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If you live in a climate where it snows in winter, or plan on visiting one with your dog, you might be thinking about dog snow boots. Boots offer protection from snow, ice, sidewalk salt, and chemical deicers. Plus, they keep your dog’s feet warm and dry on winter outings!
When choosing winter boots for your dog, there are a few things to look for:
- Fit. Do they fit comfortably over your pooch’s paws?
- Material. They should be made from waterproof or water-resistant material.
- Sole. Dog boots should have a flexible sole to support your dog’s natural gait.
- Adjustability. In addition to taking care with the right size, adjustable straps and toggles ensure a secure fit.
Best Dog Snow Boots
Here are our picks for the best dog snow boots to protect your pal’s paws on your next winter outing, whether you’re hitting trails or city streets.
Canada Pooch Soft Shield Dog Boots
Available right now on the Rover Store in six different sizes, trusted brand Canada Pooch offers up a snazzy four-set of snow boots for your doggo. Extending well above the paw, these sturdy canvas booties protect your dog from the elements with grippy, rubber soles. Slide the boots off and on easily with wide leg openings that can be adjusted and secured with reflective straps and top toggles.
Shop on The Rover StoreExpawlorer Waterproof Dog Boots (Verified Review)
The eight paw size choices offered by this weather-resistant dog snow boot are ideal for adventuring dogs ranging from small Terriers to Bernese Mountain dogs. Durable, waterproof materials keep your dog’s paws dry and toasty—great for keeping up with an active dog mom or dad in wet or snowy conditions.
Verified Review: Our tester tried size four on her medium-sized pit bull mix and found the sizing to be accurate, though the numeric sizing (as opposed to the standard S/M/L system) required extra consideration (she strongly recommends measuring your dog’s paws before ordering). The tread is heavy-duty, designed specifically for snowy or rugged hiking conditions, and will be stiff right out of the box, qualities our tester found enhanced the product’s overall hardiness. As with hiking or snow boots for humans, you’ll want your dog to “break them in”—a few laps around the block every couple of days for a week should be sufficient.
Her testing showed that the two adjustable, reflective velcro straps on the “ankle” part of each boot were easier to slip on her dog’s paws and stayed on better than other brands she’s tried, especially heavier duty styles that her dog doesn’t tolerate well. The reflective fabric is a nice touch if and when the day’s adventure continues into the twilight hours.
Overall, these boots rate highly for their thick, durable construction and stay-on design, and are a great option for those looking for a set of dog boots to hold up to wet or snowy conditions.
Find on AmazonRuffwear Polar Trex
If your dog goes with you on snowshoe or cross-country ski adventures, they may need an extra hardy snow boot. RuffWear, one of our favorite makers of “adventure dog” gear, makes an array of all-weather dog boots. The Polar Flex model comes in several sizes as a two or four-set. Boasting a tough, treaded sole, comfy insulation, reflective trim and a “stretch gaiter” extension for extra coverage, these kicks ensure your dog’s paw paws will be warm and secure no matter where the trail takes you.
Find on AmazonAnother solid option for wintery adventures are the Summit Trex dog boots, also made by RuffWear. These everyday dog boots are also great for wet conditions and protecting paws from salty roads, snowmelt chemicals, and other debris. Find out more in the video below.
Muttluks Snow Mushers
Lined with fleece for warmth and comfort, these dog snow boots sport flexible, rugged rubber soles made from 100% recycled material. Available in sets containing two boots (order two sets to cover all four paws), fasten these to your dog’s paws via straps that double wrap for a secure fit.
Find on AmazonQumy Dog Boots
Quality dog booties aren’t cheap. But sometimes, you just need something affordable to get you through part of the snowy and rainy season. These molded rubber dog snow boots are waterproof and adjustable—and they get raves in customer reviews about how easy they are to put on and how well they provide stability and traction with their durable soles.
Find on AmazonBonus: Musher’s Secret Paw Protection Wax
Some dogs simply refuse to wear boots. Luckily, there’s an “invisible boot” that helps protect paws without cramping your dog’s style. Musher’s Secret was originally developed for sled dog paws—it protects them from snow, ice, salt, and chemicals. Made from non-toxic, food-grade wax, a little goes a long way, so one jar will last you for a while. It won’t provide the warmth of an insulated boot, but for dogs who can’t get used to wearing shoes, it’s a perfect fit.
Shop on ChewyFurther Reading
- The Best Winter Dog Clothes to Keep Your Pet Warm
- 9 Must-Have Items for Walking Your Dog in a Winter Wonderland
- The Ultimate Guide to Getting Cozy With Your Dog (and Cat)
- Running With Your Dog: A Winter Guide
Featured image by Wilfried Santer/Pixabay
