Buying guides
Do Dogs Need Boots in the Snow? Plus How to Size Dog Boots
Not every dog needs boots in the snow, but many benefit, especially on salted sidewalks, ice and long winter walks. The AKC recommends boots to protect paws from frostbite, ice, de-icers and road salt. To find the right size, press your dog's paw on paper, trace it and measure the widest part, then match that to the brand's chart. Introduce boots one at a time indoors with treats before the first snowy walk.
By Matt GarnettUpdated November 14, 20264 min read3 sources
Which dogs need boots in winter
Dog boots for snow make the most sense for dogs that walk on salted or chemically treated sidewalks, small and short-coated dogs whose paws chill quickly, seniors and dogs with arthritis who slip on ice, and long-haired dogs that collect painful ice balls between their toes. The AKC lists cold weather, ice, rough terrain and de-icers among the main reasons to use them.
A thick-coated dog walking on clean snow in a park may be perfectly comfortable without boots, and many sled-type breeds are. If your dog keeps lifting paws, limps, licks the feet after walks or has red, cracked pads, that is a sign their feet need more protection, whether that means boots (a fleece-lined snow boot for cold days, an anti-slip winter boot for icy sidewalks, or waterproof dog boots for slush), shorter walks or both.
Why road salt and de-icers are a problem
The AKC warns that rock salt can lodge between the pads, causing discomfort, redness and inflammation, and that a dog regularly licking salt from the paws could develop mild sodium poisoning or dehydration, and in extreme cases liver damage. Some de-icers are also irritating chemicals, which is why boots are worth it in towns with heavily treated sidewalks.
If your dog will not wear boots, wipe or rinse the paws after every walk to remove salt and ice balls, as the AKC suggests, and dry between the toes. A paw balm can help protect pads. Use pet-friendly ice melt on your own driveway and steps so the last part of every walk is safe.
How to measure your dog's paws for boots
Step 1: Put a sheet of paper on a hard floor and have your dog stand with one front paw on it, ideally while lifting the other front paw so the weight spreads the foot as it does when walking. Step 2: Trace around the paw with a pen. Step 3: Draw a line across the widest part of the tracing and measure it. The AKC says this width is the number to use for boot size.
Step 4: Many brands also ask for length, so measure from the back of the main pad to the tip of the longest nail. Step 5: Measure both front and back paws, because front paws are often bigger and some brands sell different sizes for each. Compare the numbers with that brand's chart rather than a generic one.
How a dog boot should fit
A good boot stays on while your dog walks and runs, grips the ground and follows the natural shape of the paw. The AKC suggests an indoor test run to check all three, and says Velcro straps help create a snug fit. The strap should sit above the dewclaw area without pinching, and you should be able to slip a finger under it.
If a boot twists, slides down or flies off, try the next size down or a different design. If your dog walks with very high, stiff steps for more than a few minutes, the boot may be too tight. After the first few walks, check for rubbing or redness where the top edge sits.
How to put on dog boots and get your dog used to them
Step 1: Set the dog boots on the floor and reward your dog for sniffing them, as the AKC recommends. Step 2: Put one boot on, reward, then take it off right away. Step 3: Gradually lengthen how long that boot stays on. Step 4: Add the others one at a time, until your dog walks around in all four while eating treats or playing.
Step 5: Try short walks outside before longer ones. The AKC describes boots as often the hardest item for dogs to accept, so expect high-stepping at first and keep sessions cheerful. If your dog pulls away, paws at the boots or seems distressed, go back a step and shorten the wear time.
When to check with your vet
Call your vet if your dog's pads are cracked and bleeding, a toe looks swollen, your dog keeps limping after a walk, or the skin on the paws looks pale, gray or blistered after time in the cold, which can be frostbite. Constant licking of the feet in winter can also be a sign of irritation from salt or de-icers.
Keep nails trimmed and the hair between the pads short so boots fit and snow does not ball up.
This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.
Common questions
Is it OK for dogs to walk in snow without boots?
Many healthy, thick-coated dogs walk in clean snow without boots. Boots help most on salted sidewalks, ice and long walks, and for small, short-coated, senior or arthritic dogs. Wipe paws after every walk either way.
How do I know my dog's boot size?
Trace a paw on paper while your dog stands on it, measure the widest part of the tracing, and match it to the brand's chart. Measure front and back paws, since they often differ.
Why does my dog walk funny in boots?
High, stiff steps are normal at first, because your dog cannot feel the ground in the usual way. Short, rewarded practice sessions indoors usually help within a few days. Check the fit if it continues.
Sources we checked
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or injured, contact your veterinarian.
