Do Vets Recommend Boots for Dogs?

Boots for Dogs

There are many reasons why dogs are mans’ best friend, but one of the most important is that they provide us with companionship. As a pet owner, you want to see your dog comfortable and healthy by giving the dog a holistic pet health.

One way of doing this is by providing them with winter boots that help protect their paws from winter’s harsh conditions or rugged terrain.

But what do vets recommend? If you are uncertain whether your pup needs dog boots or not, this article will hopefully offer you the information necessary to make an informed decision.

Do Veterinarians Recommend Boots?

The short answer is yes. However, there are crucial considerations you need to be aware of before heading out and buying boots for your dog. For example, not all dogs can wear winter boots or shoes.

If they have thick pads on their paws, it will make putting the winter footwear on very difficult because it’ll bunch up and make it a struggle. Also, winter booties are not always necessary, depending on the climate you live in and what type of conditions your dog will face.

However, winter dog booties may not be imperative if you live in an area with mild winter weather. In contrast, winter footwear is a must if they’re living somewhere with harsh winters or rugged terrain.

Benefits Of Buying Boots For Your Dog

Now that we’ve answered whether or not vets recommend winter boots for dogs let’s explore some of the benefits of providing your pup with proper footwear.

Prevent Injuries

Dog boots are an excellent way of preventing injuries. If your dog is going to be walking on rough terrain, whether it’s grass or rocks, they may unsuspectingly step on something sharp and get an injury that could become very serious if not treated properly.

Boots are also beneficial in the summertime when there is a higher risk of dogs getting cut up on hot pavement or sand. By providing them with footwear, you’re minimizing their risk of injury and helping to keep them healthy.

Help With Rehabilitation

If your dog is recovering from surgery, boots are a great way of protecting its recuperating paws.

For example, after having an ACL replacement, they’ll have to wait until it’s healed before being able to walk on all fours again – boots will protect the stitches and any incisions that may have been made.

Keep Your Dog Clean

Dirty paws can lead to a build-up of bacteria and fungus on your dog’s feet, which can subsequently cause skin problems. This is primarily true if you reside in an area with high humidity levels.

Boots May Save Your Dog’s Life

In extreme cases, such as dogs that live in high-altitude or cold climates, booties could save their lives. Dogs living in these conditions are susceptible to developing frostbite on their paws, leading to amputation if not treated properly.

Boots Make Walks More Comfortable

Most dogs love going for walks – it’s an excellent way of keeping them active and healthy, but how comfortable is it? If you reside in rugged terrain or cold areas, your dog will be dealing with harsh conditions, which can make their walk less than exciting.

However, providing them with boots makes them more likely to enjoy the hike because it’ll be more comfortable for them.

How To Choose the Proper Boots for Your Dog

Choosing the right dog boots can seem like a daunting task. To ensure you get the most suitable footwear for your puppy, here are some essential things to consider:

Size And Fit

Boots should be large enough not to fall off but not too big because it could lead to tripping and falling. Ensure you measure your dog’s paws before purchasing boots because this will ensure they’re the correct size.

Material

Leather is an excellent material for winter dog boots as it’s durable, comfortable, and can keep feet warm in cold conditions such as snow or ice. On the other hand, rubber tends to be better suited for summertime as it helps keep dogs’ paws cool on hot surfaces.

Type

There are two main types of dog boots – the slip-on and the fasten-up. Slip-ons are easy to put on and take off, but they may not be as secure or durable as fasten-ups which can be a bit more of a hassle to put on but are better suited for rougher terrain.

Closure

Boots can come with different closure systems such as Velcro, zippers, and straps. Straps tend to be the most secure option but may be difficult for some dogs to get used to. Zippers are the next most secure option, followed by Velcro.

Price

Boots can range from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars, depending on the brand and type of boots you choose. If your dog is a frequent walker or lives in exceptionally rugged terrain, it may be worth investing in more expensive and durable boots.

Conclusion

Overall, there are many benefits to providing your dog with boots. Not only do they keep paws clean and protected from injuries, but they can also save dogs’ lives in extreme weather conditions.

With numerous options available on the market, there’s sure to be a perfect pair of boots for every dog. However, please consult with your veterinarian before purchasing boots to ensure they’re the right fit for your pet.

 

References:

https://www.baxterboo.com/fun/a.cfm/science-say-dog-paws-are-impervious-so-does-my-dog-really-need-boots/

https://www.countryliving.com/uk/wildlife/pets/a38503644/should-dogs-wear-winter-boots/

https://www.azpetvet.com/protecting-your-pets-paws-this-summer/

https://www.marthastewart.com/1542262/do-dogs-need-shoes-paw-protection

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