Kinda stiff for smaller dogs, otherwise, they work great.

By sdl4034119 Ranked #92 - Dog Packs and Accessories January 24, 2012

Couple of comments on dog booties in general to start. (we have 3 sets of different booties and have used them in all sorts of conditions).

First- You need to train your dog to use them *before* you need to use them. Duh. You can't just slap them on and head into the wilderness the first time. Put them on for a few test runs in advance. Most dogs hate them, so be patient, reward them, and use positive reinforcement. Duh. Try not to laugh at your dog when you first put them on. Remember positive reinforcement.

Second- Booties require a lot of adjustment and readjustment along the way. They move around and twist, and are totally unnatural for dogs. Check and readjust frequently with positive reinforcement and treats. Otherwise you'll lose them.

Third- if you are using booties because your dog slides on tile or hardwood floors, his/her nails probably need trimming. Less active dogs need constant toenail trimming, just like people. In nature, toenails are worn down by being outside constantly running running around. Suburban dogs have long toenails because they are sedentary like most of the population (sad but true). (We trail run 15-30+ miles a week with our dog. We also play tennis with her because tennis courts are great for naturally filing down dogs. We still need to trim Daisy's toenails occasionally).

Fourth- Dog's feet toughen up with use. If you have an urban dog that doesn't get much trail time, booties won't really help that much. We use booties only when we really need to- like when crossing miles of trail with granite, or sharp scree fields, or powdery snow that packs up in toes. For "normal" trail conditions or dense spring snow, Daisy is good for 15-20 miles without booties. I put them on only when necessary, and take them off when I don't.

The vibram grip trex booties are much better than the non grip trex, As I've mentioned, we have three different sets. The non grip trex slide around a bunch. For snow, we use the winter ones that are essentially a climbing skin on a dog booty. Much lighter and softer for snow.

View Details: Ruffwear Bark'n Boots Grip Trex - Set of 4

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