These are the classic plastic “lampshade” collars used to stop dogs (and cats) scratching, pulling at bandages or stitches, licking wounds or chewing themselves.  When using an E collar try tying it, using a bandage, to your dog’s usual collar as this will stop him from removing it.  Stand in as big an area as possible when you first put it on him so he can get used to moving around without bumping into things.  A few titbits might help to take his mind off it.

Some dogs adapt quite happily to wearing it, but others may need some encouragement and help.  They don’t all manage to gauge the width of doorways, or be able to move around furniture, so be prepared to help when he gets stuck and also be prepared for bruised legs when he comes to you and doesn’t know when to stop.   The chances are that when he bumps into things he will refuse to move at first and will need your help.

It is important to keep it scrupulously clean as it can become very smelly and unpleasant very quickly, especially in warm weather or if he drools.  It is a good breeding ground for bacteria and if he already has an open wound or is recovering from an operation you don’t want to burden his system any more with an infection.  Remember not to use a disinfectant that smells a lot as this can be quite unpleasant.

 If you are able to be with him then take it off to give him a break, but watch him closely as it will only take two seconds for him to start licking or chewing again.

 A soft pillow can make it more comfortable for him when resting and you may need to decide whether or not to use his crate, if he has one, as he might not be able to move around properly. 

Your vet will be able to provide you with an E collar which will be the right size for your dog.  The large pet supermarkets sell them in a variety of different sizes as well but they call them Buster collars.

There are two new collars available but we don’t know anyone who has used either of them so don’t know how effective they are.  If you can, give us feed back, as we would like to know about them.  They are:

Comfy Collar which looks like the inflatable collar you use for long distance flying

and

Comfy Cone which is made of soft nylon fabric which is much more pliable than the plastic E collar.