Should you buy dog boots for your pet? Many people do, some just because their dogs will look so cute in them. This is a perfectly valid reason. Who can deny that a Yorkie in her own quartet of Uggs is uber adorable? Many others buy booties, as they are sometimes called, for far more practical reasons. Often the health, safety and comfort of the dog is the focus of the purchase.
Boots are available for all seasons and weather conditions. Winter weather can be particularly hard on a dog's paws. Snow can build up around the hair of the paw. forming painful ice balls between the toes. Salt and other chemical deicers can also get between the toes and pads, causing irritation and pain. Good well-lined boots with rubber soles will keep your dog's paws warm and dry, and provide traction in slippery conditions.
When it rains, waterproof boots will keep your dog's feet dry. This may not be of any particular interest to the dog, but you'll appreciate the fact that your floors are dry and your carpet is clean. Besides, you really can't help but smile at the mental image of his four boots lined up next to yours outside your front door.
If you live in an area that experiences intense sunshine and high temperatures in summer, boots can save your dog from the pain of walking on blistering pavement. You've probably had experience walking on hot sand at the beach. Booties will save your dog from a similar pain.
If you go hiking with your dog over rough terrain, booties may be essential. Rocks, scree and sharp branches can cut and injure your dog's paws, which really aren't as tough as many people think. This is a particularly true of animals that spend much of their time indoors, and whose paws have not developed protective calluses. Hunting and working dogs often encounter rough, harsh terrain as well, and boots protect their paws and keep them active and injury free.
As dogs age, some will develop arthritis, making walking a little painful. A dog's walking gait can change and sometimes paws become irritated or injured from being dragged. Orthopedic boots with their thickly cushioned soles help to protect paws from further damage and promote healing.
Once you've chosen the perfect boots, follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully for measuring your dog's paw. Different companies use different measurements and some provide templates to match to your dog's paw. Unlike coats and sweaters, if your dog's paw is between two sizes, opt for the smaller size. In the case of boots, snug is better.
Finding dog boots that stay on may require trying out a few different brands like Pawz Dog boots, Ruff Wear dog boots, Muttluks, Georgia mud, Aussie and others. Whether you're looking for dog snow boots, dog rain boots, sled, hunting, mud, waterproof or hiking boots, the best brands usually have the best reviews online.
Once you have the boots, introduce them to your dog slowly. Your dog will probably take an active dislike to them at first. Distract him; get him to play a bit with them on. In the beginning, take him only for short walks with the booties on. Eventually they'll be comfortable and natural to him, and he'll wear them willingly. And you can take comfort in knowing that you've done something good for him.