If you have ever put booties on a dog for the first time, you have probably seen the funny, high-stepping walk that follows. Booties feel strange to dogs, who are used to sensing the ground directly through their pads. The good news is that many dogs can learn to accept and even ignore booties with gradual, positive training. The key is to go slowly and make every step rewarding.
Why some owners use booties
Booties can help protect paws from road salt, chemical de-icers, sharp ice and packed snow between the toes. They can be useful for dogs with sensitive feet, dogs recovering from a paw injury under a vet’s guidance, or dogs who walk mostly on heavily treated city sidewalks. They are not essential for every dog, and some dogs do well with a paw balm and a good rinse after walks instead.
Start with fit
Booties that are too big will twist and fall off. Booties that are too tight can pinch and restrict circulation. Measure your dog’s paw while they are standing, since the foot spreads under weight. Trace around the front paw on a piece of paper and measure the width, then compare it to the brand’s sizing guide. Front and back paws can be different sizes on some dogs.
A gradual training plan
Break the process into small steps and move on only when your dog is relaxed at the current one. Short sessions of a few minutes work better than one long session.
- Step one: Let your dog sniff a bootie and reward calm interest.
- Step two: Touch the bootie to a paw, then reward. Repeat on each foot.
- Step three: Slip one bootie on for a few seconds without fastening it, reward and remove it.
- Step four: Fasten one bootie, offer a treat or a favorite toy and take it off after a short time.
- Step five: Add booties one at a time until your dog wears all four indoors.
- Step six: Walk around the house together, then try short trips outside.
Distraction helps. Many dogs forget about their feet once they are focused on a game, a walk or a treat puzzle.
Common problems and fixes
If your dog freezes or refuses to move, go back a step and keep sessions shorter. If booties keep slipping off, check the size and fasteners. If your dog chews at them, redirect to a toy and remove them before chewing becomes a habit. Never leave a dog unsupervised in booties, since chewed pieces can be swallowed.
Check paws after every wear
Take booties off when you get home and check for rubbing, redness or moisture. Paws can sweat inside booties, so let feet dry and air out. Wash or wipe booties according to the maker’s instructions so salt does not build up inside. If you notice sores, swelling or a change in how your dog walks, take a break from booties and talk to your veterinarian. With time, many dogs will walk out the door in booties as if they had always worn them.
