Top 5 best dog boots for dewclaws (2024 Review)

While there are a gazillion choices of canine footwear in the market, not many of them are helpful for dogs with dewclaws.

According to veterinary experts, front dewclaws play integral roles in canine movement, and among those is the prevention of torque on the leg.

image of dog with dew claws in green boots

So if possible, do not have them surgically removed. 

In this Digdoggy.com guide, you’ll learn: 

  • The top 5 boots for dewclaws 
  • How to pick the best boots 
  • Ways to warm your dog to their booties 

And much more! 

Below is a quick list of all our top products. Keep scrolling to learn more about how to choose the best boots for your pooch. 

ImageProduct
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RUFFWEAR Grip Trex Outdoor Dog Boots
  • Rubber Soles
  • Reflective trim
  • Breathable mesh
  • Rubber Soles
  • Reflective trim
  • Breathable mesh
View on Amazon
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Kurgo Step n’ Strobe Dog Shoes
  • Anti-Slip
  • Water resistant
  • Led lights & reflective
  • Anti-Slip
  • Water resistant
  • Led lights & reflective
View on Amazon
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Muttluks Mud Monsters Dog Boots
  • Flexible Rubber Soles
  • Adjustable
  • Reflective Straps
  • Flexible Rubber Soles
  • Adjustable
  • Reflective Straps
View on Amazon
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RUFFWEAR Polar Trex Waterproof Winter Dog Boots
  • Breathable
  • Water Resistant
  • Icetrek outsoles
  • Breathable
  • Water Resistant
  • Icetrek outsoles
View on Amazon
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QUMY Waterproof Dog Boots
  • Reflective Strips
  • Anti-Slip
  • Fashionable
  • Reflective Strips
  • Anti-Slip
  • Fashionable
View on Amazon

Our Overall #1 Rated Pick

Updated On October 10, 2021

Our top choice has to be the RUFFWEAR Grip Trex Outdoor Dog Boots. 

These boots make it safe for your dog to walk on hot pavement, rough terrain, and wet rainy conditions without trekking dirt back into the house. 

For dogs with dewclaws, Ruffwear also offers socks that pair up with boots to help reduce dubbing against the claw. 

The boots are by far the most versatile, well fitted, and best value for money making them the perfect choice for most if not all dogs with dew claws. 

What's In This Guide?

      Read More: >> How safe is it for dogs with dewclaws to wear dog boots?

      What Are The Different Types of Dog boots For Dewclaws?

      Dog boots are made to cater to different intents and purposes.

      To know the right type of dog booties to buy, you’ll need to determine the different activities your furry sidekick will be participating in with you.

      Since there are too many to count, I would like to categorize dog boots into three rough categories:

      Fashion dog boots

      The lion’s share of canine footwear falls under this category. Aside from making your pooch look so stinking cute, they don’t really have any other purpose. But for some reason, many of these designer shoes cost an arm and a leg!

      Everyday boots

      These boots have similar qualities to fashion dog boots, but with the added benefit of traction and protection from hot pavements and everyday road debris. 

      Most pet owners will need these for quick potty breaks, strolls in the mall, or short trips to the park.

      Rugged boots

      These boots offer the best in everything — protection from jagged rocks, slippery surfaces, extreme weather conditions, and whatnot. While these shoes are hardwearing, they are comfortable to boot.

      dog with boots on laying down and quick fact that says: Dog booties can help limit exposure to extreme heat, cold, chemicals, and other hazards.

      What Should You Look For In high-Quality Dog boots For dewclaws?

      Here is a list of things to consider before buying a new pair of dog boots: 

      Choosing the right Size

      To measure your dog for booties you’ll need a fabric tape measure to start. 

      Simply wrap the tape measure around the widest circumference of your dog’s paw then take the first measurement. 

      Next, you will stretch the tape measure reform the toe up the ankle to as high as you want the boots to go, and take the measurement again. 

      Whilst not exact, you’ll certainly get a rough idea of the right-sized boot for your dog. 

      Durability

      Other than the elements and the usual annoyances you encounter on the road, boots should also survive your dog’s mindless chewing.

      The key is to select boots made of high-quality materials befitting your dog’s activities. It also pays to buy them from a reputable brand, such as RUFFWEAR and Kurgo.

      Since these companies have a lot at stake, they don’t use substandard materials that will tarnish their hard-earned reputation.

      Comfort

      Have you heard of chunky “dad sneakers?” Yup, they are so horrible that the thought alone sent shivers down my spine! Ew.

      As with normal human beings, our canine companions prefer to wear something soft and lightweight. 

      Hence, you should always choose dog boots made of soft and resilient materials, such as the likes of Grip TrexStep n’ Strobe, and Mud Monsters.

      These boots afford optimum comfort without compromising durability. Each set of footwear has breathable uppers and the thick, treaded soles deliver ultimate surface traction and protection against perilous terrain.

      Fastening Type

      You’ll want your furkid’s booties to have at least one Velcro strap. You’ll come across other products that use buckles and good ole shoelaces, but Velcro closures are the best.

      But for hairy Houdinis, you’ll want the boots to have multiple enclosure points. The good news is that each featured product has taken that into account.

      Our Reviews Of The Top Dog boots For dewclaws

      Pick #1: RUFFWEAR, Grip Trex Outdoor Dog Boots

      The Ruffwear Grip Trex is a great buy if you are looking for shoes Doggo can wear all day.

      These boots offer a cozy and secure fit, preventing chafing that could lead to irritation and blisters.

      While the boots are durably built, they remain lightweight and breathable.

      Believe me; your furry pal would barely notice he is wearing shoes the entire time!

      The Grip Trex is also one of the best dog boots for hiking because it features a Vibram outsole, which offers an exemplary level of protection needed for varied outdoor activities.

      Sharp rocks, twigs, shards, or any jutting debris on the ground will not pierce the shoes so easily!

      Sizes Available:

      1.5 – 3.25 inches (Width)

      Color Options:

      Blue Spring, Obsidian Black, Red Currant

      Pros

      Cons

      Pick #2: Kurgo Step N’ Strobe Dog Boots

      If you’re not a “boot-believer,” I bet this set of Kurgo boots will give you a change of heart!

      While all the footgear featured in this list deliver their promises, the Kurgo Step n’ Strobe is the one to get if you are looking for the best dog boots for dew claws that stay on!

      Each bootie also has one Velcro strap supplemented by a cinching cord.

      And compared to Grip Trex, it has rounder soles and upper tapers that extend a little further up the leg.

      More impressively, these tough, cool-looking booties will keep your canine buddy protected from sharp objects and hazardous chemicals all year round!

      Dubbed as the “every season shoe,” it is built with breathable and heavy-duty materials, such as nylon, polyester, and TPU rubber. 

      Another cool highlight of the Step n’ Strobe is the LED lights, which are triggered each time the boots hit the ground. 

      Pros

      Cons

      Pick #3: Muttluks Mud Monsters Dog Boots

      As the name hints, these boots perform a terrific job of protecting spunky paws whether you are hiking on complex terrains, hot pavements, or boggy grounds.

      There are reflective accents to add visibility in low-light areas, as well.

      Poor ventilation should be the least of your concern, as the uppers consist of breathable mesh and microfiber fabric.

      The wide opening makes it easy for you to slip the shoes onto your canine’s paws without having issues with loose dewclaws.

      These boots are likewise designed to stay on even if your pet goes through a lot of activity, and the elasticized hook and loop fasteners wrap around the shoes twice to give a better fit.

      What I love most about the Mud Monsters is that the durable soles give pets the feeling of walking barefoot, as it conforms to the shape of your canine’s paws.

      Sizes Available:

      XX-Small/X-Small, X-Small/Small, X-Small, Small, Small/Medium, Medium, Medium/Large, Large, X-Large, Large, XL

      Color Options:

      Blue, Orange, Purple

      Pros

      Cons

      Pick #4: RUFFWEAR Polar Trex Waterproof Winter Dog Boots

      Winter walks can become dangerous, but who says it can’t also be fun and pleasant?

      With a nice coat and a set of RUFFWEAR Polar Trex Winter Dog Boots, Doggo will have a blast outdoors! 

      The triple-layered soft-shell uppers feature water-repellent properties. Adding to that are stretchable gaiters that come with a zippered closure to keep dirt and debris out.

      These boots are also a breeze to put on and you can fasten them securely using RUFFWEAR’s signature hook-and-loop and hardware closure.

      You’ll have peace of mind knowing that your furkid’s shoes won’t come loose while he’s playing roughly in the snow-covered yard!

      Pros

      Cons

      Pick #5: QUMY Waterproof Dog Boots

      Last but not least is this set of waterproof dog boots by QUMY, which feature a rugged rubber anti-slip sole.

      The rubber soles extend far up over the front and side of the boots, thus offering great protection for canines who tend to knuckle or drag their paws against rocky roads.

      Likewise, the rubber coverage also offers great traction on slick surfaces!

      When it comes to putting shoes on your uncooperative pet, you would no longer have to go at it hammer and tongs! With a split seam opening, these booties expand widely, so it’s a piece of cake to have your pet wear them.

      You don’t have to break the bank to get your beloved pet a set of durable, cool-looking shoes that offer excellent weather protection to boot. 

      These boots might not have the bells and whistles the others brag about, but they should meet your dog’s basic needs nonetheless.

      Available Sizes:

      2.4 x 1.7 – 3.3 x 2.9 inches (Max weight: 74 – 88 lbs.)

      Color Options:

      Black, Red

      Pros

      Cons

      Why Use Booties in the First Place?

      My mother roared with laughter when I bought new booties for my Chow Chow, Baobao. Don’t get me wrong; mom is an animal lover and she has a menagerie of pets. 

      But as with the majority, she thinks dog boots are just another expensive trifle. How about you?

      Protects Paws

      Chemicals made much of modern life possible, and the resulting pollution adulterated the world. 

      Consequently, our canine companions have become vulnerable to many diseases, some of which they may get with their bare paws.

      Among these conditions are contact dermatitis and contact pododermatitis brought by allergens, pathogens, and synthetic substances. Another extreme offender is road salt. 

      This chemical is potent enough to corrode lamp posts, bridges, and vehicles. Imagine what it can do to your pet’s paws after repeated exposure to road salt!

      Dog boots also keep your dog’s paws from cold-weather hazards. When your pooch walks in the snow, the hairs around his paw pads will accumulate water and refreeze. 

      These tiny blocks of ice are sharp and painful, and they can lead to chilblains if they build up.

      Helps with Injuries

      Dog boots help injured, disabled, and aging dogs walk better. Large breeds, in particular, are prone to degenerative myelopathy, hip dysplasia, and osteoarthritis

      These afflictions make dogs walk with an awkward gait that often leads to their paws dragging, rubbing, or scraping against the ground.

      As a result, it even causes even more problems for your dog! A set of dog booties can help with these issues and protects Doggo’s tender paws from further injury. The boots should be well-padded to provide extra support to promote healing.

      Keeps Your Home Clean

      Canines are dirt magnets, but that doesn’t mean your house has to welcome the mud and dust along with your pooch. Although dogs don’t wipe their paws on mats, you can reduce the amount of dirt they bring in by removing their footwear.

      Increases Traction

      In the past decade, it has become the norm for our lovable canines to live indoors. However, many of our houses have timber, hardwood, laminate, or tiled flooring.

      Dogs have to work hard to keep their footing on the glossy floor, and the challenge becomes more difficult as their muscles weaken with age and their joints are painfully stiff with arthritis.

      Seeing a dog crash into the front door or kitchen cupboard isn’t a laughing matter. While this scenario is common and somewhat comical, it creates an abrupt impact onto the shoulder and forces it backward. As a consequence, it stretches inflamed joints and tight muscles out of their normal range.

      Dog boots and other simple measures can help prevent this repetitive trauma and make life easier both in the short and long term for your beloved pet. 

      Prevents digging

      Barky, my Belgian Malinois, is as good as gold! But one of the most difficult things for me to do is to stop him from digging holes.

      Digging is something many dogs enjoy doing because it is rewarding and instinctive. However, you should never tolerate your dog’s behavior, especially when you’re in someone else’s garden.

      An excellent strategy is to have your canine excavator wear boots.

      How to Keep Dog Boots On

      To eliminate lost boots in the woods or snow, you want to make sure your dog wears properly fitted shoes above anything else. Otherwise, your dog will be roleplaying as Cinderella the moment you least expect it!

      Next, give your furry sidekick enough time to familiarize himself with his new sneakers. When Doggo’s footwear arrives, let him sniff them and have him wear his new boots for a few minutes before you take them off.

      If your furry sidekick is uncooperative, ask someone to help. Repeat this process a few times a day until your beloved pet feels comfortable wearing them for a longer period.

      Dog socks also help give a snug fit and extra warmth.

      Conclusion

      Canines thrived walking around barefoot for thousands of years, so why should they wear them now?

      Hot asphalt, road salt, glass shards, poisonous shrubs, disease-carrying pathogens, toxic chemicals — there is only so much protection paw pads can provide in this modern age! Therefore, it is highly recommended that your pooch wear a set of dog booties, especially when you go out hiking for an extended period.

      But because dogs can have dewclaws spurting in different positions, a particular brand’s level of comfort might not be the same for all of your dogs. When this happens, use a doggie sock or some vet tape to cover it up.

      Lastly, try not to laugh and embrace “the boot dance!”

      Jennifer Cosculluela

      Jennifer Cosculluela

      Jennifer Cosculluela graduated magna cum laude in Marketing from the State University of New York’s F.I.T and was a Presidential Scholar, specializing in Shakespearean Studies. She also has an AB Psychology Degree from De La Salle University Bacolod and when not writing, loves to spend time with her daughter Margarita and bake cookies and lasagna for her loving husband Sebastian.

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      Jennifer Cosculluela

      Jennifer Cosculluela

      Jennifer Cosculluela graduated magna cum laude in Marketing from the State University of New York’s F.I.T and was a Presidential Scholar, specializing in Shakespearean Studies. She also has an AB Psychology Degree from De La Salle University Bacolod and when not writing, loves to spend time with her daughter Margarita and bake cookies and lasagna for her loving husband Sebastian.

      About Dig Doggy

      DigDoggy® is a free resource for dog owners, with everything from expert product reviews to trusted pet care advice.

      All of our reviews and recommendations are based on unbiased research by our editorial team. Read more about us.

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