Why Would Anyone Put Shoes On a Dog?
11 Feb 2010
Many dog owners don’t believe that dog shoes have any benefit for their dogs other than a cute “dog costume” but shoes on a dog can actually prevent a lot of foot injuries that would cost a lot of money at the vet.
Dog shoes are often worn by working dogs. Dog mushers commonly use boots to protect their dogs feet from the sharp ice and cold. Dogs that rescue people from fallen debris, such as from fallen buildings after an earthquake, are given shoes to protect their feet from the sharp metal and glass that could easily cut their paws.
Even for the average pet owner, dog shoes can be useful in some circumstances. Because dogs lick their feet when they hurt or feel irritation in their paws, shoes can prevent your dogs from ingesting harmful chemicals they have stepped in, such as antifreeze or oil. For dog owners who live in large urban areas with cold climates, they must walk their dogs over sidewalks treated with de-icer or salt. It is typical for your pet to get a bad case of dog diarrhea when they lick their paws to try to clean off.
Sidewalks in large urban areas are also have a lot of glass, gum and other objects that can get caught in their dogs toes and cut open their paws. And, your dog’s paws can get blisters from the hot tar and asphalt in the summertime. For those living in rural areas, dog shoes can prevent their dogs getting burrs or other pesty nuisances stuck in their feet. Hikers also put shoes on their dogs, simply because they may be a long distance from medical attention if their dogs get injured.
Dog shoes can also be helpful for people who mostly live indoors. Dog shoes can prevent scratches on floors, furniture or pool liners made by a dog’s toenails. Old dogs who have poor balance may also benefit from shoes because it will keep them from slipping on slick surfaces. And, shoes prevent other dogs who tend to chew on their feet.
Look at your own situation to see if dog shoes are right for your dog. You may find that dog shoes can prevent a large vet bill later.
