Best dog shoes and paw protectors that stay on

Most dogs just love exploring the outdoors. And your canine’s legs, paws and pads are built exactly for this purpose – tough enough to handle all kinds of rough terrains.

However, there are extreme weather situations and excursions wherein your dog’s paws need extra protection. Be it a walk on the hot asphalt pavement during summers, a hike across an off-road trail, or an excursion in the muddy, slippery surfaces in the rain, wearing dog shoes or paw protectors can help in keeping your pup’s paws comfortable and secure from corrosive chemicals and weather elements.

But which are the best dog shoes and paw protectors that protect the pup’s paws and still stay on?

In this article, we will look at answering exactly the same question and list some of the best dog shoes and paw protectors for urban as well as off-road excursions like camping and hiking. All the options that we have listed are designed to be safe, durable and comfortable for the pooch to wear and work in almost all seasons and weather conditions.

We will also discuss some of the major factors to keep in mind before picking the best dog boots or shoes and also share our top picks. Read On!

Also, check out our article on the best dog cooling collars for another gear to keep your doggo comfortable during outdoor adventures.

Best dog shoes and paw protectors list

Picture	Product	Specifications
	Muttluks Original All-Weather Dog Shoes	Itty Bitty (1.0”) to XLarge (4.25”) Set of 4 shoes	Check Price
	Pawz Disposable Waterproof Dog Boots	Tiny (1.0”) to XLarge (4.75”) Set of 12 shoes	Check Price Chewy Price
	RuffWear Grip Trex Dog Boots	Size 1 (1.5”) to Size 8 (3.25”) Set of 2 or 4 shoes	Check Price
	Canine Equipment Ultimate Trail Dog Boots	XSmall (1.5”) to XLarge (3.5”) Set of 4 shoes	Check Price
	Ultra Paws Durable Dog Boots	Petite (1.25”) to XLarge (4”) Set of 4 shoes	Check Price Chewy Price
	My Busy Dog Water-Resistant Dog Shoes	Size 1 (1.5”) to Size 8 (3.25”) Set of 4 shoes	Check Price Chewy Price
	WINSOON Dog Australia Pet Boots	Size 1 (1.5”) to Size 5 (2.5”) Set of 4 shoes	Check Price
	QUMY Waterproof Dog Boots	Size 5 (2.4”) to Size 8 (3.25”) Set of 4 shoes	Check Price
	EXPAWLORER Waterproof Dog Boots	Size 1 (1.5”) to Size 8 (3.25”) Set of 4 shoes	Check Price
	Bark Brite Neoprene Dog Paw Protectors	Small (2.75”) to XXLarge (4.5”) Set of 4 shoes	Check Price Chewy Price

What are dog shoes and how are they useful?

The dog shoes and paw protectors that we list in this article are much more than fun fashion accessories. They primarily serve the same purpose as human shoes – protect the pet’s paws and pads from weather elements, rough surfaces and injuries while undertaking an on-road or off-road cross-country trip. They also help in improving traction on wet and slippery surfaces.

Typically, all-weather dog shoes are made of breathable nylon, neoprene, Cordura or similar fabric outer- shell/cover with a water-resistant coating to prevent moisture from seeping in. Some paw protectors even use silicone polymer (rubberized material) as their cover material. Some dog shoes even have internal fleece liners for comfort and warmth in cold weather.

The sole of the boots is made of rubber or soft PVC with traction grooves, just like the soles of humans. However, unlike human shoes, which can have laces, dog boots use Zippers or Velcro straps for securing the shoes.

Dog shoes come in a set of two or four shoes. Depending upon the dog’s willingness to keep them on (needless to say – most dogs hate wearing shoes) and your requirements, you can pick a pair of two to begin with.

Dog boots are available in different sizes for paw width ranging from 1.0 inches to over 4.0 inches. Picking the right shoe-size is important and one of the major considerations before picking the best dog booties.

Dog shoes are an important gear for canines and can help in a number of situations. Some of the major roles dog boots and paw protectors can play are:

• Dog shoes provide protection against extreme temperature conditions such as cold, icy surfaces and hot asphalt pavements. They also help in keeping the canine’s paws dry and protect against the snow salts and similar chemicals.
• Dog shoes and paw protectors can provide better grip and traction to the pet, especially in challenging terrains such as icy, wet and muddy surfaces. They can also help in proper traction on hardwood surfaces and prevent accidental scratching of the floor by long pet claws.
• Dog boots help protect the paws, pads and soft surfaces from injuries during off-road adventures. Things like thorns, sharp rocks, broken glass and stinging insects can no longer puncture the paw or pad skin easily. Moreover, dog shoes can protect your pooch against natural allergen plants and insect bites, especially in the wilderness.
• Dog shoes can help in keeping the paws clean even after a walk on sandy or wet/muddy surfaces.
• Dog shoes and paw protectors can help in managing the paw injuries better. If the dog has a paw injury, dog booties can prevent the pet from incessantly licking or biting the injured paw. Shoes and paw protectors can also prevent managing the excessive digging habits in canines.

There are some key factors to consider before deciding whether you want to go with dog shoes or look at alternatives such as applying paw protection balms or building calluses in your canine’s paws with some outdoor training:

• Most dogs hate wearing shoes and boots, especially if they are not trained beforehand. So, if you are planning for a long trip, you would have to make a concentrated effort to train your dog to wear them for prolonged periods.
• Because of the difference in paw sizes (front paws vs rear paws), dog shoes may not stay on and your canine may lose them, either by slipping or deliberately removing them. For dogs with less leg-hair and dew claws, it can be a bigger problem. And since most manufacturers offer dog shoes in sets, you would have to get at least two as a replacement if you lose even one shoe.
• Dog shoes and paw protectors are not the cheapest pet gear. The best all-terrain dog shoes are at least over 20 bucks for a pair, so it would be a sizeable investment on your part, especially if your doggo has a habit of losing them.

Despite all the limitations and challenges mentioned above, dog shoes and boots are almost an essential gear to get for all-weather, all-terrain outdoor trips with your furry companion. And they also work well for better indoor traction on hardwood floors and slippery surfaces.

So, if you are planning for long, outdoor trips with your Fido – be it a walk to the nearby dog park, a hiking trip or any other off-road adventure, you must definitely consider opting for a set of dog shoes or paw protectors.

In the next sections, we will share our picks for the best dog shoes and paw protectors and also list out the factors to keep in mind before picking the best dog boots for your beloved pet.

Which are the best dog shoes and paw protectors?

Muttluks Original All-Weather Dog Shoes – Best dog shoes

Material: 1000 Denier Nylon upper and suede outer sole with Microfiber inner liners. Treaded leather soles.  One self-tightening hook and loop Velcro fastener.
Size:

• Itty-Bitty: 1.0”-1.5” paw width.
• XX-Small: 1.5”-25” paw width.
• X-Small: 2.25”-2.75” paw width
• Small: 2.75”-3.25” paw width.
• Medium: 3.25”-3.75” paw width.
• Large: 3.75”-4.25” paw width.
• X-Large: 4.25”-4.75” paw width.

Price: $$$.
Set: 4 shoes per set.
Features:

• High-quality, all-weather dog shoes with 1000D nylon and suede shell, microfiber inner liners and heavy-duty treaded leather soles. Designed and made in Canada.
• Extra-large opening makes it easy to put the shoes on. Elasticized leg cuffs and a hook-and-loop Velcro fastener provide a secure fit. 3M Reflective strap provides visibility even in low lights.
• Easy to clean – machine washable and can be placed in the dryer on low settings.
• Comes with a draw-string mesh bag for easy carrying
• Available in eight sizes and three vibrant color combinations. Replacement single boots are also available directly through the manufacturer website.
• Heavier and sturdier, Muttluks Mud Monsters Dog Boots are also available from the same manufacturer for summer-time, off-road adventures. Moreover, the manufacturer also offers Muttluks Original Fleece-Lined Dog Shoes that have a fleece lining for better warmth in winters.
• Backed by a lifetime warranty against defects in materials and craftsmanship.

Detail Review:

The Canada-based Muttluks has been a popular manufacturer of premium dog shoes and boots, and their Muttluks Original All-Weather Dog Shoes are the best-selling model. After all, these dog shoes are an excellent option for dog owners who are looking for all-purpose, all-surface dog shoes for occasional or everyday use.

The Muttluks Original All-Weather Dog Shoes are made of 1000D Nylon outer surface with suede toe-lips and shell. The shoe-shell is coated with waterproof Hydroflex for superior weather protection. Like other Muttluks dog shoes, the Muttluks Original All-Weather Dog Shoes are designed and made in Canada.

The main variation these shoes have with some other models is in the liner and sole material. The All-Weather shoes have a very thin microfiber liner and a weather and chemical proof heavy-duty treaded leather sole. The leather sole provides these shoes decent traction on surfaces like asphalt, cemented pavements, soil-based trails and even hardwood (these shoes are non-marking), though not as much as the heavy-treaded rubber dog shoes like the Grip Trex dog boots.

One of the best features of these shoes is their mitten-like design. This design offers enough wriggle-room for the dog’s paws to adjust while walking or running. The shoes are equipped with elasticized leg cuffs and hook-and-loop fastener that provide a secure fit even for dogs with dew claws. The shoe straps have 3M Reflective trims that provide plenty of visibility even in low lights.

The Muttluks All-Weather dog shoes are machine washable and can even be put in the dryer in a gentle cycle (though we recommend air dry only). These shoes are available in eight sizes and three vibrant color combinations and are backed by a satisfaction guaranteed commitment by the manufacturer.

If you are looking for replacements, you can even purchase single shoes directly from the manufacturer. And if you are looking for alternatives, you can check out the Muttluks Mud Monsters Dog Boots also from the same manufacturer for outdoor off-road adventures. Moreover, the manufacturer also offers Muttluks Original Fleece-Lined Dog Shoes that provide better warmth in winters.

Pawz Waterproof Dog Boots – Best disposable dog paw protectors

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Material: 100% natural, waterproof rubber.
Size:

• Tiny: 1.0” paw width.
• XX-Small: 1.5” paw width.
• X-Small: 2.0” paw width
• Small: 2.5” paw width.
• Medium: 3.0” paw width.
• Large: 4.0” paw width.
• X-Large: 4.75” paw width.

Price: $.
Set: 12 shoes per pack.
Features:

• Best-selling, disposable dog boots for all-weather use. Designed and Made in the USA.
• Feature a simple, waterproof balloon-like body that is made of 100% natural rubber. Reusable and disposable, with no padding.
• Designed to take the shape of the paws when put on. Provide all-weather protection and traction control on all surfaces.
• 100% biodegradable, recyclable and environment-friendly.
• Available in eight color combinations and seven dog shoe sizes. Backed by a one-year manufacturer warranty.

Detail Review:

If you are looking for affordable, disposable dog boots for extreme-weather protection, or better traction, or just to keep your dog’s paws clean, then look no further than the Pawz Waterproof Dog Boots. These omnipresent dog shoes (they are available everywhere – online and in pet-stores like Petco and PetSmart) are a perfect option to provide no-frills, no-hassle paw protection to your pooch. These shoes are manufactured in the US.

The Pawz Disposable Waterproof Dog Boots are made of 100% natural rubber. The shoes look almost like balloons, but in reality, they are much more durable and flexible than the rubber toys. The paw protectors are fully waterproof and reusable. The material used in making these boots is 100% biodegradable, recyclable and environment-friendly.

The Pawz dog shoes are designed to take the shape of the paws when put on. These shoes provide all-weather protection and traction control on all surfaces. They do not have any padding or fasteners, so it may be a challenge to put them on (you can use baby powder to help reduce the friction). But once on, they do not slip off easily. Because of their build material, these dog shoes may not last long like most other dog shoes, but

The Pawz Disposable Waterproof Dog Boots are available in five sizes and a wide range of color combinations (eight of them). And They are backed by a one-year manufacturer warranty. Moreover, the best part is that these dog paw protectors are extremely cheap – a set of 12 dog shoes costs well-under 20 dollars.

RuffWear Grip Trex Dog Boots – Best dog shoes for hiking and off-road terrain

Material: 1000 Denier Nylon mesh body with a water-resistant coating. Flexible Vibram (rubberized polymer) sole. Pullover fabric neck gaiter and hook-and-loop Velcro fastener.
Size:

• Size 1: 1.5” paw width.
• Size 2: 1.8” paw width.
• Size 3: 2.0” paw width.
• Size 4: 2.25” paw width.
• Size 5: 2.4” paw width.
• Size 6: 2.65” paw width.
• Size 7: 3.0” paw width.
• Size 8: 3.25” paw width.

Price: $$$.
Set: 2 or 4 boots per set.
Features:

• Best-selling, high-performance dog boots for all-terrain rugged use. Made in Vietnam under US-based RuffWear quality control.
• Feature an insulated nylon-fabric mesh upper with a polyester inner liner and closed-cell foam interior cushion for best-in-class comfort and breathability. Water-resistant, though not fully waterproof.
• Equipped with a patented Vibram rubber outsole with all-weather lugs/treads for optimum traction.
• Comes with a hook-and-loop fastening mechanism with Velcro closure for a secure fit during walks. Also has a pullover stretch gaiter for weather and water protection. Also equipped with 3M reflective trim for low-light visibility.
• Machine washable in gentle cycle and air dry.
• Available in three color combinations – blue, red and black and all eight dog hiking boot sizes.
• Come in a set of two or four boots and backed by a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.
• Insulated RuffWear Polar Trex dog boots are also available specifically for winter use. Softer and lighter Ruffwear Summit Trex dog boots are also available for everyday urban use.

Detail Review:

When it comes to hiking, backpacking and camping gear for canines, Ruffwear is one of the most popular brands. And their line of dog shoes – Summit Trex, Grip Trex and Polar Trex are the best-selling dog boots in the market for years. Like most other RuffWear products, these shoes are made in Vietnam under stringent quality control measures.

The RuffWear Grip Trex dog boots are designed for all-season, all-terrain use and most similar to the human hiking boots in terms of build and performance. These dog boots feature a 1000+D breathable nylon mesh upper with a water-resistant polyester in-sole liner.

The dog boots also have an inner closed-cell foam layer to provide maximum comfort to the canine paw pads during walks. The dog boots have a reflective Vibram rubber outsole with all-weather lugs/treads for optimum traction, even on the roughest off-road terrains.

The RuffWear Grip Trex dog boots are reasonably water-resistant, though not fully waterproof. They are designed to work well in most weather conditions and keep the dog paws cool even in cold conditions. For extreme cold weathers, you may want to look at the Polar Trex shoes for some more insulation and warmth.

One of the best features of the Grip Trex Shoes is their secure and comfortable fastening system. The closure system combines a hook-and-loop mechanism with a small Velcro fastener, that cinches around the narrowest part of the dog’s leg to provide a secure fit. Moreover, pullover stretch gaiters keep snow and moisture out and improve retention by protecting the hook-and-loop ankle closure from the elements. Furthermore, the dog shoes are equipped with 3M reflective trims for easy visibility even in low light.

These best-in-class design features means that these shoes really stay on, even during outdoor excursions in rigorous terrains, provided you have put them on properly on the canines’s feet.

The RuffWear Grip Trex dog boots are easy to clean and machine washable in cold water and gentle cycle. They dry-up pretty quickly in the air. A soft drawstring fabric bag is also included for easy transportation.

The Grip Trex dog boots are available in three reflective color combinations. These shoes are available in eight dog paw sizes and in sets of two or four dog boots.

Like other RuffWear products, the RuffWear Grip Trex dog boots are backed by a limited lifetime warranty on workmanship – a testament to their superior quality and durability.

Canine Equipment Ultimate Trail Dog Boots

Material: 1000 Denier Nylon body with a water-resistant coating and PVC toes. Recycled tire-rubber sole. Two Velcro Straps as shoe fasteners.
Size:

• X-Small: 1.75” front paw; 1.5” back paw.
• Small: 2.0” front paw; 1.75” back paw.
• Medium: 2.5” front paw; 2.25” back paw.
• Large: 3.0” front paw; 2.5” back paw.
• X-Large: 3.5” front paw; 3.0” back paw.

Price: $$$.
Set: 4 boots per set.
Features:

• All-terrain and all-weather dog boots with a high-quality nylon body and wrap-around treaded rubber soles. Recycled sole material. Made in Canada.
• Unique sizing with front and back boots sized differently for best fit.
• One-sided brushed fleece liner provides added softness and warmth.
• Equipped with Velcro cinch closure having two layers of hook and loop fasteners provides a secure fit.
• Easy to clean – machine washable in the delicate cycle and air dry. A garment bag is also included for washing/carrying.
• Available in four sizes and a single black color. Backed by a lifetime warranty by the manufacturer (RC Pets).
• Replacement single shoes are also available directly through the manufacturer website.

Ultra Paws Durable Dog Boots

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Material: 1000 Denier Nylon body with 0.8mm thermoplastic toes. Recycled tire-rubber sole. Two Velcro Straps as fasteners.
Size:

• Petite: 1.25” paw width.
• X-Small: 1.75” paw width.
• Small: 2.25” paw width.
• Medium: 2.75” paw width.
• Large: 3.25” paw width.
• X-Large: 4.0” paw width.

Price: $$.
Set: 4 shoes per set.
Features:

• Durable dog boots featuring 1000D breathable nylon body, flexible thermoplastic toes and skid-resistant rubber sole. The sole is made of Reprotek – recycled tire. Designed in the US and manufactured in China.
• Patented design with twin Velcro strap fasteners. Easy to put on and difficult to slip off the dog’s legs. Adjustable closures and internal foam pads provide superior comfort and temperature control.
• Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Water-resistant and snow-safe, but not fully waterproof.
• Easy to clean – machine washable in the delicate cycle and air dry.
• Available in two colors – red and black and six sizes. Backed by a 30-day return warranty.
• For rugged off-road terrain – the Ultra Paws Rugged Dog Boots are also available from the same manufacturer. For extended traction control- the stretchable Ultra Paws Cozy Paws Traction Dog Boots are also available.

My Busy Dog Water-Resistant Dog Shoes

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Material: High-quality canvas nylon fabric with reinforced stitching, recycled tire-rubber sole, two Velcro Straps as fasteners.
Size:

• Size 1: 1.5” paw width.
• Size 2: 1.8” paw width.
• Size 3: 2.0” paw width.
• Size 4: 2.25” paw width.
• Size 5: 2.4” paw width.
• Size 6: 2.65” paw width.
• Size 7: 3.0” paw width.
• Size 8: 3.25” paw width.

Price: $.
Set: 4 shoes per set.
Features:

• High-quality, value-for-money dog shoes made of high-quality canvas nylon fabric with reinforced stitching. Heavy-duty, anti-slip rubber sole. Made in China.
• Flexible split-seam opening makes it easy to take-on and take-off the shoes. Equipped with two adjustable and reflective fastening Velcro straps to ensure a tight and secure fit.
• Water-resistant and suitable for all weathers. But not totally waterproof.
• Easy to clean – machine washable, though hand wash is most suitable to keep the Velcro strap intact.
• Available in eight sizes and four colors. A single replacement boot is also available directly from the manufacturer.
• Competitively priced and backed by a 30-day money back guaranteed commitment.

WINSOON Dog Australia Pet Boots

Material: High-quality faux-leather outer with velvet liner. Recycled tire-rubber sole, one Velcro Strap fastener.
Size:

• Size 1: 1.5” paw width.
• Size 2: 1.6” paw width.
• Size 3: 1.8” paw width.
• Size 4: 2.0” paw width.
• Size 5: 2.2” paw width.

Price: $.
Set: 4 boots per set.
Features:

• Stylish-looking winter dog boots featuring a faux-leather outer with a velvet inner liner for warmth. Made in China.
• Comes with an anti-skid recycled rubber sole for superior traction in wet and icy conditions.
• Expandable split-seam design makes it easy to put on. High-neck design with a Velcro strap keeps the shoe secure in the pet’s paws.
• Not machine-washable. Wipe with wet cloth and air dry.
• Available in four elegant colors and five sizes. Suitable for small to medium dog breeds only.
• Competitively priced at under 20 dollars for four boots set. Backed by a satisfaction guaranteed commitment by the manufacturer.

QUMY Waterproof Dog Boots

Material: Soft nylon fabric shoe exteriors with waterproof, molded rubber sole. Two reflective, self-adhesive Velcro straps per shoe for fastening.
Size:

• Size 5: 2.7” x 2.2”.
• Size 6: 2.9” x 2.5”.
• Size 7: 3.1” x 2.7”.
• Size 8: 3.3” x 2.9”.

Price: $.
Set: 4 shoes per set.
Features:

• Heavy-duty dog boots with a high-quality nylon fabric upper and molded rubber insole and outsole. Made in China.
• Waterproof sole and water-resistant shoe exteriors with anti-slip treading for superior traction. Not fully waterproof.
• Expanding design with a split-seam opening and two adjustable Velcro straps for easy and secure fastening. The straps are reflective for better visibility even in low light.
• Hand washable and air dry only.
• Available in two colors – red and black, and four sizes.

EXPAWLORER Waterproof Dog Boots

Material: Soft nylon fabric outer shell with treaded rubber sole. Double reflective hook-and-loop fastener straps.
Size:

• Size 1: 1.4” paw width.
• Size 3: 1.8” paw width.
• Size 5: 2.2” paw width.
• Size 6: 2.5” paw width.
• Size 7: 2.0” paw width.
• Size 8: 3.0” paw width.

Price: $.
Set: 4 shoes per set.
Features:

• Cheap, flexible and lightweight dog shoes with a water-resistant nylon body and treaded rubber sole. Made in China.
• Easy to put on with wide split seam top opening. Feature two reflective hook-and-loop fastener straps for securing the shoes in dog’s legs.
• Fleece liner provides some warmth during winters. Flexible lug design and grooved soles provide better traction. Water-resistant but not fully waterproof.
• Easy to clean – machine washable and air dry.
• Available in six sizes and two colors – red and black. Backed by a satisfaction guaranteed commitment by the manufacturer.

Bark Brite Neoprene Dog Paw Protectors

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Material: Soft Neoprene body with treaded rubber sole.  Shoe-slit on the back with two Velcro Straps as fasteners.
Size:

• Small: 2.75” paw width.
• Medium: 3.0” paw width.
• Large: 3.5” paw width.
• X-Large: 4.5” paw width.

Price: $.
Set: 4 shoes per set.
Features:

• Soft, breathable dog booties with Neoprene body and durable treaded rubber sole. Made in China.
• Designed to adjust to the natural shape of the pet’s paws with a snug, spandex-like fit. A thin liner on the shoe-interior provides all-weather comfort and temperature control.
• Comes with two reflective Velcro straps attached to the shoe slit for securing the paw protectors. Has a long shoe-neck to prevent accidental slip offs.
• Flexible, yet water and puncture-resistant, though not as durable as rugged dog boots. Suitable for both outdoor and indoor use.
• Machine washable in the delicate cycle and air dry.
• Available in standard black color and four/five sizes.

How to pick the best dog shoes and paw protectors for indoor and outdoor activities?

With so many different types and models of dog boots, shoes and paw protectors in the market, picking the best dog shoes and paw protectors can be a challenging task. After all, you see such a wide disparity in the prices – from 20-dollars per set to as high as 100-dollars per set. Not every dog shoe is durable and comfortable to the dogs and you should avoid picking a cheap, low-quality dog shoe or paw protector for your beloved pet.

Before picking the best dog boots for your pet, you need to look at a few important factors as discussed below. And if you are ever in doubt, pick one of our top recommendations. You won’t be disappointed!:

• Material of the dog shoes
• Design of the shoes
• Size of the shoes
• Color and style
• Miscellaneous factors and considerations

Material of the dog shoes

The manufacturing material of the shoes – both inner and outer shell, and the sole is an important factor as it governs the durability, comfort and the protection against moisture and weather elements. Why else do you think there is so much variation in the price of these dog boots?

Most dog shoes have a meshed or solid nylon fabric outer with stitched uppers made of PVC, rubber or thicker fabric (not glued). A water-resistant coating on the outer shell and some thin liner (or fleece) on the inside to provide additional weather and water-protection. A meshed upper makes the dog boots a lot more breathable, but it also means slightly lesser protection from the weather elements. The only exception is the disposable Pawz Waterproof Dog Boots, which are made of rubberized silicone and hence are not as breathable for long time wearing.

Dog shoes have elasticized split seams to make it easy to put-off and remove the shoes. Some dog boots such as the RuffWear Grip Trex Dog Boots even offer additional comfort by providing a closed-cell foam insole. Similarly, all-weather shoes such as the Muttluks Original Fleece-Lined Dog Shoes provide additional fleece lining to provide better temperature control – warmth in winters and sweat absorption in summers.

It is important to distinguish between a water-resistant shell and waterproof surface/body of the dog shoes. A water-resistant shoe surface can repel water and survive splashes. For submersion protection such as swimming, you need something that is totally waterproof. Since most dogs do not mind water in their boots, a quick-drying, water-resistant boot should suffice for some rain or pool/pond play as well.

For fasteners, most dog shoes use one or more reflective Velcro straps. The reflective flaps on straps make it easier to spot the dog boots even in low visibility.

The outer sole is generally made of recycled tire-rubber or PVC. Rubberized soles are better because of their flexibility. The soles have treads or lugs to provide better grip and traction. The thicker the sole, the better durability the shoe would have, especially for off-road trips.

Check out the building material of the shell, sole and other supporting parts before picking the best dog shoes or paw protectors for your pooch. If in doubt, pick one of our top choices, as we have listed only the most well-built and durable dog shoes and paw protectors in the market.

Design of the shoes

Closely related to the manufacturing material of the dog boots is the design of the boots – the treads on the sole, the neck height of the boots and closure/fastener design. After all, you are looking for dog shoes that stay on even in the toughest terrains and situations.

The neck height and the fastening mechanism plays an important role in keeping the dog shoes secure on the dog’s paws. Most of the options we listed have either two Velcro strap fasteners or unique hook-and-loop fastener. This dual-fastener design helps in keeping the shoes secure even when your dog is running or engaging in other physical activities.

If the shoes have two fasteners, you would have to tighten the top strap completely to secure the boot in the dog’s paws. You can choose to keep the second strap a little lose for comfort.

The boot toe and the sole design is another important design consideration. Dog boots have bigger toe-lips and deep treads in the sole for better traction, especially during off-road adventures such as hiking. You would not need such a heavy-duty treaded sole for urban and indoor paw protectors, and hence can opt for non-marking, flexible sole shoes.

Check out the aforementioned design features before picking the best dog boots or shoes for your dog. In terms of design, RuffWear Grip Trex and Muttluks Original Fleece-Lined Dog Shoes have probably the best design features and hence our favorites.

Size of the boots

Once you have finalized the dog shoe model, you would need to pick the dog shoes of the right size. An inappropriately sized dog shoe can be comfortable to the canine and may not stay on for long.

Thankfully, most manufacturers offer dog shoe size charts and advice on how to size your dog’s paws. Just make sure you follow the instructions to the fullest and cut your pet’s nails before sizing up the paw. Furthermore, since there can often be a considerable difference between the size of the front and rear paws, you are better-off by sizing each set of paws separately, as you may have to opt for different size shoes for rear paws. Of all the dog shoes that we listed, only Canine Equipment Ultimate Trail Dog Boots offer a set with differently-sized front and rear paws.

The following size-chart, courtesy of My Busy Dog depicts the typical paw width for Size 1 to Size 8 dog shoes.

The following list illustrates the sample dog shoe sizes based on the average weight of specific dog breeds:

• Size 1: Chihuahua, Boston Terrier (Dogs under 10 lbs. may have difficulty with the weight of dog boots).
• Size 2: Shiba Inu, Pug.
• Size 3: Beagle, Corgi,
• Size 4: Bulldog, Australian Shepherd.
• Size 5: Siberian Husky, Standard Poodles, Boxer.
• Size 6: Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retriever, Goldendoodle, Pitbull, German Shepherd.
• Size 7: Rottweiler, Dobermann.
• Size 8: Great Dane, Bernese Mountain Dog.

It is important to reiterate that different dog shoe manufacturers have slight variations in their shoe sizes – some of them list insole shoe dimensions while others list outer-sole dimensions, so you should check the manufacturer specific sizing instructions before placing an order.

Check the size (width and length) of your dog’s paws before picking the best dog boots for your pet. If you end up with an in-between size, size-up and use doggie socks or boot liners.

Color and Style

Though we stated earlier that the dog shoes that we listed are much more than fashion accessories, it does not mean that you should totally discard the fashion element of dog boots and paw protectors. The color and style of the dog shoes is also something to look out for before picking the best dog boots for your pet.

Bright reflective colors are often easy to spot even in low lights, so most outdoor dog boots have reflective Velcro straps. But when it comes to the body of the boots, some models are only available in a single color combination. Our top picks – RuffWear Grip Trex Dog Boots and My Busy Dog Water-Resistant Dog Shoes offer the most options and you can pick one that suits you and your pet’s personality and style. Another brand that has a more fashionable look is the WINSOON Dog Australia Pet Boots, which comes in four-five stylish color combinations.

Miscellaneous factors and considerations

In addition to the major factors discussed above, there are some other miscellaneous considerations that can make a dog shoe model a preferable option over other dog shoes.

One such consideration is the number of dog shoes in a set and the availability of replacement boots. Some dog boots are available in a set of 4 boots, while others are available in a set of 2 boots only. A 4-shoe set makes the dog boots more affordable, but if the boots are available in a set of 2 boots, you can pick a different size for the rear paws.

Finally, the most important additional consideration is the warranty and after-sales support provided by the manufacturer. The general rule of thumb is that longer the warranty period, the more reliable and durable the dog boots would be. Top manufacturers such as RuffWear and Canine Hardware/RC Pets score big in this category as they offer excellent lifetime warranties on their products. Some other brands offer short-term 30 or 60-day warranties, so you would have to check the size and fit immediately after getting the dog shoes or paw protectors

You can look at all these features to determine if they make specific dog boots model a better choice over others.

Alternatives to dog shoes and paw protectors

If your dog just hates the dog shoes and cannot keep it on, then you have a couple of alternatives that you can try out, especially for traction on hardwood floors and outdoor pavements.

Traction Pads and Pad Grips

The best option for traction on hard floors is to use traction pads, or pad grips as they are sometimes known as. Some of the best traction pad grips and traction pads available in the market are listed below:

• Loobani PadGrips Traction Pads: Most popular dog traction pads. Available in set of 48 pads and six sizes ranging from small to XXXLarge. Disposable and biodegradable.
• VALFRID Dog Rugged Traction Pads: Another budget traction pad option. Available in a set of 24 pads and six sizes.
• PawFriction Paw Pad Traction: A revolutionary, vet-approved paw pad coating system that increases traction and improves stability. Available in a 4-application pack.

Paw Pads Toughening Spray

Another option is to apply paw pads toughening spray such as Pad-Tough Protective Covering Agent or TUF-FOOT Liquid Foot Spray regularly. These products are guaranteed to toughen soft, cracked, sore and tender feet. It is recommended to apply the spray daily until feet are in good condition, then apply only twice a week.

Paw Protection Balm

Finally, you can also apply some paw protection balm on your dog’s paws. A layer of wax-based cream protects the paws from hot pavements, ice and salt. Musher’s Secret Pet Paw Protection Wax is the best-selling, 100% natural, non-toxic and non-staining wax-based balm for your pooch. Baely Dog Paw Protection Balm is another excellent organic paw protection cream for dogs and cats. It also works well for dry snouts.

Dog Socks and Liners

You can also try out dog socks and boot liners. These socks and liners can be used with dog boots and can also be worn without the shoes for indoor protection and better grip on hardwood floors:

• EXPOWLOLER Anti-Slip Dog Socks: Budget non-skid dog socks with silicone gel sole and elastic band. Available in five sizes and multiple color combinations, suitable for almost all dog breeds.
• PUPTECK Anti-Slip Dog Socks: Cheapest anti-slip dog socks that come with a Velcro band for secure fastening. Available in four sizes and a single color.
• RuffWear Bark’n Boot Liners: Best-quality dog boot liners. Thin, quick-drying and comfortable for the pet to wear on paws. Available in standard gray color and a set of four socks.

Final thoughts on the best dog shoes and paw protectors

Be it a walk on the hot asphalt pavement during summers, a hiking trip across an off-road trail, or an excursion in wet, slippery surfaces in the rain, wearing dog shoes or paw protectors can help in providing proper traction and keeping your pup’s paws comfortable and secure from corrosive surfaces and weather elements.

In this article, we looked at some of the best dog shoes and paw protectors available in the market for urban as well as off-terrain use. The dog shoes that we listed are much more than fashion accessories – they provide protection against snow, salt, pointed rocks and hot surfaces and keep your pet’s paws and pads safe and injury-free.

We also discussed the major factors to keep in mind before picking the best dog shoes and boots and also shared our top picks.

We hope that you found this article useful and it would help you in picking the best dog shoes or paw protectors for your pooch’s indoor and outdoor adventures. Do let us know your feedback by commenting below. Until next time, happy running or walking with your Fido!

Image credits:Amazon.com