The 6 best dog shoes for summer

If you wouldn’t walk around barefoot in the summer heat, you shouldn’t make your dog do it. While it’s true that paw pads offer some protection, they’re also prone to blisters, infections, and other injuries brought on by rough surfaces and weather. That’s where dog shoes come in! Yes, you read that right.

Dog shoes Trusted Source This is an approved Trusted Source for betterpet. Learn more about Trusted Sources are protective, breathable footwear for your pup’s paws. Paw protection is especially helpful in more extreme elements like blazing sun, snow or ice, or on tough terrain. The protective sole of dog shoes will help keep sensitive paws from burns or sharp objects and increase comfort while walking — just like people’s shoes.

Read on to learn about the best dog booties, boots, and all-weather dog shoes for your pup in different sizes and colors.

Summer adventures bring plenty of different terrains that can be hard on your dog’s paws. The benefit of dog shoes for summer is protecting your pup’s pads and between their toes, making exploring more enjoyable for all. Not to mention, they’re pretty darn cute.

Protecting paws from hot pavements

When temperatures rise, pet parents usually think about hydration and limiting time outside. Monitoring the temperature of the surface your pet walks on is often overlooked. Even mild summer temperatures in the high 70s can produce scorching hot pavement—as much as 60-80 degrees hotter than the air temperature. And many U.S. states reach temperatures of 100 degrees or more, meaning asphalt can be over 160 degrees. Unlike grass, which typically matches the air temperature, concrete and asphalt absorb sun at a much higher rate. Sand gets equally as hot and can result in first or second-degree burns fairly quickly.

Preventing infections and parasites

Protecting your dog’s feet when they’re out and about can prevent health issues. While the average pet won’t need to wear shoes regularly, there are situations where your dog will be more susceptible to infections and parasites. Dogs who spend most of their time in a pasture or trek through the woods may end up with cuts or scrapes on their feet. All that wear and tear on feet and exposure to environmental allergens can create yeast infections, cysts, or painful blisters. When you know your dog’s feet are exposed to a lot of potential hazards, dog shoes are a good idea.

👉 Dog parks are notorious for parasites like hookworms Trusted Source This is an approved Trusted Source for betterpet. Learn more about Trusted Sources .

Offering more traction for walks and runs

Humans that walk and run for exercise put a lot of consideration into their footwear. Often, our four-legged friends put in just as many miles but on their bare feet. Dog shoes are a great way to provide better traction and support for active dogs, particularly when weather conditions call for it. Lightweight and high-quality dog shoes for walking will provide comfort for your pooch. Getting the right footing on a hike or jog can prevent injury and even help your dog perform better.

👉 Fun fact: “Mushers”, or sled dog racers, are required to have eight booties per dog on race day.

Every dog is unique, so what worked for your neighbor’s Great Dane up the street probably won’t be a great fit for your Pomeranian at home. Here are the factors to keep in mind when searching for the right kicks for your best friend:

The best dog shoes are the ones your pup will wear and those that fit your needs with a unique design. Still, things like ease of use, adjustable straps, and level of protection are factors to consider. Also, hot or cold climates will determine which product is the best fit. Here’s our top six picks for dog shoes to beat the summer heat.

1. Qumy Dog Shoes

Qumy dog boots boast almost 30,000 positive reviews on Amazon and are our top pick for all seasons and weather conditions.

• Materials. This popular choice has thick rubber soles, reflective trim for nighttime wear, and adjustable straps with a wide split seam opening for easy on and off with the best fit.
• Style. These are rugged boots with high-quality breathable fabric, perfect for difficult terrain like a mountainous hike, but not too bulky for daily walking or a beach day. They also come in a variety of colors, including (but not limited to) a basic black or a fun leopard print.
• Best For. Qumy dog boots are available in a full range of sizes and fit for any climate or activity, making them a great choice for any dog. These dog shoes will protect from hot summer asphalt and make weekend adventuring safer and more comfortable for your pup.

2. XSY&G Dog Shoes

XSY&G Dog Shoes are like a doggie sneaker rather than a rugged boot. These non-slip shoes are better suited for lighter use, like protecting your pup from hot pavement or sand, rather than hiking or more difficult terrain.

• Materials. The upper part of the shoe is fabric with adjustable velcro straps, while the toe is made of leather. The bottom is a printed non-slip sole.
• Style. Lightweight, hand washable, waterproof, and reflective, these dog shoes are available in four bold colors like pink and orange. Although they’re an easy pull-on style, there seems to be some discrepancy with sizing. Pets of any size would benefit from these shoes for burn protection.
• Best For. This style is best for dog owners who want an easy option to protect their dog’s feet from hot pavement on a summer walk, or enjoy a day at the beach. Better options are available for taking a more difficult romp through the woods or snow. They can be hand washed or thrown in the washer, making them a low-maintenance shoe.

3. Hcpet Dog Shoes

Hcpet dog shoes offer light paw protection and help keep your dog’s feet clean, as well as keep your pet from tracking dirt or germs inside. Their breathable design makes them the ideal summer shoe.

• Material. Light mesh fabric makes up the bulk of these porous shoes. A velcro strap around the ankle helps with size adjustment, and a rubber sole protects your dog’s feet from heat, small rocks, or sharp objects. They’re non-slip, providing enough traction for hardwood floors. These are hand-wash only.
• Style. Hcpet mesh summer shoes are a good idea for pup parents concerned with light protection and cleanliness. They’re available in nine basic colors and available for small, medium and large sized dogs.
• Best For. These shoes are geared toward pet parents who want to cut down on cleaning off their dog’s feet when they go in and out. Someone who wants their dogs to wear shoes in the house may also find these to be a good choice. They’re also paw protection for dogs recovering from any kind of foot surgery.

4. Ruffwear dog boots

Ruffwear dog boots are ideal for dogs ready to hit the trail for a hike or keep pace with their human on a run. Whether it’s a hot or cold climate, Ruffwear dog boots are a good idea for active pups.

• Material. Vibram rubber and tightly woven mesh protect paws, and hook-and-loop cinch closure makes them easy to slip into. Reflective trim makes them safe for evenings or early morning runs.
• Style. This particular brand is marked by durability and ruggedness, like a hiking boot. A full range of sizes is available, as well as three basic colors.
• Best For. These dog shoes are known to fit well and stay put with their hook and loop closure, so they’re best for someone active who wants reliable shoes for their pup to keep up. Their breathable enough for summer but can easily transfer to snow and ice if needed.

👉 Ruffwear also makes doggie socks or boot liners for extra support and comfort, plus no pull harnesses.

5. Muttluk Wolf Walkers

Muttluk Wolf Walkers are a popular choice for pet owners who want to ensure their dog’s shoes don’t come off. The shoes tighten with hook and loop closure at the smallest part of the leg, making a snug fit regardless of activity level.

• Material. Rather than rubber soles, this type of Muttluks is made of high-quality leather soles and nylon exterior, both of which are waterproof and easy to clean.
• Style. This type of shoe is the least aesthetic of the bunch, but that doesn’t take away from its quality and durability. The shoe has the appearance of a basic sock or shoe that provides a barefoot feel.
• Best For. Muttluks may be a good choice for beach bums this summer since the leather soles are salt resistant. Any high-energy dog will benefit from the snug fit of these shoes and flexible soles, and they’re tough enough for adventures of all kinds.

6. Walker Paws Dog Leggings

Walkee Paws dog leggings combine a dog boot with a legging for extra environmental protection and are a go-to for dog’s who just won’t keep their shoes on.

• Material. The leggings are made with stretchable fabric, while the boots are outfitted with rubber grippies. This is the only shoe with an over-the-back design to keep the footwear in place. They’re also waterproof, making them a good choice for pups who tromp through rivers and lakes in the summer.
• Style. The most eccentric of the bunch, Walkee Paws dog leggings come in patterns like confetti or skull print and are sure to be a fashion statement. The leggings cover the entirety of the leg with a fitted boot at the bottom, and over the back secure fit to keep it all in place.
• Best for. These bootie leggings do have stipulations. They aren’t suited for short-haired dogs, dogs with short legs and a long torso like a Dachshund, or dogs with muscular hind legs like a pit bull. Fluffy dogs with standard body proportions are the ideal candidate for the leggings.

Dog shoes can be a great addition to your dog’s summer adventures. No matter what type of shoe you choose, any level of protection from scorching hot pavement or sand is an improvement over bare paws.