Guides
How to choose the right shoes?
When your dog needs shoes, how to measure the paws and how to get them used to it.
When shoes make sense
- Summer asphalt and pavements get hot. If the back of your hand cannot stay on the ground for 5 seconds, your dog needs protection.
- Rain, gravel, snow or salted roads: shoes protect the paw pads.
- After a pad injury or surgery, shoes stop licking and further damage.
Measuring the paws
- Have your dog stand on a sheet of paper, press the paw down gently and trace the outline.
- Measure the widest point and the length including the nails. Use the front paws, which are usually larger than the back ones.
- Between sizes, go up, not down. Shoes that are too tight are worse than slightly loose ones.
What to look for
- A non-slip sole with some flex. Too stiff and your dog will not walk naturally.
- An adjustable strap or hook-and-loop closure that fastens above the ankle, so the shoe stays on.
- Breathable or waterproof depending on use: airflow in summer, waterproofing in the rain.
Getting used to them
Start with 5 to 10 minutes at home, with treats and play, and extend over a few days. Most dogs walk naturally within a week.
apetto dog shoes are in the works. Once they launch you will find them under Shop All.