Top Rated Boots for Your Dog – Reviews & Guide
It is said that a dog is a man’s best friend and that it will always keep you protected and safe. But how much do you really do for your dog? Apart from qualitative food and a scratch on the back, you should also take your dog for daily walks and spend as much time as possible with it. And in winter or during the rainy season you should also keep your buddy protected and safe. So, if you’re looking for the best dog boots to shield your furry bundle of joy from the harsh temperatures, a good product would definitely be the Prumya Waterproof Protectors. These come in various sizes to meet the requirements of all dogs, are easy to wear and will protect your dog’s paws in all weather conditions. If the Prumya Waterproof Protectors are not available for purchase, we suggest you also take a look at the Ruffwear Grip-Tex.
Dr. Fox Recommends – Comparison & Yearly Report
Finding the right pair of dog boots could prove a difficult thing, especially with so many products available out there. However, we have done some research, and we’ve showcased below some of the most popular items today. So here is a list of the top 10 products we consider you should take into account for your dog’s safety and comfort.
Prumya Waterproof Protectors
These booties are perfect for all dog breeds. It comes in a set of four to protect all of your dog’s paws. You can choose between plenty of sizes available so you can rest assured you will find the right match for your dog’s breed and age.
The booties are easy to put on and to take off, so you won’t spend a lot of time preparing your friend to go out on his or her daily walk. Thanks to the waterproof and lightweight design, these are perfect for any weather, including heavy rains or snowfall.
The soles are also anti-slip and waterproof, helping your pooch walk comfortably regardless of how slippery or dirty the environment conditions are.
The products can be easily washed by hand and are extremely comfortable to wear by your dog. Soft and warm, you can make sure these booties will protect your dog’s paws from water and will also keep your hallways and furniture clean.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($19.99)
Ruffwear Grip Trex
If you’re looking for a pair of comfortable winter boots for your pooch, the new Grip Trex from Ruffwear is a great option. The product comes in a set of four identical booties to match your dog’s paws and protect it from extreme weather conditions and environments.
The specially designed outsole offers both flexibility and traction on different types of terrains, so you can rest assured your dog will continue to walk and run freely. The woven air mesh will keep your dog’s paws tight but will also allow them to breathe while keeping them away from dirt and debris.
Thanks to the gusset design it will be extremely easy for you to put the booties on and take them off. The hustle-free design will save you precious time that you can later enjoy spending it outside with your dog.
Also, the product comes in three different color choices so you can buy the pair that matches your dog’s personality or the rest of his or her outfit.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($74.95)
Pet Life Duggz Snuggly
This pair of dog booties is designed to meet the highest quality and comfort standards for your dog. The product is shipped in various sizes and colors, making it perfect for any dog breed, age, and sex. Furthermore, thanks to their smooth and flexible fit, the booties can be worn pretty much anywhere.
Completed with a stylish and luxurious look, the booties not only appear expensive, but they feel great on your dog’s paws. The zippered rear and velcro strap will help them stay in place and as tight as you want them to be. The zipper also makes them easy to put on and take off, so you won’t spend precious time in the morning preparing your pooch to go out.
What we like about this product is that it is also available in a size extra-small, making it perfect for smaller dog breeds that usually find it challenging to get sized boots and winter clothes.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($30.9)
Ultra Paws Durable
If you own a senior dog or with hip problems, this pair of booties is the perfect match. All dogs that have trouble with slippery floors or surfaces can safely wear these booties and run freely all around the house.
The flexible and resistant soles are specifically designed to perform well in all weather conditions, as well as in wet or dry environments. In other words, whether your dog wears these booties inside or outside, he or she will feel great. The wide-split top opening makes the booties easy to put on and take off.
Completed with velcro straps for added tightness and stability, the Ultra Paws Durable are clearly a pair of booties your dog should own.
Besides, they come in various sizes to meet the needs of all dog paws, regardless of their size or breed. It is best first to measure your dog’s paws and then opt for the perfect size, ranging from petite and extra small to extra large.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($34.95)
Expawlorer Dog Boots
The product comes in a set of four individual boots to cover all your dog’s paws and protect them during winter. The item is sold in three different colors (orange, red, and black), as well as in plenty of sizes in order to meet all the needs of your dog, regardless of its breed or size.
They are made from top-quality materials, and the included reflective velcro straps offer increased visibility and safety during the night or foggy days. This way you can always keep track of your dog even if it’s out without a leash.
In addition, the materials used to manufacture these booties are also 100% waterproof to keep the water away and maintain your dog’s paws dry and comfortable, even after long walks in the rain or snow. The size of the shoes expands for an easy fit, and the anti-slip soles provide maximum control regardless of the environmental conditions.
Your dog will stay safe, dry, warm, and comfortable, and your house will remain clean.
Buy from Amazon.com
Pet Life Spring Mesh
Just like the name suggests, these shoes represent the perfect choice for your dog during the spring when the weather gets better and warmer. The booties are made from high-quality mesh fabrics to ensure maximum breathing and regulate your dog’s body temperature. Thanks to this feature the boots are great for wearing all year-round, no matter if it’ cold or warm outside.
The product features a modern track shoe design complete with a zipper and velcro straps for easy put on and take off. As a result, you won’t spend more than a few seconds putting the shoes on your dog, and you will be ready for your morning walk in no time. The same goes after you finish walking as the booties are extremely easy to take off.
The item comes in a wide variety of sizes and colors to fit all dog breeds and sizes. These particular booties are best for smaller dog breeds like Chihuahuas and Poodles.
Click to see the price on Amazon!
Expawlorer Dog Boots Reflective
If you’re looking for a comfortable pair of dog booties that are 100% waterproof, you should definitely give this item a try. The set contains four identical booties to match all four of your dog’s paws and provide maximum comfort during all weather conditions.
The item is sold in various sizes, and the black color with reflective materials represents a nice touch, especially during the night. Thanks to the reflective patterns attached your dog will stay safe, and you will be able to keep an eye on your pooch even when you don’t have a leash.
The velcro straps are perfect for easily putting the booties on and taking them off after a long day outside. In addition, they ensure a tight fit and keep your dog’s paws protected.
The booties are suitable for all weather conditions, but you will be extremely grateful during the rainy or snow season. The 100% waterproof material perfectly insulates your dog’s paws and keeps them safe and dry even in heavy snowfalls.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($27.99)
Nothing But Love Pets Dog Mesh
This set of four sports boots is perfect for smaller dog breeds like Pugs, Schnauzers, Poodles, Dachshund, as well as for pups. They are made from qualitative mesh fabrics and provide maximum breathing so that your dog can regulate its body temperature. The anti-slip rubber sole is perfect for conducting all sorts of sports activities, including running or playing in the park.
The booties are 100% washable and easy to look after so that you won’t spend too much time wondering how to dress your dog during harsh weather conditions. Also, the product is sold in two different color variations, blue and pink, to match your dog’s personality and gender.
The boots come with zippers and velcro closures for a tight fit and easy dressing. They are perfect for all weather conditions and will keep your dog’s paws dry and warm during the colder fall days. The product is suitable for small and medium dog breeds, between 10 and 30 pounds.
Click to see the price on Amazon!
FouFou Dog 82542 2018
If you care about your friend’s paws during the winter, the FouFou dog socks are the best products you could buy on the market today. Their design was improved specifically for the winter season of 2018, and they feature a thicker sole which is fully textured dipped. This means improved adherence on all surfaces and better protection against the cold weather.
These booties are perfect for all weather conditions and will protect the paws from water, moist, dirt, dust, snow or hot pavements. Thus, they can be comfortable worn both during winter and summer and help to keep your dog’s paws safe.
The socks are soft and easy to wear and feature velcro straps for a tight fit that stays in place no matter how much your dog loves running and playing.
The manufacturer’s size guide differs from other dog boot manufacturers so we suggest carefully checking the size chart and choose the item that you think will best fit your dog.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($19.99)
Muttlucks Fleece
If your dog loves the wintery days but needs protection against snow and rocky sideways, we suggest choosing this pair of booties. The product comes in various sizes so there is certainly one that will best fit your own furry friend.
The inner fleece lining is of superior quality and provides the perfect protection for your dog’s paws during the cold season. Designed and manufactured in Canada, the Muttlucks are not just a fancy boot choice for your dog, but also a necessity if you plan on taking your pooch out for long walks during winter.
The boots come with self-tightening velcro straps to provide a tight and secure fit so your dog can run freely without worrying about leaving the boots behind. The straps also feature a reflective fabric for improved night time visibility. The soles are made of genuine leather for a soft and comfortable wear all day long.
These booties are designed to keep your dog’s dry and warm during winter, so we suggest choosing other items for year-round wearing.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($48)
Our Comprehensive Shopping Guide
Looking for the best dog booties on the Internet? Finding the right pair of shoes for your dog could prove quite an adventure, especially since there are countless products available. But, fear not because we got you covered! Go through our own buying guide, and select the features you consider important in finding the best dog boots. Look for additional great glucosamine products if you want your dog to have strong bones and joints to run all day long wearing its favorite booties on.
Types of dog shoes
Dog shoes resemble the most common types of human shoes, from sandals and plimsolls to socks, sneakers, and booties. Each of the styles depends on what you are looking for in a dog shoe. However, the most common type of dog shoes are the ones similar to socks because they are easy to put on and to take off, and provide enough heat and protection so that they can be worn all year round.
However, the best winter dog walking boots are harder to find because they require certain characteristics. Besides, they are a lot more expensive and need to be worn exactly according to the instructions. We suggest going through some Muttluks dog boot reviews as the company is one of the most reputed manufacturing special winter boots for dogs. However, you could also check out some generic dog boots reviews to first establish the type of shoes you are going to purchase for your dog’s safety and comfort.
Seasonal boots
Depending on the month in the calendar, the best dog walking boots should have different characteristics. First of all, keep in mind that most of the time your dog doesn’t require a special pair of boots. The paws are specifically designed to help your dog manage in all sorts of environments and at all temperatures. So, the fact that you’re looking for a special pair of shoes for your dog to wear during fall or spring may not be the ideal choice.
On the contrary, when we’re talking about extreme temperatures, things get a little bit complicated. Hot concrete in summer can burn your dog’s paws and lead to serious health problems while heavy snow or rain during winter could also hurt your precious pooch. Thus, during these seasons, it is recommended to look for some appropriate dog boots for sale.
When we’re talking about summer, keep in mind that shoes should be made from breathable and natural fabrics. They should be extremely flexible and lightweight so that your dog can walk and run freely without something adding extra burthen. The soles are best to made of rubber because it is flexible enough to support all your dog’s moves but is also tough enough to keep the paws away from excessive heat.
Good fit
Another very important aspect to take into account is the shoes’ size. Dogs come in various sizes and breeds, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that the size of their paws differs from one individual to another. So, good dog boots should first fit well. Take into account that each company has its own sizes and you should always refer to its personal size chart when buying a pair of booties.
To make sure you choose the right size always measure your dog’s paws before comparing the measurements to the ones provided by the manufacturer so you can pick just the right shoe size. Keep in mind that, depending on the season, you may want a tighter fit or a looser fit.
Loose fits usually apply to winter boots because they come with extra insulating materials and your dog needs to properly breathe. On the other hand, choose a tighter fit if you plan on buying a summer pair of booties for your pooch.
Closing and fitting systems
The closing systems for dog boots are diverse and aim to meet each of your dog’s individual needs. The best dog boots for pets that drag their feet are obviously those with zippers and tight feet. Zippers are a convenient and easy way to put on and take off the booties in a matter of seconds and will provide the perfect tightness for your dog. This way, if you pick the right size, you won’t have to worry about the booties coming off your dog’s feet, and your pooch will enjoy prolonged hours of intense physical activities in any environmental conditions.
Shoelaces are a bit more elegant but quite unpractical for very active dogs. No matter how much you will try, the shoelaces will always come off and can endanger your dog. Additionally, they will be easily chewed by the owner so you will have to constantly replace them.
On the other hand, velcro closures will also provide a tight fit and will prevent any type of boot from coming off. These are also easy to use and will only take you a matter of seconds before securing the right fit for the boots.
Fabrics
Depending on the season you choose to acquire booties for, there are plenty of fabrics you can opt when looking for dog boots. We always suggest opting for natural fabrics that allow the paws to breathe.
Rubber booties are perfect for days full of activity and bliss. No matter the weather outside you can rest assured your dog will stay perfectly dry and warm in a pair of rubber booties. They provide the maximum protection to feet and paws, while also allowing the skin to properly breathe. Moreover, the rubber booties will also make your life easier and your house less messy, especially after playing in the rain and mud.
Leather booties can be worn year-round and have the great advantage of being extremely flexible and comfortable to wear. They are good for keeping your dog’s feet warm during winter and cold during summer for maximum comfort regardless of the atmosphere. So, if you plan a weekend getaway in the woods in the hot summer days, all your dog will require is a pair of leather boots and a natural flea treatment for dogs to stay fully protected.
How to measure your dog’s paws
Just like human shoes, dog shoes also come in various sizes available in order to match the owner’s paws as tight and perfect as possible. However, finding the right size could prove a difficult thing, especially if you haven’t bought any pair of shoes for your pooch before.
Each company comes with its own sizing chart and picking the right size could get a little bit confusing. In order to help you out, we decided to show you the easiest methods on how to correctly measure your dog’s paws and find the right size.
First of all, you need to decide which type of breed your dog is. As a general rule, small dog breeds like Bichons, Chihuahuas and Pomeranians will definitely wear a size XS or S. The boots sizes proportionally increase with the size of your dog, so that larger dog breeds like German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Collie, Cane Corso, and Alaskan Husky will definitely wear sizes L, XL or even XXL.
For a tighter fit have your dog standing on a tape measure and then measure one of the front feet at its widest point, similar to how you would measure your own foot. If you like, you can also print a full sizing guide complete with blueprints of different paw sizes in real life and see which one is the nearest to your own dog’s footprints.
Frequently asked questions about dog booties
Will dog boots stop digging?
If your dog has the custom of digging through your garden, wearing a large pair of booties won’t make the habit go away. It is true, your friend’s footprints will be less visible, but this doesn’t mean your garden will look all beautiful again.
On the contrary, some of the dogs may find it frustrating wearing the boots and not being able to fully appeal to their body functions. As a result, they might associate wearing boots with limited freedom and may feel reluctant when having to wear them.
Unfortunately, you cannot stop your dog from digging in the garden and causing a mess, but you could minimize the damages by always cutting your dog’s claws.
Which dog boots stay on?
Each pair of boots can stay on as long as it is the right fit for your dog’s paw size. As we previously mentioned, before buying a pair of boots, we suggest measuring your pet’s paws and compare it with the sizing guide provided by the manufacturer.
This will ensure you buy the right size and the boots will not run too big or too small. In addition, we also suggest looking for booties with zippers and velcro closures to ensure an even tighter fit and prevent them from falling off during intense activities.
Can you wash dog boots?
Most of the dog boots created are made from soft and breathable fabrics that allow hand washing or regular washing. Rubber boots, as well as the ones made of mesh or socks made of cotton, are the safest ones to wash after every use.
When it comes to fleece booties or the ones specifically designed for winter, it is best to read the instructions provided by each manufacturer. You should avoid washing leather or suede boots and only clean them dry, using a damp cloth and special leather care solutions.
Are dog boots good for dogs?
This specific topic has become quite a fuss ever since the beginning with plenty of enthusiasts on both sides of the spectrum. While most specialists claim that dogs don’t require special boots because their paws are already anti-adherent and created to endure long walks, you should consider buying a special pair of booties during the winter and summer.
Walking on hot concrete is painful for dogs and can even cause burns and blisters, while excessive cold, snow or rain could also damage your dog’s health. Thus, we recommend using dog boots only during the summer season and if you plan on taking your dog for long walks or playdays during the snowy season.
Do dog boots have to be waterproof?
This also depends on the local weather and exactly how messy your dog gets after his or her daily walks. Waterproof boots will certainly make your life easier because they will retain all the moisture and dirt and prevent it from getting in contact with your dog’s paws. As a result, your pooch and your house stay clean.
Waterproof is a must feature in every pair of winter or rainy season dog boots to keep your pet’s paws dry and warm. This will not only avoid dirty houses but will also help to maintain your dog healthy and clean.
How to put dog boots on?
Most dog boots are large enough on the top side in order to provide easy fitting. Velcro closures, zippers, and laces will also help you easily put your doggie booties on. There are some dog boots that are similar to socks and they can be easily rolled up on your dog’s paws, just like you would your own socks.
As a general rule, putting shoes on your dog is no different from trying to put shoes on to a two-year-old or on yourself. Just read the instructions carefully and make sure your pet is used to wearing them all day long.
Is there a difference between dog shoes and dog boots?
There are plenty of dog shoe types, depending on their purposes and season specifications. Dog shoes are similar to human trainers or sneakers and feature a sportier design. These are mainly year-round shoes that can be worn especially during summer or active days to prevent paws from hurting or getting blisters.
On the other hand, booties are mainly made for the winter season, and so feature harder soles and increased insulating features. They are also 100% waterproof to prevent rain or snow from wetting your dog.
Are dog boots comfortable?
This mainly depends on the type of shoe you are willing to acquire and the size of it. We cannot stress enough the importance of finding the right fit for your dog’s shoes because a comfortable pair will offer you and your pet a long way ahead.
If you’re not sure how well your dog is going to take its new garments and accessories, it is best to start with a pair of soft socks. If your pet takes well the socks and feels comfortable running around with them all day long, then you could “level up” and also buy a pair of booties.
Are disposable dog boots an option?
Most disposable dog boots are made from cheap materials and often have rough, rugged lines. This translates into less comfort and less flexibility, qualities that each pair of shoes should have.
Thus, we do not suggest buying disposable dog boots unless it is a total emergency. We would rather suggest you invest in a qualitative pair of shoes that can be easily worn year-round or only during extreme weather conditions in the winter and in the summer. Disposable dog boots also don’t come in enough sizes and will only make your dog feel less comfortable. In addition, this type of boots could also cause injuries, wounds or blisters so it is best to stay away from them.
What is the best material?
Each material comes with its own perks and downsides. Again, you should choose the fabric depending on your dog’s lifestyle, the environment he or she lives in, as well as the moment of the year.
Summer shoes should be made of breathable and natural fabrics like cotton, mesh or leather. On the other hand, winter boots should feature insulating fabrics that keep away the snow and water, as well as keeping your dog’s paws warm and cozy. Rubber boots are also a great addition during the rainy season if you want your dog to stay dry and your house clean.
Why some dogs absolutely need booties
Although it may seem more of a trend than a real necessity, dog boots are a must in certain situations. Sure, you’ll never see stray dogs displaying the latest dog boots collection on the streets of large cities, but this doesn’t mean they don’t need extra protection during extreme weather conditions.
A dog’s paws are specifically designed by nature to resist scratches, punctures, and abrasions. The special air pillows, similar to the ones found in cats, will help them comfortably walk for long distances and will also keep their feet protected from cold and rain. However, in some situations, dogs seem like they need a little extra help from humans, especially since we are the ones responsible for all climate changes and the excessive development of our planet.
Back in the days, where roads and concrete didn’t fill the Earth, there was mainly dust and mud, excellent conditions for dogs to comfortably walk without having to worry. But, as we developed new technologies and started building concrete urban jungles, we have forgotten about the devastating ground temperatures during winter and summer.
Just imagine if you would have to walk barefoot on the torrid summer sun on concrete streets, exactly how much would you endure before your feet formed blisters, wounds, and bleedings? Imagine how long would it take before freezing your feet on the same concrete roads in heavy snows. If could not stand it, why do you think your dog could?
So, the reason why you should absolutely buy a pair of boots for your dog is this exact thing. Your pooch cannot walk safely on the burning concrete or freeze its paws during heavy snows. Boots have the great purpose of protecting your dog’s paws and relieving pain and aches. Boots will not only provide a preppy look for your pet but will also bring comfort and soothe at all temperatures.
Just make sure to pick shoes with strong soles for the summer that provide the maximum flexibility so your dog can walk, run, and play all day long. When searching for winter boots, make sure the pair you choose is 100% waterproof and insulated to keep your dog’s paws warm, dry, and cozy.
Safety and comfort should never be ignored
Apparently, the most important thing to take into account when looking for dog boots is your dog’s safety. At all times, your pet should be fully protected by the harsh environment while still being able to run as freely as he would without any pair of boots on.
In order to make sure the pair of boots you buy is safe and comfortable, check out every detail. From seamings to stitches, closing features, durability, and fabrics, everything should matter.
Velcro closures and zippers are the safest methods to keep your dog’s shoes on regardless of how much he loves running around and playing. Just make sure to pick the right size which isn’t too narrow or too loose on the paws. Soles should be made of qualitative and flexible rubber to provide maximum endurance and also keep the paws protected from burning concrete, dust, dirt, and rain.
When it comes to comfort, make sure to choose natural and breathing fabrics as much as possible. Bear in mind that dogs do not have sweating glands thus it is more difficult for them to regulate their body temperature, especially in the hot season. A breathing pair of shoes will keep the paws dry and ready for action, regardless of how many degrees are outside.