Dog boots.
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The Best Dog Boots (that stay on!) on the Market

Whether you’re walking the sidewalks of a big city or running for miles in the countryside, chances are your dog will need a good pair of dog boots to keep their paws safe. Paw protection is key to keeping your dog healthy, safe and comfortable!

Here are the best dog boots on the market – and they actually stay on!

Dog boots
Gus of @phillypugs

Why should your dog wear dog boots?

I have to admit, I was weary of dog boots at first. Growing up, my family dog never wore them. I wondered if they were a necessity or more of a fashion statement.

But I soon discovered that they’re incredibly useful! They’re great for a myriad of reasons:

  • They protect your dog’s paws from hot pavement, sand, snow and salt. 
  • They keep dog’s paws clean of debris and dirt.
  • They shield cuts and scrapes from dirt, and keep them dry, preventing infection and irritation.
  • They add traction, preventing slips and falls.
  • They help dogs with allergies – some dogs are even allergic to grass!

When should your dog wear dog boots?

Here are a couple of situations where you might find that a pair of dog boots come in handy:

  • Hiking – If your dog will be navigating tough terrain, boots help protect their paws and provide traction.
  • During the Winter – Slippery ice and harsh ice-melting chemicals can be avoided with dog boots.
  • Injured Paw – Keep wounds clean and free from infection.
  • Rainy weather – Say goodbye to soggy paws!
  • Senior pups – Help seniors with mobility issues grip surfaces and stay on all fours.
Dog shoes in winter.

How to get your dog to wear dog boots

You’ve seen the videos on social media: a dog puts on boots for the first time and starts to walk like they’ve just downed five jumbo margaritas and are leaving the bar.

Some dogs will even flop over and stiffen up, something known as “bootie paralysis” by veterinarians.

If your dog is suddenly stricken by these boot afflictions, don’t worry. They’re totally normal (and hilarious).

Your dog can, and will, get used to their boots and will start walking normally again soon. Luckily there are a few things you can do to speed up the process:

  • Familiarize your dog with the boots. Leave them out, and let your dogs sniff them. They’ll get used to them before they actually have to wear them.
  • Start practicing wearing boots at home, or in a safe space where your dog feels comfortable. Start with just one boot at a time.
  • Offer lots of treats and praise!
  • Be patient and consistent. Don’t worry, your dog will eventually get the hang of their new boots.
Dog boots.

Things to keep in mind when choosing the right dog boots

Fit

Fit is important because the boot should be comfortable and stay on. Dog boots should be comfortable and not too tight. You may have to try a few dog boot varieties before finding the one that fits your dog best.

Always read the size guide and measure your dog’s paw before ordering.

Material

Your dog boots should be made from waterproof or water-resistant material.

Sole

You want the sole to be flexible so your dog can walk naturally.

If you’re using the boots for activities like hiking or running, get a pair with textured soles for good grip and traction.

1. PawZ Dog Boots

A dog wearing Pawz.

The dog boot low down: These are the famous “balloon dog boots,” because they look like deflated balloons! They come in seven sizes, so they fit all breeds, which is probably why you’ve seen them everywhere.

Why they’re great: PawZ are great in all sorts of situations – on rainy days, in extreme weather conditions and on tough terrain. They come in packs of 12, so it’s easy to replace a bootie if one gets damaged or lost. Plus, they’re disposable and biodegradable.

I love PawZ because the material is so thin that my dog can feel the ground and feels secure. Once I got the hang of slipping them on, he got used to them pretty quickly, so no boot paralysis!

Skip them if: You hate replacing things. PawZ are disposable, so depending on your dog’s activity level, they’ll have to be replaced. Also, skip them if you’re a fan of velcro or zippers.

Cost: $12 – $14

2. Ruffwear Grip Trex

Ruffwear Grip Trex dog boots.

The dog boot low down: These rugged boots, sold in a pack of two or four, are great for active dogs on the go. They come in three different colors.

Why they’re great: These high-performance boots feature resilient soles with great traction and grip, breathable mesh for ventilation, and a hook-and-loop attachment to cinch around your dog’s leg.

Skip them if: You’re not outdoorsy. These boots are ideal for backpacking, hiking, mountain biking, trail running and any other outdoor adventures.

Also, they’re not great for rainy days; water may seep in to the mesh material.

Cost: $37.50 for a pair.

3. AblePet Waterproof boots

AblePet Waterproof boots.

The dog boot low down: These dog boots are lightweight, durable, and inexpensive. They come in five sizes: S, M, L, XL, and XXL.

Why they’re great: These AblePet boots focus on two things – they’re waterproof and non-slip, so they’re great for rainy days and/or for dogs with traction issues.

Skip them if: You don’t like using velcro.

Cost: $20

4. Walkee Paws

Walkee Paws dog boots.

The dog boot low down: These dog boots probably look a little different to you. That’s because they come with leggings! They attach over-the-back, for an easy slip on fit.

Why they’re great: These waterproof booties don’t only keep your dog’s paws dry, but they protect their legs too. This is great for long haired breeds who track in water and mud. They’re also lightweight and easy to clean.

Skip them if: You’re only looking to cover two paws, instead of all four.

Cost: $42.99

5. All-Weather Muttluks

All-Weather Muttluks dog boots.

The dog boot low down: Muttluks is a Canadian brand that makes an assortment of different dog boots for all sorts of weather.

Why they’re great: The All-Weather Muttluks are great for all types of situations, like hot pavement or sand, burrs, ice, snow and salt. They come in a re-usable mesh bag packaging, and feature reflective straps for a secure fit.

Skip them if: You’re on a budget. They’re on the expensive side.

Cost: $56.99

6. PoochieBoots

PoochieBoots.

The dog boot low down: The inspiration for PoochieBoots came while on a snowy walk in Central Park. Founder Karyn Pek set out to make quality, fashionable dog boots for her dog and others.

Why they’re great: Each set of PoochieBoots comes with four boots in a storage pouch and include two sets of interchangeable straps. They have soft and flexible soles, adjustable velcro straps, and fleece lining.

Skip them if: You’re going hiking on rough terrain – these offer light duty protection.

Cost: $42

7. Wag Wellies from Wagwear

Wag Wellies from Wagwear

The dog boot low down: These Wag Wellies are like little Wellington boots for your dog. Get yourself a matching color in human boots and you’ve got yourself a rainy day twinning win.

Why they’re great: Besides their sleek and chic design, the Wag Wellies are 100% rubber and built to last. They have open-vented slits so they’re easy to slide on, and a velcro strap for a secure fit. They’re made for rainy days and puddle jumping.

Skip them if: You live in a dry climate with little to no rain.

Cost: $49

8. Good2go

Good2go dog boots.

The dog boot low down: These Good2Go Silicone boots offer waterproof coverage and textured soles for great coverage in multiple climates.

Why they’re great: They’re easy to slip on and off, and their bright colors make them easy to spot when traveling. They’re also a great option if you’re on a budget.

Skip them if: You’re not ok ordering multiple pairs. The sizing is a bit off, so better safe than sorry!

Cost: $14.99

Did your favorite boots make the list?


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Paw protection is key to keeping your dog healthy, safe and comfortable. Here are the best dog boots on the market.

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2 Comments

  1. Loved the article each and every thing is discussed in depth thanks for sharing this type of content.

  2. This was an insightful read. I have bought disposable natural rubber dog boots for my dog from Pawz. They don’t fall and are waterproof as well. Love them! Highly recommended for dog parents.

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