Discover the Best Way to Make a Homemade Dog Cone 

Any lively pup with a minor injury is destined for the inevitable cone of shame. Instead of opting for store-bought solutions, consider going the DIY route. Armed with scissors and a dash of creativity, you can fashion a custom collar for your four-legged friend, turning a moment of necessity into charming canine couture. After all, why settle for the mundane when you can craft your pet’s accessory with personal flair? Continue reading to discover the best way to make a homemade dog cone!

What is an Elizabethan Collar

A dog cone, called an Elizabethan collar or e-collar, is a protective medical device that prevents a dog from licking, chewing, or scratching a healing wound or injury. The cone is typically made of stiff plastic and is shaped like a truncated cone, extending outward from the dog’s neck. It is named after the collars worn during the Elizabethan era. The purpose of a dog cone is to restrict the dog’s access to any area where injuries have occurred, or surgical wounds are present. This helps prevent the dog from interfering with the healing process and avoids complications, principally infection. So, what can you do when you find yourself in need of an e-collar for your dog, but there is not one readily available? Make your own, of course!

Discover the Best Way to Make a Homemade Dog Cone: Steps

If you find yourself in a situation in which you need a temporary solution at home, here’s a simple way to fashion a DIY Elizabethan collar.

Step 1: Gather Supplies

You only need four items to create your e-collar:

• seamstress tape measure/shoelace/belt
• Card stock or posterboard
• scissors
• tape or velcro

Step 2: Measure and Cut

Measure the circumference of your dog’s neck. If you don’t have a seamstress tape measure, a shoelace or a belt will work just as well. Cut the card stock or poster board into a strip that is at least 2 inches longer than your neck measurement. Next, form the strip into a circle, that will fit your dog’s neck comfortably. Ensure that it’s wide enough to prevent your dog from reaching the affected area. Curve the edges of the circle to resemble a cone shape. Experiment with the size and shape to find what works best for your dog.

Step 3: Tape or Velcro

Using tape or Velcro, secure the ends of the strip, forming the cone shape. Using tape will require fitting the cone to your dog before taping it. Velcro allows for adjustment for size and comfort.

Step 4: Size

Ensure that the collar is not too tight or too loose. You should be able to slip two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. Be certain that the e-collar hinders your pup’s ability to reach the wound or injury. Monitor your dog closely to ensure that the DIY collar doesn’t cause discomfort or hamper their ability to eat, drink, or breathe properly.