Where Can I Find Shoes for Dogs?

While your pet may not like it, sometimes dogs need protection from the elements and require shoes or boots. Small and toy breeds are especially sensitive to climate change and most often need to be dressed for local weather conditions. Breeds taken outside of their traditional climate may also need to wear shoes.

  1. Pet Stores

    • In addition to basic supplies such as food, bowls and leashes, many pet stores have begun to carry accessories for dogs that include clothes and shoes. Dog shoes are readily available at the large chain pet stores. The selection at these stores may be limited but should include at least one option in a knit, fleece or neoprene bootie and a sneaker option as well. Styles and colors are basic but prices are generally reasonable.

    Pet Boutiques

    • Pet boutiques specialize in upscale luxury pet items and focus on fashion rather than function. You can typically find leashes or bowls studded with crystals and fancy jackets, shoes and t-shirts. Pet boutiques will offer more choices for shoes than a large retail store or a local pet store. They often carry dog boots and sneakers in a variety of colors and styles. Prices will be significantly higher than at typical pet stores.

    Online

    • Not all towns have a local pet boutique or store and the next best place to find dog shoes is from an online retailer. More popular pet boutiques and the larger chain retailers such as Pet Smart and PetCo have an online retail presence. Shoes can be shipped to anywhere in the United States and sometimes internationally. The disadvantage of an online store is that the purchaser is unable to touch and feel the merchandise or try it on for size. Most online retailers, however, do provide -- in painstaking detail -- descriptions of the product, materials used and precise sizing charts.

    Homemade

    • If you know how to crochet, knit or sew you can make shoes or booties for your dog. Patterns are readily available online or in pattern books found at local book stores. The materials needed are minimal, especially for knit booties. Adding a rubber sole or using vinyl or weatherproof materials can complicate the process and may require a sewing machine.