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By Chloe Jeong: The Spruce Pets
While dogs can get along fine without shoes, they may benefit from having a pair of boots in the winter.
Your dog is at increased risk for injuries like cracked paws and bleeding if they walk around on ice that has accumulated in the hair between their toes. In order to prevent frostbite and other problems, the American Veterinary Medical Association recommends checking a dog's feet frequently during winter walks and washing their paws when they get home. Also, keep an eye out for hot pavement, which can become several degrees hotter than the surrounding air temperature because it absorbs and retains the sun's heat.
Your dog needs boots that fit well, are simple to put on and take off, and are functional for the kinds of outings you've planned with him. For the most part, we recommend the QUMY Dog Boots Waterproof Shoes because they are the most practical and convenient. Still, we uncovered a variety of alternatives that could be more comfortable for your dog's paws. Here are the top options for dog boots to narrow your search.

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Strap that can be tightened for a snug fit.
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Rigid, nonslip rubber outsole
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Sizes and colors to suit your needs
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Walk safely in the dark with these reflective tapes
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Definitely not something you can throw in the washing machine
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Not appropriate for wading through water or sand.
These boots, which come in six different hues (including leopard print), have a split seam opening that makes them simple to put on and take off. Two velcro straps ensure a secure and comfortable fit. These shoes have reflective material on the outside of both straps, making them perfect for nighttime use. The QUMY Dog Boots Waterproof Shoes will keep your dog's paws dry and warm in wet, icy, or snowy conditions, as their name implies.
Boots for your dog should fit snugly, as a loose foot can cause chafing. There are seven distinct sizes available for QUMY Dog Boots, and the product page even includes instructions for determining your dog's paw size.
As of this writing, the price is $29.
Primarily made out of rubber and velcro | Comes in 7 sizes | Not machine washable

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Economically viable
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Comes in a variety of vibrant hues
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Waterproof
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The Sizes Are Versatile
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Designed to melt, not endure snow
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Some dogs simply can't stand them.
PawZ Rubber Dog Boots are a great way to see if dog boots are a good fit for you and your dog's lifestyle before committing to a full pair. The PawZ Rubber Dog Boots come in a pack of 12 and are designed to fit over your dog's paws like socks, with a stretchy rubber collar to keep them in place.
They're great for keeping your dog's paws dry, but they won't keep his feet warm. Grip soles are also absent from the PawZ footwear. In their place is a uniform rubber that is thin enough to allow your dog's paw to grip normally in most situations. However, if you need warm boots or boots for strenuous hiking, you should probably look elsewhere. If you want something simple to put on your dog's paws before playing in the mud, these are the way to go.
15 dollars as of publication.
Rubber is the primary material, with seven different sizes ranging from extra-small to extra-extra-large.
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Human-grade sneaker materials
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Sets available with enlarged front paws.
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Dewclaw is safe due to the design.
High-top sneaker design meets top-tier breathability in the Caesar 1S. They have a gusset-tongue, padded collar, and a hook-and-loop closure, just like human sneakers.
The upper of the Rifruf Caesar 1S is made from breathable mesh, making them less suitable for winter wear than many other dog boots. However, the Caesar 1S has a rubber outsole and midsole for long walks on rough ground and low insulation.
Eight sizes are available for the Caesar 1S (Rifruf provides a fit guide for various dog breeds), and you can even purchase separate sizes for your dog's front and back paws.
As of this writing, the price is .
Rubber and mesh make up the majority of this product, and it comes in a total of eight different sizes.

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Extra-warm fleece lining.
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Flexible leather soles that offer protection
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Strap that can be loosened or tightened, featuring reflective fabric
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Machine-washable
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Pricey
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Ineffective on wet and muddy ground
Muttluks dog boots are designed to do just that with their combination of waterproof treated nylon and a fleece lining. The Muttluks Fleece-Lined Boots have a leather sole instead of a rubber one for grip, so they move and flex with your dog's paws like they would if they were barefoot. They have a reflective hook-and-loop strap that holds them in place.
The Muttluks Original Fleece-Lined Dog Boots are washable in the washing machine; however, the leather soles should be re-treated with waterproofing wax after each wash to maintain their suppleness and longevity.
Currently, the price is (as of the time of this writing).
Fabricated primarily from Nylon and leather; available in eight sizes ranging from extra-small to extra-large; machine washable

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Wraparound reflectivity
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Designed to withstand harsh conditions and environments
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Offered for purchase in pairs or fours
The Vibram rubber outsoles of Ruffwear Grip Trex Outdoor Dog Boots are identical to those of human hiking boots. These dog boots are equipped with a gripping lug design, making them ideal for rough trails and varying terrain. The polyester mesh upper is breathable and tightly woven to keep out trail debris. The Ruffwear dog shoes, like the Rifruf ones featured elsewhere in this roundup, feature a gusset design to create a wide opening and a hook-and-loop closure at the narrowest part of your dog's leg. They're designed to be seen in low light thanks to their reflective accents.
The front and back paws of your dog can be fitted separately with the help of Ruffwear dog boots, which are sold in pairs. Moreover, they can be cleaned in the washing machine. Boots should be washed in cold water on a delicate cycle with a mild detergent and dried naturally.
Current price ($40)
Sizes: 8 | Main Material: Polyester & Vibram Rubber | Machine Washable: Yes

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Cozy, cushioned footwear
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Serves as a barrier against precipitation and muck
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In two different ways, you can safely walk
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Not impervious to water under severe conditions
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Requires drying on a rack
The Canada Pooch Soft Shield Boots have a tall profile and fitting features that make them especially easy to use with large dogs, though all of the dog boots we recommend are available in a range of sizes that should accommodate most dog breeds. The Soft Shield boots have a roomy opening and two closures to keep your feet dry and comfortable. The first is an ordinary strap that fastens just above the paw and is equipped with reflective material. The second type of fastener is an independent drawstring toggle that allows you to secure the boot to your dog's leg at a higher elevation. The polyester outer shell is 15% Spandex for a more comfortable, stretchy fit.
Cold and wet weather can't stop your pup from wearing the Canada Pooch Soft Shield Boots, which are lined with polyester and have a waterproof outer shell. They can also be machine washed, inside out, on a gentle cycle in cold water, and dried by hanging.
As of this writing, the cost is $55.
The primary material consists of polyester and Spandex, and the sole is made of a rubberized grip material. They come in a total of six different sizes, and you can wash them in a machine (inside out, on the

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Reasonably Priced
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In both hot and cold temperatures
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Nighttime visibility thanks to reflectivity
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Water-resistant
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No polar fleece lining
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You can't wash it in the washing machine
The Qumy Dog Shoes for Small Dogs are available in five sizes, with a fine-tuned size range that allows for a custom fit. The smallest size is appropriate for puppies weighing less than 6 pounds, so all sizes are created with small dogs in mind. Medium-sized dogs like beagles and French bulldogs can wear the largest size.
The front of the Qumy Small Dogs boots zips open completely so that they can be slipped on with ease, and there is also a Velcro strap that can be used to secure the boots in place. Like the other boots we suggest, these have a reflective hook-and-loop closure strap to secure them securely over your dog's paws.
The Qumy Dog Shoes for Small Dogs are waterproof, insulated, and have a rubber grip sole, so even your puppies will be prepared for the cold weather.
$20 as of this writing.
Fabricated primarily of polyester with a rubber outsole; available in five sizes; not machine washable

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Waterproof
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Soles made of rubber
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Adjustable
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Size determination is a hassle.
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Sometimes leads to chafing of the dewclaw
These shoes have a thick, rubber sole that is both slip- and water-resistant, making them ideal for wet and slick conditions. They are ideal for indoor use if your dog is prone to slipping on smooth surfaces like tile or polished wood. The EXPAWLORER (what a pun) boots have a standard hook-and-loop strap closure plus a wide opening at the top for your dog's paws to slip in and out of.
As of this writing, the price is $27.
Material: Polyester; Sizes: Eight; Hand Wash Only; No Machine Wash

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Wraps around the ankle with an adjustable hook-and-loop strap.
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A cinching strap that can be adjusted around the ankle
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Designed to shield paws from the hazards posed by paved surfaces, snow, ice, asphalt, and uneven ground.
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Waterproof nylon mesh
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The bottom of the shoe is shaped like a dog's paw.
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Stick-on reflective tape
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Only available in packs of four.
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There are only two colors, black and red, to choose from.
Kurgo Blaze Cross Dog Boots provide all-weather security. Steamy pavement and sun-soaked sand can be just as irritating to a dog's paws as snow, rain, and ice. This pair of dog boots is constructed from a breathable nylon mesh, making them ideal for use in the warmer months. To make your dog more comfortable, the sole is fashioned after the form and function of a paw. In addition, the elastic cord and hook-and-loop strap closures at the ankles allow for a custom fit that holds but isn't restrictive.
As of this writing, the price is $59.
Fabricated primarily of nylon and synthetic leather; available in six sizes; not machine washable; hang to dry
Although there are dog boots designed for various weather conditions, we recommend the QUMY Dog Boots Waterproof Shoes because they are warm, dry quickly, and come in a wide variety of colors. The Muttlucks Original Fleece-Lined Dog Boots are a good option if you're shopping for footwear for your dog during the colder months.
Finding dog boots that fit properly is the most crucial step. Your dog will be uncomfortable and unable to move freely if the collar and leash are too close together. However, your dog will be clumsier on its feet if its boots are too big, and it won't be able to avoid tripping over them if they do slip off.
Depending on the environment, one may need a different grip. While a leather or thin rubber sole may be the closest your dog will get to the feeling of walking barefoot, there are times when more traction would be preferable. Look for a lug design similar to that of human hiking boots if you intend to take your dog on long hikes. Whether or not the rubber sole wraps over the front of the bootie, providing a cap to protect your dog's paws from big rocks, is another factor to think about.
Typically, the Velcro-like hook-and-loop straps on dog boots are adjusted to a snug fit around the canine's calf. However, the ease and safety of the fit can be affected by a number of secondary factors. Although boots with wide slit closures are simple to put on, they can be easily scraped off by your dog. Additional fitting features like elastic wristbands, drawstring waists, and zippers can be time-consuming to implement but are well worth the effort for a snug garment.
Uppers made of Nylon or nylon mesh are better suited for warmer weather, while those made of Polyester, especially those with a polyester fleece lining, are better suited for the colder months. The same high-quality materials that you'd want in a pair of human shoes are also ideal for a pair of dog boots.
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In extreme temperatures or when there is snow, dogs may benefit from wearing boots. During the summer, asphalt can get very hot and cause paw burns to your dog. In the colder months, your pet's paw pads may become irritated from exposure to salt and ice melting products. Furthermore, snow and ice can accumulate in the spaces between the toes of a dog with furry feet. Dog boots are also necessary if your pet sustains an injury to one of its paws. To aid in the healing process, a boot can be worn over the injury.
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The question is, how do I prevent the dog boots from slipping off?
Properly fitting dog boots are the first line of defense against lost footwear. Unsecured, too-big dog boots are a hazard to the dog's safety. Selecting dog boots with a Velcro strap can improve the fit, especially for dogs with narrow paws and legs. Dog boots should never be overly tightened or chosen for a size that is too small, as this could prevent blood flow to the paws. Dog boot liners, or even infant socks, are another option. Such items can make dog boots more comfortable to wear and less likely to rub.
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When shopping for dog boots, how do I determine the correct size?
Having your dog place a paw on a blank sheet of paper is the most common way to determine the correct size of boots to buy for your pet. Just like when your dog is walking, you want to make sure the paw pad is fully spread when you pet your dog. Then, make pencil marks at the end of the longest toenail, the middle of the paw, and the bottom of the paw pad. Then, measure the paw from top to bottom and side to side to get its exact proportions. For accurate results, trim your dog's nails to the appropriate length before you begin measuring.
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In what way do I don dog boots?
Most dog owners will agree that if you can get your dog to stand still, you'll have an easier time putting the boots on. Put one paw inside a pair of wide-open shoes. A finger at the boot's back may be necessary to keep it open and make room for the paw to slide in. After putting on the boot, the paw should be placed back on the floor so that the pad can rest on the boot's sole. Finally, fasten the boot's closure. It should be repeated for the other paws.
Whenever possible, The Spruce Pets bases its product recommendations on the most recent scientific findings. As pet owners and animal advocates, our writers also rely on information from veterinarians and other professionals in the animal care industry.
We looked at various designs that worked well in different climates and were a good fit for a dog's paws to determine which ones were the best dog boots. Because of their height or width, we determined that they would be painful to a dog's dewclaw and therefore eliminated them. All of the boots on this list are the same ones that Steven Rowe would buy for his own rescue beagle, who hates walking barefoot in the snow.
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Association of American Veterinarians Care for Animals in the Cold
Below, please find Part 9 of 9.