5 Best Dog Shoes for Summer + Buying Guide

Dog paw pads are naturally equipped to reduce ground impact due to a multi-layer cushion system. But in hot weather? It's not enough.

Luckily, there are dog shoes for summer that will protect their paws from heat and hot surfaces.

Many dogs are not thrilled with footwear at the beginning, but don't worry; they can quickly get used to them.

We've taken a closer look at different dog shoes, the benefits of wearing them, and what to look for when you shop for the best dog shoes for summer. We've also reviewed some of the top brands out there.

RELATED: 10 Tips on How to Keep Dogs Cool Outside In Summer

Dog Shoes for Summer: Why Your Pup Needs Them

Dog shoes or booties are a type of footwear for dogs that are meant to protect their paws from hot pavement, rough terrains, and extreme elements.

They can also make your pooch look stylish, as a bonus!

There are different types of dog booties based on the material they are made from, design, and purpose. We will focus on dog shoes for summer and their advantages.

1. They protect the dog's paws

Active dogs that partake in outdoor activities during summer can come into contact with different chemicals, pollutants, debris, and hot pavement.

Their pads can burn, get cut, or wear out, leading to pain.

Dog booties can protect your dog’s paws from these hazards and prevent injuries to his paw pads.

2. They keep your dog cool

Walking on hot asphalt on hot summer days can be painful or uncomfortable for your dog due to the heat.

Dog shoes can make him more comfortable, even if it’s just a simple walk to the park.

3. They keep the home clean

While dogs are more likely to bring in mud, water, and other things into your home in the winter, dogs can get their paws dirty in the summer as well.

Instead of cleaning your dog’s paws after each walk, you can just take their shoes off and still have a clean home!

Dog shoes for summer are also very light, so if you have hardwood floors, you can let your dog wear his shoes indoors to protect your floors from scratches.

4. They are great for senior dogs

Senior dogs often suffer from hip and joint issues, and their paws have probably already suffered a bit of wear and tear.

Dog shoes can provide additional support and extra cushioning for senior dogs, especially for those dogs that drag their feet while they walk.

RELATED: 8 Vet's Tips on How to Care for Senior Dogs

How to Choose the Best Dog Shoes for Summer

There are a lot of good options on the market, and it may be hard for some dog owners to decide on the best dog shoes for their pooch.

So, here are a few things you need to consider before you make your decision:

Proper fit

Finding the shoes that are a proper fit for your furry friend is imperative. Pay attention to the manufacturer’s size guidelines and fitting instructions to get the perfect size for your dog.

If you don’t find the right size shoes for your dog, he may feel uncomfortable in them or even feel pain.

Some products will have instructions on how to measure your dog’s feet, which often includes tracing the outline of his feet and measuring the sketch.

If you need more help on how to measure your pup's feet for a good fit, watch or read our guide below.

RELATED: How to Measure a Dog for Boots

Ease of Use

Dog shoes that are easy to put on and take off can save you from frustration, so look for shoes designed to slip on and off with ease.

Dog shoes with wide split seams are usually pretty easy to put on and take off.

Pay attention to the type of straps the shoes have, as your dog can easily remove shoes without any straps.

Some shoes have Velcro closures, others have snap-locks or buckles. All of them usually work well, but probably the easiest to use are Velcro closures.

RELATED: How to Put On Dog Boots and Keep Them from Falling Off

Material

Dog shoes for summer should be made from materials that make the shoes breathable, durable, and comfortable.

There are many cheap shoes made from substandard materials, and they often fall apart shortly after purchase.

Look for high-quality materials that will make the shoes last for a long time.

Some of the best materials for dog summer shoes include mesh, neoprene, and rubber.

Other Features

Dog summer shoes should be rugged to protect the paws from heat, sharp objects, debris, etc.

Look for shoes with sturdy, anti-slip soles and high visibility, which means that they include reflective stitching, patches, or stripes.

Your pooch will be easy to spot by passing vehicles, and you will have an easier time keeping an eye on him, especially in the evenings.

Waterproof or water-resistant dog shoes are usually a bit more expensive.

However, they are perfect for both summer and winter, and if you have a chance to get shoes that will keep your dog’s feet dry at all times, don’t miss out on it.

Design and Price

Some dog owners don’t care about the style and fashion side of the dog boots, but pattern and color are also things to consider, especially if you want your pooch to look good at all times.

While price should not be the most important factor in your decision, it certainly affects it. Of course, we don’t have an unlimited budget for buying dog shoes for summer!

However, you should try to focus on the quality of the dog shoes instead of the price, as long as it is within your means.

5 Best Dog Shoes for Summer

1. QUMY Waterproof Shoes for Dogs

These dog shoes come with adjustable and reflective Velcro straps, making them a good choice if you plan to stay outdoors with your pooch in the evenings.

The QUMY Waterproof Dog Shoes are made of high-quality fabric and come in four different sizes, although they are mostly meant for large breeds.

They also come in a set of four.

The shoes is described to have anti-slip, rugged soles to ensure stability, but some users reported that the soles are actually flat and slippery.

The good thing is these shoes are suitable for both summer and all weather conditions, thanks to their water-resistant design.

They come with a split seam opening, which makes them easy to put on and take off, especially with the adjustable straps.

However, there were some reports of shoes slipping off the dog’s feet due to their structure.

CUSTOMERS FEEDBACK:

POSITIVE	NEGATIVE
Well-made, comfortable, and effective for protecting paws from hot pavement, snow, and salt. It's easy to put on and works well for around-town walks.	Mixed feedback on the fit and traction Some reports of not fitting properly and slipping off after a few steps Velcro straps also get mixed reviews

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2. Muttluks All-Terrain Rugged Summer Dog Boots

These dog boots from Muttluks will protect your dog's paws from summer hazards such as rough terrain, heat, burrs, glass, cactus needles, debris, zebra mussels, and more! They are ideal for running, hiking, or swimming, thanks to the breathable mesh material.

The makers also promise barefoot comfort for dogs who are hesitant to put on dog shoes.

The boots also have a large opening for easy put-on and take-off, and the double wrap fastening allows customized comfort around dew claws while maintaining a snug fit for your dog.

Each package contains four dog shoes with flexible treated leather soles and stretchy, adjustable leg cuffs for a comfortable fit.

These boots are designed specifically for small breeds, so they may not be suitable for larger dogs or puppies. However, even if you have a larger breed, you can still find other Muttluks products that will provide similar features and benefits, such as water resistance and toe protection.

Many are impressed by the quality of the product, from the velcro straps to the genuine leather soles.

CUSTOMERS FEEDBACK:

POSITIVE	NEGATIVE
Customers find the boots well-made, comfortable, and easy to put on Positive feedback for health benefits for older dogs Lasts longer than other brands	Available in six sizes, but only for small dogs Only comes in a set of 2 Divided opinion on how they stay on the paws Pricey

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3. Bark Brite All Weather Neoprene Paw Protector Dog Boots

Dog summer shoes need to be breathable, and this shoe is made from neoprene, which is an extremely breathable material that keeps your dog’s paws dry and cool.

It also keeps them warm in cold weather, making them suitable for use even in winter.

These shoes come in 5 different sizes, and one set contains four pairs. They have non-slip rubber soles to aid in traction and prevent punctures and tears.

The shoes are also water-resistant and come with reflective, flexible Velcro straps.

CUSTOMERS FEEDBACK:

POSITIVE	NEGATIVE
Well-made and durable, lasts about 6-7 months Effective in various conditions, including thick snow and hot pavement. Easy to put on and take off Works well on hardwood floors and tile	While some customers report the boots stay on well, others mention they slide off easily. The fit receives mixed feedback, with some finding them perfect while others say they run big.

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4. RUFFWEAR Grip Trex, All-Terrain Paw Wear for Dogs

These shoes are probably the most durable ones you can find on the market. They are designed to withstand hiking on the roughest terrains and also offer great protection from the hot pavement.

The inside of the shoes is made of rubber, so you might need to use socks to protect your dog’s paws.

The upper part of these shoes is made of breathable mesh to provide the necessary ventilation during the summer months. However, this part is also not waterproof, unlike the rest of these shoes.

These shoes feature rugged and durable anti-slip soles, protecting your pooch in any weather and on any terrain.

They are machine washable, come in a set of four, and are available in numerous sizes.

CUSTOMERS FEEDBACK:

POSITIVE	NEGATIVE
Well-made with solid soles Easy to put on and remove Effective at protecting paws from hot surfaces and rocks. Helpful for senior dogs and dogs with conditions.	Others find them too big for the front paws. Mixed feedback about staying on Others report they slip off Different reactions on the comfort level, with some reporting their dogs' paws being rubbed raw.

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5. LONSUNEER Dog Boots for Summer

This dog shoes for summer feature non-slip, waterproof soles and are made of neoprene with a double mesh layer. This makes them extremely breathable, allowing your dog’s paws to stay cool in the hottest weather by circulating air on top of the paw.

These shoes come in a set of four, and they are available in five different sizes and three colors.

They have Velcro straps, which are unfortunately not reflective. They can be used both indoors and outdoors, but some users reported that they are not really that durable.

CUSTOMERS FEEDBACK:

POSITIVE	NEGATIVE
Functional and comfortable Breathable material Secure Velcro straps	Others report the size runs a little big. Some say they hold up well, while others report them falling apart Some find them easy to put on, while others struggle with application. Issues with slipperiness, noting that the boots tend to slip off and cause their dogs to trip.

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

FAQs

Do vets recommend dog shoes?

Yes, many vets recommend dog shoes, especially in extreme conditions like hot pavement, icy sidewalks, or rough terrain. They help protect paws from burns, frostbite, cuts, and irritants.

However, they should fit well and be used properly to avoid discomfort.

Should I walk my dog in the summer?

How to tell if the ground is too hot for dogs?

Before You Go…

Summer temperatures can get very high, and the hot pavement is dangerous for our pets' paws.

These dog shoes for summer can protect your dog’s paws from that hot pavement and other elements, keep his paws clean, and provide additional support for his hips and joints!

Learn more about what you can do to keep your dog safe and healthy in hot weather. Check out our recommended articles below!

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• Sunburn in Dogs: How to Tell & What to Do
• Can You Overexercise Your Dog? 12 Signs to Watch Out For!

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