Unlike most dog clothes and accessories, dog boots are not plainly a fashion thing. Although most dogs do not like any additional clothing on them, overall, dog shoes tend to be the least frustrating for them.
There are many things that should be considered before purchasing a new pair (a set of 4, in most cases) of trendy shoes for dogs that have nothing to do with the fashion but many other factors. We would like to guide you through with in-depth analysis of what kind of considerations should be taken into account. Afterwards, we will provide our top picks for each category so that you can find the best dog shoes for your individual fella.
Types of dog boots – the purpose of each of them
Although you could divide them into different subcategories based on their features, dog boots can mainly be divided into three major categories – winter boots, summer boots, and climbing/hiking boots.
Winter dog boots are designed to serve as an insulation for your dog’s feet from cold, snow, ice, salt, and also damp. As their “title” suggests, they (should) feature such qualities that serve their purpose best in the winter season.
Summer dog boots protect your fella’s paws from the heat of pavement or asphalt in general, as well as hot sand and other surfaces in summer. As the “title” suggests, they (should) feature such qualities that serve their purpose best in the summer season.
Climbing/hiking dog boots are designed to shield your companion from such dangers as sharp rock, brambles, maybe even cacti. They can be used in various seasons but bear in mind that different hiking shoes will have different qualities which mean they will be more applicable for a certain season. In general, they are intended for longer and more challenging activities than just daily walks on a flat pavement (either hot or covered with snow).
Now, note that there are certain dog shoes that can be used in more than just one, if not all, seasons. However, as you may know, what works for all, excels only by being “universal”, isn’t the best for a certain thing (activity). Therefore, we have chosen certain boots that we consider one of the best within each category. Some of them may also work for different seasons and various terrains – pay close attention to their descriptions and our testimonials, and that way you’ll make sure you choose the most suitable ones for your four-legged fella.
What to look for in the new pair of dog boots?
We will explain the details for each type of dog boots in the lists below, yet, bear in mind that there is one common quality feature that is a must for all of them – they must stay on! There is practically no point in buying such dog shoes that simply wouldn’t stay on when a dog starts moving around. The shoe must fit well on your companion’s paw.
There’s an ongoing challenge in the market for pet owners when choosing the appropriate size as the manufacturers measure them differently – some take the measurements from the heel of the pad to the tip of the toe, some others include the toenail length in the size as well, and others – even by dog’s weight. Now, the last one is a rather unreliable method since the weight can vary quite drastically, and it wouldn’t correspond to the paw. In our opinion, the second method that we mentioned is the most solid one. To avoid picking the wrong size, see for the specific brand’s instructions on the measurements.
Main criteria for winter dog boots
- Waterproof. The boots for winter should be made from water-resistant materials.
- Textured material. We recommend the material of the sole to be textured to ensure a good grip for traction.
- Sole flexibility. The sole of the shoe must be relatively flexible so your dog can walk freely.
Also, it’s good to have adjustable straps for a better comfort. Your dog, most likely, won’t really like any accessories put on initially, therefore, it’s smart to get both comfortable and durable shoes to serve in a long-term.
Top 3 for winter dog boots
1. My Busy Dog
These water resistant dog shoes with reflective Velcro and rugged anti-slip sole come in 8 different sizes and have many qualities that make it our choice No. 1 for the winter season.
Truth be told, it meets every single requirement we discussed when it comes to choosing the best winter dog booties – they rugged sole for better grip of traction providing also a great stability, they are waterproof dog boots keeping the paws dry, and they’re also quite comfortable (for medium and large breeds) and easy to put on, and good at staying on when an appropriate size is chosen! Speaking of the measurements, the manufacturer offers 8 different sizes, and you can rely on the size charts provided on Amazon.
Overall, these dog shoes are made of quality fabric making them more durable than most its counterparts on the market. Also, for more picky and fashionable pet owners, it is possible to choose from 4 different colors – black, green, orange, and red. Furthermore, they feature nice reflective Velcro strip for practical purposes – a better visibility at night.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Easy to put on | The sole and the shoe overall is well made but might be too hard for some sensitive smaller paws, therefore, not the best solution for small breeds (for longer walks) that may result in soreness |
| The shoes stay on well | |
| Waterproof | |
| Excellent traction and stability in snow | |
| 8 different sizes and 4 different colors to choose from | |
| Reflective material for better night visibilty |
2. Ultra Paws Durable Dog Boots
These dog boots are known for such qualities as good traction and for staying on really well providing the necessary support and control – this is very important in winter, especially for senior dogs that may also have some hip condition. The quality Velcro straps have a lot to do with this – the top opening allows to put them on easily and the straps ensure that they won’t slide off after a while. At the same time, they are quite flexible and comfortable to wear.
They come in 5 different sizes, which is significantly less compared to our pick No. 1. Also, for more fancy folks, there are only 2 color options to choose from – black and red (isn’t even the slightest concern for us but might be for someone else)
Ultra Paws dog boots are also water-resistant though we would not call’em 100% waterproof – the bottom leather may get wet eventually if they are used in according conditions. However, we still believe they make very solid dog booties for winter and snow, and, overall, they are actually more flexible than our pick No. 1 both literally and in a sense that they are not well suited only for winter and snow (doesn’t help them in our rankings within the winter category though).
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Easy to put on | Though water-resistant, not completely waterproof |
| The shoes stay on well | |
| Decent traction (though not as good compared to our pick. No 1) and overall support | |
| Great comfort | |
| Suitable for different seasons | |
| Well adjustable Velcro straps |
3. Colorfulhouse Waterproof Pet Boots
A cheaper alternative to our first two picks, these dogs shoes are good or at least decent in all main criteria when it comes to picking dog boots for the cold season – they are water-resistant and stay on well. Suitable for both snow and rainy days, they also have the added value of being usable safely at nights as they have a reflective material for better visibility.
Overall, they provide a decent comfort and stability on a slippery surface.
Although you can choose from 5 different sizes, you have to take into account that they are essentially intended for medium and large-sized dog breeds. For the winter season, we suggest our pick No. 2 for very small breeds (or the alternative – dog socks reviewed below).
Some customers have complained about a wrong sizing chart, however, please pay attention to the note about the measurements – the size is the size you find inside the boots, not the outside.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Easy to put on | Not suitable for small breeds |
| Water-resistant | |
| Reflective feature for better visibility | |
| Good traction | Not the most suitable and durable for very active dogs; Some customers have complained that they can fall off when dog is running and playing very actively |
| Appealing price |
Main criteria for summer dog boots
- Good ventilation. Just like summer boots, they should provide a solid ventilation for the paws.
- Good protection from hot pavement and sand. Also salt, and water-resistance is also a good feature to have.
- Comfort. In hot summer days, it is especially important that your pup’s paws breathe and feel comfortable in the shoes.
1. Muttluks All Weather dog boots
We start off our summer dog boot list with one that stands out for its quality, comfort, and suitability for various weather conditions.
Muttluks have also ensured that your dog will be visible at night by adding the reflective strap feature. The strap itself allows adjusting the boot to your dog’s paws very easily while providing both secure fit and comfort. We also like the adjustable and stretchy leg cuff this product has.
They come in different sizes and two colors (black and yellow/black).
Overall, these are definitely one of the best summer dog boots for hot pavement, salt, hot and raw sand, and they stay on quite well (though could be a bit better for a very active dog also taking into account its price). They can be used in winter and snow as well, however, the aforementioned list of winter boots would undeniably be more suitable and applicable for various conditions in that season.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Very comfortable | Could be more water-resistant |
| Reflective strap | |
| Adjustable and stretchy leg cuff | |
| Good ventilation | The traction could sometimes be better (may be a bit slippery on some surfaces) |
| Different sizes to choose from |
2. Bark Brite Paw Protectors
If you live in an area where it’s raining almost on daily basis, these dog boots are an excellent choice for you. Bark Brite Paw Protectors have great traction on wet surface so that your dog doesn’t slip.
What we really like about this model, they really do conform and cling to your dog’s paws providing the natural shape. As almost every quality dog boots, they also feature reflective material – two straps in this case.
Definitely the best water dog shoes for summer. Regards hot pavement and sand, they’re also okay (as all summer dog boots should be) but they do seem to lose to our pick No. 1 as the material and ventilation aren’t as good as the aforementioned counterpart (still decent, though).
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Excellent for wet surfaces (providing optimal traction); water-resistant | Not as good on very hot pavement and sand |
| Reflective straps | |
| Forms natural paw's form providing easy feel and natural leg movement | |
| Different sizes to choose from |
3. Petacc Water-resistant Dog Shoes
Another considerable option for summer, Petacc Dog Shoes are a cheaper alternative to the previous picks while also providing most of the requirements – they provide decent ventilation, are somewhat water-resistant, and rather comfortable to wear.
They come in different size and will fit well if an appropriate size is chosen.
They serve their purpose on hot pavement as well; Could be longer (as our previous pick) to fit better on sand (and snow, for that matter). Can be used for running and hiking, though there are certainly better options for the latter.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Good overall comfort and decent ventilation | Could be more durable (speaking of running and hiking) |
| Somewhat water-resistant (though certainly not waterproof) | |
| Different sizes to choose from | |
| Appealing price | Could have a longer leg cuff |
Main criteria for hiking and climbing dog boots
- Stay on well. It’s crucial when walking and climbing in various hazardous areas that the boots can endure different terrains and stay on your pup’s paws.
- Sole flexibility. Also, the sole of the shoe must be relatively flexible so your dog can walk freely.
- Good ventilation. Just like summer boots, they should provide a solid ventilation for the paws.
- Durability. Hiking and climbing the mountains can be one of the most demanding activities not just for us and our companions but also the footwear. We advise you get boots for dogs made from a solid material that provides both comfort and sturdiness.
It’s important to choose boots that provide great support and allow your fella’s paws to stay healthy. Longer walks and climbs can be very challenging and many dog shoes are not an advisable option for such cases.
1. Ruffwear – Grip Trex
First, we’d like to point out the great flexibility and traction of these dog boots – Grip Trex feature a Vibram non-marking outsole constructed with a rugged design which ensures that your dog is supported with optimal traction while also having the ability to move freely in them.
Secondly, they provide excellent ventilation that allows your dog’s paws to breathe.
Ruffwear has ensured that these dog boots are suitable for various terrains, therefore, it’s hard to think of an outdoor activity where these boots wouldn’t work great on (except for the water, obviously). Of course, after a longer period of time and many extreme activities, they may start tearing off at some place but you won’t find such shoes that wouldn’t.
Also, just like most quality dog boots, Ruffwear have added a reflective material for a better visibility at nighttime.
In our opinion, overall, these are the best hiking dog boots, and the only real drawback we see is its relatively high price, and also you couldn’t call them waterproof (which is usually more important for winter boots).
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Solid material with optimal traction and durability, yet, provides the flexibility to move around comfortably | Rather expensive |
| Ensures good paw protection on various terrains | Not waterproof |
| Reflective feature for better visibility | |
| Excellent ventilation |
2. Paw4D Waterproof Dog Boots
Since we pointed out our previous pick wasn’t made from waterproof material, we wanted to offer something that was and also was solid in other criteria.
Yes, Paw4D have made a solid set of waterproof dog boots for hiking that also are suitable for various terrains, and for a much more attractive price. These boots also feature such things as reflective material and quality Velcro straps. Why isn’t this our pick No. 1? Well, there are a couple drawbacks. First off, they don’t stay on as well, even with the Velcro straps. Secondly, they are a bit less durable and, although decent, not as excellent traction as the counterpart, Ruffwear.
Overall, they still make very solid dog boots that can be recommended for walks and mountain climbs in rainy days. Note that they only come in 3 sizes – L, XL, and XXL -, therefore, suitable only for medium to large dog breeds.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Waterproof | Don't stay on very well |
| Decent traction and also comfort | |
| Reflective material | |
| Adjustable Velcro straps | Not suitable for small dog breeds (small paws) |
| Suitable for various terrains and weather conditions | |
| Appealing price |
3. Kurgo Step n Strobe Dog Boots
While these might be the most fashionable out of all our picks (e.g., they “light up” when your dog starts moving), Kurgo has also thought about the practical functionality of them.
They are made of a durable rubber sole for optimal traction. This set of 4 has dual strap design that ensures a secure fit in such way minimizing the slipping, flipping and falling off.
They actually offer quite respectable insulation, therefore, they can even be used for cold winter days or chilly mountains. Simultaneously, they can be used in summer as well as the comfort and ventilation allow it.
However, speaking of the winter, they do tend to allow the snow get in after which it no longer matters how the material protects the paw from outside. Although they fit well and are relatively secure, they don’t stay on a very active runner as well as our pick No. 1. Also, similarly to our pick No. 1, you couldn’t really call these waterproof (though they do provide some water-resistance).
Ending with a positive note, we appreciate the lifetime warranty for manufacturer’s defects meaning you will always get a proper set of boots from an authorized dealer.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Durable sole and optimal traction | Not waterproof |
| Decent flexibility and comfort, and ventilation | |
| Reflective feature for better visibility at night | |
| Adjustable straps | Snow can get in the boots |
| 6 different sizes to choose from | |
| Suitable for various seasons and terrains |
Alternative for typical dog boots:
Pawz Water-proof dog socks
If you want to allow your dog paws more comfort and freedom, consider Pawz Water-proof dog boots as they are more of socks than shoes or boots in reality. Obviously, they will not have the hard sole some other winter boots have for paw protection, yet, it still provides a solid support in this matter, as well as a decent traction. The manufacturer claims that materials used are all natural, and they are made in the USA.
It also comes in various sizes and colors, therefore, it shouldn’t be an issue finding one that suits your individual. Water-resistance is also very solid, and they are disposable and reusable.
They are easy to put on and stay on quite good, too, and are suited for all seasons. Of course, they won’t beat some exceptional dog boots mentioned in the top for certain criteria (not as durable and protective), however, in combination with the aforementioned qualities, we consider these the best dog socks available in the market for a very reasonable price.
Additionally, you may consider checking out Musher’s Secret Natural Paw Protection product that can serve as a decent protection and also a healing salve for those raw spots of your companion’s paws. It’s inexpensive, and especially useful if your dog can’t get used to wearing dog shoes – your companion won’t even notice it’s there.
It is easy to apply, and this moisturizer is especially good to protect against sand rawness while also providing Vitamin E and helping to keep the pup’s paws healthy.
Final tailwind notes by hmtip
We have given you some very solid choices for different purposes. Now, it’s your job now to choose the best dog shoes for your individual fella based on our in-depth analysis and reviews. If that’s still not enough to decide, make sure you drop us a message and describe your situation – we’ll gladly assist you individually if you struggle to make the right choice in order to provide the best option for your dear friend.
Otherwise, till next time!
With best wishes,
Your hmtip team