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My dog won't stop crying with his cone. Is he in pain or annoyed?
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Rottweiler | Male | unneutered | 4 years and 10 months old | 120 lbs
I got my dog a cone from the vet for something I asked about previously and now that he has it on he wont stop crying I just want to be sure that hes not in pain and it just annoyed by the cone I dont wanna hurt him in an attempt to help him
1 Answer
Most Helpful Answer
Answered By Penelope Graben, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on September 27th, 2018
Hello!
In all likelihood, Bruce is annoyed by the cone and not actually hurting. Make sure that you can fit two fingers snugly between the cone and his neck- this will ensure that it is not on too tightly. Many cones fit into collars, and this may make it more comfortable for him. If the cone is not on too tightly and there are no sharp edges poking into his skin, it should be comfortable. However, it is a strange and new experience for Bruce to have "tunnel vision" and he may bump the side of the cone into walls, tables, your shins, etc. :)
Some dogs are okay with the cone when they are relaxing, but do much better at eating and toileting with the cone off. My own dog refuses to urinate if he is wearing a cone, so I take it off to walk him when he needs to wear one.
If he is truly distressed about wearing the cone, you can call your vet and ask them for a mild anti-anxiety drug for him to take while he wears the cone and heals.
I hope this is helpful! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!
In all likelihood, Bruce is annoyed by the cone and not actually hurting. Make sure that you can fit two fingers snugly between the cone and his neck- this will ensure that it is not on too tightly. Many cones fit into collars, and this may make it more comfortable for him. If the cone is not on too tightly and there are no sharp edges poking into his skin, it should be comfortable. However, it is a strange and new experience for Bruce to have "tunnel vision" and he may bump the side of the cone into walls, tables, your shins, etc. :)
Some dogs are okay with the cone when they are relaxing, but do much better at eating and toileting with the cone off. My own dog refuses to urinate if he is wearing a cone, so I take it off to walk him when he needs to wear one.
If he is truly distressed about wearing the cone, you can call your vet and ask them for a mild anti-anxiety drug for him to take while he wears the cone and heals.
I hope this is helpful! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful