If warm weather includes outdoor walks and hikes with your dog, you may have experienced hot pavement or rough terrain. Luckily, the best dog boots for summer can help protect their paws. To find the best dog boots for summer on Amazon, I turned to veterinarians and dog trainers for recommendations. When you're shopping, look for products with protective soles, adjustable straps, a variety of sizes to choose from, and (ideally) breathable designs.
First, you need to look for dog boots that have mesh or air holes to provide ventilation. "Summer boots need to be lightweight and breathable. Dogs release body heat through panting and paw pads," Dr. Jessica Bell, DVM, clinical assistant professor at Washington State University, explains in an email to Bustle. CPDT-KA at Gonzo Dog in New York City Certified dog trainer Kellie Stevens also advises dog owners to "take regular breaks and remove boots to prevent overheating."
Stevens recommends looking for products with wide openings to make them easier to put on and secure closures "to prevent the boots from falling, sliding or being thrown off" as well as non-slip soles. Some boots integrate deeper treads to provide better traction on slippery surfaces, and waterproof dog boots can help prevent feet from getting soaked on rainy days - keep in mind that waterproof boots may skip breathable mesh and vents, So you'll want to take more frequent breaks.
In terms of fit, Dr. Bell says an active dog's foot should be able to function properly when running in a boot, and "the toes need to splay during stride to maintain balance and traction." Stevens recommends looking for boots in a variety of sizes and checking size charts and user reviews for more information. If your dog's front and back feet are different sizes, look for options sold in two-packs. Dr. Bell adds: "Not all boots are suitable for every dog, so be prepared to try different types of boots to get the best fit." Bell also recommends checking your dog's paws, nails and calves regularly to see if Are there any signs of irritation from wearing boots?
If your dog is new to boots, remember that this takes practice. Stevens recommends wearing only one or two pairs of boots at a time "so they can slowly adjust to the feel while maintaining the normal feeling of walking on the other foot." She also recommends providing treats, rest and taking your time. Make it as enjoyable as possible from the beginning, "and it will be easier for both of you in the long run."
With all of this in mind, below you’ll find some of the best summer dog boots available on Amazon.
1. A pair of summer boots with super grip
These Ruffwear dog boots tend to be on the pricier side, but if you're looking for high-quality materials, this is a great option. They feature a Vibram rubber outsole with a deep tread, known for its grip, providing extra traction on rough or slippery terrain. The upper of the shoe is made from a breathable mesh material that provides plenty of ventilation but is woven tightly enough to keep debris out.
These shoes come in a two-pack and are perfect if your dog has different front and back feet. All sizes are listed based on the width of your dog's paws, so you'll need to get the measurements for each size first. If you find that their claws are in between sizes, the manufacturer recommends sizing down. But don't worry, Ruffwear is a well-known brand and many reviewers claim they respond quickly to any return or exchange issues.
The boot has a wide opening and hook-and-loop straps for secure fastening. This is great for dogs who don’t like too much handling of their feet. Some reviewers recommend pairing them with Ruffwear socks to add padding and make things more comfortable. Style-wise, these shoes come in three different colors and feature reflective trim on the top for visibility in low light. Plus, since these shoes are machine washable, cleanup is easy.
Promising Amazon review: “High end boots. If you are looking for boots, these are the ones for you. They are breathable (we use them in the Arizona summer) and comfortable. Our puppy has dew claws and we use socks, He didn't have any problems."
- Available sizes: 1.5" (2 boots) - 3.25" (2 boots)
2. Affordable, lightweight and breathable boots
When you're looking for boots with good ventilation, look no further than the Bark Brite Dog Boots. They are made of lightweight neoprene material with mesh holes to allow air to flow through easily. The bottom sole is made of "puncture-resistant" rubber to protect it from sharp objects and hot pavement. One reviewer noted that they feel "almost like a stretchy sock with a rubber sole. Not bulky, but super protective of the paw pads."
Some reviewers found the sizes to be a little larger than expected, but many reviewers have successfully contacted the seller to request a return. Keep in mind that these shoes are supposed to be flexible and expandable, but to help keep them secure, each shoe features two elastic reflective straps on the top for adjusting the shoe for a secure fit. There is also a small slit at the back of the shoe to make it easy to put on and take off. One reviewer reported: "These stay on and open wide enough for his claws to get in easily."
Promising Amazon review: “The quality of these boots is definitely better than I expected! It’s a neoprene type material with holes to provide ventilation for your dog’s paws. The sole is rubber material which provides traction And prevent hot pavement damage. I have a lot of sidewalks near my house so I need to protect my fur babies from the hot Texas summers! I do have to figure out how tight I need to tie my boots. Once it’s clear, it’s easy and they look cute!”
- Available sizes: Small – XXL
3. A best-selling pair of waterproof dog boots
Rated as a top-seller on Amazon, these protective dog boots are made with durability in mind. Their non-slip soles protect against sharp stones and gravel—one reviewer noted, “We go to the beach every day and walk on a lot of rocks, and these are great.” Although these are the only ones on this list that don’t have mesh or vented dog shoes, but their versatility is worth considering. According to reviewers, the waterproof nylon and polyester design is suitable for any season. One fan noted, "I wanted to find boots that I could wear year round so I didn't want them to be too thick and these are perfect!!"
Small yellow paw prints are embroidered on the outside of each shoe to help differentiate the left and right boots. In terms of fit, these shoes offer "wide seams" at the top for extra stretch (ideal for dogs with thicker legs). Additionally, they feature reflective straps for an adjustable fit and extra visibility at night. The manufacturer doesn't list a specific guarantee or warranty, but reviewers claim it's quick to respond and is very good at helping with sizing issues. The boots come in four colors: black, pink, red and a vibrant cheetah print. For cleaning, the manufacturer recommends washing your hands and leaving it outside to air dry.
Promising Amazon review: “Bought these for my dog to wear while hiking since gravel seemed to bother his feet. After a week of slowly training him to let me wear them, we took him out Hiking test, he seems to like them […] They have a good non-slip grip on the bottom and lasted for over an hour on our hike without any readjustment for longer than he has in years. It’s still a long walk – it’s clearly his feet that are slowing him down […] So glad we tried these for him!”
- Available dimensions: 2.4 x 1.7 — 3.3 x 2.9 inches (L x W)
expert:
Dr. Jessica Bell, community practice veterinarian and clinical assistant professor, Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine Veterinary Teaching Hospital
Kellie Stevens, New York Gonzo Dog Certified Trainer
