Besides looking super cute, many dog owners may wonder... are dog socks actually a good idea? Well, dog socks can be useful both indoors and outdoors to protect paws. Dog owners use dog socks to protect paws in the winter from snow and ice balls collecting between the toes and in the summer from hot pavement and seasonal allergies. Since dog socks are more flexible and lightweight, many dogs find dog socks easier to walk in. Here are the ways that our customers use our dog shoes for their pups!
Our customers use our dog socks in a variety of ways - in the spring to protect from allergens, in the summer to protect from hot pavement, and in the winter to protect from ice balls collecting between the toes and and prevent irritation from harsh ice melts. Our dog boots can be used indoors too to help with grip or to protect injuries.
Dog Socks for Walking Outdoors
Small dogs tend to be more particular about dog boots as soles are often too stiff and inflexible. Good luck walking a dog who is uncomfortable in their boots! Dog socks are a great option for small dogs who need some protection outside from weather conditions such as hot pavement or snow, or from rough terrain. In the summer, the temperature of pavement can reach over 140 degrees so many dog owners choose to put a pair of dog socks on to protect their dog's paws from burns and injuries.
For smaller dogs, the wear and tear on shoes is less compared to large dogs, which makes dog socks a good option for a season or two. Both our Soft Sole Shortie dog shoes and our All Season dog boots are also a great solution as it is durable and protective like a dog boot, but has the flexibility and fit like a dog sock.
For larger dogs, dog socks are still a good option for shorter walks if your dog does not walk in thicker boots. Dog socks will wear out overtime due to the scraping against pavement or road, but will provide the protection and comfort needed for a stroll outside!
For those who want to protect their dog’s paws from the snow and salts on the streets, a pair of dog socks with a rubber coating will be water resistant enough to accomplish that goal and keep paws dry and protected. Look for a dog sock where the non-slip rubber coating goes around the entirety of the sock, which will continue to provide grip even if the sock twists.
Dog Socks to Prevent Slipping on Slippery Hardwood Floors
Older dogs or dogs with hip issues or illnesses such as Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) may benefit from wearing dog socks. Dogs with weaker legs often struggle getting up from the floor and need additional support on tile or hardwood flooring where slipping could result in nail and leg injuries. Non-slip dog socks can be helpful in this case to give the dog additional stability and grip. With weaker hind legs, dogs often drag their feet when walking which results in scrapes and bleeding nails. A lightweight pair of dog socks with an anti-slip sole will provide ample foot protection without a lot of bulk. Look for ones like our dog shoes where the grip is around the entirely of the sole - this will help ensure there is always grip when if the sock twists during movement!
Since dog socks are lighter and more breathable, they can be worn for longer periods of time indoors compared to thicker dog boots. But as always, it’s important to give your dog breaks and remove dog socks when they are not needed. Some dog owners opt to put dog socks only on their dog during the most active periods of the day and give their dog’s paws a break at night.
Dog Socks To Prevent Licking
For dogs with allergies who like to lick or chew their paws, putting dog socks on paws are a good way to prevent licking which could worsen the condition. For dog socks to help with irritations, look for a breathable looser material to help the healing process for sensitive areas.
Dog Socks For Allergies
Just like us humans, dogs often have seasonal allergies which cause itchiness and discomfort. During periods where there are high levels of allergens in the air, a pair of dog socks can help prevent your dog from having direct contact with on their paws and reduce potential inflammation and irritation. Some of our customers' dogs are allergic to grass, so dog socks are a great way to still let their dogs roam and have fun without the after-effects of constant itchiness!
Dog Socks for Injuries and Dragging Paws
For dogs recovering post-injury, dog socks are a great option to help keep affected areas around the foot and lower leg clean from debris. Given dog socks’ lightweight material, they can help protect the wound or injury while keeping the dog as comfortable as possible!
Dog socks are a great way to protect pups with dragging paws and protect their paws and nails from abrasion and scrapes.
Dog Socks for Protection
For those who love to bring their dogs out on outdoor water adventures, dog socks can be helpful if you like to bring them on floats and paddleboards. Adventurous dog owners use dog socks to prevent their dog nails from puncturing sports equipment like floats, while being able to bring their pups on the expawditions! Dog socks can also help protect paws from rougher terrain such as hot stones along the riverbank, foxtails on trails, and coral reefs that can cut paw pads.
