These Dogs Don’t Know What to Do With Their New Shoes

Dog shoes are a hot-button topic for many pet owners. The pros and cons depend on a pup’s breed and needs. Some dogs walk naturally in booties while others struggle, like in this video. That doesn’t necessarily mean they shouldn’t wear booties, but there are many things to consider. Here’s what we can learn from this video about dogs wearing shoes vs. going au natural.

When Are Dog Booties Necessary?

Given the pups’ behavior in this video, some might think dog shoes are cruel. While they’re not always necessary, some situations warrant their use. Certain dog breeds might be more sensitive to temperature changes or inclement weather. Additionally, the added protection might benefit pups who spend more time outside. These are the scenarios where dog owners might consider booties:

• Regions with harsh winters: Some regions experience longer, colder winters than others. Winter weather brings with it snow, freezing rain, and hail, all of which are uncomfortable for sensitive paw pads. Salted driveways, walkways, and sidewalks can cause chemical burns on pups, adding further discomfort.
• Regions with harsh summers: Alternatively, any region that experiences high temperatures can be uncomfortable on a pup’s paws. Searing heat can make blacktops and sidewalks feel hotter than they are, which can lead to burns.
• Rocky or rough trail conditions: Booties while hiking are a double-edged sword. Shoes can protect a pup’s paws from rocky surfaces and uneven terrain, but they might do more harm than good if a pup is uncomfortable walking in booties.
• Orthopedic support: Booties might relieve mobility issues or unstable legs. A sturdy shoe can also provide support for dogs prone to accidents or missteps.

When Booties Won’t Work For a Pup

Not all dogs are meant to wear shoes. It’s unnatural for most because dogs use their paw pads to grip the ground. An extra layer makes walking challenging because the dog can’t feel the floor beneath it. This can throw off their balance or make them overly cautious, as seen in this video. Therefore, you should only invest in shoes for safety or mobility reasons.

Forcing a pup to wear shoes might further inhibit them. Pups rely on sensory feedback from their paws for mobility, adding stress to an otherwise routine walk. This is called proprioception and causes a dog to feel like their feet are stuck. This is why many of the pups in this video suspend their legs or appear to be shaking their paws loose.