To start, familiarize the dog with the cone by placing treats around and inside it. This step helps the dog associate the cone with positive experiences. Once the dog seems at ease with the cone, progress to short sessions of wearing it. In this video, KPA CTP and Better Vet Visits course graduate Jenn Stellbrink demonstrates how she conducts training sessions with her dog Blitz using an Elizabethan collar. Blitz, already comfortable with the collar being placed on her head, happily engages in short training sessions while wearing the cone in different environments. These training sessions not only serve as cheerful distractions from wearing the cone, but also help make the cone-wearing experience more positive–both in the home as well as outdoors. As Jenn notes, "If she ever needs to wear it for medical reasons, hopefully the experience won’t be as stressful for her."

With patience, positive reinforcement, and strategic training, you can prepare a dog to embrace the cone. Remember, a little training can go a long way in ensuring a dog's well-being when wearing a cone is necessary. For more tips on how to prepare your clients’ pets for successful vet visits, check out our Better Veterinary Visits course!

Happy Training!