Posted on January 18, 2010 by: WayCoolDogs

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When the search-and-rescue dogs recently arrived in Haiti to find live bodies buried beneath the earthquake rubble, a truckload of donated dog boots arrived soon afterwords to prevent the feet of the dogs from becoming tore up as they searched. But during the winter, the tender paws of all breeds and kinds of dogs are exposed to ice, snow and salt —- considered a serious hazard to even the toughest of dogs.

Types of winter boots for dogs

Today there are all types of winter boots for dogs. They can be pretty and adorably designed and considered part of an design ensemble like those from Pampered Puppy, or designed with tough protection for serious working dogs who are placed in extreme dangerous situations through Ruff Wear.

Regardless of the type, let your dog wear their new boots around the house for a day or two to allow them to get used to their “new feet.” Play with them and allow them to run and jump while wearing them for an hour at a time. If you are going to have trouble at the beginning, this will be the practice time to allow them to get used to them on their feet. Otherwise they will be chewed off or purposed removed by the dog.

Comparison of winter dog boots

** Walking or running --  a lightweight winter dog boot with a  pliable sole is perfect for outdoor exercise and lower impact activities on groomed terrains, light snow conditions, rainy or wet conditions.  Man-made terrains of hot pavements, salt, street chemicals are also excellent terrains for these boots.

Ruff Wear has a ripstop nylon upper and extended gator that is strong enough to keep regular dirt, light rain or water, mud puddles or debris away from the dog’s feet. Even Pampered Puppy boots are excellent for gentle walking on gentle terrains, in addition to design purposes.

**Hiking, backpacking, walking and running

For long-duration dog activities, high traction winter dog boots with aggressive lug will provide comfort and stability on terrains that are unstable or rough. Also, a winter dog boot should have adequate breathable mesh to prevent excessive heat from developing within the boot to prevent paw damage.

Sizing of winter boots for dogs

Ruff Wear has their own sizing chart, which should be similar to most winter dog boot fits.  They measure across the widest part of the dog’s paw with the dog’s weight bearing down for their paw width.

The dog boot should have room in the paw area, allowing the paw to spread when bearing weight, but not too much room, as this will cause the boot to fall off. A snug fit is generally preferable.

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