How do you show dog love? Getting them the best dog booties to walk on the rough, freezing, or scorching ground is one of the rewards. Getting dog paw boots or dog paw covers protects your puppy from getting nasty paw bruises or numb paws that make them limp with pain.
Dog paw protection requires getting the finest dog booties in the market. How do you do it? Let us get on it.
The Importance of Dog Paw Protection
Have you ever walked out of your house without shoes? How did it feel? Sometimes, dogs feel the same. Some conditions are too harsh for the paws of a dog. For this reason, your dog can feel uncomfortable when walking without its feet covered.
Factors that necessitate the protection of a dog’s paws include weather, terrain, and the dog’s paw health. However, you need to understand the paws of your dog first. So, let us analyze the structure of a dog’s paw to better understand.
Understanding the Paw of Your Dog
To begin with, the soft pads at the bottom of a dog’s paws provide a cushion that protects the joints and bones of a dog’s foot when a dog walks. The pads also provide insulation to a dog’s foot whenever a dog walks in extreme weather. Also, the pads aid the dog when it steps on a rough surface.
It seems that a dog’s paw is an essential part of a dog’s foot. So, it requires protection from infections, wounds, and foreign objects that lodge on the dog’s feet.
Literature is deficient on the paw sensitivity among different dog breeds. If your dog spends a lot of time on rough terrain, its paw soft pad sensitivity is low. However, the pads can develop digital corns, which are painful, circular, and hard growths. These corns increase the sensitivity of the pads, especially the paw pads of Greyhounds.
Allegedly, digital corns develop because of the lack of a thick layer of fat on the soft pads of a dog’s paw. So, all dogs are vulnerable to the condition.
You should be aware of the symptoms of paw irritation and discomfort on your dog. When a dog develops paw burns, it tends to limp when walking. Also, the dog reduces its walking frequency. You will also see peeling and blistering of the top layer skin of the soft pad of a dog’s paw. Sometimes, a dog can miss the entire top layer of skin of the paw’s soft pad altogether.
You may also see your dog licking its paws often. Such behavior increases the risk of secondary infections on the feet of your dog. So, always check whether your dog has redness between the cracks and toes of its paw.
Your dog may also get wounds and cuts from stepping on grass and debris. If the cuts are less than half an inch (1.32 centimeters), you can clean them with an antibacterial wash. However, always contact your veterinarian when you are unsure about treating the cut.
When Does a Dog Need Booties or Shoes?
Weather and location are the two factors that determine whether your dog needs booties or shoes. When your dog walks outdoors, mind the condition of the ground surface. If the dog is walking on the streets, there is a high risk of getting cuts from broken glass and jagged rocks.
Dogs that live in seasonally frozen areas require booties to prevent ice melt and the cold from harming their feet. However, after the weather becomes dog-friendly, you can allow your dog to move without the booties.
If your dog exposes its paws to the winter cold, the feet can develop sores and cracks. Chemicals and rock-salt ice-melts are notorious for causing blisters, sores, and cracks on the paws of a dog. Also, your dog can ingest chemicals after licking its feet to ease the pain.
Putting booties on the paws of your dog when walking on an ice melt prevents ice-related harm on the paws of your dog. Alternatively, you can apply Vaseline on the paws before each walk. Vaseline acts as a barrier to rock salt.
Washing the paws of your dog with warm water to rinse chemicals and salt away can be an additional protective measure.
If summer heat becomes unbearable to you, know that your dog feels the same. Getting your dog to wear booties can protect its paws from burns during hot weather seasons.
Dog Paw Protection Solutions
The dog world has several solutions that you can use to protect its paws from receiving a beating from weather and ground elements. The following are some of the answers:
Booties
If you have never tried booties on your dog, then it is time to do so. Booties provide quality protection to the paws of your dog, especially during the winter. Notably, some dog breeds can withstand cold weather. However, they also need booties to fortify their paw protection.
When your dog is in paw booties, its feet feel warm. So, the cold weather cannot interrupt its daily play requirement. The right size of booties should match the size of the area between the heel and toenail tip of a dog’s paw. Regarding the style of the booties, the market is generous. So you cannot fail to get a style that matches your preferences.
Paw Balm
Paw balm comes in handy before you kick off a snow walk with your dog. Rubbing the ointment on the palm of the paws reduces skin dryness. It also minimizes the damage that rock salt can do to the feet of your dog. You should also apply the balm on the palms of your dog after completing the walk.
Paw balm keeps the paw palms supple and soft when during snowfalls. You can get it from your local pet store or make your own using one of the several available balm recipes.
Hand Towel
After taking a snowy walk with your dog, you should wipe its paws using a hand towel. The action reduces the risk of harm from ice, rock salt, and debris that the paws collect during a walk. Use it after dipping the foot of a dog in lukewarm water.
Walk a Short Distance
Your dog needs a walk regardless of the snow. However, keep the walks short. Walking with your dog for a long distance can cause frostbite, among other detrimental effects. If the weather is too cold, it will be the same for your furry friend.
Our Top Pick
QUMY Dog Boots Waterproof Shoes for Dogs with Reflective Strips Rugged Anti-Slip Sole
Best for Protection From Hot Pavement and Sharp Thorns
We select QUMY dog boots as the best dog booties for winter and summer because of various reasons. First, they have a high versatility, durability, and comfort factor. You can use them for indoor and outdoor activities. Also, they come in various sizes and colors. So, be sure to get your match.
The boots are also reflective at night, waterproof, and anti-slip. Even though the boots are not machine-washable, they have several qualities than the other ones we have selected.
The Best Dog Paw Covers – an Overview
- QUMY Dog Boots Waterproof Shoes for Dogs with Reflective Strips Rugged Anti-Slip Sole (Best for Protection From Hot Pavement and Sharp Thorns). Our rating: 4/5 stars.
- PAWCHIE Dog Socks for Hardwood Floors with Strap Indoor Anti Slip Knit Paw Protector Traction Control (Best for Protecting a Dog From Slipping On Hardwood Floors, and Carpet, Sofa, and Floors From Dog-Nail Scratches). Our rating: 3.7/5 stars.
- Hcpet Dog Boots Paw Protector, Anti-Slip Breathable Dog Shoes for Small Medium Large Dogs, Puppy Booties with Reflective Straps (Best for Protect Dog Claws From Hot Pavement, Sharp Thorns, Slippery Hardwood Floor, and Glass). Our rating: 4.1/5 stars.
- TEOZZO Dog Shoes Paw Protector, Anti-Slip Dog Boots Pet Booties with Reflective Straps for Small Medium Dogs (Best for Indoor and Outdoor Protection From Hot and Cold Weather, Sharp Glasses, Hot Pavement, Heat, Stones, and Salt). Our rating: 3.9/5 stars.
- Hipaw Summer Breathable Dog Boots Nonslip Sole Paw Protector for Hardwood Floor (Best for Protection From Slippery Floors, Hot Pavement, Broken Glass, and Sharp Rocks). Our rating: 3.6/5 stars.
- KOOLTAIL Dog Socks Anti Slip with Straps Traction Control Waterproof Paw Protector (Best for Protection Against Slippery Floors and Recovery of Ailing Dogs). Our rating: 3.5/5 Stars.
- Natural Dog Company | All Natural Organic Healing Balm | Soothes Dry, Cracked, and Rough Paws (Best for Soothing, Moisturizing, Softening Dog Paws; Preventing Roughness, Dryness, and Excessive Itching and Licking From Allergies). Our rating: 4.3/5 stars.
Your Dog Paw Protection Shopping Guide
Any type of booties for dogs is an ideal fit. However, each type has unique features that separate it from the rest. So, go for the booties with the highest number of qualities. They make an ideal match to what you are looking for to protect your dog’s paws. The following are some of the qualities that you should look for in dog protection booties:
Material
The material of the booties should be durable. You do not want to replace the booties often because they can create a dent in your budget. The material should also match the environment that your dog will occupy. Notably, the booties should be breathable because dogs sweat through their feet.
Grip (Traction)
If you intend to use the booties on slippery surfaces, the booties should have a firm grip. The exteriors include the hardwood floor that you have in your home. So, you should slide the booties on such a floor to test their grip.
Flexibility
The booties you pick should enable your dog to walk naturally. So, they should align with the shape of your dog’s feet. Also, they should bend or accommodate the movement of the dog’s feet when necessary, especially when your dog plays or walks. In other words, the dog’s gait should never change after wearing the booties.
Adjustable Straps
Go for booties with velcro-adjustable straps. Most dogs feel uncomfortable when in booties. So, you should loosen the booties for the dog to feel natural. But, ensure that the booties are tight enough not to fall off when the dog starts walking or running.
Sizing
Too large booties keep on slipping from your dog’s feet. On the other hand, too tiny booties can make your dog feel uncomfortable. So, ensure that the booties that you buy for your dog are the correct size. You can ask for the sizing chart to ascertain the size of your dog’s feet.
Shape
You can opt for booties with a human-boot shape or ones that look like socks. Regardless of the form of the booties, their function remains the same. So, the choice of the shape of the booties is a personal preference.
Purpose
Dogs’ booties serve different purposes. You can get booties for hot or cold weather, indoor and outdoor activities, and waterproof booties. So, you should identify the specific need that the booties will meet before setting out to buy them.
Ease of Putting On
You do not want booties that you struggle to put on your dog’s feet. Also, the booties should have a simple design that enables you to fasten them correctly on the dog’s feet. If they twist after putting them on your dog, the dog can have a rough time walking or running. They can also bruise the feet of your dog. So, pick booties that you can put on and off your dog’s feet.
The Best Dog Booties Reviewed
QUMY Dog Boots Waterproof Shoes for Dogs with Reflective Strips Rugged Anti-Slip Sole: Best for Protection From Hot Pavement and Sharp Thorns (Amazon Choice Award: #1 Best Seller) (Our Rating: 4/5 Stars)
Are you looking for the best dog booties for snow? QUMY dog boots can be one of your best options to pick. They are adjustable and secure. Their rigid, ragged anti-slip soles provide traction and stability to your dog’s paws. Also, the soles protect the dog from hot pavements and sharp thorns.
The embroidered fabric of these dog boots is hand-washable and soft. QUMY boots make your dog ready for any adventure.
- Size: 6
- Ideal for hot or cold climates, or both: Both
- Fit: 2.6 x 3.0 inches (6.9 x 7.9 centimeters) (W x L)
- Material/s of the product: Rubber and velcro
- Other available sizes of the same product: Size 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, and 8
- Is the product lightweight? Heavyweight
- Is the product machine washable: No
- Durability: 4.4 Stars
- Key product features: Two reflective straps, rugged anti-slip sole, and rubber and velcro material.
- Design: Shoes
- Available colors: Black, blue, leopard, pink, purple, and red
- Pros: High durability, wide split seam, highly versatile, and anti-slip sole
- Cons: Not machine washable
- Is the product waterproof? Yes
- Versatility: High
- Can the product be used at night (reflective properties)? Yes. It has two reflective strips on each shoe.
- How many pairs of boots/socks are in the package: Two
- Comfort factor: 4.2 Stars
PAWCHIE Dog Socks for Hardwood Floors with Strap Indoor Anti Slip Knit Paw Protector Traction Control: Best for Protecting a Dog From Slipping On Hardwood Floors, and Carpet, Sofa, and Floors From Dog-Nail Scratches (Our Rating: 3.7/5 Stars)
PAWCHIE dog socks will fit on your dog snugly. They prevent your dog from slipping on hardwood floors. Also, they protect your sofa, carpet, and floor from dog nail scratches. If your dog requires to be in socks for a long time, these dog socks are one of the best options. Your dog’s paw will remain clean and warm during cold weather.
- Size: Medium
- Ideal for hot or cold climates, or both: Indoor
- Fit: 6.5 x 2.75 inches (17.16 x 7.26 centimeters) (W x L)
- Material/s of the product: Polyester
- Other available sizes of the same product: Small and large
- Is the product lightweight? Lightweight
- Is the product machine washable: No
- Durability: 3.5 Stars
- Key product features: Double-sided, extra buttoned strap, and elastic ribbon top.
- Design: Socks
- Available colors: Grey
- Pros: Comfortable, breathable, anti-slip, traction control, adjustable straps, and warm,
- Cons: No protection against sharp objects
- Is the product waterproof? No
- Versatility: Low
- Can the product be used at night (reflective properties)? No. It does not have reflective parts.
- How many pairs of boots/socks are in the package: Two pairs
- Comfort factor: 3.9 Stars
Hcpet Dog Boots Paw Protector, Anti-Slip Breathable Dog Shoes for Small Medium Large Dogs, Puppy Booties with Reflective Straps: Best for Protecting Dog Paws From Hot Pavement, Sharp Thorns, Slippery Hardwood Floor, and Glass (Our Rating: 4.1/5 Stars)
If you have a Standard Poodle, Sheltie, Cocker Spaniel, or Jack Russel Terrier, you will find Hcpet dog boots a good paw protector option. These anti-slip boots will protect your dogs’ paws from thorns, broken glass, and hot pavements.
Hcpet boots prevent your dogs from slipping on hardwood floors. The boots are also ideal for hiking. In addition, they have reflective straps for nightwalkers.
These boots protect your sofa, carpet, and floor from dog scratches. In addition, they are breathable and friendly to dogs on the onset of wearing boots and socks. The boots are some of the best dog shoes for small dogs.
- Size: Three
- Ideal for hot or cold climates, or both: Both
- Fit: 2.6 x2.0 inches (6.9 x 5.3 centimeters) (L x W)
- Material/s of the product: Khaki
- Other available sizes of the same product: Size 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8
- Is the product lightweight? Heavyweight
- Is the product machine washable: No
- Durability: 4.3 Stars
- Key product features: Anti-slip soles, khaki material, adjustable reflective straps.
- Design: Shoes
- Available colors: Khaki-upgrade
- Pros: Ideal for starter dogs, waterproof, breathable, durable, and versatile.
- Cons: Low comfort factor
- Is the product waterproof? Yes
- Versatility: High
- Can the product be used at night (reflective properties)? It has reflective straps usable at night.
- How many pairs of boots/socks are in the package: Two pairs
- Comfort factor: 3.8 Stars
TEOZZO Dog Shoes Paw Protector, Anti-Slip Dog Boots Pet Booties with Reflective Straps for Small Medium Dogs: Best for Indoor and Outdoor Protection From Hot and Cold Weather, Sharp Glasses, Hot Pavement, Heat, Stones, and Salt (Our Rating: 3.9/5 Stars)
TEOZZO dog shoes come in three sets. They give you an option that your dog can wear over and over again. These fleece-lined shoes are ideal for indoor and outdoor activities. They will protect your dog from hot surfaces, stones, thorns, and pieces of broken glass.
These booties are also anti-slip and water-resistant. The drawstring at the top makes it easy for your dog to put on and off. The booties also have high-reflective straps for night-walking dogs. So your dog will be safe at all times when wearing TEOZZO shoes.
- Size: Three
- Ideal for hot or cold climates, or both: Both
- Fit: 1.77 x1.37 inches (4.7 x 3.6 centimeters) (L x W)
- Material/s of the product: Polyester
- Other available sizes of the same product: 4, 5, 6, and 7
- Is the product lightweight? Lightweight
- Is the product machine washable: No
- Durability: 3.7 Stars
- Key product features: Reflective straps, anti-slip sole, adjustable strap, and polyester material.
- Design: Shoes
- Available colors: Pink and black
- Pros: Ideal for night walks, high versatility, waterproof, warm, and protective from burns and injuries
- Cons: Low comfort factor and durability
- Is the product waterproof? Yes
- Versatility: High
- Can the product be used at night (reflective properties)? Yes. It has reflective straps.
- How many pairs of boots/socks are in the package: Three
- Comfort factor: 3.8 Stars
Hipaw Summer Breathable Dog Boots Nonslip Sole Paw Protector for Hardwood Floor: Best for Protection From Slippery Floors, Hot Pavement, Broken Glass, and Sharp Rocks (Our Rating: 3.6/5 Stars)
The makers of Hipaw Summer dog boots guarantee the quality of this product. It is a breathable product that prevents dogs’ paws from getting hot and muggy. They are also some of the best dog boots for traction because their rubber sole protects the feet of your dog from slipping on the hardwood.
The soles also protect the dog’s paws against the hot pavement, broken glass, sharp rocks, and other harmful debris. Your dog can wear these boots during indoor and lawn activities.
- Size: Large
- Ideal for hot or cold climates, or both: Hot
- Fit: 2.55 inches (6.7 centimeters) W (Insole)
- Material/s of the product: Dual mesh
- Other available sizes of the same product: None
- Is the product lightweight? Lightweight
- Is the product machine washable: Machine and hand washable
- Durability: 3.2 Stars
- Key product features: Adjustable strap, double mesh fabric, and rubber sole.
- Design: Shoes
- Available colors: Blue and black
- Pros: Adjustable strap, breathable, protective from heat, debris, and thorns, and suitable for indoor and lawn activities
- Cons: Not water-resistant, low versatility and comfort, and non-reflective
- Is the product waterproof? No
- Versatility: Low
- Can the product be used at night (reflective properties)? No
- How many pairs of boots/socks are in the package: Two pairs
- Comfort factor: 3.3 Stars
KOOLTAIL Dog Socks Anti Slip with Straps Traction Control Waterproof Paw Protector: Best for Protection Against Slippery Floors and Recovery of Ailing Dogs (Our Rating: 3.5/5 Stars)
KOOLTAIL dog socks are some of the best dog booties for hardwood floors and the best dog boots that stay on the dog’s feet. The thin rubber on the soles of these socks increases your dog’s traction on slippery floors.
The product is also waterproof to keep the paws of your furry friend dry at all times. Also, the product has anti-fall-off straps to keep the socks in place. So if you have an ailing dog, KOOLTAIL is one of your best options.
- Size: Large
- Ideal for hot or cold climates, or both: Both
- Fit: 2.2 x 5.9 inches (5.8 x 15.58 centimeters) (W x L)
- Material/s of the product: Tread material
- Other available sizes of the same product: Small, medium, extra-large, and extra-extra-large
- Is the product lightweight? Lightweight
- Is the product machine washable: No
- Durability: 3.5 Stars
- Key product features: Detachable straps, read material, and thin rubber soles.
- Design: Socks
- Available colors: Black
- Pros: Comes in five sizes, non-slip, waterproof, and anti-fall
- Cons: Not ideal for outdoor and night activities, and low comfort and durability factors
- Is the product waterproof? Yes
- Versatility: Low
- Can the product be used at night (reflective properties)? No
- How many pairs of boots/socks are in the package: Two pairs
- Comfort factor: 3.4 Stars
Natural Dog Company | All Natural Organic Healing Balm | Soothes Dry, Cracked, and Rough Paws: Best for Soothing, Moisturizing, Softening Dog Paws; Preventing Roughness, Dryness, and Excessive Itching and Licking From Allergies (Our Rating: 4.3/5 Stars)
If you want relief from the dryness and roughness of your dog’s paws, use the All Natural Organic Healing Balm from the Natural Dog Company. Using it prevents your dog from itching and licking because of allergies.
This organic product can also treat scarred elbows with irritation, wounds, and hyperkeratosis. You can take it with you wherever you go with your puppy.
- Weight: 2 ounces (59.15 milliliters)
- Ideal for hot or cold climates, or both: Both
- Size: 4.7 x 2.1 x 0.4 inches (12.4 x 5.5 x 1.1 centimeters)
- Other available sizes of the same product: 0.51 Ounces (15.08 milliliters)
- Key product ingredients: Coconut oil, mango butter, chamomile, and cocoa butter
- Available scents: Coconut
- Pros: Organic, vegetarian approved, and it does not contain toxic ingredients.
- Cons: Not washed off easily
- Versatility: High
- Moisturizing factor: 4.3 Stars
FAQs on Dog Paw Protection
Q: Do dogs need boots/shoes?
A: Boots/shoes are ideal for dogs that spend quality time outdoors, especially in winter and summer. Such dogs expose their feet to extreme heat and coldness and sharp objects. So, if your dog falls under that category, buy some boots/shoes for it.
Q: Do dog feet get cold in winter?
A: The paw pads of your dog’s feet have a high-fat content that freezes more than other parts of the feet. Domesticated dogs are not tolerant to icy conditions because they spend most of their time indoors. So, dog’s paw pads get cold in winter, and they need protection during the season.
Q: Do dog feet get hot in summer?
A: Sometimes, streets and sidewalks get extremely hot during summer. Also, sand at the beach can get equally hot in summer. You might think that your dog’s paw pads are tough, but they get burns after a dog walks on hot surfaces. So, protect your dog’s paw pads at all times during summer outdoor activities.
Q: Can snow hurt a dog’s paws?
A: Salt that melts ice is the biggest threat to the paw pads of your dog. It contains chemicals that burn the paw pads after prolonged exposure. Also, your dog ingests chemicals after licking its paws. So, always clean your dog’s feet and clean its booties after a walk on melting ice.
Q: How do I get my dog used to socks or shoes for dogs?
A: Dogs can feel uncomfortable after their first attempt to wear socks or shoes. To ensure that your dog accepts wearing the footwear, follow the following procedure:
- Let the dog see and smell the booties or shoes. Then, every time the dog smells or touches the footwear, give it a treat. You can repeat this exercise 15 times.
- Touch each foot of the dog with a bootie and give the dog a treat. Also, repeat this exercise 15 times.
- Slip booties on the dog’s foot for a short while (one second) and then remove it. Repeat this exercise on each foot of the dog and give the dog a treat each time you do it. If your dog shows any resistance, go back to the earlier step.
- Once your dog gets comfortable with the one-second slip of the bootie or shoe, increase the time to 20 seconds.
- After the dog seems comfortable with the bootie slips, tie the booties to its feet and give it a treat. Repeat this exercise 10 times. You can take a break (a day or hours) from the training before repeating it.
- Fasten a bootie on one leg and play the fetch game with your dog. The playtime should be for a few minutes. Afterward, remove the bootie.
- If the dog seems comfortable, put the booties on the rest of its feet. Give it some treats and play with it for a few minutes. The dog may have a funny walking style, but it is normal. Walk around with the dog in booties while throwing some treats on the floor.
- If the dog seems stressed, pause and wait until the dog feels relaxed while wearing the booties or shoes. The dog should be happy and enthusiastic when eating the treats.
- Remember, the treats you will give your dog during the booties-introduction session should not be half of its daily meal. Also, give your dog high-valued treats, such as hotdogs or chicken.
Q: How long do dog boots/shoes last?
A: The durability of dog boots/shoes depend on the level of your dog’s activities and the terrain. If your dog is highly active on rough terrain, the boots/shoes can wear fast.
Q: How do I measure my dog for shoes?
A: Firstly, place the paw of your dog on plain paper. Afterward, press the foot to mimic how it spreads when the dog walks, and then sketch the paw. Lastly, use a dog chart to ascertain the width and length of the foot.
Q: How do I get my dog’s booties to stay on?
A: Booties with velcro straps are apt because your dog cannot pull them off. The straps fasten the booties on your dog’s feet. Also, ensure that the booties and shoes you buy for your dog fit snugly on its feet.
Q: Can dogs wear shoes all the time?
A: No. Your dog does not have to wear shoes or booties all the time. You can let it be in shoes and booties during an outdoor activity. However, your dog should only wear booties and shoes when it exposes its feet to a harsh environment and slippery floor.
Q: What can I put on my dog’s paws to prevent it from slipping in shoes?
A: Booties and shoes with high traction or grip are what you need to prevent your dog from slipping. Alternatively, apply musher wax on the paw pads of your dog.
The Final Say
Our dog booties of the day are QUMY Dog Boots Waterproof Shoes for Dogs with Reflective Strips Rugged Anti-Slip Sole. They are best for protection from hot pavement and sharp thorns. We love them because of their versatility, durability, reflectiveness, water resistance, and anti-slip characteristic. So, we rate them four out of five stars.
You can now choose the best dog booties or shoes like a pro using the tips you have read. Never again will your furry friend limp with pain because of burns, bruises, or frostbite. Also, your dog will always be safe on slippery floors. So, go ahead and protect the paws of one of your most loyal friends.