Do Dogs Need Shoes?

In some situations, shoes can be beneficial for dogs, while in others they're unnecessary or even harmful. We noticed some pawrents buying shoes for their dogs as they are afraid that the ground is too hot for their dogs to walk on. If that’s the case, then the weather IS too hot for the dogs to enjoy the walk, as the heat may be too much for these furry pals. 

Dogs sweat through their paws to regulate their body temperature. When a dog’s body temperature rises, the moisture from its paw pads evaporates, cooling its body. By wearing shoes, the body is unable to release the heat which increases the risk of heatstroke. Another reason dogs sweat through their paws is to release toxins from their bodies. When dogs sweat through their paws, the moisture released contains not just water but also some toxins that need to be expelled from their bodies. Lastly shoes can also throw off a dog’s balance and friction as it restricts a dog’s natural ability to feel and grip the ground. 

Our advice is to only get shoes for your dogs if they require it for medical reasons. Shoes and booties can provide support and comfort for dogs with mobility issues. Non-slip orthopedic booties are especially helpful for preventing falls and improving balance. These types of shoes are good for dogs with arthritis, hip dysplasia, or other conditions that make it hard for them to move around – especially on slippery surfaces. Hope this information helps before you purchase Furby a pair of WagWellies! ?