Dog Boots for Winter Wear
Not Just a Fashion Statement
Dog boots can be a boon to canines who love winter walks but suffer from ice-packed and frigid tootsies. Proper fit with secure fasteners are key.
Many a dog has embarked on a wonderful winter walk with four brand new boots, only to return home with three. Or two. Or one. Sometimes, all four boots have been cleverly removed by determined canine teeth. Or lost in snowdrifts. Or just plain "gone missing," along with the money spent on the latest in canine footwear.
Proper Fit, Secure Fasteners are Key
There is an extensive array of dog boots available these days. Proper fit and reliable fastening devices are necessary to ensure the entire set (or most of the set) makes it through the season without becoming lost or destroyed in the process.
Foot Shape and Size Varies... Personalized Fitting is Important
Ensuring correct fit requires a trip to the pet supply store with the dog. Staff can recommend several types and sizes and help decide which is the most suitable. Each boot should fit each paw snugly while leaving room for the paw to spread naturally without leaving excess material that may cause the dog to stumble.
Check the fasteners to make sure they're easily and quickly installed and removed. The closure should allow maximum security while not causing discomfort.
Match the Boot to Local Weather Conditions and Dog's Lifestyle
Inspect the boots as if you were shopping for your own winter footwear. Do they look capable of withstanding the amount of ice and snow generally encountered in your own area? Will they be warm enough? Match the dog's walking style to the boot. Does he prefer a slow, casual mosey along well-cleared city sidewalks? Or does he intend to dive into every snowdrift? Will he make a short dash to the curb to do his business then immediately back into the house? Or is he likely to spend hours engaged in winter walks and sports activities? Consider your dog's lifestyle and visualize how each type of boot will fill the bill.
When the Perfect Set of Boots Has Been Found...
Consider buying two or three additional sets so extras will be available to draw from. Torn boots or those with broken fasteners can be recycled as protective booties should the dog ever suffer a foot cut or abrasion. It is imperative that wounds be kept clean to speed healing and a boot can be used to prevent the dog from licking and chewing the injured pied as well as providing protection when outside the house. Spare or damaged boots can also be donated to a local animal shelter to be used for the same reason.
The Alternative is "Invisible"
If the dog is steadfast in his refusal to wear boots, there are "invisible" boots available. These products are actually creamy formulations containing ingredients such as beeswax, oils and plant extracts that repel winter hazards such as snow, ice, and road salt or sand.
Be sure to check the label, however, to make sure they won't harm the dog if ingested and they're safe for floors and furniture. The products are applied just prior to outings, of course, and any residue should be washed off when the dog re-enters the house.
To remove any remaining product or ice, snow and other debris, fill a bucket with cool to lukewarm water, gently rinse each foot, and pat dry.
A Dog's Tender Tootsies Need Winter Protection
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