Measuring and Putting Footwear on a Pet

How To Measure & Put On Dog Boots

How Do I Measure My Dog's Paws And Pick The Right Size Dog Boot?

how to measure for dog boots

There are several methods you can use to measure your dog's paw. Please keep in mind that you will need to measure the entire part of the paw that touches the floor - from the back paw pad to the edge of the toenail. You will also want to be sure your dog's nails are trimmed to ensure the most comfortable fit. It is best to measure your dog's paws while your dog is standing so the paw is completely splayed. When your dog is standing you will get a wider measurement (more accurate) than when your dog is laying or sitting.

Listed below are a few ways to measure your dog's paws. #1 is the preferred method.

  1. Have your dog stand on a blank piece of paper and mark the front & back of the paw (include toenail) for length measurement. Measure the distance between the lines. Do the same on the left and right sides of the paw for width measurement. Do not trace around the paw.
  2. Hold a ruler or tape measure on the bottom of your dog's paw and measure the length and width (including toenail)
  3. Put a ruler on the floor and let your dog stand on it.
  4. Wet your dog's paw and press it on a blank piece of paper. Measure the length and width of the impression (include toenail)

Every product page on the website has a specific size chart corresponding to that particular dog shoe. Most product pages also include a chart for your dog to stand on to help you pick the right size. Please set ACTUAL SIZE or 100% setting for your printer. The actual dimensions the paw prints should measure are listed on the images. It is necessary to measure the paper to make sure it printed accurately. . If your dog’s shoe size falls in between two different sizes, choose the larger of the two to be sure the boots aren’t too tight or uncomfortable.

And if measuring seems like an impossible task - contact us. We are happy to help you!

dog boot size chart guide

How Do I Put Dog Shoes On My Dog?

Shoes should be put on while the dog standing in order to ensure they are securely fastened with the dog's weight fully on the paws. Take one shoe and make sure that it is fully open before placing the dog's paw into it, making sure to include the dewclaws in the shoe (if applicable) as not to provide discomfort. It’s helpful to use your finger as a shoe horn in the back of the shoe to enable the paw to slide to the front of the shoe. Run your index finger through the shoe to ensure that the paw is fully in and placed appropriately at the front. When the dog is standing with full weight on it's paws, you can lightly squeeze the front of the shoe and feel for the toes to be certain you feel the dog’s paw at the front, similar to how you would size your own shoe. It may be helpful to lift the opposite leg of the shoe you just put on, forcing your dog to put full weight into the shoe. Make sure the leg is set down before you strap the shoe closed. With the dog standing on the shoe, tuck in all fur and zip, tie or strap the shoe closed snugly.

Helpful Tip: For dogs weighing less than 15 pounds you may want to consider elevating the dog on a counter or table top before putting shoes on. Many smaller breed dogs may get confused and think it is playtime otherwise.