• Thermal burns — Hot asphalt and concrete can quickly burn your dog’s paw pads. We recommend exercising your dog during the cooler summer hours, but invest in dog boots if you must travel over hot surfaces.

• Frostbite or ice melt — Excessive cold can damage exposed tissue, including paw pads. Ice melt products can cause irritation and discomfort.
• Rocky terrain — Hiking trails and rugged environments can cause abrasions and lacerations.

• Working dogs — Working canines perform in unpredictable, often dangerous environments. Boots can help these valuable dogs avoid job-ending injuries.

• Injury prevention — Some dogs will run and play until their “feet fall off”—tearing or abrading the pads from intense friction. Dogs affected by neurological issues may need boots to prevent dragging-related injury to the tops of their feet.

• Increased traction — As dogs age, their paw pads become smooth, which, coupled with muscle weakness and reduced balance, makes senior dogs more vulnerable to falling, especially on slick floors.

• Protection from allergies — Boots or paw covers can reduce exposure to environmental allergens and make dogs less likely to lick and chew at their feet.
• Treatment for irritation — Topical paw protection, such as balms and salves, can help heal dry or irritated paw pads.

What to Look For Based on Need

Paw products can be divided into three categories: prevention or protection (e.g., dog boots or covers), traction (e.g., applied products), and treatment (e.g., paw balms and waxes), although you will find some overlap. Based on your dog’s individual needs, you’ll search for specific features when shopping for paw protection.

• Injury prevention (e.g., dog boots and covers) — This category includes protecting your dog from external forces such as dangerous surfaces, foreign objects, and terrain. Dog boots or paw covers are the easiest way to meet this need. When shopping for these items, consider the following:

• • Design — Winter boots may feature an insulated top, while hot weather boots should use breathable fabric.

• • Sole thickness — Like your own shoes, dog boot soles should be thick enough to prevent penetration from heat, cold, or sharp objects.
  • Traction and grip — Boot soles should grip so your dog feels confident and secure.
  • Fit — Dog boot fit is essential to ensure your dog is comfortable and that the boots are not constantly lost. Look for a manufacturer that offers a measuring guide and size variety.
  • Ease of use — Do the boots or covers look easy to put on? What holds them up? Look for strong velcro and a strap that can wrap entirely around the ankle.
  • Cost — You get what you pay for when it comes to dog boots. However, for short excursions, inexpensive boots may suffice. Paw covers, which typically look like latex balloons, are economical but are not meant for extreme temperatures or rugged terrain.