Last Updated: July 2, 2023
The best dog boots for winter and snow can help your dog stay safe by protecting its paws from cold, injuries, and water.
Winters are great fun for dogs especially when there is snow all around.
The only drawback of winter for your little friend is spending too much time outside in the cold as it may lead to chapped paws and irritate your dog’s skin.
As a dog parent, you have two choices – either confine your dog to the insides of the house and cut short all the fun they would want to have, or get them comfortable, safe, and durable boots for winter.
We have compiled a list of the best winter dog boots for cold and snow so that your dog doesn’t have to deal with frostbite whenever you two go walking or hiking in winter.
Read on to find your match!
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10 Best Dog Boots For Winter
Ruffwear Dog Boots For Winter Hiking & Snow
These boots are made for dogs who love extensive outdoor activities like hiking, trail running, and exploring the wild throughout the year.
Whether you take your furry friend for a walk in hot summer days, rainy season, in chilly winter, snowfall, or hiking/trekking in rocky terrain this pair is perfect for every condition.
The woven upper part of the boots is breathable and well ventilated so your dog’s paws will not get sweaty from extensive activities.
The shoes manage to keep dirt, debris, snow, or light rain from getting inside.
But make sure it doesn’t get submerged in water as it is not meant for heavy rain or water activities.
The rugged sole gives excellent grip (even on wooden floor or tiles surface) while the hook and loop straps tightly stay on your dog’s paws while walking or running, which is definitely a challenge with other dog boots.
The reflective design makes your dog visible even when you are hiking at dusk or dawn or taking your dog for a night walk.
You can even put them on when your dog is indoors especially during winters to keep their paws warm.
The overall build is durable, and high-quality will fit perfectly if you measure your dog’s paws correctly before buying.
What we liked
- Comfortable, breathable, and durable
- Stays on your dog’s legs while running, playing or walking
- Gives excellent grip on any surface
- High build quality
- Perfect for all dog breeds
- Ideal for all weather conditions
- Easy to put on and off
What we didn’t like
- A bit expensive but worth every penny
- Comes in a set of two dog boots only
Ultra Paws Durable Dog Boots For Small Breeds
These Ultra Paws dog boots are best for adult small dog breeds.
These dog booties have rubber anti-slip soles and will protect your dog’s feet from snow and throughout the biting cold while keeping your dog’s paws warm and protected.
This pair can be used in winter and snowy weather as well as for wet and dry conditions.
They are water-resistant and made with flexible rubber soles that give a good grip to your dog’s paws on a wet floor or wooden/tile surfaces.
The inner base of these dog shoes is cushioned with padded foam to give comfort to your dog’s ankles.
The dual fuzzy fastener straps prevent the boots from slipping off your dog’s legs while running, playing in the field, or in your backyard.
You can even machine wash this pair and but to dry it make sure to hang it upside down as it is not meant for machine dry.
They come in six sizes so you can find the perfect one for your dog’s paws.
What we liked
- For all weather conditions
- Water-resistant and anti-slip sole
- Machine washable
- Perfect for all weather conditions
- Provide good grip on wooden floor or tiles
What we didn’t like
- Only for adult small dog breeds or toy breeds
- Can not be used for fishing or extensive water activities
- Not an ideal pair if your dog has a dewclaw
QUMY Dog Boots For Medium Large Breed
These boots are lightweight and designed to fit your four-legged friend’s paw comfortably.
These booties are perfect for medium and large dog breeds.
The material of this boot is of high-quality and durable to protect your dog’s paws from hot pavement, sharp thorns, or salt during the winter.
The boot is waterproof and has an anti-skid sole so you can keep your dog paws safe in all weather conditions both indoors and outdoors.
These dog snow boots are comfortable to wear on long trips and hard runs, you can also use them at home to keep your dog paws warm during winter.
You won’t have to wipe muddy paws during rainy seasons or deal with their paws getting cold or chapped in cold weather.
The two reflective adjustable straps on the boots make your dog visible in the dark or in low visibility to the passing vehicles and even to you if your dog runs away chasing small animals during the night.
The tightness of the strap can be easily adjusted depending upon your requirement so that the boots do not fall off while running or walking.
The shoes have a wide opening so you can easily slip your dog’s paws without hassle and get your dog ready for the chilly winter within seconds.
What we liked
- Durable, comfortable, and anti-slip sole
- Water-resistant
- Easy to put on and clean
- Hand washable
- Has reflective adjustable straps
- Perfect for all weather conditions
- Can be used both indoors and outdoors
What we didn’t like
- Can not be used for extreme water activities
- Not ideal for beach walks or sand areas as sand may seep into the boots through stitching gaps
Bark Brite Neoprene Paw Protector Dog Boots For Winter
If your dog is a frequent outdoor explorer, these dog boots are a great item to keep on hand.
The Bark Bite Neoprene Paw Protector is easy to put on and take off. They are comfortable and stay on well even on active dogs.
BarkBite dog boots come in five sizes and are great for protecting the paws from the snow and salt that can cause irritation.
These paw protectors are water & puncture resistant and can be used in all weather conditions and activities like hiking in snow or rough terrain, walking, running, and playing.
The tread rubber soles of these boots are durable and give an excellent grip on slippery or icy surfaces.
The bottom of the shoes has a special puncture-proof material that protects your dog’s paws from getting hurt from sharp objects while walking or hiking while keeping your dog’s feet clean and warm.
The boot is not waterproof but does allow water to pass through while protecting the paws from injuries and foreign objects.
The boot is made of neoprene material which is generally used in making water sports suits like scuba diving suits.
The neoprene is highly-durable, stretchable, breathable, tear-resistant, lightweight, and comfortable to wear, so the boots will last long and won’t irritate your dog’s paws.
The reflective straps can be easily adjusted to fit perfectly and give 360-degree visibility in low light or in the dark so you won’t lose track of your dog while walking it during the night.
The heel guard provides extra durability and safety to your dog’s paws.
What we liked
- Easy to put on and off
- Reflective 360-degree adjustable straps
- Durable and stretchable
- Hand washable
- Heel guard for extra protection and comfort
- Perfect for all weather conditions
- Ideal for any activities
- For all dog breeds
What we didn’t like
- The material of the sole is not waterproof so your dog’s paws may feel wet after landing on water
- Not for toy breeds or teacup breeds
- Doesn’t last long when extensively used
Kurgo Blaze Winter Dog Boots
If you take your dog hiking in the mountains, running or camping in the woods, or even if you live in a colder climate with ice and snow in the wintertime, then these durable dog shoes are a must-have for your four-legged companion.
No matter the weather take your furry friend outdoors and let it explore.
The Kurgo dog boots are protective, lightweight, and have a 360-degree reflective design for keeping your dog visible to the passing vehicles in low-light.
They are ideal for any weather conditions whether you are taking your dog outdoors in summers, light rain, winter, or snow.
These paw protectors have a breathable mesh that is water-resistant while the overall boot is designed ergonomically to comfortably fit on the paws.
The boot is made of ripstop leather that makes it tear-resistant while passing through thorny bushes, rough terrains, rocks, or if the shoes come in contact with sharp objects.
It uses hook and loop and bungee cord dual ankle closure for a tight fit around your dog’s paws so the chances of it slipping off are negligible.
These winter dog boots are available in 6 sizes so you can easily find the one to match your pooch’s personality.
What we liked
- Water-resistant, reflective and breathable
- Ergonomically designed for comfort
- Can be used for any outdoor activities
- Durable, lightweight, and easy to put on
- For all dog breeds
- Perfect for all weather conditions
What we didn’t like
- Expensive as compared to other dog boots in the market
- Not ideal for extensive water activities
- Not ideal for machine wash or hand wash, you can only wipe it clean
XSY&G Winter Dog Boots For Medium Breeds
If you live in a place where the temperature is low enough to cause extreme discomfort for your dog, put these on your dog’s paws whether you are indoors or outdoors.
These shoes will protect your dog’s paws from cold, snow, ice, salt, or any pointy objects in your yard, on the road, or while hiking.
This pair is ideal for all weather conditions and can be hand washed for regular use.
You can even keep them ON indoors so that your furry friend’s nails do not leave scratches on your furniture, or wooden floor.
The adjustable velcro straps have thin reflective lines so that you can track your dog’s movement even in the dark.
The anti-slip sole gives excellent grip on any type of surface and the overall build is durable and stretchable to adjust according to your dog’s feet.
If you are always worried about your dog’s paw when walking or running on the road or snowy pavement or simply want to keep your dog’s paws clean and safe from injuries, then this paw protector will be a good choice for you.
It will solve all your concerns and make both you and your dog happy.
What we liked
- Water-resistant, sturdy and stretchable
- Breathable and comfortable
- Excellent grip, perfect for any surface
- Ideal for both indoors and outdoors
- For medium dog breeds
- Perfect for all weather conditions
What we didn’t like
- The shoes may come off while walking or running if your dog has thin legs
- The velcro straps are difficult to clean
Muttluks Fleece-Lined Dog Boots For Snow
Protect your best friend’s paws with Muttluks fleece-lined dog boots that are made for extreme cold weather and snow.
Whether you are taking your dog for a walk around the block or hiking the trails in thick snow, these dog boots will keep your pet’s paws safe, clean, and protected.
The soft fleece lining on the inner side of the boot protects your dog’s paws from cold, salt, ice, and snow as well as on rough terrains that have sharp rocks or gravel that can cut paws or cause irritation.
The tough outer fabric is breathable, waterproof, and windproof to keep the paws warm and comfortable while the reflective straps help you keep track of your dog in the dark.
These snow boots allow you to take your furry friend on long winter walks without worrying about frostbite or snowballs between the toes.
This pair is machine washable, comfortable and they stay on while your dog is active.
If your dog loves to spend time outdoors in winter weather it will surely benefit from this extra layer of protection for its paws.
What we liked
- Comfortable and built is of good quality
- Waterproof, windproof, and breathable
- Stretchable and machine washable
- Reflective straps
- Made for extreme cold and snow
- Perfect for all dog breeds
What we didn’t like
- A bit difficult to put on because of the inner fleece lining
- The velcro straps are of bad quality, frays fast
EXPAWLORER Waterproof Winter Dog Boots For Walking
This pair of durable dog boots will help your pooch navigate through a variety of terrains so that he/she can enjoy being outdoors in any weather condition.
Convenient hook and loop fasteners straps keep the shoes on through all the activities and make your job easy to put the boots on and off without hassle.
The reflective lines on the strap enhance visibility all night to the moving vehicles as well as to you.
These dog booties have an ergonomic shape that maximizes comfort and supports your dog’s paws.
Another best part is they are hand washable and you can dry them naturally in the air.
The rugged sole gives your dog’s paws an excellent grip on any surface and protects the paws from cold, snow, heat, water, salt, or any other foreign object that might lead to chafing.
You can even keep them on your dog’s paws indoors during extremely cold weather or to simply keep your wooden items from getting ugly scratches from your pet’s nails.
The overall build of these winter dog boots is comfortable, stretchable, waterproof, and perfect for wet, dry, hot, or cold conditions.
What we liked
- Ergonomic design, makes it comfortable to wear
- Waterproof and stretchable
- Anti-skid rugged soles give excellent traction on tiles or slippery surface
- Easy to put on and off
- Hand washable
- For all dog breeds
- Ideal for both indoors and outdoors
- Perfect for all weather conditions
What we didn’t like
- Not ideal for walking your dog in heavy rain or deep snow as water seeps through the stitches
- Not for robust use, may wear off if used for vigorous activities
Mokcci Dog Boots For Winter & Snow
These dog boots are waterproof and can be used in any weather.
But if you take your dog hiking on rough terrains throughout the year, then this pair is not for you.
The boots have durable rubber soles with non-slip tread patterns that give a strong grip and makes it easier for your dog to walk on ice or snow or wet surface without slipping.
The straps have reflective stitching that makes your dog safe in the dark and is designed to keep the boots on your dog’s paws gently yet firmly.
The boots easily slip into the dog’s feet while allowing you to quickly remove them when necessary.
The soft foam padding keeps the boot snug and comfortable on your dog’s paws.
The boots are durable enough to protect the paws against sharp objects, snow, cold, water, and hot pavements, but they are ideal for short walks.
What we liked
- Water-resistant and anti-slip rubber sole
- Gives a good grip on any surface
- Hand washable
- Easy to put on and off
- Ideal for outdoors
- Perfect for medium and large dog breeds
- For all weather conditions
What we didn’t like
- Good for short walks
- Doesn’t last long if used extensively
- Not an ideal pair for small dog breeds
CovertSafe& Winter Dog Boots For Medium & Large Breeds
These dog boots are perfect for any weather conditions on any terrain, safe and flexible with non-slip soles.
Not only do they protect your dogs’ tender paws, but they will also keep the paws warm in the freezing cold, dry in the rain, and cool on the hot summer days.
The upper portion of the dog boot is made from a soft but durable material that withstands abuse while keeping dirt, mud, and water out and allowing your dog’s foot to breathe.
The split seam opening is large enough so you can easily get your dog’s foot inside without having to struggle and force it in.
The two velcro reflective straps provide additional security and makes sure the dog boots stay on even under extreme conditions such as running or biking.
The soles have grooved designs that gives a strong grip on any surface, and are sturdy to protect the paws from cold, snow, heat, broken glass pieces on the road.
The soft lining on the inside keeps the paws warm during winters.
They come in 4 different colors – blue, red, brown, and green, so you can choose the color to match it to your dog’s collar.
What we liked
- Good quality, sturdy sole with anti-slip grip
- Breathable, and waterproof
- Adjustable reflective straps
- Easy to put on and off
- Hand washable
- Perfect for medium and large dogs
- For all weather conditions
- Reasonably priced
What we didn’t like
- Not very comfortable, the boots are not very flexible to adjust to dog’s paw movement
Winter Dog Boots Buying Guide
In this buying guide, we will talk about things to consider when buying dog boots for winter and how to measure the paw size of your dog.
How to choose the best dog boots for winter?
While it is true that dogs have a better tolerance for cold than humans, prolonged exposure to extreme cold can irritate your dog’s paws leaving them chapped.
Choosing the best winter dog boots doesn’t have to be complicated.
Think of it as buying a boot for yourself. What all parameters do you consider?
You check if the boot is comfortable, fits you perfectly, keeps you warm, and most importantly doesn’t hurt your ankle or toes during short and long walks.
So you need to keep these in mind while choosing a winter boot for your dog.
Here are a couple of parameters you should consider when buying dog boots.
Comfort & Flexibility
Winter dog boots with breathable mesh and fleece lining tend to be more comfortable as it keeps your dog’s paws warm.
Also, dog boots with rubber soles protect the paws from sharp objects, snow, cold, and heat.
Apart from this, you should also check the flexibility of the dog boots.
An ergonomic boot will adjust as per your dog’s paw movement and your dog won’t feel uncomfortable during long walks and while running.
Comfort is the most important parameter to check if you want your dog to like the new pair of booties you have brought for him/her.
Anti-slip Grip
A dog boot should have a rugged or grooved sole so that it gives excellent grip on slippery surfaces like ice, or wet terrains.
In extremely cold conditions your dog will need to wear boots even when they are indoors, so buy a pair that is ideal for both indoor and outdoor use and would give good grip on tiles or wooden floor as well.
Waterproof
It’s a no-brainer, if you are buying dog boots for winter it has to be waterproof so that they can keep your dog’s paws dry and warm.
Most dog boots are built for light rain and snow or water, but some boots allow water to pass through, so buy the one that will block out snow and water completely.
Reflective Design
Your dog boots should have a reflective design so that your furry friend stays safe during night walks and is visible to the passing vehicles in the dark.
The reflective design will also help you to track your dog’s movement during the night walk.
Easy To Put On & Secure
It should not take more than 30 seconds for you to put the boots on your dog’s paws.
So look for boots with wide openings so that you do not have to force their paws in. It might irritate your dog and you.
Most dog shoes with simple velcro straps tend to slip off even during walking, so consider buying boots with adjustable hook and loop straps because they secure the paws firmly but gently and stay on your dog’s feet during playing, running, or simply walking.
Also, the adjustable straps gives you the freedom to adjust the tightness as per your need.
Boot Size & Material
Take measurements of both the front and back of your dog’s paws so that you do not end up buying a size that does not fit.
Some dogs have bigger front paws so it’s best to measure all the paws just to be sure.
The build quality should be sturdy and durable so that it does not wear off after a few short walks and should be able to protect your dog’s paws from thorny bushes, sharp glass pieces, or any other foreign objects that may hurt your friend.
A boot stitched together is much more durable and lasts longer as compared to the glued ones.
Also, the wear and tear of dog boots depend on their nail grooming.
If your dog nails are not groomed, it may hurt your dog due to friction from the inner walls of the boot and may tear a hole in the boots.
So make sure to groom your dog nails regularly so that the boots last longer.
How do you size dog boots?
In order to choose the right size of dog boots for your furry mate, follow the below steps to correctly measure the paw size:
1. Put your dog’s paw on a piece of paper and gently press the paw down. This will spread the paw on paper and will just like when your dog actually walks.
2. With a pen mark the left and right side of the paw on the paper
3. Measure the marked distance with the help of a measuring tape
4. Similarly, take the measurement of the back of your dog’s paw. It is important to measure both front and back paws because some dogs have different paw sizes.
5. After you have completed measuring the paw sizes, add about 0.2 inches to the measurement to be on a safer side so that you do not end up buying a tight pair that makes your dog uncomfortable. It will give your dog’s feet some room to breathe and spread its toes.
Here’s a video that demonstrates how to measure your dog’s paw size:
Some Pro Tips To Keep In Mind
It’s always a good idea to choose the boots slightly larger than the actual paw measurement, (just like we do for our shoes). It’s more comfortable that way.
If you are introducing the boots to your dog for the first time, allow him/her enough time to get accustomed to it.
Put them on for some time on a daily basis and see how they react.
Some dogs adapt quickly and some take time.
Be patient.
Once you are confident that your dog is walking naturally with the boots on, you can confidently take them out for long walks and for other activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dogs need boots for snow?
Yes, dogs need boots for snow or chilly winter weather.
Snow or cold can leave your dog’s paws chapped and dry causing irritation.
If you find your dog lifting its paws or whining or stopping frequently when you take them out for a walk it means he/she is feeling cold or its paws are chafed.
Without boots, snowballs can form at the bottom of their paw which can be painful and you will find your dog licking or chewing its paws to remove them.
Another reason to get dog boots for winter or snow is because certain chemicals and salt are used to melt snow which if comes in contact with your dog’s paws (when you take them out for a walk) can cause irritation.
What temperature do dogs need boots?
According to Pedigree Foundation and West Lafayette, if the temperature falls below 32 degrees Fahrenheit dog breeds with short coats, puppies, older dogs will feel shivering cold and will need to wear dog boots and sweaters before stepping out.
Dog breeds with longer coats can tolerate temperature at 45 degrees Fahrenheit or above but if the temperature drops below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, some dog breeds may start to feel cold.
So keep a dotting eye on your dog’s behavior and if you hear him or her whining or lifting its paws it means he/she is feeling cold.
How long can you leave dog boots on?
Dogs should not be allowed to wear boots all the time.
Remove the boots every hour or two so that air can cool down your dog’s paws.
Dogs have their sweat glands in their paws so keeping the boots on for a longer duration may make your dog uncomfortable and can cause chafing due to friction and rubbing.
Also, before putting the shoes back on, make sure that their paws are completely dry to avoid foul smell and infection due to bacteria build-up.
Is snow dangerous for a dog’s paws?
As much as your dog loves snow, it can be dangerous for its paws.
Snow can accumulate in between your dog’s paw pads and form small ice balls.
These ice balls can cause frostbites and lead to rough, itchy, and chapped paws which can be painful for your pet.
Final Thoughts
The best dog boots for winter and snow should be comfortable, durable, and easy to put on and off.
They should protect your dog’s paws from cold, injuries, and water.
We highly recommend this pair by Ruffwear which is perfect for snow and vigorous activities throughout the year and stays on while your dog is active.
Protect your dog’s paws by investing in a pair of these winter dog boots.
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About Me
I am Chhavi Kumari, passionate dog lover and devoted blogger sharing tips, insights, and love for all things canine. Honoring the memory of cherished Dobermans while inspiring a happy, healthy life with your furry companion.
