As winter approaches, dog owners in cold climates face the challenge of keeping their short-haired dogs warm during outdoor activities. This is especially true for those who enjoy winter hiking and want to ensure their furry friends remain comfortable and protected against the elements. The key to a successful winter outing with your dog lies in selecting the right winter gear.
Understanding Your Dog’s Gear Needs
Every dog is unique, and not all will require the same winter gear. For short-coated dogs, like the author’s, winter preparation typically includes a sweater and sometimes a jacket. A critical piece of gear for these dogs is winter dog boots, essential for protecting their paws from the cold and harsh conditions. It’s important to observe your dog’s behavior to determine when they need these boots, as some dogs will lift their paws or show discomfort when it’s time to put them on.
Choosing the Right Winter Boots
Selecting the right winter boots for your dog can be a daunting task. The author tested three styles of dog boots to help narrow down the best options. The first style tested was the Muttluks fleece-lined dog boot, which offers a leather sole for added protection and a fleece lining for warmth. Although initially promising, the Muttluks had issues with size, causing them to slip off.
Evaluating Dogbooties.com Boots
The next boots tested were from Dog booties, known for their lightweight design and various thickness options. The boots were evaluated in three thicknesses: 1000 denier, 500 denier, and 330 denier. While the thinnest (330 denier) soaked up water quickly, the 1000 denier proved to be more water-resistant and durable. Despite lacking insulation, these boots provided adequate protection and comfort for the dog during hikes.
Testing Ruffwear Polar Trex Boots
The author also tested Ruffwear Polar Trex boots, designed for winter conditions with a high-tech Vibram sole and a zippered closure to keep out snow. While these boots offer excellent traction and protection, they were found to be less comfortable for the dog’s front feet due to the dew claws. Despite the inconvenience, they performed well in terms of warmth and traction.
Comparing Performance Metrics
To assess the performance of each boot, the author conducted a series of tests, including warmth, weight, water resistance, traction, ease of use, and fit. The warmth test involved heating water and measuring how well each boot retained heat. Surprisingly, there was little difference in warmth among the tested boots, with Ruffwear Polar Trex boots performing slightly better.
The weight test revealed that Dogbooties.com boots were the lightest, which is beneficial for both the dog’s comfort and ease of carrying the boots during hikes. The water resistance test showed that the 1000 denier Dogbooties.com boots excelled in keeping water out and drying quickly.
Conclusion: The Best Winter Dog Boot
After thorough testing, the 500 denier Dog booties boots emerged as the top choice. They provided a good balance of warmth, lightweight design, and water resistance. They were easy to put on, stayed on well during hikes, and dried quickly. For those looking for additional warmth or protection, Ruffwear Polar Trex boots or Muttluks are also viable options, though they may come with some trade-offs in terms of comfort and fit.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right winter gear for your short-coated dog is essential for enjoying outdoor activities in cold weather. While each boot tested has its strengths and weaknesses, the 500 denier Dog booties boots offer an excellent combination of features for most winter adventures. Regardless of your choice, ensuring your dog stays warm and comfortable will make winter hiking a pleasant experience for both of you.