Does your dog need a cone around its neck to prevent it from licking and scratching? Well, you’ll be happy to know that you don’t have to go out and spend $25 for this device; you can simply make one at home! There are different materials that you can use to make these cones, and with a bit of Ingenuity and a few tools, you can have your dog and a cone in no time. Let’s take a look at some of the best DIY options when it comes to homemade dog cones.
The 6 DIY Dog Cone Ideas
1. Panty Hose Cone by Tes Kurtz
| Materials: | Ruffletop pantyhose, duct tape |
| Tools: | Tape measure, scissors |
The pantyhose cone is pretty easy to make. It requires less effort to measure, and it’s better for smaller dogs such as Chihuahuas, Terriers, and Dachshunds. For this, you’ll simply need an unused pair of pantyhose (it’s best if they have a ruffle top) and a pair of scissors. First, wrap the panty house around your dog’s neck so that it fits snugly on your dog’s neck–remember, don’t make it too tight. Note that you’ll likely need to wrap them multiple times. Then, just cut them once the collar is thick enough and tape the edges to prevent it from coming apart.
2. Cardboard Dog Cone by PetPrepper
| Materials: | Cardboard boxes, string, |
| Tools: | Scissors or boxcutter, tape measure |
You may be surprised to find that you can also make a pretty good dog cone out of simple cardboard boxes. Depending on the size of the box, one may do. You’ll just need to measure your dog’s neck and then measure the length of the box accordingly. Depending on the size of your dog, it may be best to use one piece of cardboard and cut it along its length rather than to try to take multiple pieces together to make a cone shape.
3. Towel Dog Cone by Animal Behavior College
| Materials: | Duct tape, towels |
| Tools: | Scissors |
Towel dog cones can be a more comfortable and popular alternative to traditional dog cones. This project requires an old or new unused towel. You should have a large enough towel so that it completely covers your dog’s neck—so be sure to measure first. The towel should be folded three times along its length. Wrap it around your dog’s neck, and be careful not to make it uncomfortable or too tight. Then, simply secure it with duct tape.
4. Pool Noodle Cone by Top Dog Tips
| Materials: | Duct tape, a pool noodle, twine |
| Tools: | Scissors or knife, tape measure |
This simple dog cone is made from pool noodles, easy to make, and works for large and medium-sized dog breeds. The process of making the pool noodle collar for your dog is very simple. You will only need to make a few adjustments to ensure it fits properly. The entire project takes about 12 to 15 minutes.
5. Paper Plate Dog Cone by Susan Viscaria
| Materials: | Paper plates, twine |
| Tools: | Knife or box cutter, tape measure |
Another easy dog cone that you can make with materials that you already have at home is the paper plate dog cone. This will work better for small dogs and is commonly used for cats. It’s best to use actual paper plates instead of Styrofoam plates, which the dog can easily destroy. You simply need to measure your puppy’s neck and cut a small hole in the middle of the plate so that they can be joined together, though you can always tape them together as well.
6. Neck Pillow Dog Cone
Did you know that you can also use a neck pillow for your dog’s cone? Neck pillows are a common item that people use when they travel. The neck pillow’s plush texture will limit head movement and stop the dog from biting or licking other parts of its body. They are probably one of the most comfortable dog cones that you can make for your pup. You’ll just need to secure the ends together so that your dog can’t slip out.
| Materials: | Neck pillow, thread or twine |
| Tools: | Scissors or box cutter |
Conclusion
Dog cones are helpful devices that are used to prevent dogs from licking and scratching wounds, especially after neutering or spaying. But they can also be used to prevent your dog from potentially injuring itself after any other type of surgery or treatment. These easy DIY dog cones can be made right in your living room for under $20.
Featured Image Credit: Kittima05, Shutterstock
