I recently saw a picture of a soldier carrying his canine partner on his shoulder over hot, rough terrain because the rocks were burning his dog’s paws. This got me thinking: are there other reasons a dog would benefit from having their paws protected?
The range of dog gear that’s commercially available has exploded, and we are seeing more and more products that protect, assist, and support dogs to maintain their mobility. One of these products is outdoor dog boots.
Far from being a fashion statement (although some canines rock their funky colors and designs), these boots help dogs continue being adventurous when their paws want to hit pause. Let’s learn more and decide what canine boots are best for your dog’s outdoor adventures.
What Are Boots for Dogs?
Boots for dogs are sock-like coverings that slip over their paws. Some have a bare, non-slip surface like leather or neoprene, while others have a fully “built” rubber sole that helps the dog with grip and non-slip properties.
The boots usually attach with drawstring closures, zippers, or fold-over Velcro wraps, ensuring your dog doesn’t lose their booties on the trails.
Many dog boot or dog sock designs are on the market with various considerations that went into their creation, such as how it fits, the protection factor, care, and comfort.
So, before you purchase any dog sock or shoe off the internet, it’s important to ensure your decision will work for your dog.
When Do Dogs Need Boots?
While these boots are simply stunning, you may wonder why your dog needs them. Dog boots serve several functions:
- Dog boots protect your dog’s paws from hot surfaces, such as when they go road-running with you.
- These boots also stop your dog from slipping on smooth surfaces such as tar and asphalt sidewalks or ceramic tiles like at shopping centers.
- Disabled dogs benefit from these boots as the boots protect their paws or toes from dragging if they have limb lameness.
- Dogs with hip dysplasia or limb weakness may also have impaired balance, which is where a dog boot can help keep them balanced, as even a minor slip could cause your dog to fall.
Why You Should Consider Outdoor Dog Boots
Dog owners who travel with their dogs, run trails, go road running, or like long walks should consider getting their canine bestie a set of dog boots. These funky boots protect your dog’s paws, keep them cool on hot roads, and assist in balancing a dog that’s suffered from hip impairments.
You can use these dog boots to help lift your dog if they have one limb that’s shorter than the other. Place a prosthetic insert in the boot to equalize their balance and prevent further injury to their other limbs.
If you take your dog for a run and notice they lick their paws excessively or walk strangely following the walk, you can be sure your dog’s paws aren’t feeling comfortable. It’s time to consider a dog boot set.
Buyer’s Guide: Selecting the Best Outdoor Canine Boots
When confronted by all the colorful and innovative dog boots, it can be challenging to decide what type of dog boot and brand will suit your dog best.
Here are the considerations to help you choose the best dog boot for your canine partner.
Fitment
Depending on your dog’s breed, choose a dog boot or sock that fits them best. Each manufacturer will have their own fitment chart, and it’s essential not just to guess your dog’s size. Even a large breed dog won’t necessarily wear a “large” size sock or shoe.
When you fit your dog boots for the first time, your dog’s paw should slide in comfortably, and there should be little movement inside the shoe chamber to minimize the risk of rubbing. Of course, you also don’t want the shoe just to pop off and go missing by being too big.
Durability
The overall construction of a good dog boot should be sturdy and guarantee durability. Dog boots are costly, and when correctly cared for, these should last your dog many months, if not years.
Look at the construction methods, whether seams are neatly sewn, if the materials look like they’ll last, and whether the fastening method is secure.
Protection
Ultimately, you buy a dog boot or sock to protect your dog’s paws. Therefore, check whether the dog shoe has a tapered rubber sole to protect the toes.
The rubber sole should be non-slip and offer enough resistance to help your dog balance better, protecting them from falls.
Care and Washability
A conscientious dog owner or kahu (guardian of something precious in Hawaiian) should take good care of their dog’s outdoor boots. Correct care ensures these last and that your dog’s health is protected when they wear their boots.
The boots should be washable, and spot treatment of stains should be no problem. Dog shoes should also dry quickly to prevent mold from forming.
Comfort
No dog will want to wear dog socks or boots if they feel uncomfortable in them. So dog boots and shoes must be comfortably cool, letting air flow in while keeping warmth in and cold out.
While these boots need to cushion the dog’s paws against harsh surfaces, they shouldn’t be so uncomfortable that it becomes difficult to lift a paw.
5 Best Outdoor Dog Boots
Let’s take a closer look at some of the best dog boots on the market and which dog sock is best in which situation.
Best for Small Dogs: YAODHAOD Dog Shoes for Small Dogs
Small dog breeds have tiny paws, which are sometimes difficult to measure or correctly placed in a dog boot, especially in the rubber bottom types. The Yaodhaod dog boot is ideal for smaller dogs or delicate breeds as the boot is a mitten-type.
While these are rated as outdoor boots, they are more suited for little strolls around the block in your neighborhood, at home, or in a store.
Pros
- Available in four funky colors (black, blue, pink, and red)
- It comes in five different sizes (use the measurements on the product page)
- Hook and loop closure to secure the boot to the paw
- Non-slip dotted bottom
- Breathable lining for better heat management
- Affordably priced
- Washable
Cons
- Not suitable for larger breed or heavier dogs
- Not waterproof
Best for Adventurous Dogs: XSY&G Dog Boots
For your rugged outdoor adventurer, these dog boots from XSY&G are ideal. The rigid rubber sole has a textured grip for traversing rugged terrain, and the overall finish of the boots is durable and professionally finished.
Pros
- These boots are available in eight different sizes with weight guides
- Available in four different colors (black, leopard print, orange, and pink)
- Made with durable cow’s leather toes, rubber soles, and a waterproof fabric upper
- Double Velcro straps for closure
- V-top for easier pull-on fitment
- The rubber sole runs up the toes, providing extra support to dogs with limb weakness that drag their toes
- Perfect protection in rainy, snowy, or cold weather
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- It comes in a set of four boots; however, not all dogs have the same size for front and back paws
Most Adorable Dog Boots: BESUNTEK Pet Dog Shoes
You don’t have to be on the Barbie bandwagon to appreciate these adorable dog boots. The tennis shoe appearance is perfect for a stylish pooch when exploring through the woods or in the dog park. You and your dog will surely be the town’s talk in these.
Pros
- Available in eight sizes
- Two colors (black and pink) are available
- Cost-effective solution
- Hook and loop closure design
- Rubber sole for grip and protection
- Canvas top for ventilation and durability
- The toe is impact-resistant for dogs with toe-dragging tendencies
Cons
- The design isn’t always favorable to all dogs’ foot angles
- The size guide doesn’t specify weight per size
- The shoelace ties aren’t easily secured with a fidgety pet
Best Fastener Dog Boots: Kooltail Anti-Slip Dog Boots
Maybe your dog is a four-legged version of Rocky, and even if they’re not, these anti-slip dog sock boots are convenient and versatile. Plus, they look like little boxing mitts, which are adorable!
Pros
- Available in four sizes
- One design color is available (black and charcoal gray)
- Drawstring-type closure
- Rubberized bottom of sock/boot for non-slip safety
- Protects the paw from impact and scrapes
- Waterproof and breathable
- Fair priced
Cons
- Limited fitment guidance
- The pocket-style boots can slip around the paw, potentially hurting your dog
Best for Wet Conditions: Jspupifip 4PCS Summer Dog Paw Protector Dog Boots
The last set of dog boots is a real winner, and they are super easy to fit, too. These summer dog paw protectors are ideal for hot weather, dry quickly, and offer maximum protection for dog paws on hot surfaces.
These boots are a great choice to help protect your dog’s paws from dragging, hot surfaces, and slipping. They are easily fitted and fastened securely without tightening cords or tying shoelaces.
Pros
- Available in six sizes from extra small to extra, extra large
- The sizing chart indicates breed guides per size
- Black rubber soles with black polyester uppers and reflective tape
- Velcro hook and loop fastening
- Rubber reinforced toes for drag-protection
- Rubberized sole for better grip and balance
- Affordably priced
Cons
- While the boots dry quickly, they are not meant for water activities like swimming
- Limited colors available
How to Correctly Fit an Outdoor Dog Boot
One of the main problems with dog boots or socks is keeping them where they belong—on your dog’s paws. Measuring for a perfect size is the best place to start. It’s not a simple matter of wrapping a measuring tape around your dog’s paws or guessing a size.
Here are the steps to ensure your dog has the best possible fit for their new dog boots:
1. Start by trimming your dog’s nails.
Long nails can press into their paws when the dog wears their boots, and long nails can also influence the measurement you take before ordering a set of boots or socks.
2. Measure all four paws.
Your dog is very likely not going to have the same-sized paws. There is usually a difference between the front and back paws, so ensure you measure each foot on its own.
An excellent way to do this is to place each paw on its own paper and lift the opposite paw so your dog keeps the paw you are measuring on the paper. Now, draw a close outline around the paw. Ensure you label the paper with a description for each paw.
There are several measurements you will need, so write each on the page for each paw:
- The paw length is from the longest nail tip to the back edge of the large paw pad.
- The paw width is the widest distance of the paw outline from left to right.
- Next, you need the paw circumference, which you get by having your dog step on the measuring tape, folding the tape across your dog’s paw, and measuring the widest part of the paw from side to side.
For the dog’s wrist, there are several measurements to take:
Measure the front paws halfway between the foot and the stopper or carpal pad. For the back paws, the size is taken midway between the ankle and the paw. The length of the joint is also vital to ensure your dog’s boots don’t slip off or bunch up around their paws.
Measure the front paws from the back of the paw to the bottom of the stopper or carpal pad. For the back paws, measure from the back of the paw to the ankle joint.
3. Use some wrapping.
Your dog’s paw should fit snugly but not tightly in their dog boot or sock. Adding a thin wrapping with vet wrap may be necessary to help their paw fit better into the sock or boot space.
4. Ensure your dog’s nails are kept short.
Keep your dog’s nails short to ensure these don’t press into the boot or sock, forcing the paw out. If your dog has a broken nail, wrap it lightly before fitting the boot or sock to prevent it from scratching the inside and minimize pressure.
Caring for Your Dog’s Outdoor Dog Boots
Your dog’s boots may become soiled with mud, water, and sand, which can cause discomfort and damage. However, cleaning isn’t as simple as throwing your dog’s boots in the wash.
To care for your dog boots, ensure you check the overall condition of the boots, and monitor any wear and tear on them.
Start by soaking your dog’s boots or socks in lukewarm and soapy water. Gently scrub the dirt from the boots using a stiff-bristled brush or nail brush. Brush the dirt from the Velcro straps, and then secure the straps to keep the fastening straps in position.
Ensure you rinse the boots well to remove any soapy residue that could cause skin irritation to your dog when they use the boots. Once the boots are clean, place them in a level position so the straps dry in position on the boots or socks.
FAQs
Is it good for dogs to wear boots?
Dog boots have many benefits, such as helping an older dog avoid slipping while better maintaining their balance, and boots can also protect the dog’s paws from rough terrain and hot surfaces like paving and asphalt. Protecting your dog’s paws is always a good idea.
How long do you leave a dog’s boots on?
How long your dog can wear their boots depends on a few factors. Firstly, it’s best not to keep their boots on for more than an hour or three in sweltering conditions. The tendons and ligaments in the foot joint quickly overheat and need ventilation. When their boots are wet, you should immediately remove them after walking or running to prevent chapping.
Do dogs need boots for rain?
While no dog has ever melted in the rain, using a dog rain boot is handy to help keep their paws mud-free and dry. When your dog comes home from their rainy night potty, simply slip off their boots and enjoy track-free floors.
What is the best material for dog boots?
Choose dog boots with comfort in mind. The best material is a combination of mesh and neoprene. Mesh sections help ventilate their boots, while neoprene is water-resistant and durable.
How do I keep my dog’s boots from falling off?
The first step in preventing dog boot loss is to correctly measure so you can purchase the right size for your dog’s paws. Next, ensure you tighten the fasteners correctly. Usually, you’d need to fasten the Velcro straps or drawstrings tighter than you imagine. However, don’t over-tighten these and cause ligament damage or cut off blood flow to the paw.
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Final Thoughts About Your Dog and Their Outdoor Dog Boots
A great set of outdoor dog boots or socks can make all the difference for a dog with mobility challenges. Dogs that drag their toes may gain the chance to hit the trails again with a protective set of boots that stop toes from dragging and rubbing. Improving your dog’s balance by reducing slipping also helps preserve their mobility by having them wear dog boots.
With such a great range of different dog boots available and at affordable prices, there’s really no reason not to kit your dog in a dazzling set of efficient and fashionable dog boots today.
Which outdoor dog boots are your favorite and why? Please share your dog boot stories in the comments.