15 Best Dog Boots for Every Weather & Situation

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For most dogs in mild or temperate conditions, padding around on bare feet (er, paws) is perfectly fine. But if your best friend is going to be walking in very hot or very cold weather, or accompanying you across rocky terrain, a good pair of dog boots can go a long way.

First, a good pair of dog booties will protect your pup’s vulnerable paws from extreme temps and weather. In the winter, dog shoes shield your pal’s paws from frostbite, toxic ice melts, and slippery ice patches. And in the summer, they protect sensitive paw pads from hot surfaces like sun-baked driveways and scorching sand.

But that’s not all: dog booties are just as useful indoors. Senior dogs suffering from joint issues or dogs with conditions like hip dysplasia can benefit from the additional traction dog booties offer. 

The great news is that dog boots come as varied as our unique pets. Whether you need a simple set of shoes for your wriggly puppy or a heavy-duty pair for some hardcore hiking, there’s something here for you.

Best All-Purpose Dog Boots 

From a practical standpoint, it makes sense to go with a dog shoe that covers your pooch in all kinds of scenarios. From snow and rain to rocky terrain (and even slick kitchen floors), a trusty multipurpose boot can handle it all. A well-rounded pair of dog booties will protect paws in both hot and cold weather and should be waterproof (or at least water-resistant). They’ll also feature a skid-resistant bottom for fewer wipeouts. Finally, durability is a must, since these boots will see a lot of wear and tear.  

Muttluks Trackers All Season Dog Boots

The versatility of these shoes is suggested right in their name: as “All Season” booties, these Mutluck Trackers can hold up in both hot and cold weather. A waterproof outer shell makes them a good choice for creek walks or rainy days. And with 10 size options, there’s an option for nearly every type of dog. 

Muttluk Trackers can be washed in cold water and air-dried in the sun. Materials include nylon and rubber.

You and your dog might like:

• Muttluks can be worn year-round
• Protect against sharp objects
• Self-tightening loop-and-hook closure secures around the narrowest part of the ankle

You and your dog might NOT like:

• They only come in black

Expawlorer Waterproof Dog Boots (Verified Review)

Both durable and affordable, Expawlorer dog boots are a practical multipurpose option. Available in eight sizes, they can accommodate a range of breeds, from the teeniest Yorkie to a giant Malamute. 

The waterproof exterior makes them perfect for soggy outings, but they’re just as viable indoors. Your dog will appreciate the shoes’ durable tread on slippery surfaces, whether it’s kitchen tile, ice, or a wet driveway.

The two Velcro straps are reflective and adjustable, and reviewers note that these puppies (get it?) are great at staying put on paws for all sorts of outdoor explorations.

One downside is that Expawlorers are not machine-washable or dryer-friendly. To freshen them up after a muddy trek, they’ll need to be hand washed and air-dried. 

Sizes are available from 1 to 8 (if your dog falls between sizes, the company recommends sizing up).

You and your dog might like:

• The expandable closing system makes them easy to put on and take off
• Ergonomic shape for comfort and support
• Grooved soles and skid-resistant design
• Reflective material that keeps your pup visible
• Affordable price

You and your dog might NOT like:

• Expawlorers are hand-wash only

Verified Review: Our testers tried these out on several medium-sized pups and found the sizing to be accurate, though the numeric sizing (as opposed to the standard S/M/L system) required extra consideration—we strongly recommend measuring your dog’s paws before ordering.

The tread is heavy-duty, designed specifically for snowy or rugged hiking conditions, though its tough construction can also be great paw protection on snowy or icy sidewalks treated with salt or chemical deicers that can damage your dog’s paw pads.

They will be stiff right out of the box, though our tester found this quality 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.

Best Dog Boots for Hiking

For dogs who like to hit the trail, a solid set of booties can make the journey safer and more comfortable. Hiking boots help stabilize pups in slippery riverbeds and shield paws from sharp rocks. Ideally, they’ll have a waterproof exterior and a thick sole to protect paws from painful pine needles along the path. With hiking boots, it’s critical to size correctly—a secure fit will make for one happy canine hiker.

Ruffwear Grip Trex Outdoor Dog Boots (Verified Review)

Many outdoor enthusiasts swear by Ruffwear Grip Trex. And we can see why. With a flexible and grippy Vibram sole (the same stuff used in high-performance human sneakers), these boots are the real deal. The superior traction means your dog should have no trouble traversing rivers and trails alike. And breathable mesh keeps paws cool to ensure a comfortable excursion. 

Ruffwear Grip Trex boasts adjustable, reflective Velcro straps, plus a wide opening and cinch closure for a secure fit. Best of all? After your muddy trek, you can throw these booties right in the laundry machine.

You and your dog might like:

• Grip Trex are available in red, blue, and black
• The rugged lug design provides traction 
• Ventilated mesh allows airflow while keeping dirt and debris out

You and your dog might NOT like:

• They only come in sets of two (so you’ll need to buy two pairs)
• They’re on the pricey side

Verified Review: Our reviewer noted that the material was durable and nice to touch. They observed that though the boots themselves are of high quality, getting the right fit was tricky, as the boots tended to slide down in spite of being fastened on the ankles with the Velcro straps. Users will want to do a few home fittings prior to a hiking trip to get the proper fit. Be sure to give your dog a chance to wear the booties daily for short periods of time, which will allow them to break in comfortably.

QUMY Waterproof Dog Shoes

For a budget-friendly hiking boot, consider a set of QUMY shoes. Waterproof and slip-resistant, these shoes are ready for the trails. With a rugged sole and water-resistant fabric, your dog can run and track and wade to their heart’s content. 

These shoes come in seven sizes (2-8), with the largest size able to accommodate dogs up to 88 pounds (although exact sizing is determined by your dog’s paw size). Two Velcro straps secure the boots with a snug fit. 

You and your dog might like:

• Great color options: red, blue, pink, purple, black, and yes, even leopard print
• Reflective accents for visibility
• Wide split seam for easy access

You and your dog might NOT like:

• These aren’t machine-washable

Best Dog Shoes for Summer & Hot Pavement

If you venture out in the heat, a breathable pair of summer shoes can keep your pup’s feet cool and comfy. A good set will offer protection from scorching sand, hot pavement (ouch!), and sharp objects like glass and rocks. Look for rugged soles, lots of mesh material for ventilation, and water-resistant material for doggy beach days.

Bark Brite All-Weather Neoprene Paw Protectors (Verified Review)

Great for dogs large and small who don’t care for heavier boots, these lightweight shoes come in a few sizes and are just the ticket for warm neighborhood walks and dog park adventures. Made with breathable neoprene, this water- and puncture-resistant set is ready to take on summer.

These booties are made out of flexible material, with a rubber sole that (though not heavy-duty) helps avoid skidding. It also does a great job of protecting paws from the scorching pavement. 

Verified Review: Our tester determined that for simple summer dog shoes for pups who will tolerate wearing boots, these are a sound choice—the sock-like design with a less rigid sole is designed for, and offers, better ease of wear and more versatility than rugged or heavy dog boots.

You and your dog might like:

• They’re lightweight
• Made with flexible material
• Soft sock-like design
• Easy to wear

You and your dog might NOT like:

• They only have 5 sizes (Small through XX-Large)

Xanday Breathable Dog Booties

Could these summer dog shoes be any cuter? They mirror the appearance of water shoes people wear and are just as functional, offering traction and flexibility in a variety of environments. The lightweight material won’t weigh down active paws. And the wear-resistant sole protects paws from hot pavement, while the breathable mesh on top keeps your pup’s paws cool.

You and your dog might like:

• The lightweight design
• Adjustable straps 
• Reflective accents
• They come in blue, red, and black

You and your dog might NOT like:

• Hand-washable only

Best Dog Boots for Winter 

A slight nip in the air is hardly a reason to forgo your dog’s regular stroll. But when the weather gets a bit more extreme, it’s time to break out the heavy-duty dog boots. Above all, winter dog booties need to be tough—as in tough enough to withstand sub-zero temps, biting winds, and slick ice patches. The best winter dog boots will be insulated (think fleece), water-resistant, and slip-resistant for treacherous sidewalks. 

Muttluks Snow Mushers

Lined with cozy fleece for warmth and comfort, these dog snow boots were built for winter walks. They sport flexible, rubber soles that stand strong against the frozen ground. The water-resistant outer shell is no match for winter slush. For a secure fit that steadies your pup on the snow, these booties feature double-wrap fastening. 

Snow Mushers fit a range of dogs and are available in 10 sizes. 

You and your dog might like:

• Strong rubber soles (made from 100% recycled material)
• Cozy fleece lining for extra warmth
• Water-resistant exterior

You and your dog might NOT like:

• You’ll need to purchase two sets to cover all four paws

Ruffwear Polar Trex

For winter-loving dogs who can’t get enough of the snow, you can’t go wrong with Ruffwear. The brand’s Polar Trex boots are just what your pup needs for their next winter adventure. These boots tick a lot of boxes: they boast comfy insulation, have a thick, treaded sole, and feature a three-layer waterproof upper.

The Vibram soles’ lug pattern provides excellent traction on icy surfaces. And a pullover stretch gaiter helps keep snow out. Finally, a trusty hook-and-loop cinch closure keeps Polar Trex securely on your pup’s feet.

You and your dog might like:

• Cozy insulation
• Treaded sole
• Waterproof upper
• “Stretch gaiter” extension for extra coverage
• Available in 8 sizes

Your dog might NOT like:

• They come at a steep price

Best Waterproof Dog Boots for Rain 

A little rain never hurt anyone, and quick potty breaks in inclement weather aren’t a huge deal. But a long and soggy walk in bare paws can be another story. 

Some pups strongly dislike wet paws—and some pet parents may have concerns about toxic chemicals in runoff rainwater. That’s where a set of waterproof booties comes in handy. Keep in mind that water-resistant dog shoes are not the same as waterproof dog shoes, which will provide much greater protection if you’re planning to walk in standing water, creeks, or lots of soft, wet snow.

WagWear WagWellies Dog Boots

When the rain clouds gather, you’ll be pleased to have these charming waterproof kicks on hand. Especially if your dog is one of the many canines who detest wet paws. Made with 100% rubber, WagWellies do a good job of keeping feet (mostly) dry and warm in all kinds of precipitation. 

These shoes also feature ventilation slots along the shaft and a secure wraparound Velcro closure. Plus, there’s tread on the bottom to keep your pup from slipping and sliding—and they’re just so darn cute!

Available in sizes XXS-XXL (WagWellies recommends sizing down if you’re between sizes).
Your dog might like:

• Open-vented slits make them a breeze to put on
• Vibrant array of colors
• Durable rubber built to last

Your dog might NOT like:

• Slightly more expensive

Best for Indoor Traction

Dog shoes aren’t just for outside—they’re also great for helping your pooch find his footing on slippery indoor surfaces. Booties with grippy rubber soles provide traction for pups who frequently slide (or fall) across tile or hardwood. They also help steady arthritic senior dogs and dogs with hip dysplasia. And as a bonus to you: booties will protect your floors from sharp claws. 

Ultra Paws Durable Dog Boots

Ultra Paws Boots use a unique anti-slip material that makes them ideal for older dogs who struggle with mobility. Slippery hardwood floors are no match for the coating of “ToughTek,” which covers the toes and soles of these booties. This skid-resistant thermoplastic also lends these booties longevity. They’re tough, durable, and meant to last.

Your dog might like:

• Wide split-seam and adjustable straps for easy wearing
• Foam ankle pads offer additional comfort and support

Your dog might NOT like:

• These booties are better suited for indoor use or “light duty” outdoors
• They tend to wear out quickly if used in extreme outdoor weather

Frisco Non-Skid Dog Socks

These are, well, dog socks, but they are easier for some dogs to tolerate than dog boots, thanks to their lightweight feel. If your pup is getting on in years, non-slip dog socks can help them navigate hardwood floors and other troublesome surfaces. Slip these on and secure the fastener for indoor cushioning or if your doggo’s injured paw needs extra protection on your next walk.

Your dog might like:

• Comes in a four-pack
• Cute patterns
• Using the hoop-and-loop fastener is optional

Your dog might NOT like:

• Only available in two sizes
• Not meant for outdoor use
• Hand-wash and air-dry only

Pro-tip: For the truly stubborn seniors who live their best lives at home, you may want to opt away from boots entirely. Instead, get play mats. Yes, these are the kind of play mats you see in day care for children but they also work great as small islands of support for dogs who live the hardwood or marble floor life. Inserting these little arenas can raise your dog’s confidence in their mobility to a point where you might even witness dog zoomies again!

Best Budget Dog Booties

Quality dog boots are worth spending some money on—that is, if you know you’ll get good use out of them. There are circumstances that call for a more economical choice. For one, puppy owners might want a cheaper option. After all, puppy feet won’t stay puppy-size forever, so why spend an arm and a leg on something you’ll need to replace down the line? Moreover, opting for a cheaper dog shoe is smart if your dog has never worn them before and you’re unsure how they’ll tolerate footwear. 

It bears mentioning that going with an affordable option doesn’t mean you’ll wind up with an inferior product. Many less expensive dog shoes still offer comfort, warmth, traction, and durability. Just closely examine the specs and reviews, and your bargain option could be just as successful as a pricer boot.

XSY&G Dog Boots (Verified Review)

If you’re trying to save a few bucks, these XSY&G Boots offer many of the same features as pricier shoes. From our own tests, we can confirm they’re just as tough against winter threats as they are with the summer heat, so your pup can wear them year-round. 

The fabric is breathable and water-resistant to keep paws cool and dry. In fact, a number of reviews praise these booties for keeping paws clean and dry during the muddy season. However, these booties aren’t completely waterproof, and the company warns they can’t be submerged fully underwater. 

You’ll find XSY&G Dog Boots in eight sizes and four fun color options: pink, orange, leopard, and black. Unfortunately, these booties are not machine-washable. 

You and your dog might like:

• Cute paw print embroidery
• Four color options: pink, orange, leopard, and black
• Can be used in winter and summer
• Adjustable, reflective Velcro straps

Your dog might NOT like:

• Hand-wash only
• Can’t be fully submerged in water

Best Boots for Small Dogs & Puppies

Just because they’re teeny doesn’t mean your small breed dog wants to be carried everywhere. With a pair of well-fitted booties, they’ll be able to ferry themselves across the slush and snow (as long as it’s not over their head!).

Naturally, our smaller pups require smaller shoes. And for comfort’s sake, it’s important to get the sizing right. Always check—and double-check—a brand’s sizing chart when shopping. Sizes vary from one brand to the next, and many will be better suited for medium and large breeds.

Hcpet Anti-Slip Dog Shoes

For your fun-size dog, we recommend checking out Hcpet. These lil’ booties are more than just cute (although we’ll give them that, too). They’re specially designed to fit smaller dogs, with sizes that are just right for your little Chihuahua or Maltese.

Not only do these booties come in smaller sizes, but they’re also machine-washable and feature a convenient zipper design. The shoes’ bright colors, along with reflective straps, keep your miniature pal visible to drivers. The anti-skid sole keeps your pup’s feet from sliding out beneath them. And the rubber bottom also protects your dog’s paws from sharp needles, thorns, glass, and debris.

Size 1 fits most Yorkies, Maltese, and Miniature Pinchers, while size 5 fits most French Bulldogs, Pekingese, and Welsch Corgi Pembrokes. But still do your measuring!

You and your dog might like:

• Hcpet shoes are made with skin-friendly Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR)
• Convenient zipper makes them simple to put on
• Mesh fabric is comfy and breathable
• They come in eight adorable colors

You and your dog might NOT like:

• They’re not waterproof
• They only come in five sizes

Pawz Rubber Booties (Verified Review)

At first glance, these Pawz Rubber Booties look, well, unconventional. More like deflated water balloons than rugged boots, actually. But for puppies, there’s a lot to love about these unique shoes. First, there are zero zippers or straps to finagle—just slide these babies on and you’re off to the races (or maybe just a leisurely saunter through the neighborhood, if that’s more your pace). 

Pawz Rubber Booties offer a “Tiny” size, which will fit paws up to one inch in length.

You’ll get 12 booties in a set, which are more or less disposable after a few wears. But at such an affordable price, the impermanence of these booties is a non-issue for most folks. And anyway, your puppy will eventually outgrow them, requiring a size upgrade down the line.

You and your dog might like:

• The rubber is eco-friendly and 100% biodegradable (good news since they’re basically disposable)
• Easy to slip on: no zippers or fasteners to fuss with

You and your dog might NOT like:

• Not as breathable
• No color choice: the color you get corresponds with the size your order

Verified Review: Both our tester and the manufacturer emphasize these boots are not for prolonged use, as the fit around the ankle can become restrictive. Our tester found that the sock-like fit was less bulky on her dog’s paws and therefore easier for her dog to wear and tolerate. She also found she could use the same set over and over again before the booties wore out, and that the simple rubber design is easy to clean and get dry for easy on and off throughout the day.

Best Fashion Dog Boots 

Diehard fashionistas may struggle to choose between function and form—but who says you can’t have both? Stylish booties make your pooch stand out in the best way: and they can protect their paws while doing it. Once you find your dream pair, look for clues regarding their functionality. You should be able to find shoes that blend runway style with features like secure enclosures, reflective accents, and non-slip bottoms.

RIFRUF Fashion Dog Sneakers (Verified Review)

RIFRUF dog booties are constructed with the same materials found in your favorite pair of tennis shoes. And they’re just as cute. (Okay, cuter. Much cuter.) The custom-made “RUFKNIT” mesh top of these shoes allows for ventilation. And a strong rubber outsole and midsole provide support on rough surfaces. 

An interesting feature we haven’t seen with other brands is RIFRUF’s split sizing option. Along with offering traditional paw sizes from 1 to 7, they also sell sets that come with two different sizes: two for a dog’s back paws, and two for their front. 

These booties aren’t exactly cheap, but they should last a decent amount of time. That is, depending on the extent to which you use them. Dogs who wear RIFRUFs all the time will wear them out much sooner than a less active pup who only dons them occasionally. A worn-out sole is a good indication that shoes need replacing. But if you’re unsure, RIFRUF encourages shoppers to “feel free to send a picture of the shoe and we will be happy to provide you guidance.”

You and your dog might like:

• RIFRUFS are tested for safety by a veterinarian partner
• Adorable two-tone color schemes
• Easy to put on and off
• Machine washable

You and your dog might NOT like:

• They’re fairly pricey
• They’re not explicitly waterproof

Verified review: Our tester verified with her Boston Terrier that these shoes are easy to put on and take off, and noted her dog adapted to them quite quickly. The high tops prevent rubbing that can commonly happen with lower boots/shoes, and they provided a good amount of traction with their thick rubber soles. If you’re looking for more of a day-to-day shoe for your dog to protect them from hot asphalt but don’t need something super-rugged like a hiking boot, these deserve consideration. 

Dog Boot Alternatives

Not convinced a dog boot is worth it? We get it. Some of our pups have torn off their shoes and flung them to the far corners of the world before! So if you want to keep protecting your dog’s paws somehow, we scooped up alternative picks that your dog might appreciate more.

Musher’s Secret Paw Protection Natural Dog Wax

Some dogs aren’t huge fans of booties but still need protection from deep snow or salty sidewalks in the winter season—that’s where Musher’s Secret comes in.

Originally developed for sled dogs, it’s a non-toxic natural wax that rubs right onto the pads of your dog’s feet to create a barrier from harsh conditions. The wax absorbs quickly and is semi-permeable, so your dog’s paws will be able to breathe (and sweat!) while still being protected; it only needs to be applied once or twice a week.

Bonus? This non-staining wax doubles as a moisturizer and helps heal wounds.

How to Choose the Right Dog Boots

So you’re ready to try out some dog boots—but how do you know what size to get? How do you put them on and clean them? And how on earth do you convince your dog that footwear isn’t so bad? Here’s a good primer for pet owners new to the dog shoe scene.

Measure your dog’s feet

The most important step in ensuring the dog boots you choose work for your furry friend is getting the right size. First, grab a sheet of paper, a pencil, and a ruler. Place the paper on a hard surface (think wood or stone, not carpet), then have your dog step on the paper, resting their weight squarely on their plant foot so their toes splay like they would when your pup walks.

Quickly sketch around your pup’s foot, then set them loose and measure your sketch’s width and length. That’s your dog’s shoe size!

Most brands have a size chart that lists both width and length, but if you’re on the fence, prioritize the width—that’s the key to getting a good fit in a winter boot. If your dog is between sizes, it’s usually smart to size up.

Training Tips for Dog Boots

We’ll admit—getting most dogs on board with the idea of wearing booties isn’t easy. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible, as long as you’re equipped with patience and some treats (lots of those.)

The key is to start slow. Let your dog sniff his new gear for a day or two, dropping in the occasional treat so they develop positive associations with the boots. 

The first time you suit up all four paws, you should temper your expectations: most pups will take a few tries to acclimate to their new duds. You’ll probably witness their confusion as your dog high-steps around, unsure about these strange new appendages on his feet. At this point, feel free to give them a break for the day, reward them with more treats, and try again tomorrow. 

For more details on how to get this process right, check out how two of our Rover testers fared with XSY&G boots and Expawlorers. 

Getting your dog to like the boots

Dog-boot manufacturers know that your pup isn’t going to sit around while you tie laces, so the vast majority of shoes rely on easy-to-use Velcro straps. It’s best to prep the booties ahead of time so you don’t leave your pup waiting. Just undo the straps at the top of the boot and slide your dog’s paw in.

Once the boot is on, give the shoe a gentle pinch to make sure the top of the paw reaches the bottom of the boot. Then fasten the Velcro straps on top. You’ll want to get the straps tight enough so the boots won’t slip off but are still comfortable for your dog to walk in. Give the boot a few tugs to make sure an enterprising pup can’t fling it across the street (we speak from experience).

Now your dog is ready for snow, ice, mud, and beyond!

Dog Walking

If reading about dog boots is making you wish you had some extra help getting your dog out and about more—well, that’s where Rover comes in. Find a reliable dog walker near you.

Further Reading

• Our Favorite Treatments for Dry Dog Skin: Butters, Salves, and Oils, Oh My!
• Easy, Affordable Ways to Protect Your Dog’s Paws (Beyond Booties)
• Does Your Dog Need Boots?