Best Dog Shoes and Boots of 2025
The best dog shoes for all dogs in different conditions and weather year-round
March 4th, 2025
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Seeing your dog clomp around in little shoes is one of the cutest, funniest experiences. But does your dog need dog boots? Probably not, except in very specific circumstances. If you live somewhere consistently very hot, or very snowy and cold, you may want to consider dog shoes.
I used to be a die-hard dog shoe fan, and thought that any temperature over 70 or under 40 required me to break out my dog’s shoes. In fact, dog boots were one of the first things I purchased for my rescue dog, Miso, when I adopted her in 2021. I planned on hiking with my dog consistently, so she needed dog boots, right? Not really.
As a dog trainer, dog sport competitor, and dog show exhibitor, I’ve learned a lot on the topic of dog shoes over the last few years, and many dog owners and dog trainers have mixed opinions on using them. It seems counterintuitive, but some dog boots can cause dogs to overheat, can cause hotspots and skin irritation if sized wrong, and can actually make your dog feel less balanced since they can’t feel the ground or flex their toes normally.
That’s not to say that dog boots aren’t useful, because they can be—in certain conditions. If you live in extremely hot or cold climates, dog shoes will keep your furry friend’s feet protected from the elements. If you hike a lot and your dog is prone to slipping paw pads or breaking nails, booties can help with that too. If your dog is injured or disabled, or older and could use some extra traction, dog boots are also useful. And lastly, if you’re simply tired of cleaning ice, snowballs, or mud off of your long-haired dog’s feet and legs, booties can also help keep them clean (and keep you sane).
Amid all our hiking, camping, and overlanding adventures the last four years, Miso has never slipped a pad or actually needed boots. What she does need boots for, though, are long hikes in deep snow when it’s really cold out. After about 10 minutes of walking in the snow in sub-20-degree weather, she’ll stop walking or start picking up her paws in discomfort.
All dogs are different, and whether you need dog shoes will depend on a number of different factors. Choosing the best dog boots for your dog will depend on the climate you live in, your dog’s sensitivity levels, your dog’s foot shape and size, and the activities you do together on a regular basis.
I tested 11 of the best dog shoes alongside my two dogs, Miso the Border Collie mix, and Dashi the Rough Collie. Their pack of dog friends also assisted: including Mack the Cattle Dog mix, Tide the Border Collie, and Oslo the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Below are the best dog boots that are easy to put on and take off, offer good range of movement for the dogs, are suitable for specific weather, and more.
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Comparison table
| DOG SHOES AND BOOTS | TREELINE AWARD | BEST FOR | MATERIALS | PAW WIDTH |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Non-stop dogwear Protector bootie | Best overall Read why |
Mushing, hiking | Polythene, nitrile rubber, nylon | 1.2 - 3.5" |
| Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Boots | Best for hiking Read why |
Hiking, biking | Polyester upper, Vibram rubber outsole | 1.5 - 3" |
| Non-stop dogwear Long distance bootie | Best affordable Read why |
Skiing, mushing | Nylon | 0.4 - 3.5" |
| wagwear WagWellies | Best waterproof Read why |
Puddle jumping | Rubber | 0.5 - 3.6" |
| Canada Pooch Hot Pavement Boots | Best for hot pavement Read why |
Hot pavement or sand | Polyester upper, rubber outsole | 1 - 3.8" |
The winners
Best overall dog boots/shoes: Non-stop Dogwear Protector Bootie
Material: Polythene, nitrile rubber, nylon
Available sizes: 1.2 - 3.5"
What we liked: Comfortable sock-style bootie; grippy rubber outsole; lightweight; good range of movement
What we didn’t like: Strong Velcro feels like it’ll rip the fabric of the bootie
The Non-stop Dogwear Protector Booties are the only boots I genuinely liked and didn’t have many complaints about. They’re pretty easy to put on and take off, with a wide opening and stretchy material that you can easily tug over your dog’s foot. You do need to pull the boot all the way up so your dog’s front nails are touching the front edge of the boot for a proper fit, which can take some practice, especially if your dog is wiggly.
Non-stop Dogwear Protector Bootie
The single Velcro closure is quick and easy to tighten, and the only con is that the Velcro material is so strong that it sometimes feels like it’s going to rip the boot fabric. The sizing is pretty true to size, but if your dog is between sizes, size down.
These boots are structured just the right amount. They have a nitrile rubber outsole that’s grippy and helps you when putting them on, since there’s a clear top and bottom (unlike the other sock-style boots we tested). Non-stop says that the material beneath the rubber outsole is level five anti-cut, so they’re resistant to sharp objects.
The best part of the Protector Bootie is the range of motion for the dogs. The stretchy material allows dogs to fully stretch and flex their paws like they normally would without boots on. This makes dogs feel more balanced and sure on their feet. I found that boots with thicker soles didn’t allow dogs to feel the ground as well, and they were more prone to slipping or walking oddly.
The Protector Booties do well in the snow and actually stay on. Photo by Jae Thomas
The thin but strong outsole protects paw pads from ice, snow, and sharp objects without feeling awkward to the dogs. Even our tester dogs, who hadn’t been formally introduced to boots before this, got used to this pair after a few minutes of wear. The Protector Bootie hits the perfect balance of durable, lightweight, and comfortable.
These boots stayed secure on our tester dogs, even while they ran at high speeds and played. I didn’t notice any slipping and didn’t need to readjust them at all during testing. The Protector Booties are also waterproof enough to hold up to Colorado snow—though the outside material got wet in the snow on a testing walk, the inside kept the dog’s feet completely dry.
The Protector Booties are waterproof enough for short walks and hikes in the snow. Photo by Jae Thomas
The Protector Booties are very reasonably priced at $37 for a pack of four. Because they’re a sock-style bootie without a true outsole, they likely won’t last forever (especially if your dog has very long nails or is constantly walking and running on rough surfaces, loose terrain, or slick surfaces). So the price is a reflection of the fact that you may need to replace them down the line. Non-stop Dogwear says “In general, it is not realistic to expect a set of dog booties to last for an extended period.”
I agree with this statement. You may be wondering why I don't recommend the most durable dog shoes on the market instead. That’s mainly because extremely durable dog boots often don’t offer the same grip, range of motion, and comfort for the dogs as this sock-style bootie.
Best dog boots for hiking: Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Boots
Material: Polyester upper, Vibram rubber outsole
Available sizes: 1.5 - 3"
What we liked: Easy to get on and off; grippy Vibram outsole; decent amount of sizes; breathable
What we didn’t like: Sizing felt a bit off for dogs with oval feet; not waterproof or water resistant
Though I generally think the Non-stop Dogwear Protector Bootie is a better choice for most situations, a traditional dog shoe with a rubber sole has its time and place–notably for hiking. If you need a rubber-soled dog boot with good traction, the Ruffwear Grip Trex is a reliable option.
The Ruffwear Grip Trex boots are a good pick for anyone who hikes with their dog on a lot of loose, rocky terrain, or slick, slippery rock where the dog could use the support of a more structured boot, but the grip of a real rubber outsole. The Vibram rubber sole of the Grip Trex performs great on slippery surfaces, so well that I often see service dog handlers using these boots for walking their dogs around the mall, stores, and other locations with slick flooring.
Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Boots
The Ruffwear Grip Trex boots were the first dog boots I bought for Miso when I adopted her. Photo by Jae Thomas
The Ruffwear Grip Trex are also great boots for dogs with limb differences. I’ve seen dogs in wheelchairs who drag their back feet, and dogs with paws that don’t function quite right all using the Ruffwear Grip Trex boots. It makes sense—they’re durable enough for the wear and tear caused by dragging and daily use, but secure and comfortable enough to add support for dogs who need it.
If you have a dog who needs to wear boots for the majority of their walks (for whatever reason), the Ruffwear Grip Trex will likely outlast the softer, more flexible sock-style booties we also recommend. They’re priced higher to match the difference in durability ($80 for four boots), but they last quite a while. The Ruffwear Grip Trex were the first dog boots I bought for my dog Miso in 2021 when I adopted her, and they still look practically brand new.
Four years later and the Ruffwear Grip Tex are still in pretty good condition. Photo by Jae Thomas
If you opt for these boots, know that the sizing could be a bit off depending on your dog’s foot shape. While testing the Grip Trex with my Rough Collie, Dashi, I noticed that the length and width of Ruffwear’s boots don’t fit every dog. Dashi has longer, narrower, oval-shaped feet than Miso. Miso’s feet are classically round, and what some dog folks would call “cat feet.”
Dashi’s rear feet measure in at 1.5 inches wide, and while this size in the Ruffwear Grip Trex fit the width of her paws, it ended up being too short lengthwise to properly support her paw pads. When I sized up, the length was more appropriate, but there was a bit more room up near the toes, which could cause the boots to slip off if not tightened properly.
If possible before you buy, go to a local retailer who carries Ruffwear boots to measure them against your dog’s paws to make sure they’ll fit. If your dog has oval or hare feet (paws with two longer middle toes), a different brand may be a better pick for them.
Best affordable dog boots/shoes: Non-stop Dogwear Long Distance Bootie
Material: Nylon
Available sizes: 0.4 - 3.5"
What we liked: Low price; good for snow; comfortable for dogs
What we didn’t like: Slippery on indoor flooring; easy to put dogs foot in on the stitching; sock-style bootie won’t last forever
The Non-stop Dogwear Long Distance Booties are great for the following reasons: They’re easy to put on and take off, they’re water resistant and protective enough to be functional, and they’re cheap. If you need a spare pair of dog boots for occasional below-zero temps, long walks in the snow, or for any foot injuries that may pop up, the Long Distance Booties should be your go-to pick if you don’t want to break the bank.
Non-stop Dogwear Long Distance Bootie
The Long Distance Booties actually stay on your dog. During testing, none of our tester dogs ever lost one of these boots while running, playing, or hiking. The Velcro on these boots (and on the other Non-stop Dogwear shoes on this list) is extremely strong. That’s a plus, since it keeps the booties on your dog’s feet, even during running and rowdy play. It’s a downside because this Velcro will snag any other material it gets stuck on, and sometimes feels like it’s going to rip off the boot when you undo it.
The Long Distance Booties are a bit less durable than the protector booties, but they’re also less expensive. Photo by Jae Thomas
Mushing teams often use similar thin sock-style booties to protect their sled dogs’ paw pads from freezing temperatures and ice. These boots would also be a good, cheap option for any dogs who participate in skijoring, snowshoeing, or other winter snow sports.
Like with the Protector Bootie, the Long Distance Bootie offers good range of motion to dogs, and allows them to feel the ground and flex their toes as they would without a boot on. They’re also super lightweight and even our sensitive tester dogs got used to them after a few minutes of wear.
One of the downsides of this lightweight sock-style boot is that they’re slippery on some hard surfaces. Our tester dogs slipped a bit on the hardwood floor in my house when we put them on before going outside. I wouldn’t use these booties for icy conditions or for walking around indoor areas. Another small downside is that because they’re a square shape, it’s easy to put them such that the stitching is on the bottom of your dog’s foot. The flat part of the fabric should be on the top and bottom, so you may have to readjust if you put one on wrong.
The Velcro closure on the Non-stop Dogwear Long Distance Booties keeps them secure, even during intense running. Photo by Jae Thomas
The other main downside is that these boots won’t last forever with heavy wear. They’re a fabric bootie, so depending on the surfaces you’re using them on and the length of your dog’s nails, you’re going to see some wear and tear. However, if you don’t plan on using them often or if you simply want a budget-friendly boot option, the Long Distance Booties will only run you $15 for a pack of four—a really good deal.
Best waterproof dog boots: Wagwear Wagwellies
Material: Rubber
Available sizes: 0.5 - 3.6"
What we liked: The only boots we tested that were completely waterproof; secure fit once on; grippy outer material
What we didn’t like: Hard to get on if the sizing is correct; sizing seemed off; long Velcro was annoying to use
I don’t think most dogs need a truly 100% waterproof dog boot, but there are cases to be made for one. If your dog has a toe or paw pad injury that needs to stay fully dry or if you live in a very rainy climate and are simply tired of cleaning wet, muddy paws after every walk, opt for the Wagwell Wagwellies.
Wagwear Wagwellies
These welly-style rubber boots were the only ones in the pool that were completely waterproof. When exposed to direct water under the sink, the Wagwellies did not get wet on the inside. When they fit properly on the dog, there’s no room for water to get in either of the side holes, either.
Aside from their superior waterproofing, the Wagwellies weren’t my favorite dog boots. They’re difficult to get on since they’re supposed to fit snugly. The rubber outsole, though it offers good grip, makes it hard to get dog’s paws in the boot, since the paw is basically getting stuck on the rubber the whole time. The opening on these boots is far too small in my opinion, and the long Velcro closure gets stuck on itself frequently.
The Wagwellies are completely waterproof, but long hair may stick out of the sides if you don’t put them on carefully. Photo by Jae Thomas
However, it does have other pros. I love that there are 10 different sizes available in this boot—the most of any on this list. Wagwell also offers the most sizing options on this list for extra-small breeds like Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and Maltese. While you should never order dog boots without measuring based on the recommended sizing alone, the recommended sizing for Wagwellies seemed somewhat off in my testing.
My older dog, Miso, has front paws that measure at two inches and back paws that measure about 1.75 inches. She has classic round cat feet, and fits well in all the other boots of similar size. Wagwell says that the small size fits dogs with paw widths from 1 ⅞ to 2 ⅛ inches, and body weights from 25-35 pounds. The example dog breed for this size is a small breed—a French Bulldog.
The Wagwellies do well in the snow, offer decent traction, and stay on, but they’re hard to put on your dog. Photo by Jae Thomas
Miso actually has paws that are quite big for her size. She weighs about 45 pounds and is 20.5 inches at the shoulder, so she’s a true medium breed. Given this sizing and the brand recommendations, I think the recommended breed and weight sizing is off, and these boots run about one size too small.
Considering the waterproofing and the vast range of sizes though, some of my qualms with these boots may seem unimportant. If you have a very small dog and can’t find teeny tiny boots to fit them, or if you need a truly waterproof dog boot, go for the Wagwellies.
Best dog shoes for hot pavement: Canada Pooch Hot Pavement Boots
Material: Polyester upper, rubber outsole
Available sizes: 1 - 3.8"
What we liked: Fairly easy to get on and off; great breathability; lightweight and sock-like; secure fit thanks to two closures
What we didn’t like: Not waterproof; grip on indoor flooring wasn’t great
If you live in a hot climate and have no need for waterproof, snow-friendly boots, the Canada Pooch Hot Pavement Boots will do the trick. They’re made of a breathable mesh upper and flexible rubber outsole that wears like a sock, but protects like a true rubber-soled dog boot.
Canada Pooch Hot Pavement Boots
These boots were pretty easy to get on and off, and they stay on well thanks to a Velcro strap and an additional cinch closure at the top of the boot. This was another sock-style dog boot that our tester dogs moved easily in. They provide enough structure on the bottom to protect from hot asphalt in summer temps, but are soft and lightweight enough that dogs don’t mind wearing them and get used to them quickly. The breathable mesh outsole offers good ventilation for paws, so your dog won’t overheat in high temperatures.
The dual closure system on the Hot Pavement Boots is easy to use, but keeps the shoes secure. Photo by Jae Thomas
Though it was winter when I tested these, I think they’re also a good option for water shoes for your dog. If you go kayaking, paddleboarding, or do any other water-focused activities with your dog in the summer, the Hot Pavement boots will give your dog some added grip and protection near the water, as well as in the parking lot or on pavement. The mesh upper and drainage holes on the soles ensure your dog’s feet don’t stay soggy. I kayak regularly with my two dogs and have seen many fish hooks, broken glass bottles, and slippery, mossy rocks near lakes and beaches, so it doesn’t hurt to add some extra paw protection.
The Canada Pooch Hot Pavement boots cost between $50 and $60 for a pack of four depending on the size, and the recommended sizing seems pretty accurate. If your dog is between sizes, I found that either way you go doesn’t really matter. The flexible sock-style is easy to tighten or loosen to your preferences, so even if the boots are a little big, they still function well.
Other dog boots and shoes we tested
Frisco Wrapped Dog Boots
Material: Polyester upper, rubber outsole
Available sizes: 1.5 - 3.25"
What we liked: Easy to get your dog’s foot in the opening; reflective detailing
What we didn’t like: Not waterproof; Velcro was weaker than other options; grip wasn’t as good as other options
The Frisco Wrapped Dog Boots were most similar to the Ruffwear Summit Trex, but underperformed in some categories in comparison. Though they’re easy to put on and were secure when tightened, I found that they ran slightly big. The multiple wrap around Velcro closure also surprisingly keeps you from securing the boot as tight as a boot with a closure that only wraps around once.
Frisco Wrapped Dog Boots
The Frisco Wrapped Boot is most similar to the Ruffwear Summit Trex, but didn’t stay on as well and was less grippy. Photo by Jae Thomas
These boots aren’t waterproof, but they’re decent quality, have reflective details, and stayed on relatively well during testing. If you’re set on a boot with a rigid sole and are on a tight budget, the Frisco Wrapped Dog boots could be an okay option, given their low price of $36 for four boots.
Material: Nylon
Available sizes: 0.4 - 3.5"
What we liked: Protects hair on legs from snowballs; lightweight; dogs didn’t mind them
What we didn’t like: Slippery on indoor floors; opening at top is a bit hard to get dogs’ feet in; gets dirty easily; most sizes out of stock at the time of writing
The Non-stop Dogwear Contact Bootie High is by far the best pick for reducing snowballs on long haired dogs, thanks to the high-coverage design. They run true to size, and are very secure with two Velcro closures. However, a few features kept these sock-style dog shoes from being named one of our winners.
The Non-Stop Dogwear Contact Bootie High were the best at keeping snowballs off Dashi’s legs, but they’re a bit harder to put on than our top picks. Photo by Jae Thomas
Firstly, these booties are somewhat difficult to get on if sized properly. The fabric column is long and thin, and tends to get caught on dog’s dew claws while putting them on. The shorter but similar Long Distance Booties were much easier to put on.
The Contact Bootie High isn’t completely waterproof, so they’re best used in dry, powdery snow. They’re also very slippery on hardwood floors, and my tester dogs were slipping around walking to my front door to get outside—these wouldn’t be a good pick for any dog who’s already unsteady on their feet. Once outside, the lack of grip didn’t seem to bother the dogs though.
Non-stop Dogwear Contact Bootie High
Two strong velcro closures keep the Non-stop Dogwear Contact Bootie High shoes secure. Photo by Jae Thomas
Material: Polyester/ spandex upper, Vibram rubber outsole
Available sizes: 1.5 - 3.25"
What we liked: Vibram sole; feels well-made; warm in dry conditions
What we didn’t like: Took the longest to get on of all the boots we tested; zipper is hard to use; water leaked through during testing though they’re marketed as waterproof; sizing felt a bit off for dogs with oval feet; expensive
I wanted to love the Ruffwear Polar Trex Boots—they’re well-made, designed to be waterproof and warm, and have an impressive Vibram rubber outsole for lots of grip. However, I found some flaws with these boots during testing. Namely, they’re hard to get on properly. There’s a zipped fabric gaiter on top of the Velcro section of this boot, and the zipper is tiny and hard to use. The Velcro closure beneath it also tends to get stuck on the fabric gaiter.
These boots took the longest to put on and take off of the options on this list. They stay on well if you put them on perfectly each time, but the longer process to get them on means you won’t always get a perfect fit on the first try.
Ruffwear Polar Trex Dog Boots
The Ruffwear Polar Trex shoes are difficult to get on. Photo by Jae Thomas
They’re also not as waterproof as advertised. In our testing, water started soaking through this boot after about 20 seconds under the sink. The Polar Trex boots were more waterproof than other options on this list, but we expected better performance in wet conditions. These boots would be mostly fine in the snow (what they were designed for) and if your dog steps in one odd puddle, but wouldn't be great for heavy, consistent rain. The foot section of the boot stayed mostly dry in snowy conditions, but I also found some snow and ice accumulation inside the gaiter after my tester dogs ran around in the snow, which is what the gaiter is there to prevent.
Material: Coated polyester, rubber outsole
Available sizes: 1.5 - 3.25"
What we liked: Vibram outsole; easy to get on and off; decently water resistant
What we didn’t like: Sizing felt a bit off for dogs with oval feet; not as grippy as Grip Trex
The Ruffwear Summit Trex Dog Shoes were a middle-of-the-road boot in our testing. Nothing was drastically wrong with these boots, but nothing really stood out, either.
They were relatively easy to get on and off, with a nice large opening and a simple Velcro closure. They had decent grip with the Vibram rubber outsole, but the tread pattern on the other Ruffwear options offered more traction. They’re a bit thinner and lighter than the Grip Trex boots, and they didn’t stay on quite as well. They’re not fully waterproof, but they’re moderately water resistant and did decently in the snow, although they accumulated some ice around the top Velcro closure while out on a walk.
Ruffwear Summit Trex Dog Shoes
The Ruffwear Summit Trex shoes are a bit lighter than the Grip Trex, but the Grip Trex offers better traction. Photo by Jae Thomas
Like other Ruffwear options, the recommended sizing may be slightly off on these boots, depending on your dog’s foot length. I found that for dogs with oval and hare-shaped feet, many of the Ruffwear boot options would fit widthwise, but be too short lengthwise. Sizing up solves this problem in most cases, but could add extra room that makes the boots too wide, depending on your dog’s foot shape.
Material: Nylon mesh upper, rubber outsole
Available sizes: 2 - 3.25"
What we liked: Double closure for more secure fit; good traction
What we didn’t like: Expensive; no size options for smaller dogs
The Kurgo Blaze boots were frontrunners in some of our testing. They offer a secure fit with two types of closures, have good soles that provide traction, and feel well-made. However, these boots are quite bulky and stiff, and our tester dogs had a hard time getting used to them. They also only come in sizes ranging from two inch paw width up to three and a half inch paw width, so there are no options for smaller dogs.
Kurgo Blaze Dog Boots
The Kurgo Blaze boots have excellent grip, but the sizing favors big dogs. Photo by Jae Thomas
Material: Rubber
Available sizes: 0.5 - 3.6"
What we liked: Ventilation holes for hot weather; secure fit; grippy exterior
What we didn’t like: Long Velcro is annoying to use; a bit difficult to get dogs’ paws in if the sizing is correct
The biggest draw of the classic Wagwell Wagwellies is that they’re waterproof. The hot-weather version, the Wagwellies Mojave, takes the waterproofing away with ventilation holes for breathability. We think that the softer, more flexible Canada Pooch Hot Pavement Boots are a better summer boot for the vast majority of dogs. They’re easier to put on and take off than the Wagwellies Mojave, and the sizing ran more true to size than the Wagwellies.
Wagwear Wagwellies Mojave
The small opening and long Velcro of the Wagwellies and Wagwellies Mojave made them difficult to put on. Photo by Jae Thomas
I found both of the Wagwellies models to have odd sizing. The size small (1 7/8 to 2 1/8 inches in paw width) is recommended for 25-35 pound dogs, with French Bulldogs given as an example. My dogs are 45 pounds and have 1.75-2 inch paws. The size small was very hard to get on a two inch paw. While the width seems okay, the length was definitely off, even for my dog with a more round cat foot.
Why your dog needs boots or shoes
Though dog boots are undoubtedly cute and useful in some situations, your dog likely doesn’t need shoes except in very specific circumstances. Here are the main reasons your dog may need to wear boots or shoes:
In extreme heat: If you live in Phoenix, Arizona, Las Vegas, Nevada, Florida, or another hot location, your dog may need boots in the summertime to protect their paws from hot sidewalk and asphalt. If you live in a city (even if it doesn’t get as hot as Arizona and Nevada) where you walk your dog primarily on pavement, you may also need dog boots to protect your pups’ paw pads. Vets generally agree that 85-degree air temperature is the upper level limit where sidewalks and asphalt become too hot for dog paws, but this depends on the dog.
Some dogs won’t have issues with walking around in warm weather, especially breeds that were developed for hot climates, those who have grown up in hot climates, and those that are mainly walking on dirt and grass. Use your common sense when walking your dog in the summer. If your dog is showing signs of being hot (slow movement, heavy panting, and picking up their paws from the heat, wrap up your walk and head indoors.
In extreme cold: Similar to heat, dog paws can be susceptible to damage from extreme cold. Unless you have a breed developed to be in a cold climate, extreme cold temperatures like 10 degrees and below may be uncomfortable for your dog to walk in. If you notice your dog picking up their paws on your walk in the snow, consider getting some dog shoes for chilly temperatures.
In snowy and icy conditions with low temperatures, your dog may feel more comfortable walking with booties. Photo by Jae Thomas
For long exposure to snow and ice: If you’re planning on skiing or snowshoeing with your dog, boots or shoes are a good idea to protect their paws from ice and snowballs. Opt for soft sock-style dog shoes developed for mushing and other winter dog sports.
To reduce snowballs: Some long-haired breeds (like my Rough Collie) get snowballs on their feet and the hair on their legs that can be quite uncomfortable for them and hard to get out for their owners. While these kinds of dogs may not be bothered by the snow generally, opting for a pair of boots can save you the hassle of getting snow out of their fur, and keep them more comfortable on long hikes and walks in the snow.
On rough hiking terrain: If you have a dog who has sensitive paws while hiking, boots could help. However, note that some dogs have a harder time hiking in dog boots with thick soles since they can’t feel the ground as well, and this could affect their balance. If your dog isn’t at risk of an injury while hiking, it’s best to let them build up calluses over time so that their paws become less sensitive. To learn more about hiking with your dog, check out our Hiking with Dogs 101 guide.
If they’re injured: If your dog has slipped a paw pad, cut their foot, broken a toenail, or has any other injury on their paws, it’s helpful to have boots on hand to protect their feet from further injury and protection. This is the main reason why you should condition your dogs to boots before you need them.
For extra traction: If you know you’ll be walking around on slick concrete or wood floors with your dog, shoes can help your dog feel more stable.
What to look for in dog shoes and boots
Traction and grip
Whether you need dog shoes with traction or grip depends on what you’ll be using them for. If you’re mainly using them to protect your pet from cold, icy temps, a sock-style boot with no sole works nicely. If you need them to walk your pet around on slick concrete or wood floors, opt for a pair with rubber soles.
Different materials (and grip patterns) yield differing amounts of traction. Photo by Jae Thomas
Waterproofing
Most of the dog boots we tested weren’t sufficiently waterproof to keep your dog’s feet dry in torrential downpours, even if they claimed to be waterproof. The two main reasons to get dog boots are to protect your dog’s feet in extremely cold or extremely hot weather, so paws getting wet isn’t really a safety issue. Some boots were more water-resistant than others though, which can help keep your dog’s feet warmer in snowy and slushy conditions.
On multiple dogs, snow got through the gaiter and into the top half of the Polar Trex shoes during testing. Photo by Jae Thomas
Insulation for cold weather
Some people may think that because dogs' feet are sensitive to the cold, they need insulated dog boots. This isn’t the case for the vast majority of dogs. Even one layer of fabric will provide adequate protection from the cold in most cases. Keeping your dog’s feet from accumulating snowballs is more effective in keeping them warm than buying insulated dog boots, and even thin sock-style boots can do that.
There are exceptions to this rule, of course. If you have a very old, thin-coated dog and you live in a place where the temperatures are in the negatives all winter, you may want to opt for insulated dog boots. The only boots on this list that are insulated are the Ruffwear Polar Trex.
Breathability for hot conditions
Breathability is huge for dog boots. Dogs expel heat through their paw pads, so if dog boots aren’t breathable, you could actually cause them to overheat instead of protecting them from the heat. Look for boots that have holes or mesh fabrics for ultimate breathability. This means that your dog boots for hot weather likely won’t be suitable for cold, rainy conditions.
Durability
The most comfortable dog boots are the fabric sock-style booties that don’t have soles. These boots aren’t nearly as durable as the heavier, stiffer ones with rubber soles. Find a boot that’s a middle ground between comfort and durability—the most durable boots likely won’t be the most comfortable for your dog.
Fit and adjustability
We liked the dog boots with non-fussy closures the best. For example, elastic Velcro closures that wrapped around the boot multiple times felt redundant, and typically weren’t any more secure than the straps that wrapped around once. Zippers are annoying and hard to use on something as small as dog boots, so stick to Velcro and cinch closures.
Generally, the fit of the sock-style booties was much better than the options with hard rubber outsoles. When you have a good secure fit, dog boots are less likely to fly off while you’re on a hike or running with your dog.
Flexibility for natural paw movement
Big, stiff boots keep dogs from moving naturally. Look for a dog boot that’s soft, lightweight, and flexible enough for your dog to use their normal range of motion. Boots that are too stiff will cause dogs to walk oddly and can limit their natural gait patterns.
Sock-style dog boots offer more flexibility and are more comfortable than stiffer dog shoe options. Photo by Jae Thomas
Paw protection
Pick dog shoes that are designed for the conditions you’ll be using them in. Boots for hot pavement should include a sole that will protect against the heat, plus breathable fabric so your dog doesn’t overheat. Boots for use in snow and ice may not need a thick sole, and can be lightweight sock-style.
Weight
If your dog is sensitive to having their feet touched, a lightweight sock-style boot will likely be better for them. In my testing, I found that my dogs got used to the sock booties quicker than the heavier boots with soles.
Reflective elements for visibility
You may want reflective elements on your dog boots, but whether they’re reflective or not shouldn’t be a dealbreaker. Opt for simple boots, and pick a reflective leash, harness, collar, or dog jacket instead. Your dog will be much more visible in low-light conditions with a reflective harness, collar, or jacket than with reflective dog boots.
Ease of putting on and taking off
Let’s face it, you’re not going to put boots on your dog if they’re hard to put on and take off. The best dog shoes have openings big enough to get your dog’s foot in easily, and closures that can be tightened quickly. Sock-style booties win in this department, too.
Compatibility with different paw shapes and sizes
Measure your dog’s paws twice, then measure again. Most dog boots are sized by paw width, and don’t include length measurements. This is fine for dogs with round “cat feet,” but problematic for dogs with oval shaped feet and hare feet. Border Collies, Rough Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs, and Corgis have oval shaped feet, while many sighthounds have hare feet. Hare feet are paws that have two longer middle toes.
Be prepared that the boots you order online may not fit your dog on the first try. If possible, go try on boots at a local pet store to get a feel for your dog’s sizing. During testing, I found that many boots that fit my Collie widthwise did not fit lengthwise. Sock-style booties are easier to fit properly, since if they’re slightly too big, it doesn’t really matter. They stay on well given the strong Velcro closures, even if they’re a tad too roomy.
If your dogs have the exact same size feet, you may be able to get away with sharing boots between multiple dogs. However, many dogs that are similar sized have different sized and shaped paws, so this isn’t always likely.
Size range for various breeds
Make sure to pick a brand of boot with appropriate sizes for your dog. Not all brands make boots for very small or very large breeds.
How to measure your dog for boots or shoes
Most dog shoes are measured by paw width. To get your dog’s paw width measurement, put their paw down on a piece of paper. Get them to put some weight on the paw, then using a pen or pencil, mark the widest parts of the paw on each side on the paper. Then, take your dog’s paw off the paper and measure the distance between the two points with a ruler or tape measure.
Putting your dog’s paw on a piece of paper and marking the width is the easiest way to measure for dog shoes. Photo by Jae Thomas
Some dog boots also have length measurements. To measure the length of your dog's paw, use the paper trick above, but instead mark the point of the dog’s longest nail and the point right behind their biggest paw pad. Measure the distance with a ruler or tape measure.
How to help your dog get used to boots
Start slowly
Don’t buy dog boots and expect your dog to immediately be able to go for a walk in them. Some dogs won’t mind boots at all, while others could take weeks or even months to get used to them. Properly conditioning your dog’s boots takes time, especially if your pup doesn’t like having their feet touched.
Positive reinforcement with treats and praise
If your dog isn’t used to you handling their feet, practice touching or picking up each of your dog’s feet without the boots first. Use positive reinforcement to reward your pup after you touch each foot or pick each foot up. If your dog isn’t comfortable with you even touching their feet, consult a trainer before trying to put dog boots on.
If your dog is already used to you touching their feet, practice putting a boot on, rewarding with treats, then taking the boot off and rewarding again. You want to make putting the boots on and taking them off a happy experience so your dog doesn’t find it aversive.
One paw at a time
Once you’ve practiced putting a boot on and taking it off, let your dog walk around with one boot on for a few minutes at a time. Alternate which foot the boot is on, and practice this over a week or so. You can slowly build up to two boots, three, and then four if your dog is doing well with the boots and not hopping or walking weirdly in them.
Practice walking indoors
While you condition your boots one at a time, it’s best to practice walking your dog in their boots inside before going outside. Reward them frequently and keep sessions short. A few minutes walking around in the boots in the house is fine to start with.
Distract with play
If your dog likes playing with toys, this is also a good way to condition and positively reinforce dog shoes. Drag a toy on the ground for your dog to chase, or throw their favorite ball while they wear a boot. Slowly build up the amount of boots they have on, until you can play with them while they have all four boots on.
Make sure your dog is comfortable with you handling their paws before putting dog shoes on. Photo by Jae Thomas
Check for a proper fit
Check your dog’s boot fit when you first put them on, and again about 10 minutes into your activity. Boots should be snug enough not to fall off, but loose enough that your dog's feet aren’t scrunched in them. Take note of any chafing or straps that have been pulled too tight and adjust accordingly.
Short initial walks
Once you’ve conditioned your dog’s boots inside, try some short five to ten minute walks outside. Keep it light and fun, and distract your dog with play or treats if they’re fixating on their new boots.
Be patient
It can take multiple days, weeks, or even months for your dog to be able to go out for a walk wearing all four shoes. Be patient, and go slower with the boot introduction than you think you need to, especially if your dog is sensitive to their feet being touched.
Alternatives for dogs who can't tolerate boots and shoes
If your dog can’t tolerate boots, or simply doesn’t need all the protection a boot offers, paw wax may be worth a try. Musher’s Secret is the paw wax of choice for most people, and it offers some protection from cold and hot surfaces. It also helps to reduce the amount of snowballs that accumulate in your dog’s fur.
Paw wax isn’t a true alternative to dog boots, since your dog still needs to be able to tolerate sitting still for you to rub the wax on their pads. Paw wax can also cause a bit of a mess, since your dog will need to take a few steps in and out of your house when you go on walks. You’ll need to wipe any excess wax off your dog’s paws when you return from your walk, so as not to cause any staining on carpet, rugs, and furniture.
Care and maintenance tips
Keeping your dog’s boots clean will help extend their life. Follow the dog boot manufacturer’s washing suggestions. Most boots can be machine washed with mild detergent in cold water, but others need to be hand washed. Don’t machine dry your boots, as it can melt rubber soles and shrink boots. After washing, air dry them in a well-ventilated area until completely dry, then secure all the closures and put them away in a cool, dry place.
How we researched and tested
I did in-depth research on top rated dog boots by looking at other review sites along with Amazon and Chewy user reviews. I ended up with a pool of 11 dogs boots and tested them against the following criteria:
Ease of use: I put each type of boots on and off several dogs to determine which ones were the easiest and hardest to get on and off.
Sizing and fit: I checked the recommended sizing for my dog’s paw sizes, and determined whether the boots run big, small, or were true to size. I noted boots that fit widthwise but not lengthwise—a common sizing problem.
How well the boots stayed on: I put on each boot, tightened them, and tried to pull them off of my dog’s feet. I noted which ones could easily be pulled off without loosening the closures, and which ones were secure. I also let my dogs sprint in the park while wearing each set of boots to see if they would fall off during intense exercise.
Range of movement and grip: I evaluated how well the tester dogs were able to move in the boots, giving extra points to boots that allowed for the most natural range of movement. The sock-style boots tended to be the best for range of movement, but they lacked grip for slick surfaces and hardwood floors. I ranked the grip of each boot from best to worst.
Waterproofness: I simulated rain and puddles by running each boot under the sink for one minute and noting the boots that had moisture leak through. Most of the boots, including the ones advertised as waterproof or water resistant, had some level of moisture leaking during this test.
Durability: I checked the durability of the soles, fabric, and closures of each of the boots. I let my dogs run around in varied terrain and noted any wear or loose stitching. I also simulated heavy wear by rubbing the fabric of each boot against the asphalt to check if any would rip or wear down.
Cleaning: I cleaned each boot according to recommended instructions and noted any changes to the boots after washing, like shrinking or issues with closures, if applicable.
Weight: I weighed each boot on a digital scale, and noted which ones seemed clunky for the dogs to wear. All of the tester dogs tended to like the lighter weight sock-style boots the best.
Build quality: I compared each boot to the other brands in the pool, noting which ones had high-quality fabric, stitching, and closures.
Extra features: I took note of any extra features the boots offered, including reflective details, multiple closures, waterproofing, and insulation against the cold.
Price: I ranked each price against the boot’s performance and design to determine which ones were most worth the price.
About the author / Why you should trust us
I’ve written and edited numerous pet and lifestyle product reviews for sites like CNN Underscored, Whole Dog Journal, and more. I was formerly the shopping editor at Mashable, covering tech and lifestyle products before leaving to pursue my incredibly niche passion of dog product testing. I have a journalism degree from NYU, and have been involved in commerce writing since I graduated in 2020.
I’m also a dog trainer, dog show exhibitor, dog sport competitor, and I’ve worked as kennel help and as a dog show assistant in the past. I teach both behavioral lessons and sport classes, and I compete in AKC conformation, rally, agility, barn hunt, and herding with my two dogs. I basically spend all of my waking hours with either my own dogs or my client dogs.
My conformation (dog show) background also gives me a unique view on fit and sizing for dog apparel. Not only do I know the body types and structure of most dog breeds, I also have an eye for movement and can tell when apparel restricts a dog’s range of motion.
When I first got my rescue dog, Miso, I was all about dog boots. I have a photo of her on her very first hike wearing Ruffwear Grip Trex boots that I still have. I thought she needed boots for most terrain, but it turns out that wasn’t the case. She hikes better without boots in most cases, unless it’s very cold. I’ve since become a bit of a boot skeptic, and believe that most dogs don’t need boots except in very specific circumstances.
