Dog Boots & Shoes | The Best Paw Protection for your Pooch – 2020 Review

Do Dogs Really Need Dog Boots?

Although dogs are equipped with tough feet, as their paw pads consist of a layer of skin covering a thick layer of fatty tissue, there are some circumstances that call for giving your pooches paws additional protection.

It’s important to make a habit of checking your dog’s paws and between his toes regularly, and if you notice any injuries or foreign objects (such as burrs or pebbles), unusual lumps or bumps (often a grass seed, but can be signs of other problems) or scratched or cut paw pads make sure you have him checked by your vet.

A paw pad injury can be very painful and debilitating for your dog, and the best way to protect your dogs paw pad from injury during hiking, walking on hot surfaces or playing in the snow is to invest in some high-quality, well-fitting dog boots (or dog shoes – the terms are interchangeable).

There are many dog boots on the market, but it’s important to ensure you choose a dog boot that are sturdy, fit correctly, and are suitable for the type of activity you want to use them for.

Keep reading to find out how to select the perfect dog boot, and our top picks for the best dog boots in 2020!

When Should A Dog Wear Dog Boots?

If you dog is doing most of his exercise on grass, or has slowly built up his tolerance to walking on harder surfaces like sidewalk pavements, you probably don’t need to start using dog boots. There are several situations where using dog boots may help keep your pooch’s paws safe however, such as:

1. Dogs Who Hike

If you enjoy taking your dog on long walks or hikes on rough terrain you might like to consider buying him some dog boots to protect his paws from pebbles, sticks, ticks and other sharp objects you might be unable to see or avoid while on the trail.

2. Dogs Who Play in Snow

Many dogs love to play in the snow, but winter can be very tough on your dog’s paws. No ice-melt product is completely dog-safe, and many can cause burns if your dog’s paws or can be toxic which is a big concern if your dog licks his paws after being outside. Additionally, extended exposure to ice or snow can damage the skin of the paw pads, as well as being uncomfortable for your dog. A snow-proof pair of dog boots can ensure he can enjoy the winter without any worries.

3. Older Dogs with Mobility Issues

As dogs get older they often develop mobility issues such as arthritis or joint problems. This can lead to them losing stability, especially on more slippery surfaces such as tiles or floorboards. Dog boots can allow older dogs to gain better traction on these surfaces, increasing their confidence and mobility and decreasing their risk of slips and injury.

4. Dogs in Hot Climates

You should never walk your dog on hot pavement, and you can avoid this by a simple touch test – hold your hand on the pavement and if you can’t comfortably hold it in one place for more than 10 seconds then it is too hot for your dog. However, in some places this can be difficult, as it remains too hot even once the sun is down. In this circumstance a pair of dog boots can allow you to still walk your dog and avoid damaging his paws from the hot pavement.

5. Dogs Who Run Long Distances

If you love to take your best buddy on long-distance runs, it might be worth considering a pair of dog boots to protect his paws, especially if you are running on rough surfaces.

6. Dogs With Allergies

Often the first and most persistent sign your dog has allergies is excessive licking and chewing of his paws. Many vets recommend using dog boots to allow the paws to heal and to prevent further problems while treating and addressing the allergies with medical intervention or while trialing elimination diets to uncover the cause of the allergies.

7. Service Dogs

Service dogs are required to spend long days on their feet and to walk over many different surfaces and terrain while doing their jobs. A pair of dog boots can help protect their paws and keep them in top condition for their important work.

How Do I Get My Dog To Wear Dog Boots?

Like most things in life, practice makes perfect! We have all seen the videos of dogs walking around looking like spiders in honey, clearly bamboozled about their new footwear! Luckily, dogs are very adaptable creatures and most will quickly adjust to wearing their dog boots. At first, start putting the dog boots on your dog for short periods when he is at home, and try to associate them with positive things – like putting his boots on while he eats dinner. After a few days, start taking your dog out with his dog boots to do the intended activities, such as hiking. Providing they are high-quality, comfortable and well-fitting it’s unlikely your dog will have any trouble getting used to his new shoes.

How To Correctly Fit Dog Boots

Dog boots come in various sizes, and it’s very important to ensure the boots fit correctly for the comfort and health of your dog. Most brands have a wide sizing range an the best way to size the correct dog boot for your pooch is to simply trace the outline of your dog’s foot and then measure the drawing to ensure a proper fit.

A dog boot with straps is highly preferable, as you can make sure they fit snugly and won’t slip down and annoy your dog or cause rubs from too much movement. You want the strap to be firm but not tight. Check your dogs legs and feet every day to ensure there are no areas where the hair is being rubbed, as this indicates the dog boots are either of an incorrect size or have not been put on properly.

Another important consideration is the material the dog boots are made of. If you are planning on using them in snow make sure you choose a waterproof, durable material. On the other hand, if you are taking your dog out running you probably want a lightweight, breathable pair of dog boots because your dog dissipates heat through his paws and he could overheat.

If your dog still has dew claws make sure you choose a pair that accommodates this. Unfortunately, this doesn’t seem to be something manufactures are specifically sizing for, however, we have included our pick for the best dog boots for dogs with dew claws below.

The 8 Best Dog Boots & Shoes For Your Dog

Best Dog Boots Overall:

Best Dog Boots for Hiking:

Best Dog Boots for Snow:

Best Dog Boots for Summer Walking:

Best Dog Boots for Mobility Issues:

Best Dog Boots for Dogs with Allergies:

Best Dog Boots for Service Dogs:

Best Dog Boots for Running:

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