Beyond the traditional clear KONG E-Collar for Dogs, that comes in sizes small (for cats too), medium, large, and extra large, there is a thing called a Comfy Cone. The comfy cone is not comparable to the old fashioned lamp shade dogs used to have to wear, the kind that would get stuck in doorways. The comfy cone is flexible and lightweight and much easier on your dog.
Another alternative for small dogs and even cats is the Trimline Veterinary Soft Recovery Collar. Again, a soft pliable collar that is gentle on the patient. This collar is also available in a range of sizes from puppies and kittens, for medium and large dogs, for small and medium dogs, and for large dogs.
Another humane and dog friendly cone, also known as a recovery collar, is the ElizaSoft that you can find in XS, Small, Medium/Large, and Large.
There are also inflatable dog cones such as the ProCollar Inflatable Elizabethan Collar you can find online as well as at many pet stores (such as Petco) near you.
These are only a few of the alternatives to the traditional uncomfortable dog cone. There are many more to suit your dog's life style.
Twinkie