to make the collar-wearing experience as pleasant as possible, you can help your dog recover quickly and safely. Always follow your veterinarian’s advice and ensure the collar fits properly to avoid any discomfort or complications during recovery.
