Dog collars are essential for several reasons. While many people may only associate them as leash attachments, they actually have the potential to do much more. From successfully identifying your pet to protecting a dog’s health, inflatable collars are a popular way to keep your dog safe.

What is an inflatable collar?

Dogs of all breeds acquire wounds. Whether they have undergone surgery or were in a scuffle with another animal, most dogs will experience a minor injury or skin irritation sooner or later. Since a dog’s natural instinct is to clean the wound by biting and licking, this can make a recovery twice as tricky.

Why Do Dogs Need One?

Some pet owners may wonder: what are inflatable collars used for? While they may look softer or more substantial than regular collars, their use is not intended for long-term wear.

Inflatable dog collars protect your dog from chewing or licking at wounded or irritated skin. It is similar in shape to a cone. It protects most areas of the body by simply fastening it around the neck. Fortunately, it differs from a cone in comfort.

Inflatable collars are much more comfortable than cones when it comes to recovery. Since they are made from gentler material, most animals prefer the inflatable collar to cones that can be stiff and painful.

 

Are inflatable collars safe?

Manufacturers developed inflatable dog collars with safety in mind. They help prevent wounds from becoming infected from licking or biting, and for comfort as well.

Most of these collars have a snug fit while still feeling soft. Because they are durable, dogs cannot easily damage the collar, but can always move with flexibility. Since pet visibility can be crucial when it comes to safety, this is a vital function of an inflatable collar. Inflatable collars do not block a pet’s vision in the same way a dog cone can.

 

Inflatable Collar Sizes

Since most dogs experience wounds at some point in their life, collars must match the size of a wide variety of dogs and puppies. Most inflatable collars are measured in inches and have many different sizes. Anywhere from 3 to 26 inches are all popular collar sizes depending on the brand. Like standard collars designed to be worn for everyday use, inflatable collars intended to protect dogs can be adjusted.

Finding the right size is always essential when searching for the correct dog collar, but it is especially crucial when helping a dog through recovery. Without an adequately sized collar, a dog can attempt to clean its wounds by licking or biting. This produces a high risk of infection.

 

Can dogs sleep while wearing an inflatable collar?

Proper sleep is a necessary part of the healing process. Depending on the reason for recovery, some dogs may need to wear an inflatable collar for several days. Since their natural inclination is to clean their wound, healing can be especially difficult at night.

Dog cones are notoriously hard for dogs to sleep in. They may be uncomfortable and, in some cases, more excessive than necessary. Many dogs can eventually dislodge a cone and refuse to wear one at night. Inflatable dog collars allow pets to be able to sleep comfortably because of their material and design. Since they are more durable, they are also more likely to stay on throughout the entire night.

Most inflatable collars are much more comfortable for a dog to move around in. By having a broader vision range, the level of stress a dog feels can be much lower. An inflatable collar can make it easier for a dog to maneuver its way around and lower stress levels when a dog is healing in recovery. Both of these reasons can help when it comes to getting adequate sleep.

What alternatives are there to using an inflatable dog collar?

 

There are a few options to choose from to successfully help a dog recover from wounds or skin irritation. In addition to using an inflatable dog collar, clothing and other collars are available.

Dog cones are a fashionable recovery collar because they have been around for several years. These cones are placed around the neck and fan outward. Cones are typically made of durable, but hard material and can interfere with a dog’s natural range of vision. Many vets still use cones to help prevent wounds from becoming infected.

Specific clothing is also designed to help restrict access to wounds. Bodysuits are one option for abdominal surgery as well as fitted shirts. Depending on the dog’s injury and temperament, certain fabrics and cuts may work better than others.

Inflatable collars are available for a variety of pets. When surgeries or wounds occur, preventing infection is key to a healthy recovery.