Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

When to Take a Cone Off a Dog After Neutering: Vet-Verified Care Tips

dog wearing cone

The reality is that most dogs hate wearing a cone, but with time, many dogs usually get used to it and adapt quite well. Some dogs don’t, and thankfully, there are other options you can try out instead of the cone. If your veterinarian has recommended a cone for your dog, you should only take it off after 10–14 days after they’ve been neutered, unless your veterinarian has stated otherwise. If the incision hasn’t fully healed by day 14, keep the cone on longer and contact your veterinarian if you see any signs of complications.

Cones are necessary for most dogs, as they prevent them from doing damage to their surgical site. Some dogs may even go a few days without trying to lick their wounds, but if they suddenly decide to start when you aren’t around to stop them they can cause infections and pull out stitches, which can mean they need a second surgery.

We’ve got some canine tips for wearing a cone, how to remove it, and a few alternatives to consider, so keep reading.

divider dog paws 2 oct 2024

Why Are Cones Necessary?

More often than not, a dog will need to wear a cone after neutering. In fact, dogs wear cones after most surgeries. The reason for the cone is to stop them from being able to lick, chew, or scratch at their incision. It’s natural for dogs to lick their wounds as it seems to soothe them. They also may not like the feel of the stitches in their skin. As the area begins to heal, it can also become itchy, which may make them want to scratch it. Without a cone, your dog may remove stitches and cause irritation to the incision, which can lead to major complications.

Although dogs may protest against the cone and bump into furniture at first, it’s important not to give in too quickly and give them time to figure it out. The consequences of removing your dog’s cone before the surgical site has fully healed are much more serious than the inconvenience the cone will cause.

a golden retriever dog wearing a cone of shame
Image Credit: Kyla Metzker, Shutterstock

How to Put the Cone on Your Dog

If you opt for a cone while your dog is still in recovery at the veterinary clinic, your veterinarian will likely put the cone on your dog themselves. However, if you decide to take the cone off to give your dog a bit of a break and need to put it back on, you can follow these steps:

  1. Distract your dog with a treat.
  2. Slip the cone over their head.
  3. Make sure their ears are inside the cone.
  4. Tie or clip the cone in place.
  5. Make sure the collar isn’t too tight by placing two fingers between the cone and the neck.
  6. Make sure they can’t reach their wound.

Is My Dog Ready to Remove the Cone?

Although cones should remain on your dog for 10–14 days after neutering, it’s important to evaluate the situation and take it off when your dog is fully healed or once the stitches have been removed. If that takes longer than 14 days, keep the cone on for a little longer. Here are a few telltale signs that your dog is ready to remove the cone:

  • The incision site has healed and with no complications.
  • There is no redness, discharge, or swelling around the incision site.
  • Your dog isn’t trying to scratch or lick at the area.
  • The stitches have been removed by your veterinarian or have begun to dissolve.
  • Your veterinarian has given you the go-ahead to remove the cone.

What Should I Do If My Dog Hates Wearing a Cone?

If your dog cannot bear the cone and is constantly doing things to escape from it, you may need to look into alternative options. You can chat with your veterinarian about the various options they offer. A few common dog cone alternatives are:

dog with cone collar
Image Credit: Iryna Kalamurza, Shutterstock

Inflatable Collars

These types are soft, thick, and comfortable to wear. They only go around the neck and not over the face, which is usually less stressful for anxious dogs. It also isn’t as in the dog’s way as a standard cone, so your dog is less likely to bump into obstacles in their environment or destroy their cone.

Soft Collars

Instead of the traditional plastic cone, this soft option is more comfortable for some dogs to wear. It has a pull string or fastener strip to tighten or loosen the fit around your dog’s neck and is lightweight and water-resistant. However, they’re not transparent and will block your dog from seeing around them.

Recovery Suits

Instead of placing something around your dog’s neck, which might be too much for some dogs, you can opt for a recovery suit. These one-piece suits cover your dog’s body, preventing them from being able to lick their incision wounds. Your dog’s head and paws will be exposed, and it has a back opening so that your dog can pee or poop without you having to remove the suit. Depending on the incision site, this option may or may not be suitable. For neutering a male dog (castration), the incision can be accessible despite the suit.

divider dog paws 2 oct 2024

Post-Surgery Care

Besides having to wear a cone, your dog will have to endure a few other restrictions to ensure a quick and complication-free recovery.

To help the healing process, you’ll need to:
  • Check the incision for signs of infection every day.
  • Keep your dog away from water and refrain from bathing them until their incision has healed.
  • Keep your dog indoors so as not to get dirt or moisture in their incision.
  • Restrict activities such as running and jumping. However, you can take them on short leash walks.
  • Don’t give your dog human pain medication. If your dog is in pain, contact your veterinarian.

If your dog has continuous bleeding from their incision, is vomiting, struggling to breathe, or is unable to stand, contact your veterinarian immediately.

If you need to speak with a vet but can't get to one, head over to PangoVet. It's an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!

PangoVet_Mention-in-Content Savings V1

divider dog paws 2 oct 2024

Conclusion

You can take your dog’s cone off after 10–14 days after neutering or once your veterinarian gives you the go-ahead. If your dog’s surgical incisions aren’t fully healed after this period of time, contact your vet and keep the cone on, as taking it off before your dog is ready to remove it may result in them licking or biting at their incision, which may lead to further complications.

If your dog constantly tries to break free from their cone, try alternative options such as soft collars, inflatable collars, and recovery suits. Make sure to keep an eye on your dog’s incisions to ensure that they’re healing properly. If you see any signs of concern, contact your veterinarian immediately.


Featured Image Credit: Micah, Pexels

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

How Much Does a Cockapoo Cost in 2025? Complete Price Guide

In the United States, the Cockapoo is always in the top 20 most popular dog breeds, and it’s a regular number one in...

Greek Sheepdog Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Care & More

The Greek Sheepdog originated from Greece, as you’d probably expect from their name. This breed is thought to have ancient origins, though the...

10 Best Dog Doors for Cold Weather in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

A dog door is a fantastic investment for dog (and outdoor cat) owners as it gives your pet the freedom it desires to...

2-Month-Old Puppy Training: Our Vet Explains Preparation & Crucial Actions

Getting a new dog is a highlight for many families, and there aren’t too many things in this world cuter than an adorable...

More related

My Dog Is Waking Up in the Middle of the Night, What’s Wrong? Vet-Reviewed Reasons

Even if your beloved canine companion is all grown up, waking up in the middle of the night can still be common for...

Peruvian Inca Orchid Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Facts & Traits

The Peruvian Inca Orchid might sound like some kind of exotic flower, but it’s actually the name of an interesting dog! This breed...

American Rat Pinscher Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Care, & Facts

Don’t let the name fool you; the American Rat Pinscher is one of the most lovable dogs for owners wanting a small yet...

What Breed Is the Dog From Coco? The Fascinating Mexican Breed

If you have ever watched Disney’s and Pixar’s movie dubbed Coco, you are likely to have been intrigued by the charming, yet unique...

Keep reading

9 Best Dog Foods for Poop Eaters in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

So, your dog loves to eat their own feces in the yard or from your cat’s litter box—and you’re concerned. We understand. It’s disgusting for us to watch. But while poop-eating is gross, it’s also a natural phenomenon for some...

bulldog eating food

Can Dogs Eat Fried Chicken? Vet-Verified Risks, Alternatives & FAQ

The hot pop of frying chicken sends dogs flying from the sofa just as easily as a tantalizing takeout box from your favorite chicken chain. It may be finger-licking good, but is it safe and healthy for your dog? Unfortunately,...

Can Dogs Eat Fried Chicken

10 Best Dog Foods for Loose Stools in 2025: Reviews & Top Picks

Picking up after our dogs is one of the least enjoyable aspects of canine ownership. But this task is made even harder if your dog consistently produces stool too loose to be easily collected in a poop bag. If we...

boston terrier dog holding a bowl of food

Can Dogs Eat Longan? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & FAQ

For humans, few fruits match the burst of musky sweetness that a longan fruit offers, but can dogs eat longan? Dogs can eat a small amount of longan, providing the shell and pit of the fruit are removed. However, just...

Can Dogs Eat Longan

6 Foods High In Thiamine for Dogs: Vet-Approved Vitamin B1 Sources

Thiamine, also known as vitamin B1, is an essential nutrient for dogs and humans. Dogs require it for carbohydrate metabolism, optimal growth, and efficient nerve function. Because dogs’ bodies don’t store the nutrient, they need to obtain it through what...

French bulldog eating from a bowl

Is Sportmix Dog Food Made in the USA? What You Need to Know

Sportmix dog and cat food are manufactured by Midwestern Pet Foods, a subsidiary of Nunn Milling Company, Inc. This is a fourth-generation, family-owned business that started in 1926 in Evansville, Indiana. All Sportmix pet food formulas are made exclusively in...

pouring dog food in food bowl

10 Dog Food Trends in 2025: Pet Food Industry Facts & Statistics

Note: This article’s statistics come from third-party sources and do not represent the opinions of this website. With today’s consumers enjoying better education and more resources to improve their dogs’ quality of life, manufacturers are ramping up their efforts to...

golden retriever dog eating healthy dry food from bowl at home

Can Dogs Eat Crackers? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

How great are crackers? Slathered with dip, layered with cheese, or eaten just on their own, they are simple yet delicious snacks. But is that the case for dogs? Most of us are probably aware that our dogs will happily...

Can Dogs Eat Crackers