Shopping for the best dog shoes means first accepting one simple truth: Dogs aren’t meant to wear anything on their feet. Unlike collars or harnesses, shoes feel foreign to our pups, so even the highest-quality options can look and feel uncomfortable at first. But in certain scenarios—like running across scorching pavement, walking down salted winter sidewalks or hiking through rough terrain—paw protection isn’t just useful; it’s necessary. I’ve spent years testing dog boots and shoes with my own stubborn Labrador, who’s made it clear she’d rather go barefoot even when it hurts. Still, a few pairs have managed to keep her happy and comfortable during our outdoor adventures. The Ruffwear Grip Tex Boots are our top pick because they're among the few dog shoes that actually stay on, with durable yet flexible soles and breathable materials that can be worn year round.
The best dog shoes can help keep your pup's paws protected and free of injuries.
Illustration: Forbes / Image: Retailers
Dog shoes may not be something your pup wears daily, but there are definitely times when they’re worth having on hand. Professional dog trainer Leigh Siegfried, founder of Opportunity Barks, has relied on dog shoes in certain training scenarios with her clients. "I’ve used them for terrain and weather to protect the paw pads," she says. "And I’ve used them for elderly dogs that need better footing." That extra grip and paw protection can be especially helpful for senior pets struggling with mobility, dogs recovering from an injury or pups prone to paw irritation. Ahead, you’ll find options suited for specific scenarios, including Ruffwear Hi & Light Trail Dog Shoes for protecting paws on hot pavement and Canada Pooch Suspender Boots designed for deep snow. There’s also a more affordable set of four to consider if you’re still figuring out whether your dog will put up with shoes in the first place.
Sturdy All-Terrain Dog Boots With Breathable Mesh And Rugged Soles
Chewy
Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Boots
Materials: Polyester, Vibram rubber | Sizes: 1.5-inch to 3.25-inch | Colors: Black, green, red | Machine washable: Yes
What you'll love:
Thick Vibram soles protect paws on hot sidewalks, rocky trails and icy surfaces
Breathable polyester mesh keeps paws from overheating
Sold in pairs so you can choose different sizes for front and back paws
Keep in mind:
Can slip off during fast running or intense play
Not ideal for deep snow
Ruffwear makes some of the best dog harnesses and leashes, so it makes sense that its Grip Tex boots also come highly recommended by dog trainers and veterinarians. These shoes have rugged Vibram soles, similar to those on hiking boots for people, that keep paws protected from sharp rocks, ice and hot pavement. The upper portion is made of a breathable polyester mesh that won't trap heat, so it’s safe and comfortable for pups to wear them in warm weather. After testing close to a dozen different shoes, these are some of the only ones my dog will tolerate, probably because they fit securely without feeling overly bulky or restrictive.
Since Ruffwear sells the boots in pairs, you can order different sizes if your dog’s front paws are wider than their back paws, as is often the case. (Just keep in mind this does raise the overall cost if you’re outfitting all four paws.) Getting the fit right is especially important because these boots are sturdier and more structured than soft-shell styles, which means an improper fit could cause chafing or irritation. Ruffwear also makes socks specifically designed to wear with its boots; some dogs might find these more comfortable, though personally I've never found socks necessary (and I'd rather not add more gear to my dog's paws).
Best Value Dog Shoes
Affordable, Well-Made Boots For Trying Out Dog Footwear
Thick build might feel bulky or heavy for some dogs
Not ideal for snow
If you’re not sure whether your dog will even tolerate shoes, these Qumy dog shoes are an easy and affordable way to find out. At around $20 for a set of four, these were actually the first boots I ever bought my dog, and they quickly showed me she wasn’t into footwear (though that’s not the shoes’ fault). And because they’re cheaper than most of the options on this list, losing one or two during a walk or at the park isn’t nearly as annoying as it might be with pricier pairs.
Even though they’re inexpensive, they’re sturdier than you’d expect: The thick rubber soles didn’t show signs of wear after many walks on rough surfaces like rocky trails, and the Velcro straps stayed sticky and secure even after plenty of outdoor use, including getting wet in the snow. (Though it is worth noting they don’t stay on well in the snow.) If anything, they might feel a little bulky or heavy to some dogs—especially if your pup is already hesitant about shoes and likes to feel the ground beneath their paws. But given the price, these make a great starter pair to see if boots even make sense for your dog.
Best Dog Shoes for Hot Pavement
Lightweight, Flexible Boots With Breathable Mesh And Soft Soles
Chewy
Ruffwear Hi & Light Trail Dog Shoes
Materials: Polyester knit, synthetic rubber sole | Sizes: 1.5-inch to 3.25-inch | Colors: Blue, green | Machine washable: Yes
What you'll love:
Lightweight material keeps paws from overheating
Flexible soles allow dogs to walk naturally
Easy to put on and take off
Keep in mind:
Not ideal for very wet conditions or extreme cold
Sold in pairs
If you live somewhere with hot summers or consistently warm weather, it makes sense to pick dog shoes specifically designed to be breathable. Ruffwear’s Hi & Light Trail Shoes are lighter and more flexible than traditional all-terrain boots, which make them a great choice for everyday walks on hot pavement. Lorraine Rhoads, senior director of health and safety at Dogtopia, explains why that matters: “In extreme heat, surfaces like pavement, sand, and artificial turf can become dangerously hot, hot enough to burn paw pads within seconds.” These shoes provide protection from heat without making your dog's paws feel sweaty or uncomfortable.
Dogs naturally release body heat through their paws, so choosing shoes that allow airflow matters even more in warm climates. These shoes have a breathable polyester knit upper and a softer rubber sole that help your dog keep a more natural stride, which is especially beneficial if your pup is hesitant about wearing shoes in the first place. These aren’t the boots you’d pick for very cold or wet adventures, but they're exactly what you want to protect your dog's paws from hot sidewalks. Like other Ruffwear shoes, these come in pairs rather than sets of four, so you can pick different sizes if your dog’s front and back paws aren't the same size.
Best Dog Shoes For Snow
Warm, Waterproof Boots With Secure Suspender Straps
Canada Pooch
Canada Pooch Suspender Dog Boots
Materials: Polyester/spandex shell, polyester lining | Sizes: Multiple sizes, regular and short leg lengths | Colors: Black | Machine washable: Yes (gentle cycle, hang dry)
Waterproof outer fabric protects from snow and moisture
Keep in mind:
Not suitable for rocky trails or rugged hikes
Putting them on takes a bit of practice at first
My dog runs and plays hard in the deep Utah snow every winter, which usually means lost boots and frozen paws within a matter of minutes. Canada Pooch Suspender Boots are the first boots I've found that have never ended up buried in a snowbank, because they're designed more like a harness than traditional dog shoes. The boots are held up by adjustable, suspender-like straps that go around your dog's chest and back, so they actually stay on—even when your dog is running, jumping, or rolling around in the snow.
The boots themselves have a soft, waterproof fabric on the outside and a fuzzy lining on the inside, so they’re warm enough for very cold weather. They’re especially handy if your dog has longer fur or gets matted easily, because the suspenders hold them higher up on the leg and help keep snow, slush and mud completely off. The material isn’t meant for rocky trails or rough hikes, but that’s not really what they’re designed for; they’re meant to keep paws dry, warm and free of ice balls during snowy walks and playtime. If you pair them with a dog jacket or snowsuit, your pup can stay almost totally covered, which makes a big difference during long, harsh winters.
Best Dog Shoes For Rain
Flexible, Water-Resistant Booties To Keep Paws Clean And Dry
MOST POPULAR
Amazon
Non-Stop Dogwear Protector Booties
Materials: Anti-cut fabric, nitrile rubber | Sizes: XS to 2XL | Colors: Black | Machine washable: Yes
What you'll love:
Water-resistant yet breathable to avoid overheating
Flexible design molds comfortably to paws
Compact enough to stash easily in your pocket
Keep in mind:
Not fully waterproof, so some moisture may seep in after prolonged use
Non-Stop Dogwear’s Protector Booties are great for rainy walks because they keep paws dry without trapping heat. Unlike heavy, fully waterproof boots that tend to get uncomfortably warm, these booties are water-resistant but breathable, so your dog’s paws stay comfortable even on rainy summer days. They're made from anti-cut fabric dipped in nitrile rubber, which makes them durable enough to protect paws from rough, wet surfaces and prevent slipping.
These booties have a snug and flexible fit that molds naturally to your dog's paws without causing irritation or rubbing. If a little water does get inside, the seamless inner material is designed to prevent chafing or blisters, which is helpful for dogs sensitive to prolonged wear. Their compact size also makes them easy to carry along; they can fit neatly in your pocket or bag for when unexpected showers pop up. Beyond rainy days, these versatile boots work great on hikes, bike rides or whenever your pup needs extra protection from muddy or wet terrain.
Protects paws from sand, mild cold and trail debris
Keep in mind:
Needs frequent reapplication
Less effective for extreme temperatures and salted sidewalks
If your pup flat-out refuses to wear dog shoes, Musher’s Secret paw wax is worth trying. It’s a simple blend of beeswax, vitamin E and natural oils that forms a protective, moisturizing layer over your dog’s paws. While it doesn’t offer the same level of protection as actual shoes or boots, it provides at least some basic protection, especially on sandy beaches or moderate trails and during snowy weather. It helps keep out dirt, snow clumps and small irritants that can make walking uncomfortable.
I’ve had mixed results with Musher’s Secret on salted sidewalks, since strong chemical salt can sometimes still irritate paws. It’s also not ideal for extreme heat: If pavement is hot enough to burn your dog’s paws, it’ll likely melt the wax right off. Still, it’s a convenient and portable alternative that you can easily stash in your pocket or backpack. It’s quick and easy to rub onto paws, and it’s completely safe if your dog decides to lick it off. Just keep in mind it can be a bit greasy on your hands, so it’s helpful to keep a rag nearby when applying (and removing before you get back inside).
This story was written by Kelly O’Sullivan, a Forbes Vetted editor who has personally tested numerous dog shoes featured in this guide over several years with her own dogs. It was reviewed by managing editor and resident pet expert Emmy Favilla, who regularly covers pet gear, maintains strong relationships with veterinary professionals and lives with two large-breed dogs and three cats.
For expert insights, we consulted Leigh Siegfried, professional dog trainer and founder of Opportunity Barks, and Lorraine Rhoads, senior director of health and safety at Dogtopia, to understand when and why paw protection is necessary and how to choose dog shoes your pet will actually wear.
We update our recommendations regularly to reflect current availability, product updates and continued research. This version was last reviewed and published in June 2025.
How We Chose The Best Dog Shoes
To identify the best dog shoes, we started by researching a variety of popular options across different price points, intended uses and brands. Many of these picks have been personally tested by our editors with their own dogs over months or even years; others earned a place based on strong recommendations from professional dog trainers, veterinarians and experienced pet owners.
We considered highly rated models from reliable brands known for quality pet gear, like Ruffwear, Canada Pooch and Qumy.
We consulted pet-care experts and professional dog trainers to understand the importance of key features such as secure fit, protection ability, durability, comfort and ease of use. Other considerations included materials, flexibility and breathability, traction on different surfaces, waterproofing and effectiveness in extreme temperatures.
Our selections cover a range of scenarios, from boots specifically designed for hot pavement or deep snow to budget-friendly starter pairs and effective alternatives like paw wax.
We prioritized shoes with consistently positive reviews from real pet owners; each of our picks has at least a four-star rating and positive customer feedback overall.
How To Choose The Best Dog Shoes
Shopping for the best dog shoes comes down to first understanding when and why your dog might need to wear them. This will help you figure out what types of materials to consider, as well as how to find a proper fit. Here’s what to keep in mind when choosing a pair of boots or shoes for your pup.
Pay Attention To Materials
When it comes to dog shoes, the materials matter a lot. Dogs regulate their body temperature partly through their paws, so boots made from breathable fabrics are best, especially in warm conditions. Look for options with durable rubber soles to protect paws from sharp rocks, hot pavement or irritating chemicals like sidewalk salt. In winter months, boots with waterproof exteriors and insulating linings help keep paws warm and dry, so snow and ice doesn’t collect between paw pads. Siegfried particularly likes Ruffwear boots for their tough, protective soles that hold up across different surfaces without restricting your dog’s natural movement.
Find The Fit Right
Fit can make or break your dog’s willingness to wear boots. Shoes that are too tight restrict circulation and can cause discomfort or even injury. On the other hand, boots that are too loose will constantly slip off. Rhoads says boots should feel snug without pinching or rubbing, and suggests regularly checking and adjusting straps. Siegfried also emphasizes watching your dog’s behavior: Occasional awkwardness and initial “high-stepping” is normal, but persistent paw shaking, limping or refusal to walk usually means something is off with the fit.
Understand When Boots Are Helpful (And When They Aren’t)
Dog shoes aren’t necessary for every dog or every walk, but certain situations clearly call for them. Rhoads points out that surfaces like pavement, sand or artificial turf can become “dangerously hot, hot enough to burn paw pads within seconds,” making shoes essential. Boots also protect against snow, ice and harmful chemicals, and provide extra traction for senior dogs or those recovering from injuries. But be mindful they’re not a fix for everything; medical issues like overgrown nails or systemic allergies won’t be solved by boots. If your dog flat-out refuses footwear, options like paw wax can help provide at least some basic protection.
