When equipped with the proper footwear for winter, your dog's paws should be protected from cold temperatures, icy terrain, and even toxic de-icing products. When you’re on the prowl for the best dog winter boots, there are some essential features to consider:
- Proper sizing: This is usually determined by measuring your dog's paws rather than their weight. Measure carefully while the paw is on the ground and then consult the boot brand's sizing chart. When in doubt, order a size larger. You'll also want to consider whether your dog has intact dewclaws (aka the claw on the side of the paw, typically farther up the leg). These can get pinched in certain boots, so if your pup's dewclaws are intact, you'll want to look for that when assessing the fit.
- Adjustability: For the best fit, opt for boots with adjustable straps.
- Water-resistance: Whether it’s raining or snowing, you'll want boots that deflect moisture and keep those paws from getting soaked.
- Traction: The soles of the boots need to have good grip to prevent sliding around on slippery paths. Look for soles made of durable rubber.
Once you've found the right boots, let your dog practice wearing them indoors first if they're not used to the feeling. With all this in mind, here's the best dog boots for winter to help you get started.