Best Dog Boots Canada: Protecting Your Dog's Paws Using Boots

Explore the best dog boots in Canada for different seasons and reasons. This guide is complete with our top picks and paw care tips.

For many dog owners, the thought of outfitting your dog with a pair of boots doesn’t really cross the mind, but protecting your dog's paws is more important than you think. 

We take our doggos for strolls around our neighbourhoods, through parks and fields, and even on challenging winter hikes without really worrying about their back paws. It makes them easy to assume that letting your pooch go bare-paw is appropriate for any and every situation. They’re animals, after all… they don’t have boots for dogs out in the wild!  

However, pet products like dog socks and high-quality dog boots exist for a reason and are a great addition to your adventure gear collection or your camping checklist.

Dog shoes provide a ton of protection for a wide range of circumstances - whether fighting the elements, hiking or walking on hot pavement or icy sidewalks.  No matter what you and your dog may have planned, the best dog's boot for winter can help keep your furry friend safe while doing so. 

Not to mention, a dog in a pair of winter booties is too cute to handle!

So if you’re considering getting the best dog's boot for your pup, read on for tips and our top picks in terms of function and fashion, so your dog can stay safe while looking awesome, as always.

Are Dog Shoes Necessary?

You might be thinking to yourself… do best dogs need boots? Dogs can benefit from wearing boots in more situations than you might think. From waterproof dog boots to those with reflective trim, there are many variations of the best dog boots for winter.

While dogs have pretty tough dog's feet, there are definitely some scenarios that call for a nice pair of winter dog booties and a comfortable dog coat! Best Dog boots can keep their back paws protected from severe weather conditions, harsher terrains and the not-so-natural substances like chemicals, fertilizers or other waste that might be left behind by humans, especially when you are walking your dog in winter. 

We can all agree that the last thing you want to happen when out and about with your doggo is an unexpected injury! That’s why we’ve put together the following guide to outline the different occasions that may warrant a little extra paw protection and our top picks for the best dog's boot for winter.

But first, let’s go over some basic tips for choosing the right dog boot.

How to Measure Your Dog's Paws for Shoes

With so many dog boot styles available and designed for different needs, it may seem overwhelming for pet owners to choose. Finding the best dog's boot for winter that can stay on can also be challenging.  It’s important to find tennis shoes that are comfortable, durable, and provide the right amount of support for the weather or activity.  

Sizing is incredibly important for both protecting your dog’s paw pads and making sure your dog doesn’t take them off or that they don’t slip off by accident.

The best dog boots and wearing booties have the: 

• • Some wiggle room for your pup while still offering the right amount of room 
  • Rugged anti-slip leather sole to keep your doggo safe even on slippery surfaces
  • Are snug (but not tight) around the ankle
  • Have space around your dog’s toes

Dog boots come in a ton of different sizing charts, and it’s important to remember that one size doesn’t right fit all!  Whether you have a huge dog or a petite pup, it’s important to get the size right for the most comfortable and secure fit. 

This will help to make sure the boots are easy to put on, hard to lose on a walk, and comfortable. Make sure you don't over-tighten the dog boot. If the boots for your dog feel loose, then they are probably not the right size. 

Some companies measure by weight and size, while others go by foot width. Learn how to measure your dog to help make sure you get a good fit every time. This will surely save you and your dog a lot of headaches and returns! We suggest measuring paw width and paw length to ensure the proper fit for your doggo. 

Size and secure fit aside, you’ll want to consider the purpose of the boot, the type of activities you’ll be doing and other factors. To help you find the right set for your dog, we ranked the best dog's boot Canada for a variety of different seasons and activities.

Dog Boots for Winter 

Do Dogs Need Boots for Winter? The winter dog boots season brings some extreme weather, making it tricky to do the usual outdoor activities that you and your dog enjoy together.

Not only can they have a harder time getting around on slippery or wet surfaces, but colder temperatures can cause discomfort or pain without the proper protection for their back paws. 

Rain, cold snow and ice can all be harmful as they get stuck between the toes. Other factors that can be dangerous are salt and ice-melting chemicals, which are commonly used during the winter and might not be easy to see while out on a walk. 

This is especially problematic as small dogs are likely to ingest chemicals when licking their paws.  This can cause serious issues and irritation for your dog!  Keep your dog safe with the best dog's winter booties and a warm winter coat for dogs, so you both can enjoy playing outside and walking.

The best-rated dog shoe for winter should be resistant or waterproof and offer extra grip for ideal traction to keep your doggo from slipping. Because it can take short periods of time for your pooch to get used to wearing boots, it’s also important for any type of boots to be flexible and comfortable.

Our Top Pick: Muttluks Snow Mushers For Cold Climate

For the best dog boot in Canada for cold weather, Canada-made Muttluks Snow Mushers are a great choice! They are designed specifically for the colder temperatures and more extreme conditions of winter. They’re made with fleece lining to keep your dog’s paw warm and cozy, as well as durable nylon rubber material that ensures they are built to last. More importantly, they are easy to put on!

Their rubber soles protect their paws from winter terrains such as deep snow boots, salt, and ice while providing the right grip to help them move comfortably. They are easy to slip rubber soles on and off and have a large stretch cuff for a versatile and snug fit that works for any dog.

Some of the features of the Snow Musher that make them extra suitable for winter conditions include the double wrap to keep them in place and a 3M reflective material for visibility. 

For extra protection from cold weather, snow and water, the Muttluks Muttgators can be added on as a sleeve accessory to protect their legs. These sleeves are waterproof and made with a convenient velcro closure strap to easily take them on and off.

Best Dog Boots for Hiking 

Hiking is an exciting activity for both you and your dog. It is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors and get some exercise! Don't forget all of your essential gear reviews, like the best dog harness and the best dog backpack, but most importantly, the best dog's boot.

Dog boots can help protect your dog’s paw from the different terrains you might encounter while out on a hike. 

The best dog's hiking boot should be comfortable, flexible and fit securely! If you’re an avid hiker or plan to go camping with dogs, you’ll also want to make sure your dog’s boots are durable and designed to brave the wear and tear of an active lifestyle.

Our Top Pick: Ruffwear Dog Boots Grip Trex

Ruffwear Best Dog Boots for Snow:

Ruffwear is an awesome brand that we think offers some of the best dog boots for snow that stay on in Canada and all over! Ruffwear Grip Trex are high-performance dog hiking boots that provide traction and protection for your dog's paw.

These dog hiking boots are for serious hikers. They are durable and comfortable enough to keep for longer hiking excursions and trail running, even on more challenging terrains.

These Ruffwear Grip Trex dog boots are designed with breathable mesh to prevent overheating and high traction soles to allow your dog to handle any terrain. It’s made with a gusset-style wide opening for easy on and off, as well as a hook and loop cinch to keep the top of the boot nice and snug on your dog's paw.

Dog Boots for Midsummer

If you are used to a more urban setting, then chances are your dog spends a lot of time walking on hot pavement in the summer. We don't often think about how hot surfaces sidewalks get because we are protected by our shoes.

In reality, if you took your dog's shoes and socks off and took a walk down the street in mid-August, chances are you wouldn't make it very far before your feet start sizzling. Keep this top of mind the next time you head out for a walk. 

We are always looking for ways to keep our small dogs cool, and this should extend to their paws as well.

Our Top Pick: Canada Pooch Hot Pavement Boots

Boots for hot weather are different from boots for cooler weather. Instead of being water-resistant or insulated, Canada Pooch Hot Pavement Boots are designed to be highly breathable and help to retain water. 

This may seem odd, but it can help them keep cool by encouraging evaporation which helps to remove heat from their body through their paw pads and best paw boots. These are thinner boots, which makes them quite flexible, but may not be suited for more extreme activities like hiking.

When combined with a good dog cooling vest, your dog can beat the summer heat without missing out on any of his favourite warm-weather activities. Check out How to Cool Down a Dog for more tips to keep your dog safe all summer conditions. 

Rubber Dog Boots 

If you’re struggling to get your dog's hiking boot, try starting with an easier, thinner pair like disposable dog boots. These types of boots can still offer protection for paws from hot surfaces or cold temperatures, water, dirt, salt or other chemicals that could hurt your dog’s paw width. 

They’re typically made from a rubber sole material and slip on like a sock! This is a great way to get your dog used to the idea of wearing something on the dog's feet while also preventing any unexpected injuries while exploring outdoors.

Our Top Pick: Pawz Rubber Dog Boots

An awesome option for disposable dog boots is Pawz Rubber Dog Boots. These boots are made with 100% natural and biodegradable rubber booties so that they can be safely disposed of after use. However, they can also be reused multiple times so you can make the most out of a single pair. 

Despite being disposable, they’re still designed to be durable and waterproof. Pawz Rubber Dog Boots help protect your dog paws from hot pavement, wet surfaces, fertilizers, pesticides, chemicals or salt, and prevent skin allergies or irritations. These are also helpful as post-surgery or injury boots to keep the paws safe during the recovery process.

Dog Boots on a Best Budget 

If you can’t afford to purchase a different pair of dog hiking boot for every season and occasion, you can opt for a single pair that will work all year round and won’t break the bank. It’s better to pick durable dog shoes that won’t wear out too quickly.

Our Top Pick: GF Pet Elasto-Fit Boots

GF Pet Elasto-Fit Boots are the perfect, affordable dog boot for winter. They’re designed to keep paws protected, warm and secure with their Elasto-Fit technology. The adjustable straps and velcro strap closure system make these boots easy to put on and snug enough to stay on during your pet's favourite outdoor winter activities. 

The shell is made of 100% water-resistant neoprene and has high-traction, and PVC soles to keep your pet's paws warm and dry and provide them with the additional traction they may need to play safely on any terrain. 

Dog Boots for Indoors 

If your dog is one of the few that really enjoys rocking a pair of boots, you might want to treat him to a pair for indoors as well as outdoors. Indoor dog boots can keep your dog’s paw warm while protecting your hardwood floors from scratches at the same time.

Our Top Pick: Muttluks MuttSlouchers

Muttluks MuttSlouchers are as comfortable as they are adorable! They’re made with rubber sole for high traction to keep your dog from slipping and sliding across tile or hardwood floors. They stay snug on your dog's paw width without feeling too tight or uncomfortable.

While not intended for super icy, snowy and freezing winter weather, MuttSlouchers can be worn outside too! And fortunately, they’re machine washable to make for easy cleaning if you don’t plan on limiting them to indoor dog booties use.

Dog Boots for All Weather

Not all the best dog boots for snow are designed with different weather conditions in mind, but certain ones are! If you’re searching for a versatile boot that your dog can rock during winter, spring, summer, and fall, you want to be sure it checks all the boxes to provide better protection and comfort.

Our Top Pick: RC Pet Apex Shoes

The RC Pet Apex Dog Boots are designed with any adventure in mind. They are flexible, durable, and comfortable, making them suitable for just about any outdoor activity during any season. They are ideal for casual to moderate hikers and explorers.

These boots are lightweight and breathable for the hotter summer months while still providing protection from rain, sleet, snow, ice and other rough terrains during the winter walks.

Apex Dog Boots are designed to handle any terrain with high traction soles and reflective material for visibility on your night walk outings. The upper cinching system of these boots helps to make sure the boots are secure and comfortable. 

Water-Resistant Dog Boots

One important feature that pet owners should consider when choosing the best dog boots is whether or not they’re waterproof.  To make the most out of your outdoor adventure, keep protecting your pup's paws against ice, snow, and rain with waterproof dog boots. 

Wet paws can be uncomfortable for your pooch in any weather, but especially in cold temperatures. It can also make it more difficult for him to explore safely. Water-resistant or waterproof dog boots can prevent water or ice melts particles from getting inside the boot and causing major discomfort.

Our Top Picks: Goo-eez Monochromez Dog Boots

We love the Goo-eez Monochromez Dog Boots because they’re made with flexible and soft water-resistant material that will keep your dog paw warm, dry and comfortable. They’re designed to keep up with your dog’s adventures during any season and on most terrains. 

Made with elastomer gel with woven rib fabric and infused with aloe, these boots are easy to put on and offer a comfortably snug to withstand any terrain or weather.

My Dog Won’t Wear Boots

No matter how hard you try, some small dogs just won’t wear boots. Whether they panic as soon as you pull the boots out of the closet, or if they just run up and play so hard that the boots won’t stay on, you need to consider other ways to protect your dog's paw from the elements. 

Paw waxes can be used to form a protective layer on your dog's paw. Waxes aren’t a perfect replacement for durable dog boots, but they may be the only alternative that you have.

Our Top Pick: Musher's Secret Paw Protection Wax

As an alternative to durable dog boots or as additional protection, Musher’s Secret Paw Protection Wax is made from food-safe, natural ingredients. This wax is gentle on paws but designed for tough protection from snow, ice, hot pavements, chemicals, fertilizers, and pesticides. It can even prevent bug bites.

How to Keep Dog Boots from Falling Off

One of the most common complaints about dog boots is that they won't stay on. They work fine when your dog is casually trotting around the living room, but when walking through snow, grass, or uneven terrain, and one at a time, the boots start to shift and slip down your dog's paw. 

So how do you keep dog boots from falling off? 

• • Make sure your dog's boots are the right fit. Loose-fitting boots will come off easily, and tight boots may never go on properly in the first place.
  • Many dogs have different shaped or paw sizes between the front and back. This is why many brands have started selling dog boots in two packs, so you can purchase the different sizes that work best for all four paws. 
  • Dog boots have velcro straps or some kind of cinch or clasp to keep the boot on. The strap should fit just past the paw pad, where the narrow ankle of your dog's paw is. This will help to secure the boots. 
  • For boots that are just slightly too loose, then you could try adding a set of the Ruffwear dog boots Bark'n Boot Liners. They will bulk up your dog's paw, helping the boot fit better; plus, it adds an additional layer of warmth for extra cold winter days. 

Paw Care Tips for Dogs

Your dog’s paws are an easy target for bacteria that can cause odour and infection. Boots are an excellent way to save your dog's feet, but there’s more you can do to keep your dog’s paws healthy. 

Clean dog feet are a vital part of pet parents' paw care, so whenever your dog’s paws get muddy or wet, make sure to rinse off debris and bacteria and dry their paws thoroughly. Reducing moisture in between their paw pads can reduce foot odour caused by bad bacteria. 

Cracked and dry pads are at a higher risk of infection and irritation. During dryer seasons, it’s a good idea to use a paw cream or balm, like Reliq Paw Spa Cream, to moisturize your dog’s paw pad.

Here are some other basic paw care tips to remember:

• • Do regular paw checks!

We may not think to check our dogs’ paws after coming in for a long walk or after hiking. However, this is something you don’t want to overlook! Stickers, foxtails, dirt and bacteria can all build up in between your dog’s paw pad and toes, causing discomfort and possibly leading to infection. 

• • Look out for any excessive licking or biting!

Licking or biting their paws can be an indicator of some kind of injury or irritant! This is when it is extra important to check the paws and clean out any debris that could be causing discomfort. If the licking and biting persist, it’s better to schedule a visit to the vet for a thorough examination.

• • Keep your dog’s paws groomed! 

Regular grooming will help keep protect your dog's paws in tip-top shape. When you keep your dog’s toenails short and the hair between the paw pads trimmed, you can reduce the risk of irritants getting stuck in his paws and causing pain or discomfort. 

Long dog paw fur can also make it difficult to size dog boots properly. Trimming excess fur around the paws can help you can a more comfortable and secure fit. 

These Boots are Made for Doggos

Whether you are just walking around your neighbourhood, trekking through the cold snow, or enjoying a summer hike, the best hiking dog boots can make your favourite furry friend much more comfortable!  No matter what type of paw protection your dog needs, there’s a dog boot out there to do the job.

As pet lovers, we hate seeing our pups suffering in any way.  Whether it’s protection from the weather, terrain, or other circumstances, dog boots make you and your dog enjoy your adventure worry-free!

Find the right set of dog boots for heat and whatever adventures you share with your dog. 

How do you keep your dog's paws healthy? Let us know your favourite paw protectors and tips in the comments below!