Why dogs need pet boots and shoes
In the winter time, especially in snowy areas, cities often put down chemical de-icers as well as salt on pavement. If you walk your dog on this pavement, his paws will become covered with this salt and chemicals. This causes problems for many dogs. Their paws can chafe and crack. You can use emollients on their paws to help them heal. You can also use paw wax to help toughen the paws. And you need to wash your dog's paws when he walks on pavements where these chemicals are found. Do not let your dog lick his paws after he has been walking on pavement in the winter until they have been washed. These chemicals can be dangerous for your dog.
You can also put pet boots or shoes on your dog when you walk him so you can keep his paws free of these chemicals. Boots and shoes will keep the salt and chemicals off your dog's paws so they won't crack and they will prevent your dog from ingesting the chemicals.
In the summer, dogs who walk on hot pavement can appreciate wearing boots or shoes to keep their paws from getting too hot. Rain boots can also be a good idea if you want to keep your dog's paws dry.
Senior dogs with arthritis or other mobility problems can often have trouble walking because they can't get enough traction on the floor. This is especially true if you have hardwood floors. If you put pet boots or shoes on your dog's paws, especially on his rear paws, it will often provide the traction he needs so he can walk again.
Some hunting dogs wear boots or shoes if they will be hunting in tough terrain that could injure their paws.
Of course, there are many boots and shoes that are made for fashion reasons. You can always buy them for your dog just because they look good.
Choosing stops boots falling down and shoes
Pet boots and shoes usually come in small, medium, and large sizes. You should choose the size that's appropriate for your dog. Some boots and shoes have Gore-tex or other gripping soles. These boots and shoes would be especially good for dogs that need good traction.
There are several good brands of dog boots and shoes. You can find them online or in pet stores. Brands include Guardian Gear, UltraPaws, and Muttluks. Some dog boots and shoes come in four-packs and some come in two-packs. Boots and shoes tend to be rather expensive but they do last a while.
Your dog may have trouble walking in the boots or shoes at first or try to remove them but most dogs quickly adjust to them. Elderly dogs should adapt and become more mobile as soon as they realize they can get their footing again.