Dog boots protect paws from snow, ice and other wintertime hazards, but are they essential for our pups to wear in cold weather?
According to Sean McCormack, head vet at Tails.com, pet owners should seek alternative methods, as boots can cause great discomfort to our furry friends when they don't fit properly.
"Generally, dog boots will not cause your dog any pain, however, they might feel uncomfortable, which is why I advise against purchasing them," Sean tells Cambridgeshire Live. "Dogs find it extremely difficult to adapt to wearing boots, as they make their paws heavier and restrict movement."
With many people squeezing tiny paws into 'fashionable' boots, Sean reminds owners that a dog's paw pads are tough enough to withstand snow, ice and frozen ground. "They have adapted to the cold and are designed to survive the outside," he adds.
"One of the most common problems with dog boots, is that pet parents find it difficult to recognise when they don't fit their dog correctly. This can cause a lot of discomfort for your pet and make walking very challenging for them."
While paw pads are tough, remember that they're not indestructible — and they can be more susceptible to cuts and cracks. One of the ways you can protect doggy paws in winter is by putting petroleum jelly-based products on the bottom before heading out on a winter walk. Creating a barrier will prevent snow, ice and other road chemicals from getting in their paw cracks.
Sean also advises keeping their fur trimmed: "Grooming plays a huge role in protecting your pup's paws during the colder period. Trimming the long hairs on your dog's paws will make it harder for ice, snow and de-icing products to cling and dry on their skin causing irritation."
And finally, remember that no dog should be taken out for a walk if the weather drops below -10°C, as they will be unable to withstand such cold temperatures. If you spot your dog struggling during a cold weather walk (including shivering), it's likely too chilly for them to continue.
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12 dog winter coats to keep your pups cosy
Keep your pup snug and secure with this thick quilted dog jacket from H&M. Perfect for a winter's walk, it has quilted seams, a stand-up collar with an open front, and a belt with a hook and loop fastening at the back.
Designed to resist whatever the weather throws at you, this waterproof dog coat is ideal for older pups with joint problems or less fur and has a particularly warm inner lining.
Keeping warm and snug just got a whole lot easier thanks to this gorgeous waxed coat from Joules. In olive green, it has a tweed lining and beautiful bee prints.
In a gorgeous white, this pocket-detail faux shearling dog jacket has been designed to add an extra layer of warmth during those cold winter days. It has two small holes for their legs, as well as a zipped pocket on the back.
This thermal dog coat is excellent for winter walks, thanks to its self-heating technology.
"Our reflective technology lining, combined with a hollow fibre core maximises the dog coats thermal properties," say petslovescruffs.com. "The thermal dog coat has a fleece collar and chest pad to provide greater comfort, improved fitment and allow unrestricted movement."
A warm pet coat is great to ward off the chill during winter. Not sure which one to pick up? We love this technical dog parka, which has been specially developed for short-haired dogs and dogs without an undercoat.
In olive green, this luxurious Barbour coat is ideal for dogs who like the finer things in life.
On the hunt for a warm knit jumper? To keep your furry friend extra cosy, why not pick up this Barbour jumper. Boasting a unique design with a roll neck for elite comfort, it's perfect for them to wear on a Christmas Day walk.
READ MORE: The Barbour Christmas advert 2021 stars Paddington Bear and his heart-warming family
Made from super-soft fleece fabric, this blue fluffy coat has teddy bear ears attached to keep your dog warm and cosy. It also has a stretch jersey fabric, making it easy to pull on and off.
William Morris fans will love this adorable reversible dog coat in the brand's classic print. With a water-resistant, waxed cotton outer fabric, it also helps to keep rain off.
OVER GLAM Medium faux leather sleeveless dog jacket
This sleeveless dog jacket looks so cosy! It has small holes for their legs and black poppers to keep them cosy.
In vibrant blue, this microfibre dog coat is light and absorbent to offer protection from getting cold. It has a click fastener on the back and openings for legs and tail.
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
