The 5 Best Dog Boots of 2026, Tested and Reviewed

Whether you’re navigating snowy sidewalks, rocky trails, or scorching summer pavement, a good pair of dog boots can help protect your pup’s paws from injury, irritation, and the elements. Cold weather can be especially tough on sensitive paw pads, with snow, ice, and rock salt causing paws to dry out, crack, or even get chemical burns. Summer, of course, brings its own risks from hot asphalt. And while some dogs take a little time to get used to wearing them, the right dog boots can make all-season walks safer and more comfortable for both of you.

To find the best dog boots for a range of needs and conditions, I tested 10 popular styles on two large, active dogs across winter trails, muddy parks, and slippery sidewalks. I also performed heat, cold, and sandpaper tests to see how well the boots held up in extreme conditions. The Ruffwear Polar Trex proved to be the best boots for year-round use with a secure dual-closure system and temperature-resistant Vibram sole. For frigid temperatures, your dog may be happier in the Canada Pooch Soft Shield Boots, with their waterproof nylon exterior, fleece lining, and comfortable tread that kept our dogs’ paws dry and warm.

Your pup may also benefit from the added warmth of a jacket, which you can learn more about in our guide to the best dog winter coats.

Learn more about how Insider Reviews tests and researches pet products.

Our top picks for the best dog boots

Best for year-round: Ruffwear Polar Trex – See at Amazon

Best for winter: Canada Pooch Soft Shield Boots – See at Amazon

Best budget: Qumy Dog Boots – See at Amazon

Best for comfort: Non-stop Dogwear Protector Bootie – See at Non-stop Dogwear

Best for staying on: Walkee Paws Dog Boot Leggings – See at Amazon

Best alternative: Musher’s Secret Paw Wax – See at Chewy

Best overall

For one pair of dog boots that’ll cover everything from winter snow to hot pavement in summer, the Ruffwear Polar Trex boots were the most versatile and top-performing option I tested.

The boots feature a short inner bootie with a soft, neoprene-like cuff that fastens with velcro, and a taller, zippered outer gaiter that provides protection higher up the leg. The inner bootie keeps the shoe secure, while the gaiter protects from dirt, debris, and snow splash. One boot came off when I didn’t cinch the inner strap enough, but otherwise, they stayed put, even during full-speed field zoomies.

The traction and durability were also impressive. The diamond-patterned lugs provided a solid grip on ice, mud, and snow and barely showed any wear after I rubbed them with sandpaper. While my dogs prefer tread-free over lugged boots, this raised pattern offers better comfort and stability for hikes across wobbly rocks, just like human hiking boots. Plus, a sticky Vibram sole and reinforced toe cap add extra protection.

The boots are also weather-proof. The gaiter is water-resistant, while the waterproof lower portion and sole keep paws dry during wet walks, warm in frigid temperatures, and cool against hot surfaces.

A drawback is that these aren’t easy to take off — you have to unzip the gaiter, pull it down to fully expose the velcro, and undo the interior strap every time — and the inner cuff has a few seams that could irritate sensitive dogs, though mine had no issues. They’re also pricey, especially considering they’re sold in sets of two rather than four.

Still, their quality construction, traction, durability, and temperature protection mean you’ll get a lot of mileage around them year-round.

Best for winter

Even among the toughest of dogs, winter can be rough on paws. Dr. Ezra Ameis, a veterinarian and medical director at Paw Priority, says de-icing salt on sidewalks and roadways can be harsh on paw pads. Many breeds also have trouble with snow and ice binding to their fur, making it difficult to clean their paws.

On long winter adventures, my dogs’ paws often get cold long before they’re ready to stop playing. Winter dog boots create a barrier that keeps paws from becoming uncomfortable, itchy, or irritated, Ameis says. Of the styles I tested, the Canada Pooch Soft Shield Boots were the warmest, most secure, and offered the best traction on cold, slippery surfaces.

The long-sleeve, mitten-like boots open wide enough to slide easily over broad paws, then secure with a velcro wrist strap and cinch at the cuff. This simple system kept out the snow and prevented slipping and shifting. My long-legged dog, Bug, ran full-speed through wrist-deep powder, up and down a trail, and played with other dogs without losing a boot or needing a single adjustment — something I can’t say for most pairs I tested. The paw area was perfectly roomy, allowing my dog’s paw to splay naturally and stay comfortable while running.

What really sets these apart as cold-weather boots is their waterproof outer shell and cozy fleece lining. They’re not intended for hot or even mild weather, but they excel on winter walks, hikes, and in city slush.

The lug-free, grippy traction pad gave my dog solid footing while running and stopping quickly on packed snow and ice. The soles barely wore down, even after grinding them with sandpaper, and they have a soft toe cap for added durability.

While these boots are worth the investment for their top-tier warmth, security, and durability, the Barkbrite All-Season Booties are a great budget-friendly alternative with a fleece lining, water resistance, and a secure velcro fit. They’re not quite as warm or waterproof for extended exposure, but for everyday winter walks in the city, they do the job very well.

Best budget

If you’re looking for a solid pair of all-season boots that won’t blow your budget, the Qumy Dog Boots punch well above their price point. This shorter-style boot has a gusseted opening that makes it easy to slip on, plus two velcro straps that cinch the fit and keep them securely in place.

While my anti-boots dog did manage to pull these off a few times while in the house, they stayed on surprisingly well the majority of the time, and we had no issues once out walking.

The outsole had impressive grip, with lug patterns that provided my dog with solid traction on snow, gravel, and mud. The bottom tread also held up well against abrasive sandpaper. They’re well-constructed, with double-stitched seams and leather reinforcements.

These boots aren’t the most waterproof — water will seep through the mesh upper if it’s submerged above the leather, and, being a short boot, they won’t protect anything above the paw. But the sole itself is waterproof enough for wet walks and tough enough to keep paws cool when exposed to a hot surface.

I appreciate that these have a mesh upper for summer breathability. However, Insider Reviews editor Sarah Saril found her dog was a bit uncomfortable after a long walk in the heat.

While the Qumy boots aren’t machine washable, they’re easy to hand wash after muddy days out. Dirt and grime were easy to scrub off the upper polyester and lower rubber sole. Because the lug pattern is pretty tight, some dirt will stick in the tread.

The only major downside is limited sizing for bigger breeds. My 70-pound pups fit the two largest sizes offered, so extra-large dogs are probably sized out. Still, for small to medium-large dogs, Qumy’s boots have a well-rounded design that actually performs where it counts.

Best for comfort

Comfort and fit are the two most important features of a good dog boot, says Dr. Abel Gonzalez, a veterinarian and clinical director at online vet platform Dutch. If your dog struggles with stiff or structured boots or is prone to hot spots or paw irritation, the Non-stop Dogwear Protector Booties are the most comfortable boots I recommend. They’re also surprisingly durable and easy to get on.

Developed for mushing and hiking, the boots have a simple design: a sock-like bootie, soft-knit ankle, and single-strap velcro closure. The bootie is made from super durable material that’s dipped in nitrile rubber, fortifying them against water and chemicals or solvents. The seamless fabric prevents chafing, and the soft material and wide paw box allow paws to splay naturally for solid contact with the ground.

Right out of the gate, my sensitive-pawed dog walked more naturally in these than lugged-sole boots. She immediately launched into a full-speed run down a snow-packed trail with no obvious discomfort or effect. Every time she wore these, I had to readjust the fit and velcro after the first few minutes to ensure they were fully on her paws. But after that, they stayed put.

The material has just the right amount of insulation to regulate temperature across seasons, and the water-resistant outer keeps out snow and slush. While these won’t keep paws super warm or protect against high heat, they strike a great balance of protection and breathability for most conditions.

Despite their soft construction, I was genuinely impressed by their durability. The knit ankle is thick and stretchy enough to withstand repeated yanking, and the bottom grip coating remained unscathed from real-world use and my sandpaper test. They’re also one of the easiest boots to get on and off.

These Protector Booties are well-priced for a set of four and come in sizes XS to 2XL (my large dogs wore a size large). While they protect paws, the short boot design won’t keep your pups’ legs dry. However, the brand makes these boots in a high-hock design for more coverage.

Best for staying on

If your dog manages to pull off every pair of boots, the Walkee Paws Suspender Boot Leggings are trickster-proof. Walkee Paws act as boot leggings: four rubber boots are attached to a web of nylon/spandex legs that turn into a harness that bridges over the dog’s back. It’s a single continuous system that prevents water from entering the top of the boot, keeps the upper legs dry, and ensures your dog won’t accidentally lose a bootie.

I had mixed experiences with these. Freelance reporter Karen Asp recommends Walkee Paws indoor leggings for their exceptional design. However, my touch-sensitive dog did not like being wrangled into the sleeves and seemed to find the boots themselves uncomfortable to walk in, while my other pup didn’t mind at all.

It’s a bit tricky getting long legs into the sleeves, and big paws into the inflexible boots — especially with just one person — and the whole system takes some adjustments across the chest and back to get a secure fit the first time you use them. Once on, I was impressed at how well the harness stayed in place and kept water out. I had to readjust the backstrap a few times on our walks, but overall, my dog seemed comfortable walking in it for nearly a mile.

The lower boots are molded, waterproof rubber and ergonomically designed, though the shapes and angles fit some paws better than others. That said, the boots do a good job of keeping out cold and moisture and are lined with soft cotton for added comfort.

I was also impressed that the traction didn’t rub away with sandpaper, and the spandex harness was resistant to rips and tears. If the rubber boot tears or develops a hole within six months of purchase, Walkee Paws will send a free set of rubber repair patches.

Best alternative

Even the best dog boots for winter and summer won’t work for all pups. If your dog refuses to wear booties or you’re just headed out on a quick walk on salted sidewalks, paw wax can provide moisture and mild protection against drying chemicals, snow pack, and minor abrasions, Ameis says. It’s not a real replacement for boots, as it doesn’t protect against heat, sharp rocks, or high-friction surfaces like gravel. But it’s a helpful second-line option.

Musher’s Secret is the brand of choice for paw protection among everyone I know who skis with their dogs in Colorado, as well as the top choice for Katie Westling, co-owner of For The Dogs in Minneapolis. The balm works by creating a wax barrier between the paw pads and the ground without impacting a dog’s ability to feel the terrain. It is made from four types of wax (white and yellow beeswax, carnauba palm wax, and candelilla wax) combined with vegetable oil and vitamin E to help with dry, cracked winter paws. The food-grade ingredients are nontoxic and won’t harm a dog if they lick their paws.

I appreciate that Musher’s Wax comes in a small tin that’s easy to toss into a hiking backpack. Plus, the formula is easy to scoop out, melts between your fingers, and spreads easily on your dog’s paws.

While I reach for actual dog boots for protection against scrapes and cuts on big mountain adventures, Musher’s Wax kept my pups’ paws more nourished and less irritated on short walks over icy, salted sidewalks. On a longer adventure, you’ll need to reapply it.

Even more, the wax is affordable and will remain shelf-stable year after year if you don’t use it all in a single season.

Does my dog need to wear boots?

“Dog booties aren’t fashion — they’re protective gear for harsh terrain and extreme weather,” Gonzalez says. When fitted properly, they form a barrier against burns, chemical irritation, sharp debris, and ice buildup.

Boots are most helpful in extreme or abrasive environments, such as hot pavement, icy or salted sidewalks, snow packed with de-icing chemicals, and rocky terrain. They’re also recommended for active dogs who hike, run, or work outdoors, as well as for those with paw issues like allergies, cracked pads, or past injuries.

Not every dog needs boots every time. Some have thicker, tougher pads that naturally condition over time. However, smaller dogs, athletic breeds, and lighter-framed dogs such as poodles, terriers, greyhounds, and Vizslas are more prone to paw damage, says Ameis.

Even if your dog seems fine, it’s worth noting that many dogs won’t show signs of discomfort until the damage is already done. On rough, icy, or hot terrain, all dogs experience some level of wear. It just affects them differently, Ameis says.

For short walks on gentler ground, boots may not be necessary. But for long hikes, hot pavement, or repeated exposure to salt and snow, they’re a smart preventive measure.

What to look for in dog boots

The veterinarians I consulted agree that fit and comfort are the most important features in a quality dog boot. From an owner’s perspective, design, durability, and ease of cleaning are also major factors. Below are the key features that make the difference between boots your dog will happily wear and ones that end up forgotten in a drawer.

Fit: The fit of a dog boot is very important for both comfort and safety, says Dr. Jessica Bell, clinical associate professor at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Washington State University. You should easily be able to fit the boot over your dog’s paw and secure it to the lower leg. “The boot should be secure enough on the paw pad to prevent slipping and sliding inside the boot,” Bell says. Unfortunately, it’s hard to assess fit without trying the boot on, but it’s helpful for a boot to have a wide paw box and multiple closure points.

Design: The best dog boot design is one that’s easy to put on and then stays securely on. Boots use different types of wraps, elastics, or ties to keep them on a dog’s feet, so it’s important to choose a style that works for both you and your dog. No matter the design, Bell says the fit should not be so tight that it causes pain and swelling. “Make sure that where the edge of the boot touches the leg, it does not rub or irritate the skin,” she says.

Terrain and protection: Consider the surfaces you’ll be walking on and look for boots that offer adequate traction and protection. Bell says boots intended for level sidewalks and basic water protection are very different from what’s needed for an avid hiking partner. For rocky terrain or slippery sidewalks covered in salt, look for tough rubber soles with textured, nonskid bottoms for maximum traction. However, Bell says rocky terrain boots are typically heavier and less flexible because of their protective soles. If maximum protection isn’t your priority, a low-cost rubber boot that stretches over the foot is a good option.

Seasonality and insulation: Depending on where you live and how you spend time with your dog outdoors, you might need dog boots solely for warmth on cold city sidewalks, rain protection for sensitive paws, traction on rocky hiking trails — or all three. Dedicated winter boots should offer enough warmth and traction on snow and ice. Summer hiking boots should be breathable, with added traction and abrasion protection against rough surfaces. If you want dog boots that are appropriate year-round, look for a balanced design that keeps the elements out and is breathable, while prioritizing traction and durability.

Cleanability: Dog boots naturally get dirtier than any other dog clothing, so they must be easy to keep clean, especially if you live in a wet, muddy climate. For convenience, look for machine-washable boots.

How we tested the best dog boots

This guide was originally reported by freelance writer Shoshi Parks, who based her early selections on interviews with nine professional dog walkers and trainers from across the country. She gathered insights on what features matter most in real-world use from icy sidewalks to hot pavement and muddy trails. Additional reporting was conducted by freelance reporter Alex Rennie.

To bring real-life experience into the mix, I personally tested 10 popular dog boots on my two large dogs, Croc and Bug, in a range of winter conditions around my home in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.

Over the course of six weeks, I evaluated each pair of boots on various terrains, including snowy trails with both packed-down and deep powder, icy sidewalks treated with de-icer, frozen and muddy park paths, and warm, dry pavement. Each boot was tested for at least one full hour cumulatively, with dogs wearing them during play, running, and walks, so I could see how well they performed not just in theory, but in action.

Fit test: I measured both the width and length of my dogs’ paws and, in some cases, leg height, and used these measurements to determine the best size according to each brand’s size chart. Once they arrived, I checked how well each boot fit the dog’s paw shape and whether they stayed on while walking, running, and playing. If a boot slipped off or needed frequent readjustment, that counted against it.

Dog comfort: I paid close attention to my dogs’ gait and behavior while wearing the boots. I assessed whether the high-stepping lasted long once we started walking, whether their gait was normal, and if the boot tread seemed like it was natural to walk on. After every test, I also checked my dogs’ paws for signs of chafing or irritation.

Traction: I tested boots on snow, ice, rocky trails, wet and dry pavement, and hardwood floors indoors to see how the sole design held up underfoot. I looked for signs of slipping or stumbling and observed how confident the dogs seemed when changing direction or running at full speed.

Ease of use: I noted how quickly and easily I could get the boots on and off, whether they stayed secure, and how manageable the process would be for a person with less dexterity or a dog that’s sensitive to handling.

Durability: After each walk or outing, I examined the boots for signs of wear and tear, like frayed stitching or damaged soles. For each boot, I also rubbed the soles with medium-grit sandpaper for one full minute to simulate wear and gauge how much the tread wore down.

Waterproofing: I stuffed each boot with a paper towel and submerged it in water — first just the sole, as if in a puddle, and then the full boot, as if submerged in snow — to test how well it kept water out. After submersion, I recorded the drying time and checked whether the material had shrunk or changed texture.

Insulation and heat protection: I placed a sandwich bag filled with warm water (98 to 100 degrees F) inside each boot, then submerged them in ice water and measured the water temperature in the bags after two minutes. To assess heat resistance, I placed one hand against a hot heating pad and another inside the boot on top of the same heating pad and compared how much warmth passed through the sole after 60 seconds.

Ease of cleaning: After muddy walks, I wiped down each boot with a damp cloth and washed them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. I noted how well they cleaned up and whether the materials held up after washing.

Bonus features: I also took note of any extras like reflective accents, snow-blocking gaiters, and included storage pouches and whether those features were actually useful during testing.

Dog boots FAQs

Do dogs really need boots?

Dogs need boots to protect their paws in extreme temperatures or on harsh terrain. Hot sidewalks can burn or blister paw pads, while freezing surfaces can lead to frostbite or hypothermia, and rocky trails can cause cuts and pad erosion. Even basic sidewalk de-icer can be really harsh on paw pad skin, says Ameis. Generally, it’s a good idea to put boots on your dog before heading out on very hot pavement, icy or salted sidewalks, rocky terrain, and snow treated with de-icing chemicals.

How do you fit your dog for boots?

Most of the best dog boots are sized with either the width or length of a dog’s paws in mind. To get the ideal fit, put a piece of paper on the floor and grab a pencil. Place one of your dog’s front paws on the page and lift the other so they have all their weight flat on the paper. Draw an outline using your pencil, incorporating space for their toenails. Since the back paws may be smaller than the front, repeat the process with them.

When you have your outlines, measure the widest point of the paw from toe to toe, then length from toenail tip to heel. Check the dog boots’ sizing guide and work off the corresponding measurement. A snug fit is better than a loose one, so if your dog’s paw falls between sizes, choose the smaller one.

Is there a dog boot that stays on?

Even when dog boots are tightly secured with velcro, they can fall off. If your dog has trouble keeping their boots on, try Walkee Paws legging boots. These pull all the way up the leg and secure with straps like suspenders to a harness or collar. They are virtually impossible to kick off on a walk or hike.

Can you leave dog boots on all day?

If you are outdoors all day in cold, wet weather or on rugged terrain, it’s fine to leave your dog’s boots on. However, if it’s hot out, you’ll want to give your dog regular breaks from their boots to let their sweaty paws breathe and cool down. It won’t hurt your dog to leave their boots on when the outdoor fun is over, but they’ll probably be more comfortable if you remove them.

Why can’t dogs walk in boots?

Dogs have sensitive paws, and they may feel strange when covered with rubber or leather. Wearing boots may cause a dog to lose their balance or make them want to kick off the material. Slowly introducing a dog to boots may help them understand that wearing boots doesn’t prevent them from walking normally, but some dogs may never adjust to them. During testing we found most dogs prefer walking on a tread-less design like Non-stop Dogwear Protector Bootie. If your dog refuses to wear boots, Satchu recommends trying a paw balm to create a barrier between the paw and the sidewalk and wiping salty paws down with a warm, damp cloth after the walk.

Is it OK to put Vaseline on my dog’s paws?

Yes, it’s OK to use Vaseline to protect your dog’s paws in cold weather. However, it’s not the best option if your dog licks their paws frequently. Ingesting too much Vaseline can cause an upset stomach or diarrhea. Plus, if you use too much, it will leave greasy paw prints behind. Using a balm made specifically for dogs, like Musher’s Secret Paw Wax, is less likely to cause tummy problems or make a mess. If you need to use Vaseline in a pinch, apply a thin layer and wipe down your dog’s paws after you return from your walk.

Is putting shoes on dogs cruel?

No. Although some dogs may not like wearing the best dog boots, using them is not cruel. Dog boots are the best way to keep your dog’s paws from freezing or burning in extreme cold and heat, getting cut on rocky terrain, and slipping on wet or icy sidewalks.