All breeds of dog have very delicate paw pads that can be damaged easily by exposure to heat and cold—like asphalt on a hot day, or snow on a cold one. Most people find walking on burning asphalt or snow to be painful, and it’s painful for your dog, too, even after only a small amount of exposure. In snowy weather there’s another potential problem—the de-icing chemicals that are use on driveways and sidewalks are toxic to animals. These chemicals can also cause irritation to your dog’s feet. Whatever the breed, your dog is vulnerable to these issues, so dog shoes are an important protective measure.

 

In any weather, there’s also the possibility of injury caused by rocks, broken glass, and other sharp objects, which can be present in virtually any environment—on the street, at the beach, and even at the dog park. You can keep your own home and yard free from hazards, but since you can’t do the same everywhere else, it makes good sense to protect your dog when you take them out.

 

There are other reasons why you might need to protect your dog’s paws and legs. In some states, for example, some species of tick can carry diseases like Lyme disease, which dogs are susceptible to just like humans are. In addition to preventative measures like tick repellant, protective wear can reduce the possibility that a dog might be bitten. Another is the possibility of allergies to grasses and other plants; shoes and leg wraps can prevent or reduce exposure, and minimize allergic reactions.

 

Last—but not least—dogs that are involved agility training, who who walk or run long distances with their owners, benefit from additional protection, in the form of products like the gel insoles that insert into boots. They help with shock absorption, soak up excess sweat, and even help with sanitation, thanks to the application of a layer of anti-bacterial colloidal silver. These are also ideal for older dogs who experience discomfort when walking due to diseases like arthritis or degenerative myelopathy.