Should Dogs Have Boots When It Is Cold Outside?

You have probably seen many dogs out walking in the snow in cute little sweaters and furry boots. Unbelievably, this is not only so that they look fashionable in the cutthroat world of doggie fashion, it is a great way to protect them from the cold. The question of whether dogs need boots in the cold weather is an age-old one and the debate has raged for years.

Below you will find the answer to the question of whether your dog should wear boots along with that fuzzy sweater when you go for walks in the snow. Although, most dog's paws are suited for walking around outdoors, it really depends on the dog. Ice and snow can get caked in their little paws and make it painful to walk.

They are Useful

The extreme cold of winter can dry out the pads on your canine companions feet, making them crack open and bleed. This is caused by the snow becoming caked in their paws like previously mentioned. Putting booties on your dog's feet, will keep them from becoming dried out and becoming extremely painful for your pet.

Other Winter Hazards

Snow and ice are not the only concerns you should be worried about when it comes to your dog's tender paws. Chemicals and salts that are put on the sidewalks, driveways, and roads in order to deice them can wreak havoc on your pet's paws. Salt can burn the bottoms of your pet's feet and they can get deathly ill from licking the chemicals off their paws. Wearing little booties can help your pet from getting sick and ending up with their paws blistered from the salt on the roads.

Getting Your Pooch to Wear Boots

While it is a good idea for your dog to wear boots in the winter, there are few dogs who actually enjoy wearing them. Your pet may even try to chew the boots off the first time that you put them on him. When you put the boots on, take out his leash at the same time, so that he is distracted by the thought of going for a walk, this should help quite a bit.

These are just a few of the reasons that you should put boots on your pooch's feet during the cold weather. From salt and chemicals to paws that could become dry, you want to protect your dog's feet in the winter, just as you do your own.