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Best Dog Booties
Last Updated:
February 21, 2021
Dogs have naturally tough paws–but when the weather or terrain gets particularly tough, a little extra protection from some quality boots can go a long way. To help you find the perfect fit for you and your pup, we reviewed the most popular 19 dog boots on the market today. The pair that stood high above the rest were Kurgo’s Winter Dog Boots for flexible sizing, durability and versatility.
The Kurgo Step N Strobe boots are trying to bring innovation to the market. The boots themselves are water-resistant and can withstand a number of environments. They allow your dog to keep up with you anywhere and you can be assured that their paws will be protected. Though that is great, the innovation their trying to bring to you is the LED lights built into them. At first this seems like a great idea, but they haven’t gotten it completely figured out. Many people report that these lights die off very quickly and don’t justify a price hike. Overall, if you need good outdoor boots and don’t mind paying a little extra for a gimmick, then you should consider getting these.
We love the appearance of these little knock-off boots based on the design of the famous Australian lambswool boots you see celebrities wearing. However, just like the real Uggs, these aren’t terribly practical for severe weather or extended wear, they are just cozy to wear with the faux fur that’s soft around the ankles.
The soles are a flexible but soft rubber, and the boots can be wiped clean after use.
Two velcro straps with slides for fastening the boots
Material
Nylon material
Soles
Skid resistant rubber from recycled tires that works in wet and dry environments alike
Sizes
4 sizes 2.25’’ - 4’’
Our Review
These are great dog boots if you and your furry friend are active all the time. The Ultra Paws Rugged boots are easy to put on, water resistant and will ensure protection for your dogs paws. Now, it isn’t completely waterproof and the velcro has been known to come undone in wet conditions. But if you’re in need of boots for your dog for hiking, hunting or any outdoor activity – then you should highly consider these boots.
Breathable mesh fabric upper and hemmed soft cloth
Soles
Synthetic leather
Sizes
5 sizes 1.97” - 3.15”
Our Review
The LONSUNEER Soft Sole boot is a low-cost boot designed with comfort in mind. They’re fairly basic boots that offer relief and help for dogs who have trouble staying on their feet. It isn’t perfect with sizing and has been reported to run big. These boots also aren’t stellar in wet environments over a long period of time nor are they particularly durable. However, you’re not getting these to go hiking or run along the beach. The allure for these boots is to help a dog with slick surfaces inside and prevent any kind of pain from short walks outside. All that at a low price is why we recommend this if you’re looking for an easy boot to start with.
Rugged lug design provided flexibility and traction on varied terrain
Sizes
1.5’’-3.75’’
Our Review
The Ruffwear Grip Trex boots are wonderful boots at a great value. They are ideal for hiking with your dog, especially if they have trouble with hot surfaces. Owners have reported that some chafing occurs when they go on longer walks (Ruffwear recommends you use their socks along with the shoe to help prevent this, but people have had mixed success with it). This dog boot is excellent but it does run big. So if you and your dog are larger than life, then you should consider trying out this boot.
Pullover design does create “hot” spots that cause chafing
Product Details
Fit / Design
Hook-and-loop with hardware closure with pullover for extra protection
Material
Insulated softshell fabric with reinforced canvas
Soles
Vibram outsole with winter-specific traction design
Sizes
1.5’’ - 3.25’’
Our Review
The Ruffwear Polar Trex boot is an excellent choice for winter walks and hikes. It’s very well insulated and has many features to secure the boot to your dog. However, at a very high price point, we expected it to be a bit more versatile and for the sizing to be easier. Many people reported that it runs big and that it wouldn’t stay on their dogs feet for long. With that said, many people have also reported that this works perfect for them and prevents any ice build up. The Polar Trex is definitely situational and beware that it runs big.
Expands into a wide split seam opening and uses velcro straps for tight fit
Material
Water-resistant mesh and stitched canvas
Soles
Molded rubber with traction and protection from hot pavement
Sizes
6 sizes 1.9’’ - 2.9’’
Our Review
The QUMY dog shoes are a great budget buy for someone looking for a quality shoe. It’s easy to put on and can protect your dog from the elements. The comes in limited sizes but you can ensure your dog will fit before you purchase. People have reported that this shoe holds up to daily walks. The biggest complaints is that the shoe itself is a little stiff and that quality control from QUMY is somewhat lacking. Some people have gotten shoes with manufacturing flaws but were able to return them. Overall, this shoe is amazing for the price and should be consider if you need a dog shoes for daily use.
The Canine Equipment dog boots are an all around great option. What makes them stand apart from other is that they design front and hind boots to be different. Also, their boots are machine washable and come with a garment bag to make it easy to do. There are reports of the difference between the front and hind boots don’t work out for every dog. Be careful and keep that in mind when you pick a size. The other complaint about these boots is that the velcro strap accumulates a LOT of dirt – so it’s a good thing you can throw it in the wash machine. This boot is another solid option for owners and falls within a mid price point.
Wide split for ease of putting on and velcro straps for secure closure with foam cushion for grip
Material
Water-resistant nylon
Soles
Thermoplastic material
Sizes
6 sizes 1’’- 4’’
Our Review
The Ultra Paws Durable dog boots is their attempt to make a boot that works for large and small dogs alike. Where these boots shine is that they’re great for indoor and outdoor use. For older dogs, these boots could really make a difference and help with traction. However, some people have complained that the soles of the shoes just don’t hold up very well. If you use this for hikes or any intense trip/run – it won’t last long at all. You should only consider these boots if you have a dog who struggles with slick surfaces and could use the extra traction and protection.
2 color options (with or without reflective tape-on strap)
Allows flexibility for natural movement
What we Dislike
Lacks in durability
Can twists around paws if not properly fitted
Product Details
Fit / Design
Velcro strap for secure closure
Material
Upper is a double layer of soft mesh and soft cloth. Lower is nylon and reinforced stitching
Soles
Rubber sole
Sizes
5 sizes 2.15’’ - 3.15’’
Our Review
A great budget pick, the HiPaw Breathable Mesh dog boots is a good basic product on the market. What makes it standout is the low price and the fact it doesn’t hinder any natural movement. You are giving up durability for the low cost and if it doesn’t fit properly is will slip off or twist around. So, if you’re looking for something that protects your dog’s paws from a hot sidewalk or ice build up, then this is an efficient low cost way to do it.
The HiPaw Rugged dog boots are rugged version of the HiPaw Breathable Mesh boots. Where those boots shine, however, these certainly don’t. They do come in 2 colors to pick from and reflective tape for visibility. But many people have complained that they slip off from easily, which may be due to the limits in their sizes. Also, they don’t really provide support or hold up in any condition other than pavement. If you’re looking for low-budget boots to protect your dog from hot pavement, then consider these.
The EXPAWLORER Waterproof Dog boots are an excellent pick if you need something to help your dog get through winter. It’s at a pretty reasonable price and comes in a wide range of sizes so you can ensure a good fit. However, price does come with the cost of not being very durable. These boots will only last you a few months before they begin to fall apart. But the biggest gripe we have with these boots is that they’re not actually completely waterproof. They are certainly water resistant and do a good job keeping your dog’s paws dry. But if completely submerged, your going to have a soaked dog paw, no doubt about it.
The Bark Brite All Weather boots are an excellent choice if you need a soft boot for daily use. They’re what you would be from a boot made from neoprene: soft, flexible, and warm. It’s ideal if you’re looking for water resistant boots that you could also use for daily walks. However, people have reported that they tear very easily when their dog is walking on rough surfaces. Unless you’re using this boot where the chance of a sharp edges are next to none, this boot will surely tear. There’s also a number of people who have reported that their larger dogs wear these out quick. So if you need a warm boot for a medium or smaller dog who may have sensitive paws, then you may want to consider this.
Best Products
Best Dog Booties
Product Name
Best for
Rate
Kurgo Step-n-Strobe Dog Boots
Best Quality
7
Zekoo Australian Dog Boots
Most Fashionable
6
Lonsuneer Soft Sole Boot
Best on a Budget
8
Ruffwear Grip Trex Boots
Best Overall
8
How To Choose
While researching dog boots, we dug into the factors that are essential for finding the perfect pair. We were looking for common issues, customer favorites, and markers for quality. In the end, this is the criteria we created to assess the boots.
Fit / Design
If you’ve ever tried putting a boot on a dog before, you know that it’s not always easy. That’s why we prioritized how the boots are designed to fit over your dog’s paws, as well as how they stay secured in place. Most boot use a velcro strap, but sometimes there are additional features that assist you.
Material
Quality, durability, and water resistant is largely determined by the materials used. For this category, we’re looking at what the boots are physically constructed out of, how tough those materials are, and how effective they are at keeping out the elements. It’s important to note that water-resistant and waterproof are not the same, so keep an eye out if this is important to you.
Soles
This is perhaps the “sole” reason you’re looking into dog boots. Jokes aside, the sole (or lack thereof) gives your dog the ability to keep up on long runs, find grips on hikes, and stay dry in inclement weather. Different soles prioritize different activities, so it’s important to consider what you’re getting these boots for.
Sizes
While this category seems fairly straightforward, it’s not one to be neglected. Here, we’re looking specifically at how wide the boots are in inches, as well as how many size options the boots come in. More times than not, the manufacturer will have you only measure the width of your dog’s paws to determine which size to go with. Some designs only come in one size, so be mindful to check the fit.
When Dog Boots Are Necessary
You may have seen the silly videos of dogs clomping around awkwardly in their brand-new boots. Perhaps surprisingly, dog boots do have more uses than just going viral for laughs.
In extreme conditions of every kind–from sizzling pavement to rugged hiking trails, snowy streets to shallow streams–it’s important to keep your dog’s paws insulated and protected.
Heat
A good rule of thumb to determine if boots are needed is to press your hand against the ground. If you would be comfortable staying in that position, then your dog should be fine. If not, then strongly consider a protective barrier for your dog, or sticking to the grass.
Snow
If you live in a city or suburb, there is one big factor you should consider before taking your dog for a walk in wintry weather: snow-melting chemicals. The salt (and even some non-toxic alternatives) can literally burn your dog’s paws and leave them with sores. Additionally, ice can get in-between their pads and cause pain.
Hikes / Long-Distance Runs
Yes, it’s true–dogs are descended from wolves and were once able to froclick freely throughout the woods. But just like how humans now need gear to safely climb trees, dogs need gear to stay safe on rocky surfaces or during repetitive impacts (like long-distance runs). In both cases, boots can give your pup a stronger grip while protecting them from sharp objects.
Old Age
It happens to us all. When pups get older, walking can become more difficult. Some dogs benefit from having boots to give them some extra traction. As always, ask your veterinarian if this may be the right option for your particular situation.
Finding the Perfect Fit and Size
Just like with any gear for your dog, it’s important to measure carefully in order to get a safe, secure, and comfortable fit. Nearly every boot manufacturer has their own sizing system, so read the size information carefully before ordering.
In order to measure your dog’s paw width, you can either use soft-tape or a piece of string and a ruler. Just wrap the soft tape or string around the center of your dog’s paw (around the base of the pad). Typically, size charts will come with detailed instructions as well.
As a final note, don’t forget to double-check if the boot you’re ordering has other measurements to consider as well. For some more unique or elaborate designs, you may need to look at paw length, too.
No Snakes In These Boots
Having a good set of boots for your dog can go a long way for preventing injuries on walks, no matter the weather or terrain. With a solid, comfortable fit, you and your pup can enjoy whatever elements nature throws at you!
We hope this guide has helped you to make sense of the many dog boot options on the market. Please let us know which ones you picked and what you think!
