Can dogs with dew claws wear dog boots?

This post aims to answer the question of whether dogs with dew claws can or cannot wear dog boots.

If you want to know the best dog boots for dogs with dewclaws, then check out our reviews here.

dew claw on dog

what is a dew claw?

A dewclaw is a claw that is found on the medial side of the foot, in front of the ankle.

Some dogs have dewclaws on both their front and hind feet, while others only have them on one or the other. 

Dewclaws are useless because they don’t have a purpose. They don’t help dogs walk or grip things, so they don’t serve any real function.

Some people think that dewclaws can get caught on things and cause the dog to trip, so some people choose to have them removed.

Can dogs with dew claws wear Boots?

Dogs with dewclaws are able to wear boots just like any other dog. Many people worry that the dewclaw will puncture the boot, but this is not typically a problem. 

In fact, most dogs with dew claws will never even puncture a boot. If your dog does happen to puncture a boot, there are a few ways to fix the problem. 

One way is to simply put a bandage around the boot to protect it. Another way is to put a piece of duct tape over the hole. This will help to keep the rain and snow out of the boot. 

Whichever method you choose, make sure to keep an eye on the dog’s dewclaw to make sure that it is not becoming infected.

If the dewclaw is infected, you will need to take the dog to the vet for treatment.

How Do You Wrap A Dew Claw For Dog Boots?

You’ll need to measure your dog’s paw in order to find the right-sized boots which in most cases will not require you to wrap their feet.

That said, telfa pads or bandages can be used to wrap lacerated paws to relieve pain when wearing boots.

Place a gauze under the dewclaw and fold it over the dewclaw in order to entirely cover the claw. Next, begin wrapping the bandage around the dewclaw with a little tension to hold everything in place.

Leave the foot area exposed so it’s still easy for your dog to walk and wear boots and finally wrap with adhesive medical tape.

Wrap around just once or twice with this and avoid wrapping beyond the bandages.

If you have never wrapped a dewclaw before, it is best to ask your veterinarian or a professional dog trainer for help.

Watch this video to learn exactly how to safely wrap dewclaws here.

How Long Can A Dog With Dew Claws Wear Boots for?

Dogs with dewclaws are recommended to wear dog boots for around 80% of their regular walking time.

If a dog with dewclaws wears boots for too long, the boots can rub against the dewclaws and cause them to become infected or injured. 

Most dogs can still participate in all activities while having wrapped feet and wearing dog boots.

Just watch carefully for chaffing and make sure that your pooch’s dewclaw isn’t raw or irritated. 

Conclusion

If you’re a dog owner, we salute you.

And if your pup has dewclaws, kudos to you for taking the extra step to protect them from the cold weather. But even if your furry friend doesn’t have those little nubbins on their paws, it’s never too late to get them some boots!

When winter is coming (sorry Game of Thrones fans), make sure your pooch is prepared for the cold weather.

Stay warm and stylish this winter – put your best paw forward with some fashionable footwear for dogs!

Adeline Ee

Adeline Ee

Adeline holds a BA in Mass Communication from the University of Washington. She is a certified canine behaviorist, marine conservationist, rock climber, and scuba diving instructor. Originally from Singapore, she now lives on Gili Air, an island off Lombok, Indonesia.

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Adeline Ee

Adeline Ee

Adeline holds a BA in Mass Communication from the University of Washington. She is a certified canine behaviorist, marine conservationist, rock climber, and scuba diving instructor. Originally from Singapore, she now lives on Gili Air, an island off Lombok, Indonesia.

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