Top 10 Best Dog Boots for Winter

Top 10 Best Dog Boots for Winter

The weather in this country is pretty unpredictable, 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, look for something that:

  • Fits comfortably over their paws
  • Is made from waterproof/water-resistant material
  • Has a flexible sole to support your dog’s natural gait
  • Is sized appropriately, with adjustable straps for a secure fit

Here are our picks for four of the best dog snow boots (plus one non-boot for dogs who just can’t handle footwear).

How to Choose the Right Dog Boots

  • The material of the sole should be textured, with a good grip for traction
  • Choose boots made from waterproof or water-resistant material
  • The sole should be flexible so your dog can walk naturally
  • Choose a boot with adjustable Velcro straps
  • Most dogs don’t like the feel of shoes or boots. Prepare him by trying them on him in the house for short periods of time and praising him as he gets used to wearing them.
  • Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for size, and measure before you order.
  • If your dog is ultra-sensitive, try starting with a pair of warm dog socks. These are also great to pair underneath booties for an even warmer feel.
  • Paw balm is another great item to have on hand for winter, both for protection and for soothing cracked paws.

The boots below include different styles and features to help you choose the right winter boots for your dog.

The 10 Best Dog Snow Boots For Winter

Ruffwear 15301 Dog Boots – Premium Choice

Ruffwear

If you are confident in your pooches’ love for snow boots, consider our premium choice. The Ruffwear comes in eight sizes to fit any size breed. You have three colors to choose from including green, gray, and teal. These insulated booties are meant for the extreme cold. If you plan on spending an extended time in the frigid temperatures, you will not have to worry about cold paws any longer.

Getting these on your pup is also a breeze with the stretch pullover fabric. They have an adjustable Velcro strap to keep them on tight, and a zipper top to keep any snow from falling inside. What’s more, your dog will have three layers of protection from the cold, plus they are water and windproof.

Additionally, the Vibram Icetrek sole has non-slip technology and reflective side panels so you can spot Rover in low-light. Beyond that, you can toss them into the washing machine along with your outdoor wear, as well. One important thing to consider is these are only meant for snow and winter use. Even the milder temperatures of the fall will be too warm for these canine kicks. Also, they are a tad more expensive than other options.

Pros
  • Reflective
  • Water and windproof
  • Adjustable strap
  • Extreme cold durable
  • Non-slip sole
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Winter weather only

YILEGOU Dog Snow Shoes – Best Value

YILEGOU

If you are hesitant about buying a pair of dog snow boots, or you are not sure your pup will tolerate them, here is a great affordable choice. These cute brown options have an adjustable strap and a soft rubber sole that will not slip on ice or slippery surfaces.

You can choose between five different sizes, although they are best suited for medium to small breeds. Your pup’s paws will also be super toasty with the fleece interior. The outside is made of a faux suede fabric that can be washed for easy cleaning.

The lightweight brand is warm, cute, and will not slip off. The only downside to these is they are not for multi-season use because the fleece lining is too hot for the summer. Also, they do not have a lot of water-resistance, although melting snow will be fine. Plus, you will have the security of reflective paneling.

Pros
  • Machine washable
  • Adjustable strap
  • Reflective
  • Warm fleece lining
  • Non-slip sole
Cons
  • Winter only
  • Low water-resistance

Kurgo K81005 Dog Shoes – Best Overall

Kurgo Dog Boots

These all-season paw protectors are great for keeping those little paws warm and off the pavement. You can take your pup rocking climbing, running on ice, the sand, or even wet landscapes with these water-resistant options.

You can also rest easy knowing your pup is safe with the reflective panels and non-slip soles. The boots come in six sizes to accommodate all breeds, and an adjustable ankle cord to keep them from falling off. You can choose from red or black, and they feature a breathable non-rip leather upper material. Besides that, the sole is designed to mimic the paws of your pooch for extra comfort, and there is a double closure and wide seam so you can easily slip these little puppies on without a fuss.

Another great aspect of this brand is they are machine washable and dryable. Whether you want to do some ice fishing, or you could fry an egg on the pavement, this pair of snow boots will keep your pup’s paws protected.

Cons
  • Extra kisses and playtime
Pros
  • Adjustable ankle straps
  • Reflective
  • Lightweight
  • Multi-season use
  • Non-slip sole
  • Non-rip material

WINSOON Dog Australia Snow Boots

WINSOON

Moving right along to the number four spot is the WINSOON Australia boots that come in five sizes and four different colors. These paw-friendly shoes resemble Ugg Boots but have the anti-skid rubber sole that your pup needs to keep on their feet or paws.

With this option, you will get a soft leather upper and sherpa lined interior to keep little feet extra warm. The back seam opens up so you can easily slide the paw of your pet right in without an issue. They also have a Velcro strap that adjusts to the size of your dog’s ankle so they won’t fall off.

Something to consider with this pick is the water resistance is low, and it will damage the appearance of the boot. You want to make sure they are not submerged in water. Finally, be aware that you have to hand wash this option, and they do not have any reflective material.

Cons
  • Should not get wet
  • No reflective material
Pros
  • Easy to put on
  • Adjustable strap
  • Warm sherpa lining
  • Non-slip sole

QUMY Dog Boots Waterproof Shoes

QUMY

Our next option is the QUMY snow boots for pooches who like to frolic in the water regardless of the time of year. The waterproof construction keeps little paws dry and warm with the double sewing stitch that also prevents tearing. The boots have two reflective Velco adjustable straps for safety during dimly lit outdoor play, and non-slip soles.

Although these are nice and warm for your pup, you can also use these in the summertime to keep your pet’s paws from burning on the pavement. You have the choice of seven sizes and two colors to choose from. Not to mention, the outer seam opens wide to allow your dog to easily slip their foot right inside.

These boots come with a warning for four-legged friends with dewclaws. Unfortunately, these boots will not accommodate the extra digit. Also, while you can frolic in heavy snow, you want to avoid submerging this pair in water or using them in the sand. Finally, be advised that this brand is heavier than others so an older dog with joint issues or a clumsy pup will not do as well.

Cons
  • Will not accommodate a dewclaw
  • Heavier than other options
  • Can submerge in water
  • Not for use on sand
Pros
  • Multi-season use
  • Reflective adjustable straps
  • Waterproof
  • Stitched seams

My Busy Dog Water Resistant Dog Shoes

My Busy Dog

Moving on, we have a middle of the road option that features reflective material for safety and an anti-slip and water-resistant sole. Your pup can wear these paw pals in the cold weather months or the hot summer weather.

This brand has a great size range to choose from. All breeds between the sizes of one and eight will find a pair that will work for them. Besides size, you can also have your pick of black, orange, green, or red design, though you will have to hand wash this pair. Besides the outer design, the reinforced stitching will prevent these boots from ripping or tearing.

Two things take this option out of the top four. First, the water resistance is in the sole of the boot alone, so if any moisture gets into the rest of the shoes, your pup will have some cold and uncomfortable paws. Second, even though there are a wide expanding seam and adjustable straps, they can fall off if your pooch is the rambunctious type.

Pros
  • Reinforced stitching
  • Adjustable straps
  • Multi-season use
  • Reflective material
Cons
  • Only the sole is water-resistant
  • Hand wash
  • Will fall off with heavy movement

HiPaw Water Resistant Dog Boots

Hi Paw

The number eight spot belongs to the HiPaw snow boots. This option has warm fleece interior lining making them perfect for the cold winter months. Although they can be used during every season, the lining will make them hot and uncomfortable during a heatwave.

Besides that, these pooch-friendly boots have water-resistant soles that are slip-proof on rugged terrain. Be advised, however, that smoother surfaces such as ice can still cause your pup to slip. Also, please note that there are only three sizes available, and they are recommended for small to small-medium size dogs.

You can feel more secure with the reflective material on the exterior of the boot, plus you can pick either a blue or black style. One interesting fact about this brand is they are easy to put on but much harder to get off. If you have a pooch that is not fond of having their paws touched or a pup that will not sit still for any length of time, you are in for a battle.

Cons
  • Limited sizes
  • Hard to get off
  • Cold weather only
  • Can be slippery
Pros
  • Fleece lining
  • Water-resistant soles
  • Reflective material

EXPAWLORER Waterproof Dog Boots

EXPAWLORER

Moving down the line of options, we come to a pair of dog snow boots that are advertised to be completely waterproof. Unfortunately, the construction of these little shoes allows water to seep in at the seams causing cold toes.

As far as versatility, you only have the black style to choose from, but the eight sizes will accommodate most breeds. There is reflective material on the side for safety, and Velcro adjustable straps to keep your pup’s paws in place. In some cases, however, the ankle straps do not tighten enough to keep thinner ankles secure.

This style is also meant to have a slide-proof sole, but they can be slippery under the right conditions. In particular, these boots are not well suited for indoor use as they will skid, causing your pooch to trip and stumble. Beyond that, you will have to hand wash and air dry these shoes once they get dirty.

Pros
  • Multi-season use
  • Slide proof
  • Reflective material
  • Adjustable straps
Cons
  • Hand wash
  • Thin ankles will fall out
  • Not for indoor use
  • Not waterproof

URBEST Dog Winter Shoes

URBEST

The last pair on our review list is an option for your pup that is not great for the cold weather or the hot weather. This set is best for neutral spring or fall climates where there is not a lot of moisture in the air or freezing temperatures.

You also want to consider that the soles of these boots are very smooth, although they are meant to be slip-resistant. Even though a clumsy pooch can be cute at times, these shoes can get your pal hurt. Also, another important aspect is the adjustable straps. Unfortunately, they do not hold your pet’s paw in place, and you will spend a lot of time putting them back in place.

Beyond that, the zipper feature that helps keep the elements out also gets caught in your pooches fur. On a slightly brighter note, though, the boots do have reflective material for low light, and they are made of leather. Then again, you will have to wash them by hand carefully. Finally, this pair is just that; a pair. This brand offers sets of two instead of sets of four as is customary for four-legged friends.

Cons
  • Hand wash
  • Comes in sets of two only
  • Zipper gets caught in fur
  • Recommended for mild temperatures
  • Not water-resistant
  • Falls off
Pros
  • Leather exterior
  • Reflective material

Ultra Paws Rugged Dog Boots

Ultra Paws

In the second to last spot, we have an interesting pair of doggy snow boots. These warm paw protectors have a rubber sole made of recycled tires and a foam padded bottom. The trouble with these two features is the sole is smooth and will cause your pup to slip. Also, the foam pad, while comfortable, doesn’t have a lot of give, making this pair difficult to walk in for your pooch.

Besides that, the durable stitching has a wide seam opening to slip your pet’s foot right inside. The toe is wrapped in PVC plastic, which again causes some discomfort for your pet while wearing this brand. Additionally, you can use this option during the cold or hot weather, and they come in small, medium, large, and extra-large; though that leaves much room for improvement.

You can choose from a black, orange, or red style, and they feature a reflective material. What’s more, you can machine wash these boots…in cold water..through half the delicate cycle…with a gentle detergent. Finally, although they are a heavier design, these pup boots do have adjustable straps.

Cons
  • Difficult to wash
  • Heavy
  • Not comfortable
  • Sole is slippery
  • Hard to walk in
Pros
  • Warm
  • Adjustable straps
  • Easy to get on

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Dog Snow Boots

The first thing you want to do is determine the size of the boots your pup needs. This requires a few steps but nothing too drastic or stressful. The most important thing to remember is to measure the paws while your pooch is standing up.

How to Choose the Right Size

  • Place a piece of paper on the floor and have your dog step on it. Using your hand, press down gently on the paw to mimic the way the toes will spread when your pup walks. What you want to do is get the measurement for the widest part of the paw and the longest part including the nails.
  • The best way to do this is to either use a measuring tape (we recommended using a fabric option so it will bend) or trace around the outside of the paw as close as possible. If you go for the latter, you can measure the drawing. Either way, make sure you take into account other aspects of your pup’s foot such as dewclaws, etc.
  • Once you have the measurements, you can compare it to the size chart. Keep in mind, different brands use different sizing, so if you are switching between styles you want to have your measurements handy. Also, make sure you get the number for all four paws and use the biggest measurement to determine the correct size.

Tips When Buying

Now that the hard part is over, you can look at the different options available. There are many different features depending on your activities and your pooches needs. For example, if you spend a lot of time out in the cold, you want to choose an option with a warm lining and water-resistant construction.

Equally important is the sole of the boot. Typically, all snow boots for dogs will have a non-skid bottom, but some are more effective than others. If you will be on the ice or climbing over rocky terrain, make sure your furball will be safe. Speaking of safe, reflective material is always important. You want to spot your pup in low light, plus you want vehicles to see them.

The last (but essential) consideration is the wearability of the boot. First, you need to get your pooches’ paw inside the shoes without an all-out war that will only frustrate you and stress out your pup. Once the boot is on, however, it needs to stay on. There is nothing more frustrating than having your dog’s shoes fly off every ten minutes. It will suck the fun right out of the outing.

Bonus tip: If you have a new puppy that you are training or an older pup that is not used to snow boots, try the positive reinforcement tactic. If your furry-friend already knows sit, stay, and paw, you are ahead of the game. Give those commands first, then try to get one boot on as far as your pup will allow without a meltdown; all the while talking to your pet in a calm voice.

Once you get the shoe on as far as possible, hand over a treat. Keep on with this until you can successfully get all four boots on with no trouble. The most important thing to remember is to let your pup size up the shoes before you try to put the foreign objects on them. Let them sniff and investigate as much as they like.

Also, unless your pooch is familiar with snow boots, it’s not a good idea to wrestle them on and then head outside for a long walk right away. Let your pet do some practice laps in the yard or house first, so they can get used to wearing them

Conclusion

We hope the above reviews have helped narrow down your search and given some perspective on why snow boots for your pup are so important. De-icing chemicals can hurt your dog’s feet and paws can burn on the pavement when it is only 80 degrees outside.

  • Do your pup’s boots no longer fit because their toenails are too long? Check out the ten best nail grinders, so you can get back to stomping through the snow with your pal!

If you are still on the fence about which option to choose, however, we recommend you go with the Kurgo K81005 Blaze Cross Dog Shoes. They are paws down the best snow boots on the market. On the other hand, the YILEGOU Dog Shoes are a great affordable option if you want to try out a pair on your new puppy!

We truly hope that this guide helps you find the best dog snow boots so that you’re both ready for next winter!

Edward Hollon is an avid dog lover and writer, knowing all there is to know about our furry friends. Edward has been writing for petdii for three years now, wanting to use her knowledge for good and share everything she can with new dog owners. Edward has two dogs herself - a German shepherd called Banjo and a chocolate labrador called Buttons. Edward knows more than anyone how adjusting to new life with a puppy can turn your life upside down, and she wants to ease some of the burdens through her articles.