I'm fortunate enough to spend a lot of time exploring the mountains and forests with my 4-legged hiking partner.
Dog's feet are a lot tougher than our own but all this time on the trails got me wondering if he would not be more comfortable with his own dog hiking boots.
After, all, surely it's not just people that need excellent hiking socks and boots, right!?
That's how I came across dog shoes.
Dog shoes are specialized footwear designed for dogs, especially for outdoor activities like hiking. Dog hiking shoes may look weird, but they can be very practical and offer great protection for the paws of your friend.
They are especially good if you go running or hiking with your dog longer distances over rocky and rough terrain.
For this article, I've selected the top hiking boots for dogs. I've chosen these based on their comfort, ease of use and overall design and durability of the product.
Before we get into the reviews, I take a quick look at some reasons to consider adding boots to your dog hiking gear list, and what to look for. Remember, it may take your pooch some time to get used to wearing shoes. Take it in steps and be patient, it's a learning curve for you both!
Why Buy Dog Hiking Boots?
Protection from Rough Terrain
Just like humans benefit from wearing hiking boots on rugged or challenging terrains, dogs can benefit from protection on their paws as well. Sharp rocks, thorns, sticks, and other rough or jagged objects can harm a dog's paws. Boots help protect against cuts, scrapes, and bruises.
If your dog walks or runs for a long time on rough surfaces, they can easily wear down the padding on their feet which makes them more sensitive and prone to injury. Doggy boots provide an extra layer of protection.
Heat and Cold Protection
In hot weather, surfaces like asphalt or sand can become scorching hot and, burn a dog's foot pads. Similarly, In cold weather, snow and ice can cause frostbite. Boots provide a barrier against extreme temperatures.
Improved Traction
Some boots are designed with anti-slip soles which provide better grip on slippery surfaces, helping prevent falls or injuries. This is particularly good if are walking on ice or you hike in areas with lots of smoothed rocks beside rivers or on the coast.
What to Look For When Buying Hiking Shoes For Dogs
Fit
You wouldn't wear the wrong boot size so neither should your dog. Measure his / her paws and compare them to the sizing chart provided by the manufacturer. Boots that are too large can come off easily, while those that are too tight will be uncomfortable and can hurt your dog's feet.
Material & Durability
Look for high-quality materials that can withstand rough terrains. Breathable fabrics can help in warm weather, while waterproof materials are great for wet conditions.
Design
Dog boots should have secure straps or fastenings that will keep them in place even during active movements. The sole of the boot should provide good grip and the inners should be lined with soft material or padding. Boots that are easy to put on and take off are always a plus.
Best Hiking Boots: 7 Great Picks
Here are 7 of the top dog shoes. I've looked at brands that hold up particularly well for hiking and outdoor adventures. In no particular order, here are my favorites;
1. Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Boots
The Ruffwear Grip Trex Dog Boots live up to their name and are comparable to a good set of human trail shoes. The boots offer a protective barrier, cushioning your dogs paws from sharp rocks, and prickly undergrowth without compromising on mobility. These boots are great for varied outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and trail running.
The Vibram outsole stands out as one of the main selling points. It provides a lot of grip and will keep your dog sure-footed even on slick rocks and muddy patches. The rugged design is still flexible enough to allow normal movement.
The tightly woven mesh makes these shoes usable for longer hikes. It keeps the dirt and debris out effectively while ensuring that the paws remain ventilated. Even on warmer days, dog's feet don't get too sweaty or uncomfortable
The hook-and-loop cinch closure is reliable, ensuring the boots stay on even during vigorous activities. However, it's essential to get the sizing right; a misfit can either make the boots come off too easily or restrict circulation.
One thing I noticed is that these boots are a little stiff when you receive them. Its worth spending time to slowly break them in and massage them with your fingers to soften them up a bit. This way they will be a whole lot more comfortable for your dog. These are a little more pricey than other dog hiking boots but they are good quality and should see your pooch through multiple hiking seasons.
2. QUMY Dog Shoes (Medium- Large Dogs)
What I like best about these QUMY dog shoes for large and medium breeds is that they seem to be designed by people who actually own dogs. The shoes are made of good quality material and don't wear down as quickly as some other brands. This is especially beneficial if your dog tends to drag their feet.
The dog boots have a wide split seam opening and dual, adjustable straps that make them easy to get on. The reflective material on the straps is a must if you enjoy the odd sunrise/ sunset hike. These shoes have a non-slip sole for better traction on slippery surfaces
When choosing the size, the chart is very accurate and based on paw width measurement. Most people find that if you follow this chart, the boots fit well. If you are still unsure, you can reach out to QUMY and are likely to get a quick and helpful response from their customer service department.
I also like the extra effort that has gone into the attractive design, the embroidery details add a nice touch. There are a few different colors to choose from including a very funky leopard print set. The user instructions for these boots have a sense of humour and recommend that you 'don't laugh at your dog' the first time you put on the shoes, trust me this is easier said than done! Overall a good product at an affordable price.
3. Kurgo Step 'n Strobe Water Resistant Dog Boots
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No products found. are available in several colors and sizes. They are more expensive than your average pair of dog shoes but worth considering if you are looking for a long-lasting product.
These boots are designed for every season. Even so, I found that the water-resistant material makes them especially good for shorter walks on icy trails in winter or walking/ playing in snow. They seem a little thick for long hikes in summer months.
I was initially skeptical about how comfortable these boots would be, given that they are not as flexible as some other shoes. To my pleasant surprise, the lightweight nature and adjustability ensured paws were snug yet unrestricted. The tight-weave mesh and synthetic leather uppers are attractive and seemingly durable (time will tell!).
One thing I don't really love about these boots is the LED light-up soles. They are a fun feature that is also intended for the extra visibility. However, they make the shoes unnecessarily bulky and I doubt the lights themselves will last very long.
Even so, these are durable, good quality boots that do what they are supposed to and protect your dog's feet.
4. XSY&G Waterproof Dog Shoes
TheseXSY&G Waterproof Dog Shoes are a game-changer for those who regularly take their furry friends on adventures.
First off, the sizing is on point. The detailed size chart helps you pick the perfect fit with the help of weight ranges correlating to breed suggestions (its a little tougher if you have a mix). It's great to see a product that considers larger breeds, as finding gear for them can sometimes be a challenge.
The wear-resistant fabric feels like quality and, combined with the adorable paw embroidery, strikes a balance between functionality and style. The standout feature is the durable, anti-slip soles. These provide stability on both wet rocks and sandy trails. If you've ever seen a dog slip on tiles, you'd understand why this feature is so crucial.
These dog shoes are designed well and are comfortable enough that your dog can run around and play. They have two straps to secure them in place. One small con on this product is that he second strap lacks a plastic buckle to secure it so it doesn't tighten as well as it could do.
5. Muttluks All-Weather Dog Boots
The Muttluks All-Weather Dog Boots are the original product of this trusted Canadian pet brand. Their claim to fame is that they were gifted by Prime Minister Trudeau to President Obama's dogs.
These shoes have a unique, mitten-like design with breathable nylon tops and unique suede outsoles. Muttluks' dog boots may not look very tough but the clever and simple design holds up impressively well.
The design insures good insulation and warmth on the inside, even when subjected to freezing conditions. This is vital for those who love winter hikes, ensuring our furry buddies are not just protected but also comfortable. The reflective accents on the boots keep your companion visible at night.
While these boots offer myriad benefits, they aren’t without their quirks. The fit can be a tad tricky due to the mitten-like design. When measuring paw size, you need to measure paw length (not width like the other shoes in this review). The design is purposeful, providing wiggle room for the toes.
It’s also worth noting that the tightly woven leg cuff can make putting them on a bit cumbersome. If you don't first roll the cuff, it's easy for claws to get snagged. Additionally, when it comes to traction, they may not be the top performers, I'd be cautious if walking on icy surfaces.
6. Expawlorer Dog Shoes
The Expawlorer Anti-Slip Dog Shoes are robustly built and look promising in terms of durability. They hold up impressively well after several hikes.
While they provide a decent shield against rough or hot surfaces, I noticed they weren't quite as waterproof as promised. They shrug off moisture from snow or damp ground but soak through if your dog crosses a stream or even stands in a shallow puddle.
The boots fit rather snuggly, meaning there's very little room for the paws to adjust. The double velcro straps are good for dogs with narrow ankles and don't irritate the dew claws too much. You will need to strap them on tightly to prevent your dog throwing a shoe. As far as traction goes, I'm happy with the amount of grip the Expawlorer boots provide.
One last small thing to note about the Expawlorer boots are that they are not machine washable. You will need to clean them by hand.
7. Bark Brite Neoprene Paw Protector Booties
TheBark Brite Paw Protector Booties draw attention with their multi-colored material. Neoprene is known for its flexibility and comfort. True to their claims, these booties conform to my dog's natural paw shape and have a soft, comfortable inner lining.
Th neoprene is permeable so water can pass through if - like mine - your dog is a fan of swimming and wading in puddles. Even so, the material protects their pads and paws from thorns, sharp stones and objects that could hurt their feet. The lightweight rubber sole is not too chunky which makes it easier for your dog to get used to.
I like that these booties sit higher than other dog shoes. It seems like it they could help brace and provide a bit of extra support to the lower joints. Recently, Bark Brite added the heel guard as an extra layer of durability.
These dog boots come in 5 sizes (small to XX-Large) and tend to run large. The elastic reflective straps keep the booties in place and are easy to adjust.
The 3.5-inch slit at the back of the booties certainly made the on/off process less of a chore. However, this slit is not great for snow as it basically funnels the snow into the shoe. Otherwise, a great buy that your dog will approve of!
