A Trusted Friend in a Complicated World
Updated on Apr. 25, 2024
When the temperatures soar, pavement becomes dangerously hot for puppy paws. Choose dog shoes for summer fun to protect precious paws at the beach, on pavement and from allergies.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.Learn more.
Last year, triple-digit heat plagued my home in North Texas, which made dog shoes for summer a necessity to combat the scorching temperatures. Despite daily watering, my carefully selected ornamental plants, specifically chosen to keep pets safe during the summer, couldn’t withstand the relentless heat. While cooling vests are effective in preventing dogs from overheating and elevated dog beds provide a chill resting spot for our furry companions, dog shoes offer specialized protection for the season.
Similar to how we prioritize keeping dog paws safe during icy weather, summer introduces its own set of risks. This year, abundant springtime rain resulted in a growth of wildflowers, prompting our dog to eagerly frolic and play in the field. Consequently, we now contend with prickly seeds that pose a threat to our pet’s paws.
Dog shoes for summer actively shield paws from stickers and grass awns, prevent bruises caused by rough surfaces, alleviate burns from hot sand or dirt and offer enhanced traction on slippery surfaces such as boat decks. Additionally, if your pooch sustains a paw injury, dog shoes can safeguard the wound during the healing process. Prepare for a summer filled with fun by equipping your canine companion with the best dog shoes to ensure their protection.
via merchant
When you require dog shoes for summer on a short-term basis, the Pawz Disposable Dog Booties provide a convenient solution. These booties resemble socks and do not require a zipper or tie. Their balloon-like design eliminates the need for padding, allowing your dog to “feel” the ground while wearing them. Instead of cleaning your dog’s paws, you can simply slip these babies on.
The rubber material ensures stability on slippery surfaces, provides protection against sharp gravel or mud and is especially beneficial for dogs with grass allergies. They are also biodegradable and disposable (though they can be reused multiple times), and cheap to replace if you lose them. Each pack contains 12 pairs, and they stretch to fit paws up to four inches in size.
via merchant
The Soft Shield Dog Boots receive top ratings for their performance in winter snow, ice, rain and mud, as well as their ability to protect against hot surfaces. One significant challenge associated with dog shoes for summer is the process of putting them on and taking them off. However, these Canada Pooch boots tackle this issue by incorporating a wide opening, ensuring easy removal for your pet.
The boots securely fasten to the paw using a combination of a toggle at the top, a reflective strap and a hook-and-loop wrap, providing both comfort and practicality for your furry friend. Consider adding them to your essential dog items to keep in your car for off-road adventures.
via merchant
These Qumy paw protectors are a top-selling pick on Amazon with nearly 15,000 five-star reviews, and they make excellent budget-friendly dog shoes for summer. They safeguard paws from the scorching pavement, and effectively perform in wet environments: the anti-slip design ensures dogs maintain stability on slippery surfaces.
In addition to a dog life jacket, these shoes are ideal for use around pools, boats or for older dogs navigating indoor slick floors. With eight sizes and six colors available, they cater to various breeds. The shoes also feature a wide split seam opening that expands to facilitate easier paw fitting, and they secure onto your pet’s paws with two straps.
via merchant
The Kurgo Blaze Cross Dog Shoes actively mimic the structure of your dog’s feet, providing flexibility, breathability and non-slip functionality, specifically designed for all-terrain hiking and jogging. The inclusion of a “breathable” construction becomes particularly crucial in hot weather, as dogs regulate their body temperature through their footpads, in addition to panting.
The material of these shoes also acts as a protective barrier against thorns or even glass, safeguarding your loyal companion from dangerous debris encountered during your jogging sessions. Even more, these dog shoes for summer can be worn while swimming, which also protects your pool liner from claws. To ensure your dog stays cool during outdoor treks, it’s also advisable to bring a convenient portable dog water bottle along.
via merchant
Elderly dogs who find comfort in a dog car hammock or a cooling bed during summertime may require additional ankle support. The Helios Traverse High Ankle Dog Boots are perfectly suited for this purpose. The lightweight and durable fabric offers both flexibility and breathability, making them ideal for hot weather conditions. These boots are equipped with extendable “socks” that provide higher coverage compared to most other dog shoes for summer. Reflective stitching provides added visibility at night.
