Collection: Inflatable dog collar

An inflatable dog collar looks quite different from the traditional plastic cone. Instead of a wide cone around the head, it sits around the neck in a padded ring shape.

The collars in this collection are inflatable, so they need to be filled with air before use. Some also have an outer cover and an adjustable fastening. The exact design is not identical from one collar to another, so have a look at the individual listing before choosing one.

How an Inflatable Collar Sits

Once inflated, the collar forms a rounded ring around the neck.

It does not stick out in front of the dog's face in the same way as a hard plastic cone. That gives it a very different shape when worn and also means it takes up less room in front of the head.

You may find different colours and patterns across the collection too, although size is more important than appearance here.

Have a look at the measurements rather than deciding from the photograph. A collar can look quite compact when it is not being worn, and dogs of a similar overall size may still need different sizes around the neck.

Getting It Ready

These collars need air inside them to hold their shape.

Depending on the design, the collar may be inflated by mouth or with a small pump. There is no need to make it rock hard. Follow the instructions supplied with the particular collar so you know how much air it is meant to take.

Once inflated, check the shape before putting it on your dog. If one section looks unusually flat, twisted or damaged, it is worth taking another look before use.

You can also let some air out again when the collar is not needed. That makes an inflatable version much smaller to put away than it appears when fully filled.

Check the Fit While Your Dog Moves Around

A collar that looks fine while a dog is standing can sit a little differently when they lie down, turn around or curl up.

Have another look after they have worn it for a short while.

Some dogs barely seem interested in a new collar. Others spend a few minutes trying to work out why there is suddenly a padded ring around their neck. There is no need to assume either reaction means anything in particular.

You are mainly checking that the collar is sitting as intended and that the fastening has not shifted.

Covers and Cleaning

Some inflatable dog collars have an outer cover that can be removed with a zip.

That can be handy when the fabric needs cleaning, but don't assume every collar in the collection comes apart in exactly the same way.

Check the individual product information first.

If a cover is removable, follow the care instructions for that particular material. The inflatable inner section may need to be treated differently from the fabric around it.

It's also worth looking over the zip and fastening now and again. A collar used for several days can pick up hair and general dirt quite quickly.

Inflatable Collar or Plastic Cone?

They are different shapes, and that may be enough to make one more suitable than the other in a particular situation.

A traditional cone extends forwards around the head. An inflatable collar stays much closer to the neck.

Because of that difference, you should not assume the two will restrict access to exactly the same areas of the body. An inflatable collar may not be suitable for every dog or every part of the body.

If the collar is being used following an operation, injury or veterinary treatment, check with your vet that this style is appropriate rather than relying on the product shape alone.

Before You Order

Start with the measurements.

After that, look at the fastening, whether the outer cover is removable and how the collar is inflated. Those details are more useful than choosing purely by colour or pattern.

It's worth reading the full listing as well. Photographs are good for showing the general shape, but they do not always make the size or construction obvious.

An inflatable dog collar is a fairly simple piece of equipment once you have seen how it works. The main thing is choosing the right size and understanding what the particular design does before you use it.