GT: Dog Shoe Breakdown

As the world temperatures continue to get hotter products such as dog shoes and Ruffwear's swamp cooler vest are going to become necessary for your casual stroll around the park, let alone any significant time on the trail. Do dogs need shoes all the time? No. Dogs have much better traction when they can feel with their feet and the soles of their pads. But if the conditions are very hot, or very cold (this varies between dog breeds), they can be a gamechanger. As with most gear there are many different models and price points for gear for our canine friends. Read on for a breakdown of the basics.

Dog shoes why do they need them?

Dog shoes are helpful and necessary if you are going to be in areas with high heat that can burn the pads on their paws, rocky shale or uneven terrain that can cut the pads of their paws, or in winter conditions to protect paws from salt and de icing if you live in an area with snow and ice. For a full list of tips and ideas to take care of your pup in the winter months read here. As with human shoes there are many models and varieties that serve different temperatures and type of terrain. Below are a few of our favorites.

Shorter Dog boots

Top pick: Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Boots These have great tread, are easy to put on and take off, and as long as you keep the velcro free of debris and tight, the shoes will stay on your dog even if they are running like the wind down the trail. This type of shoe is best for hiking and trail running, with the same vibram rubber grip and protection that your favorite hiking boots or trail runners have. Many dog shoes come in sets of 2 or 4. We recommend using 4, although sometimes people prefer only using boots on the front paws. Remember to allow your dog plenty of time to adjust to wearing shoes before heading onto the trail. They will often times hold one paw up at a time and walk quite gingerly until they figure out how to adjust to having shoes on top of their paws. Also note: no matter what the literature says these are not fully waterproof. They will however dry fairly quickly. Plan accordingly and choose a more waterproof option for Winter conditions.

Neoprene models

Snow will not stick to neoprene and will still retain heat when wet. They tend to be higher up the leg, and thick. Some dogs are ok with this. Some dogs hate it and will refuse to walk if the material is too thick and they can't feel enough of the terrain. Any of the longer styles are harder to put on, and often require duct tape to keep them tight enough so they don't fall off. Top pick: Neopaws Orthopedic High Performance Outdoor Shoes

Cold Weather Dog Boots

This model tends to be higher on the leg, have sheerling or fleece lining for added warmth, are more waterproof, and tend to be made out of thicker materials. They are much harder to put on and stay on. Duct tape or gear tape can come in handy to keep these from sliding down the leg. I mostly used these for when my dog's paw was injured and he was recovering with stitches. In general he prefers the feeling of snow on his paws, and to protect against salt I use Mushers Secret, which is a wax that when rubbed into the pads of your dogs feet will be a protective layer against salt and de icing materials. As always in the winter after being outside with your dog wash their feet when they get inside. This is also highly recommended for mud as well. Top Picks: Muttluks Original Fleece Lined Dog Boots

Other models you will see:

Sock Dog Boots

These are not recommended for any sort of terrain as they have minimal tread on the bottom. These are fine for a quick walk around the block, or indoors if you have lots of tile and slippery floors.

Rubber Dog Boots

Better for smaller dogs these are a great option to protect feet from salt and deicing materials. Not great for any sort of terrain however, as they are thick with minimal traction.

Mushers

These are cheap, easy to put on, and very thin so if your dog prefers to feel the terrain these are a great option. However, because of the thinness of the material, they will wear out quickly depending on the terrain. It goes without saying that when hiking with your dog, regardless of the conditions, be sure to pay attention, do they need water, rest, to just call it for the day? Stay safe and stay cool out there. Cynthia Yeo is the Marketing Director for Geartrade. When she is not behind the desk, you can find her hiking or skiing the Wasatch Front, climbing and camping in Maple Canyon, traveling the world with her amazing family and friends, or just chilling out and reading by the fire. Follow us on Instagram + Facebook: Tag us @geartrade with the hashtag #unnewoutdoor #wearitout on your post or story for a chance to be featured on our page.

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