Are dog boots really necessary? Should dogs wear dog booties?
There are many situations where dog booties will help protect your dog’s paws! Dog owners find that dog boots are especially helpful to protect against snow, hot pavement, or if the dog has injuries, allergies or needs additional stability on slippery floors. Some breeds have more sensitive paw pads generally and require protection against rough terrain.
Dog Boots for Winter
Many dog parents will use dog boots for winter to protect their dog’s paws from harsh chemicals and salts used on city sidewalks. The ice melts and de-icers can lead to dry and cracked paw pads which are painful for dogs and direct contact should be avoided especially for dogs who tend to lick their paws after walks.
In addition, some furry breeds are more prone to ice and snow building up between the toes and around the pad of the foot. The ice balls can be very uncomfortable and even painful for dogs to walk on. Finally, dog boots serve as a barrier between the paws and the snow which can be helpful for warmth particular for smaller dogs or dogs with thinner coats.
Dog Boots for Hot Pavement
In the summer, asphalt on sidewalks can very hot! In fact, sidewalks heat up much hotter than the temperature outside and can lead to paw burns if the dog’s foot is not unprotected. Putting on dog boots in the summer can be helpful to protect paws from hot grounds if shade or grassy areas are not available.
Protect Paws from Injury
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Rough Terrain - For dog parents who like to take their pups out on hikes and adventures, dog boots can be helpful to protect paws from weeds and grasses like foxtails can lead to irritations and serious irritations. In addition, on extended hikes, it is helpful to carry a set of dog boots to prevent paw pads from becoming raw from overuse.
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Injury - If your dog has any foot injuries like cuts or scrapes, keeping the paws dry and clean will help with the healing process.
Soft and flexible dog boots can be used to protect dragging paws from scrapes and blisters. This is particularly helpful for elderly dogs or dogs diagnosed with illnesses such as DM.
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Allergies - Some dogs are allergic to pollen or grass and putting boots on during walks will help reduce contact and prevent irritation!
Dog Boots for Indoors
Lightweight dog booties like our All-Season Dog Boots can be very helpful to provide support for elderly dogs with weaker legs or those who need more grip and stability. When buying boots for indoor use, make sure the dog boot’s soles are flexible and comfortable on the paws. In addition, hardwood flooring or tile floors can be tricky and very slippery for some older dogs. A dog bootie with a sole that has extra grip will be helpful to prevent older dogs from slipping and injuries. Dog boots may also be need for some older dogs with medical conditions, as they may start to drag their hind feet which can then cause damage to their nails and paw pads. Putting light breathable dog booties on your dog will protect them from abrasion.
Most importantly, ensuring the dog is comfortable in the boots is key to keeping them on. Our dog boots can be worn both outdoors and indoors and have a soft shell that moves with the dog and longer length for the hind legs to ensure that perfect fit!
