Cone Alternatives: How To Keep A Dog From Licking Stitches?

To keep a dog from licking stitches without a cone, the most reliable options are a surgical recovery suit or a snug T-shirt for wounds on the body, an inflatable or soft collar for many incisions, and a vet-applied bandage for legs and paws. Whatever you choose, supervise your dog closely at first, and switch back to a cone if they can still reach the stitches.

Stitches, whether from surgery or a wound, can often be captivating for dogs. They may lick and gnaw at the area incessantly, risking infection and prolonging healing time. Most veterinarians recommend using an Elizabethan collar, or “cone,” to prevent your dog from getting to the stitches. However, some dog parents find these devices uncomfortable and stressful for their furry friends. If your dog does need a cone, see our picks for the best dog cone for eye surgery.

Luckily, there are some cone alternatives that can help keep your pup from licking his stitches. Let’s explore a few of the most popular options. But first, why do dogs lick their stitches in the first place, and is this a bad thing?

Why dogs shouldn’t lick their stitches

Contrary to the belief of some dog parents, licking stitches is not an effective way for dogs to clean their wounds. In fact, it can actually delay healing. Although there is some evidence that dog saliva has some antibacterial properties, it still does more harm than good.

Licking stitches is particularly harmful to dogs. It can loosen or pull out the stitches and re-open the wound, which may mean a trip back to the vet for restitching. It also reintroduces bacteria to the wound, which can cause infection. And finally, licking can irritate the skin around the wound, causing further discomfort.

5 Cone alternatives to keep a dog from licking stitches

So, how do you keep your dog from licking his stitches? The most popular method is to use an Elizabethan collar, or “cone.” But as we mentioned, some dog parents find these devices stressful for their furry friends. If you’re looking for a cone alternative, here are a few of the most popular options.

1. Bandages
2. Clothing
3. Inflatable Collars
4. Softer E-Collars
5. Surgical Suits

1Bandages

Bandages can be an effective way to keep your dog from licking his stitches, especially on legs and paws. Ask your vet to apply or show you how to apply it, because a bandage that’s too tight can cut off circulation and cause serious damage. Check the bandage several times a day and contact your vet if it slips, gets wet or dirty, smells bad, or the toes below it look swollen or feel cold.

2Clothing

Another popular cone alternative is to dress your dog in a snug T-shirt (for chest and belly incisions, like after a spay) or a pair of boxer shorts with a hole for the tail (for rear-end incisions). This will help keep him from being able to reach his stitches. Just be sure the clothing is comfortable, not too tight, and that he can’t get it caught on something. You’ll also want to check it often to make sure it’s not irritating his skin.

3Inflatable collars

Inflatable collars are another popular cone alternative. These look like a travel pillow that sits around your dog’s neck, making it difficult for him to turn and reach his stitches. They’re generally more comfortable than traditional Elizabethan collars, and because they don’t block your dog’s vision, he can eat, drink, and sleep more normally. The downside is that many dogs can still reach their paws, lower legs, or tail area, so they work best for incisions on the body.