Do Dogs Need Shoes?

Angela Vuckovic
by Angela Vuckovic

Your pooch might not need a closet full of shoes like you do, but there are certainly many benefits to canine footwear. This is the scoop on dog shoes – and if your pet really needs to wear ‘em.


Dog shoes and boots are becoming increasingly popular accessories amongst dog owners around the world. Stylish, unique, and protective, they make for a great fashion accessory with practical appeal. But still, many owners will ask themselves: do dogs really need shoes? Today we are considering all the pros and cons of dog shoes – stay with us!


Shoes on dogs is an idea that certainly sounds quirky at first, but once you start thinking about it, you realize that there really are some benefits to the idea. Dogs have naturally evolved to have very resistant feet. The special pads on the bottom of your dog’s feet are there for a reason! They serve to protect the joints and bones of the leg from all the jolts and pressure when the dog is running. They also protect from hard surfaces, hide the sensitive tissue within the dog’s foot, and help with delicate surfaces. Dog’s footpads aid traction when it is slippery, and help them traverse all sorts of landscapes. But sometimes, they simply aren’t enough. And that is where dog shoes can come in handy.


There are certain terrains and grounds that dogs will simply have to avoid at times. During the summer months, rocky or sandy beaches can be a big obstacle for puppers. They can get surprisingly hot, and can possibly cause burn wounds. For humans, the problem is not a big deal – we wear slippers and shoes. But a dog can easily burn his footpads on the beach. The same goes for the hot asphalt and tarmac on those dazzlingly hot days of the year. Ice can be equally threatening, as well as road salt that could seriously irritate your pet’s paws.


Over time, the footpads can get worn out. They dry out and crack with time and use, and will often fail to provide enough protection for your dog’s legs. They can also suffer from sharp rocks and hard and rocky terrains, where the paws can be easily wounded and become sensitive. Dog shoes can remedy all of these issues.


These nifty accessories can be used as a preventive measure: avoid foot pad burns in the summer by utilizing dog shoes, and help your dog traverse hard terrains on your next outdoor adventure. They are also great for terrains where you don’t know what to expect. Glass, sharp rocks, debris, and similar things that are harmful to your dog’s paws can be found in many locations. With a set of quality dog shoes, you can think one step ahead and prevent any potential injury.


If you (and your doggo) are avid hikers, you probably know that hiking trails offer a lot of unexpected twists and turns, and continually challenging terrains. Equipping your dog as well as you equip yourself should be a must – and dog shoes play a big role for dogs that go hiking with you. Special dog boots are also a great layer of protection against the elements in particularly cold climates. Remember that paws are the first to succumb to frostbite if they are exposed to snow and ice for a long time. So, in the end, it turns out that dog shoes are a smart idea- the whole year round!

Angela Vuckovic
Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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