Whether it’s going on an adventure with your furry friend or taking a walk to the dog park, spending quality time with your pet outdoors is something that you probably look forward to. However, to do this, it’s important to ensure that your pooch is well taken care of, especially their precious little paws. By protecting their feet with the best dog boots, you can rest assured that their paws are safe as they trod along with you.
However, there are just so many options for you to choose from! From lightweight and waterproof materials to rugged and breathable designs, it’s vital that you select one that aligns with your pet’s needs. Moreover, it’s also important that you purchase the right size of boots for your pet, and don’t worry, we’ll help you with that too! Keep reading to understand more about the types of dog boots available and how you can choose the best one for your pet.
How to Choose the Right Size Boots for Your Dog
To choose the right size boots for your dog, there are a few easy steps that you can follow:
- Take a piece of paper that’s bigger than the size of your dog’s paw and lay it on a flat surface.
- Gently press your dog’s paw onto the paper ensuring that their toes are properly spread out.
- Using a pen or a pencil, mark the widest part of the paw on either side.
- With a ruler or measuring tape, measure the distance between the two markings that you made. Make a note of the number.
- Next, to find out the length of your dog’s paw, use a measuring tape and measure from the back of the paw pad to the top of the longest nail.
This will give you the accurate measurements that will help you choose the best pair of dog boots for your four-legged companion. Keep in mind that each brand may follow a different size chart, so check the measurements and don’t stick to just one size as the numbers may vary.
Types of Dog Boots
There are five main types of dog boots, let’s get to know them a little better:
Dog Boots for Rain
Dog rain boots are made with the purpose of keeping your dog’s paws dry and clean when they go for walks in the rainy season. They are waterproof and feature anti-slip soles that keep your pet safe and steady on wet, slippery surfaces.
Dog Boots for Summer
This type of dog boots offers protection to your pooch’s paws from hot pavements and sand. They are crafted with breathable materials that will keep your fur baby’s paws cool while also preventing potential burns.
Dog Boots for Snow
Offering a great deal of protection from cold temperatures, ice, and snow, these boots are made using insulated materials that also provide traction on slippery and icy grounds — you don’t have to worry about your pet falling and hurting themselves when they have snow boots on.
Dog Boots for Hiking
These are the most durable type of dog boots — the robust construction protects your pet as they walk on rough terrains, sharp rocks, and hot surfaces. They usually have very thick, rugged soles that enhance grip and stability during hikes.
Therapeutic Dog Boots
If your four-legged friend is dealing with injuries, wounds, or paw conditions, then these boots are just what they need — they offer support and protection. With specially designed padded interiors, they help promote healing, making your pet’s walks more comfortable.
The Best Dog Boots to Buy in 2024
BEST OVERALL
QUMY Dog Boots & Paw Protectors
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Easy to clean
Sturdy construction
Water-resistant
Comes in 7 colors
Ideal for all weathers
Available in 8 sizes
But…
Boots may run a size larger
The QUMY Dog Boots are very easy to put on and take off — they expand with a wide split seam opening and two adjustable and reflective straps offer a tight and secure fit. The robust anti-slip soles will provide your pooch with stability and traction, while also protecting their paws from sharp thorns and hot pavements. Moreover, the rugged soles and high-quality fabric are sewn together to ensure that they’re ready for you and your four-legged friend to set off on an outdoor adventure.
Additionally, there’s a cute paw embroidery on the outside, adding to the aesthetic appeal. Last but not least, the boots are soft and should be washed by hand.
BEST NON-SLIP BOOTS
CovertSafe& Non-slip Water Dog Boots
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Robust construction
Comfortable
Water-resistant
Available in 4 colors
Available in 8 sizes
Easy to clean
But…
The boots aren’t machine washable
These fashionable dog boots from CovertSafe& feature cute pet paw embroidery that pops out against the bold-colored background, giving them a stylish look. They are made from high-quality fabrics, and the durable soles are bound to last your pet a long time. Additionally, they feature reflective straps, which help increase your dog’s visibility at night.
Putting them on and taking them off is a breeze — just slip their paws inside the boots and secure the shoes with the adjustable straps. Plus, the breathable material and the non-slip soles make them a must-have all year round.
BEST FOR HIKING
Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Boots
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Durable
Accurate sizing
Offers stability
Comes in 3 colors
Available in 8 sizes
Secure velcro strap
But…
Expensive
Ruffwear’s Grip Trex Dog Boots are perfect for hiking, mountain biking, trail running, or any other outdoor adventures — they offer a great deal of protection from whatever the trail may throw your way. Featuring Vibram non-marking outsoles that have a rugged lug design, the boots provide traction and offer flexibility to help tackle any kind of terrain. Moreover, the tightly woven air mesh keeps dirt and debris out of the shoes, but at the same time, it is breathable enough to offer ventilation throughout the day.
The wide opening makes it easy to put the Ruffwear dog boots on, and the hook-and-loop cinch closure system offers a secure fit. The best part is that the brand offers the boots in sets of two so that you can choose different sizes for the front and back paws.
BEST ALL-WEATHER
Bark Brite Neoprene Paw Protector Dog Boots
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Available in 5 sizes
Comes in 3 different colors
Hook & loop closure
Water-resistant
Won’t puncture
Aids in traction
But…
Sizing may run smaller
The Bark Brite Neoprene Paw Protector Dog Boots are super breathable and effortlessly take the shape of your pet’s natural paws. They’re suitable for all weather conditions and can be used for indoor and outdoor activities such as walking, running, hunting, hiking, swimming, and more. They also help keep your pooch’s paws clean, dry, and safe when they come in contact with ice, snow, hot pavements, sharp objects, rocks, and wet surfaces.
The reflective straps are easy to adjust and they enhance your pet’s visibility. Moreover, the boots are tough and durable, and the non-skid soles offer much-needed stability.
BEST FOR WINTERS
TEOZZO Anti-Slip Sole Dog Boots
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Value for money
Sturdy construction
Adjustable band
Comfortable
Available in 10 colors
7 sizes to choose from
But…
If you don’t order the right size, they will slip right off
These soft-lined dog boots from TEOZZO feature a cozy fleece on the inside, ideal for keeping your pet’s paws dry and comfortable. They feature non-slip soles that offer stability on tiles and sand, protecting your four-legged friend’s feet from sharp rocks, hot pavements, snow, salt, and other harmful surfaces. They’re also easy to put on and take off, and they stay securely on the feet even when your dog runs.
The high-quality drawstring ensures an adjustable fit, while the reflective straps help increase visibility at night. They are washable but not 100% waterproof, so it’s best to avoid using them on rainy days.
BEST WATERPROOF
Hcpet Waterproof Dog Boots
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Durable construction
Stretchable material
Waterproof
Suitable for hiking
Available in 8 sizes
Comes in 7 colors
But…
It may take a while for your dog to get used to walking in them
Hcpet’s waterproof dog boots are soft on the paws while also offering effective protection against sharp thorns or rocks, hot pavements, and glass. They feature anti-slip soles that help your pooch stand up and walk better on hardwood floors. Additionally, putting them on and removing them is a breeze — they are secured with 3M reflective straps that enhance visibility during your night walks.
Furthermore, the boots are also waterproof, chewproof, and won’t get overheated. They are great for wound and injury protection during activity and rest time.
BEST FOR LARGE BREEDS
PAWZ Rubber Dog Boots
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Easy to clean
Waterproof
Durable
Comfortable
Available in 7 sizes
Pull-on closure
But…
Some customers expected them to be thicker
If you’re looking for a pair of all-weather rubber boots for your pooch, then these ones from PAWZ will be sure to impress you. Whether it’s hot pavements, rainy days, or snowy winters that you’re worried about, you can rest assured that your fur baby’s paws will remain protected. They also have anti-slip properties that offer excellent grip and traction, preventing falls on wet and slippery surfaces.
Made from natural rubber, the boots are waterproof — they’re built to withstand the most challenging terrains and environments. Plus, by taking a look at the size chart, you should be able to find an accurate size for your dog.
How We Chose the Best Dog Boots
This curated list of the best dog boots was put together after our team thoroughly conducted research. We started off by providing surveys to pet parents, understanding their preferences and concerns that may arise during the purchase process. After that, we sought expert opinions to gain more knowledge on the types of dog boots available and how they could benefit your dog.
Additionally, we considered factors such as durability, comfort, sizing, traction, and water resistance, making it our goal to cater to diverse needs and preferences. All together, we are committed to providing the safest and highest-quality product recommendations to pet parents in the USA.
FAQ
What are the best dog boots to buy?
This would depend on the type of dog boots that you require. However, generally, Ruffwear’s Grip Trex Boots are very durable and offer great traction — they are considered to be one of the best dog boots.
Are boots a good idea for dogs?
Yes, boots can be good for dogs as they offer paw protection against rough terrain, extreme temperatures, and other harmful substances.
How do you choose boots for dogs?
When you’re picking out boots for your dog, we suggest that you consider factors such as size, durability, traction, comfort, and water resistance. Plus, it’s also important that you choose a pair of boots based on the intended use.
Do vets recommend dog boots?
Yes, if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, it is highly likely that your vet would recommend that they use boots to protect their paws.
How long can a dog wear a boot?
Dogs can usually wear boots for several hours at a time; however, it’s important that you occasionally check to see if they’re facing any discomfort or irritation.
How cold should it be to wear dog boots?
They can be worn anytime during the cold weather but they are especially beneficial when worn in freezing temperatures — when they have to walk on ice or snow.
Do dogs need rain boots?
Though they may not be absolutely necessary, rain boots for dogs can help keep their paws dry, preventing infections or sensitivities.
