If you're worried about your dog's little tootsies when they walk outside in hot weather, you need to get them some paw protectors. They will provide another layer between your pooch's paw and hot surfaces to reduce the risk of them getting burnt. In our opinion, they're just as important as other dog cooling products on your list of summer care items for your pooch.
We all know how much dogs love to be out in the sunshine, but too much sun exposure can be bad for them. Not only are hounds at risk of overheating when temperatures exceed 20°C+, but they can also experience burns on their sensitive areas. You can make sure their ears and nose are covered from the effects of UV rays by applying a dog SPF, but when it comes to making sure their feet and paw pads are protected, that's where paw protectors step in. We all know the uncomfortable burning feeling we get when we step outside without shoes on when it's warm to pop something in the bin or grab something from the washing line. This feeling is much worse for our dogs due to how sensitive their paw pads are.
Best paw protectors at a glance:
• Best overall: MOKCCI Truelove Dog Boots – view offer on Amazon UK
• Best paw protector boots: QUMY Dog Boots – view offer on Amazon UK
• Best waterproof paw protectors: Dog Boots – view offer on Amazon UK
Alongside protection from hot patios and pavements when it's warm outside, paw protectors have a whole load of other uses, too. If you tend to go hiking or on other outdoor adventures with your pooch when the weather is at a more comfortable temperature for them, paw protectors will help to cushion their feet from rocky and uneven ground. This is why you'll find some are made from durable and waterproof materials. Most paw protectors have anti-slip grips as well, making them perfect for dogs that aren't so stable on their feet, such as elderly pooches, and dogs that are unsure of slippery tiles or wooden flooring around the home. They'll also stop your dog from licking or biting their paws if they've recently had surgery or have other injuries.
Whatever you plan to use paw protectors for, we've rounded up the very best ones below so you'll have peace of mind that your pooch's paws are taken care of.
Best paw protectors
Best overall
AmazonLightweight with an inner breathable mesh, the MOKCCI Truelove Dog Boots will ensure your dog's feet are cool and comfortable. Not just designed for wear during the summer months, they're great for wearing for hiking and general walks and they are made with reflective material to ensure greater visibility in low light.
Customer review: "The shoes are easy to put on, and as long as they’re tightened properly they stay on. Our dog doesn’t seem to mind them, doesn’t chew at them or try to take them off. They’re perfect for short walks on hot days, no burned feet (just make sure you’ve got a bowl and water)"
Pros
- Inside made with breathable mesh
- Reflective to ensure your dog is seen in low visibility settings
Cons
- Sizing may be hard to work out
Best paw protector boots
AmazonEasy to put on and off, these QUMY Dog Boots are ideal for slipping on and off your dog when they need to head outside on warm days. They're designed with a rugged sole that has anti-slip properties to improve stability and traction, as well as protection from hot pavements and patios.
Customer review: "Took my dog for a walk and about a mile in and her paws were getting raw. Decided to purchase these and a few days later some cute size 6 pink puppy shoes arrived. The first time we put them on she was able to shake one off, so we had to learn how to put them on correctly. Just took her on a 5 mile walk on the same trail and her feet were perfectly fine at the end. So happy we can save her from raw, sore, or bloody feet. Life saver for people who take their dogs on gravel, rocks, or hot pavement. Customer Service reached out about a week later to check in and make sure I received them, how they fit, etc."
Pros
- Anti slip sole
- Wide opening
Cons
- May take your dog some time to get used to as they look a bit clumpy
3.
Dog Boots
Best waterproof paw protectors
AmazonIf you've bought your dog a paddling pool or a splash pad to help them keep cool, the good news is that you won't have to take these Dog Boots off your pooch before they enjoy the water fun as they're made from high-quality waterproof material. They're also designed with a non-slip sole to prevent any accidents.
Customer review: "Bought for walks on hot pavements and works a treat! Can't rate water resistance as we've had no rain but prob won't use other than really hot days anyway. Very happy with them! Thanks!"
Pros
- Plenty of sizes to choose from
- Waterproof
Cons
- Reviewers felt they could be more robust
Best paw protector socks for indoors and out
AmazonNot only can pavements and patios get hot during warmer spells, but so can tiles indoors, too. The KOOLTAIL Dog Socks will protect your pooch's paw pads from heat damage both inside the house and outdoors. The bottom of the socks are designed with a non-slip gel to give your dog a bit more grip when walking across slippy surfaces.
Customer review: "A perfect fit and my little Yorkie feels very comfortable in them. I could tell by the way he was walking confidently without any hesitation once they were on. I’ll be saving them for the summer when the pavement gets too hot. Also with the silicone base they will be perfect for protecting wood floors or an injury that needs to stay covered and not licked. The straps are the icing on the cake and if secured properly the socks will stay on. I have a docile dog so he never tried to take them off anyway, but there may be some dogs who might have a go at removing them. Very pleased and I’ll be getting another pair."
Pros
- Adjustable strap around the top
- Non-slip grips at the bottom
Cons
- Some reviewers had issues knowing what size to get for their pooch
Best double-sided grip paw protectors
AmazonThe EXPAWLORER Anti-slip Dog Socks offer double sided grips that cover a larger area compared to other socks, which provides extra strong traction. They're quite stretchy so you'll be able to pass them over their paws with ease. There's also a Velcro belt to use to adjust the fit so you can secure them as tight or loose as your dog needs.
Customer review: "Double-sides make it last longer. Washed up well, keeps shape. Eliminates the need to wash paws after every walk. Allows for walks on hot days"
Pros
- Extra grippy
- Durable
Cons
- Made with a knit material so perhaps not suitable for long wear as your dog will get too hot
Best for extra small dogs
Pets At Homewww.petsathome.com
The ultimate accessory to protect your dog's paws from hot surfaces, as well as rain and snow, the GF PET All-Terrain Dog Booties have ultra grip durable soles and an extended rubber bottom for maximum coverage. Available in an extra small size, they'll do a great job of protecting your little doggo's small feet in the heat.
Pros
- Easy to slip on
- Can be worn up or folded down
Cons
- Not designed for big dogs
Best paw protectors for style
Pets At Homewww.sparkpaws.uk
Add a little bit of fun to your dog's step with these cute Hot Pavement Pawtector Dog Shoes from Spark Paws. Available in a range of stylish colours, including teal, green, and this pink and purple option, they provide another layer between your pooch's paws and hot surfaces, rough terrain, and thorny ground. They're easy to wear with a wide opening design with double straps for a secure fit. Plus the top is made of mesh to keep tootsies ventilated yet clean.
Customer review: "It took us some time to get our dog used to the shoes. But after a few steps she really liked having protection at her feet. We will use the shoes for hiking in rough territories during vacation."
Pros
- Stylish yet useful
- Range of sizes with measuring guide
- Secure straps
Cons
- Some struggled to get the sizing just right
Best paw protectors FAQs
How do you know if it's too hot to walk your dog?
The best way to tell if it's too hot to walk your dog is by conducting the pavement test. Hold the back of your hand to the pavement for a few seconds. If it's too hot for you to bear, it's definitely too hot for your dog. Obviously, your dog will still need to go out on hot days to do their business, so you'll want to ensure they've got their paw protectors on when they need to head out to the toilet.
How do you know if a dog has burnt paws?
With the help of the RSPCA, we've listed some of the signs to look out for if you think your dog has burnt paws.
• Limping or refusing to walk
• Licking or chewing at the feet
• Pads darker in colour
• Missing part of the pad
• Blisters or redness
If you suspect your dog's paw pads have been burned, it's important to take action as soon as possible. We'd recommend ringing your vet who will be able to advise on the best course of action, depending on how serve the burns are.
Tips for keeping dogs cool in hot weather:
• Walk them in the early morning or later in the evening.
• Make sure they always have the option of a shaded area, whether that's a spot under some trees or their very own dog sun shade.
• Keep them as hydrated as possible by making sure there is plenty of water available. You can also freeze their food for a refreshing treat.
• Take them to the groomers at the start of summer. This is so they can get rid of any excess hair and make way for their lighter summer coat.
Rosie Floyd is a Pets, Homes and Garden Product Writer for Take A Break Pets, specialising in all things dogs. She grew up always having at least one dog as part of the family and has experience in owning a variety of breeds, including Labradors, Cockapoos and Yorkshire Terriers.