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The first winter after adopting my Coonhound mix, I let her outside to go potty. I kept a close eye on her because I knew it was cold out, and I didn’t want her outside for too long. After she went potty, she took several steps and stopped moving altogether. Lifting two of her legs, she was clearly struggling with the extreme coldness on her paw pads. I hollered for my husband, who ran outside to carry her back in. A minute later, I searched for the best dog boots for snow so she could go outside more comfortably during frigid winter temperatures.
| Best Dog Boots For Snow | Best Dog Boots For Ice | Best Dog Winter Coat |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
| Bark Brite | Ruffwear | Kurgo |
| View on Chewy | View on Amazon | View on Chewy |
| Read Review | Read Review | Read Review |
Do Dogs Need Clothes In Winter?
You might wonder, “Do dogs need snow boots or coats?” Depending on your dog’s breed, they may be more susceptible to colder temperatures. Small dogs like Terriers, Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, and Yorkies tend to have thinner coats and get pretty chilly in the cold. Some larger breeds with thin coats, such as Greyhounds and Whippets, may also shiver when temperatures drop. But, dogs from a heritage further from the equator with a double coat are usually more comfortable with colder weather, such as Huskies, Saint Bernards, and other cold weather breeds.
Older dogs also feel the cold more than young dogs; every dog is different. My dog, Sally, doesn’t have a thin coat, but she doesn’t have a thick undercoat either. Knowing what I know now, it’s no surprise that she struggles in colder winter temperatures and needs some added body and paw protection to keep her safe.
Things To Know Before You Buy Dog Winter Booties
Dog boots are intended to help with traction, weather, allergies, and lawn care chemicals. Boots help keep your dog’s paws safe from salt and other elements while allowing them to walk, hike, and enjoy the outdoors. Your dog may walk a little funny at first, but this is normal as they adjust to this new accessory. But, it will be worth it in the end to keep their paws protected. Sally always walks a little wonky at first but acclimates to the booties after a few minutes.
How To Measure Your Dog’s Paw Size For Booties
Each company suggests a specific way to measure your dog’s paws. So be sure to see what they recommend and follow the instructions accordingly so you purchase the proper fit. Buying the wrong size could cause the boots to not fit, and if they’re too small, your dog could damage its paw.
6 Best Dog Boots For Winter That Stay On
While searching for the best winter dog boots for Sally, I took detailed notes to provide you with reviews. Here is what I found.
Best Dog Boots For Snow: Bark Brite All Weather Dog Boots Review
Photo by Kimberly Alt for Canine Journal, © Cover Story Media, Inc. 2024.
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These are the dog winter booties I purchased for Sally. I’m thrilled with how well they stay on her. Measuring her paw was easy. I used a fabric tape measurer, but you could also use a string and then measure the length of the string to ensure you buy the correct size. I found sizing to be true to size, and there are five size options in three different colors. The boots have nice traction and work well in all weather conditions, including hot pavement, so Sally is comfortable in extreme heat and cold weather. They also have reflective straps for better visibility at nighttime and are puncture-resistant. I’m thrilled with my purchase, and the boots have held up well for all our hikes and lasted over six years.
Bark Brite Sizing Tip
Measure your dog’s paw’s full, rounded width for accurate sizing. The largest size may not work for larger breeds. For example, one owner ordered XXL for their 140-pound Doberman, and they didn’t work. However, the company offered to make a custom pair for the dog, which goes above and beyond!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Water-resistant | Some pairs wear out quickly, but you can get them replaced for free or get your money back |
| Good traction | |
| Use in snow, rain, indoor, and outdoor | |
| Keeps paws clean, dry, and protected | |
| Excellent customer service | |
| Includes a zippered bag to store the boots in to prevent misplacing one |
Price
- Starting at $26.99
Best Dog Boots For Ice: Ruffwear Polar Trex Boots With Rubber Soles Review
Ruffwear Polar Trex boots come in a two-pack and are available in eight sizes. They feature more paw protection qualities, like a Vibram Icetrek outsole for traction on frozen surfaces and a breathable, waterproof, 3-layer laminated soft-shell upper. The stretch gaiter allows you to expand the boot over your dog’s paw and has a protective zippered closure to ensure a snug fit. These Polar Trex boots are made for warmth and protection in cold weather. Remember to order two sets for your dog since they come in two packs.
Ruffwear Polar Trex Boots Sizing Tip
Ruffwear makes measuring easy. Put a piece of paper on the ground. Have your dog step on the paper, bearing weight, and use a pen or pencil to draw a line on each side of the paw. Measure the distance between the two lines in inches. However, if your dog is between sizes, Ruffwear recommends sizing down.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Secure grip and cushion for dog’s paws | Pricier than other boots |
| Offers excellent support for dogs with paw injuries that need healing | Some customers say they get clogged with snow around the ankles |
| Performs well in hot and cold conditions | Velcro strap may go over dewclaws for some dogs, which can be uncomfortable |
| Good traction with sturdy soles | |
| Stay on well | |
| Good range of sizes |
Price
- Starting at $54.95
Best Fleece-Lined Boots: Muttluks Original Fleece-Lined Winer Boots Review
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Muttluks are the original dog boots made in Canada since 1994. These top-quality boots are fleece-lined to offer your dog’s paws extra comfort and warmth when going on long, cold hikes or dashing out for a pee. Muttluks are made of waterproof, breathable, and windproof outer fabric. The specially treated leather ensures the boot adapts to your dog’s paw shape, making them comfortable. These winter socks come in eight sizes and seven colors, each with a reflective strap for additional safety. Only a few customers mention that their dog’s Muttluks slip off.
Muttluks Boots Sizing Tip
Measure your dog’s paw length, from the tip of the claws to the back of their pad that touches the ground. Then, measure their paw width, which is the widest point of their paw, usually their toes. If your pup is in between sizes, Muttluks recommends selecting the bigger size.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fleece-lined for warmth | More expensive than other boots |
| Outer material is waterproof and breathable | Some reviews mention they slip off quicker than expected |
| Molds to your dog’s paw | |
| Comes in a wide range of sizes & colors | |
| Has a reflective strap |
Price
- Starting at Check Amazon for availability
Best Disposable Boots: PawZ Rubber Dog Boots Review
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PawZ waterproof dog boots come in seven sizes and are disposable. What exactly does that mean? Well, it means your dog can wear them multiple times, and you can chuck them away after a few uses. These PawZ boots are best suited for those late winter or early spring day hikes when the snow is melting, or your yard is a giant mud pit. These boots protect your pup from ice, snow, salt, lawn chemicals, and hot surfaces. They can keep the mud and ice salt off your dog’s paw pads and offer protection from the hot pavement in those hot summer months.
Each pack includes 12 socks, and they’re cheaper than most. But they won’t last as long as the other dog winter booties in this article. Some customers say keeping several pairs in their vehicle and home is convenient rather than using one set everywhere. PawZ boots are made from natural rubber, which is environmentally friendly and biodegradable. The boots don’t have any zippers, straps, or padding, and some customers found they slipped off quicker than others they’d tried.
PawZ Sizing Tip
For the best fit, measure from the bottom of your dog’s rear heel pad to the tip of the longest toe nail. The easiest way to do this is to use a piece of paper like the Ruffwear boots and draw lines at the tip of the longest nail and the rear heel pad. I tried it with Sally standing, and it wasn’t easy. If the paw is between sizes, PawZ recommends sizing up because sizes tend to run small as the rubber material contracts. If putting the boots on your dog is difficult, you can purchase Paws Jawz, a tool to help get the socks on.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Environmentally friendly & 100% biodegradable | Can come off easily |
| Protection from hot surfaces, lawn chemicals, salt, snow, and ice | Some customers say they constrict your dog’s paws too much |
| Excellent water resistance | Depending on the dog’s activity level, the boots may tear sooner than others |
| Reusable |
Price
- Starting at $16.99
Best No-Lose Boots: Walkee Paws Review
Walkee Paws, as seen on Shark Tank, are dog booties attached to leggings with an over-the-back design. The anti-slip rubber boots have grippies for traction, and the leggings can also help protect your dog’s legs. This style of dog boot stays on well and eliminates the risk of losing a boot. There are two adjusters to help customize the fit to your dog’s leg height and back length. Once you initially adjust it, you won’t need to do it with consecutive wears. The world’s first dog leggings come in various colors, patterns, and four sizes. The material has a four-way stretch to move with your dog and is machine washable. Use a gentle cycle, or rinse them in cold water.
Walkee Paws Sizing Tip
Trace your dog’s front paw on paper and measure the paw width (excluding fur). Next, measure your dog’s height from floor to shoulder. This isn’t easy, so you’ll probably need to ask someone for help with your dog. Choose the size of Walkee Paws based on the paw width and ensure the maximum height works, too. If your dog is taller, you may need to size up.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Anti-slip rubber boot | Some users complain about durability |
| Protection in all seasons | Can be difficult to put on |
| Waterproof boots | Backstrap could be uncomfortable |
| Lots of fabric choices available | Water-resistant leggings may not work well in snow |
| Protect the whole leg | |
| Several size options | |
| Excellent customer service | |
| No risk of losing a boot |
Price
- Starting at Check Amazon for availability
Read our complete review of Walkee Paws to learn more about this product and its features.
Best For Indoor: TigerToes Review
I first came across TigerToes when looking for a solution for my dog slipping indoors and scratching my wood floors. I purchased my first pair of TigerToes and was pleasantly surprised by how effectively they provided traction and prevented slipping—even with a pup that often acts like a bull in a china shop. These non-slip socks can also be used outdoors to provide traction and protect your dog’s paws from cold pavement and salt that can irritate paw pads. These socks are not waterproof, so they are not ideal for snow. But they are a great option for short walks on cleared sidewalks.
TigerToes Sizing Tips
To find your pup’s size, TigerToes instructs you to place their paw on a piece of paper. Then, mark the edges of the widest part of your dog’s paw. Measure the distance between the two marks and use this measurement to find the correct size. TigerToes offers seven sizes ranging from XXS to XXL.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lots of size options | Not waterproof |
| Grips on all sides | Not intended for snow |
| Velcro keeps sock from falling off | Some users found TigerToes hard to put on their dog |
| Indoor/outdoor use | |
| Good to prevent dog paw licking | |
| Helps older dogs feel more confident on slick surfaces | |
| Various colors |
Our Personal Experience With TigerToes
We tested TigerToes on various pups, including two-year-old Rio, who has problems slipping and sliding on hardwood floors. Check out the video below to see how we rate TigerToes socks for indoor use.
Price
- Starting at: $17.99 ($4.50 / Count)
3 Best Winter Coats Or Sweaters For Dogs
Be cautious when choosing your dog’s coat, and only use ones made from machine-washable materials that won’t irritate your dog’s skin or cause an allergic reaction. I also recommend minimizing the buttons, zippers, and other adornments to minimize choking hazards or the risk of getting caught on something. Lastly, don’t leave it on for more than 20 minutes or so at a time to avoid the risk of overheating. Here are two popular winter coats for dogs. If you need a dog raincoat, you can read our reviews here.
Best Dog Winter Coat Overall: Kurgo Loft Dog Coat Review
Photo by Kimberly Alt for Canine Journal, © Cover Story Media, Inc. 2024.
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I bought Sally’s Kurgo Loft winter dog coat for its many features. The coat is water resistant and reflective, adds warmth but not weight, and is machine washable. The coat is available in five sizes and eight colors. It’s also reversible and can be used with a harness. I’ve used it with this Noxgear LightHound Reflective Dog Harness, and it fits easily. I like the Noxgear harness because our walks are dark during winter since there is less daylight. Plus, it has lots of settings and looks really cool, especially when there are holiday lights on the houses we pass.
I’ve used the same Kurgo Loft coat for Sally since 2017, and it still looks brand new. She seems more comfortable on our winter walks and hikes while wearing this. When I take it off of her, she doesn’t seem irritated by it at all (no licking or scratching after wearing it). You can also put Kurgo’s Core Dog Sweater with fleece lining underneath this coat for an added layer of warmth.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Waterproof coat | Not as thick as other coats but still warm and most likely won’t cause your dog to overheat |
| Machine washable | |
| Zipper opening so you can use dog harness or leash attachments | |
| Reversible | |
| Doesn’t add extra weight |
Price
- Starting at $28.94
Most Stylish Dog Coat: Carhartt Firm Duck Insulated Dog Coat Review
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Carhartt is known for its heavy-duty, quality clothing for people. This Carhartt dog coat has the same durability built for our four-legged canines. Featuring a firm-hand duck canvas to protect your dog in the cold and wind, your dog will stay comfortable. The quilted liner offers added warmth, and tabs at the neck and chest make it easy to put on and off. The coat is available in three sizes and six colors.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Keeps dogs warm in winter | Some customers have had issues with what size to get |
| Durable material | Collar can cause irritation |
| Water-repellent technology | |
| Strong velcro | |
| Stylish dog coat |
Price
- Starting at Check Amazon for availability
Best Sweater For Dogs: Chilly Dog Boyfriend Sweater Review
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Chilly Dog makes a line of stylish, knit sweaters for dogs of all sizes (ranging from XXS to XXXL). They work with Incan artisans in South America to hand-knit fair-trade sweaters made from 100% wool using plant dyes. By partnering with these communities, they can provide a fair wage and sustainable living to those in need while giving pet owners high-quality, affordable sweaters to keep warm. Chilly Dog stays on top of the latest fashion trends, yet their knits are classic enough for dogs to wear for winters to come. The boyfriend sweater is pictured, but they have dozens of other designs.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Keep pets warm | No hole for harness |
| Classic, stylish patterns | Wool might itch dog’s fur |
| Inexpensive | |
| Handmade by artisans | |
| Fair-trade option |
Price
- Starting at $20.80
Dogs Playing In The Snow
Watch Canine Journal’s Lily and Bella play around in the snow. Thanks to a cute and comfy doggie jacket, the cold does not affect short-haired Lily at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
We know some of our readers still have questions about dog boots and coats for winter. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about keeping your dog warm in the colder months. But if you don’t see your question below, let us know in the comments, and we’ll find the answer for you.
Can Dogs Walk In Snow Without Shoes?
Although dogs can walk in the snow without shoes, their paw pads can be sensitive to cold, salt, and other ice-melting chemicals. I recommend investing in dog snow shoes to keep your pup safe and allow them to enjoy the snow for longer periods of time.
What Temperature Is Too Cold For Dogs Feet?
It’s important to know when it’s too cold for your dog to be outside. Many vets suggest that if the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, the risk of cold injury to paws, such as frostbite, increases significantly. Some breeds can handle more extreme cold temperatures than others. Know what your dog can handle, and when in doubt, use caution.
Do Dogs Really Need A Coat In The Winter?
Some dogs don’t need a coat in the winter, but many do. If you have a young or senior pup, a tiny dog, or a pooch with a thin coat, they would benefit from having a winter coat. A dog coat keeps them warmer and healthier and allows them to enjoy longer hikes.
Need More Weather-Proof Gear?
Some of the dog boots we review here work in all seasons, but you may also want to check out our reviews of the best dog shoes for hot pavement. Your pups can blister their feet easily when temperatures rise, so protection is essential in summer. We also have a guide on the best dog houses, including insulated options. We also cover 13 tricks to keep your dog cool, with gear recommendations to keep them safe in the warmer months.
Does your dog wear snow boots or a winter coat? Do you have an additional product suggestion that we should consider in our review? Let us know in the comments section below.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Canine Journal initially started as a dog website selling custom collars for pets. It transitioned into a resource for pet parents regarding caring for our beloved dogs. Canine Journal’s founders have decades of knowledge about dog apparel, and Kimberly Alt has years of first-hand experience testing and using dog boots and coats. After Kimberly’s personal experience and research, she consulted with the founders for their input on things to consider before purchasing gear for your dog.
