Many new Tripawd pawrents wonder: will my dog needs boots after amputation surgery?
The short answer to that is, it depends.
Boots are helpful for Tripawd dogs if they:
- are active dogs who love romping through different types of terrain
- live in an area with snow and ice
- will be traveling to places with slick surfaces
- need extra help getting around on slippery floors
Boots are NOT helpful for Tripawd dogs who:
- have any kind of neurological condition like degenerative myleopathy
- suffer from longstanding mobility problems
- have odd-sized feet
- hate wearing shoes
While most dogs don’t like wearing shoes at first, if you introduce boots to your dog slowly and make it fun, most dogs will get used to them. Your dog might not need them every day, but it’s so helpful to train your dog to get used to boots for places where she or he will need extra confidence, like at the vet’s office.
If you’re a new Tripawd pawrent, please don’t rush into buying a pair of Ruffwear Grip Trex boots.
First, we recommend getting your pup used to shoes by purchasing Pawz rubber boots first. They’re a nominal investment that can get your dog used to boots more quickly than a sudden introduction to the more durable and long-lasting Ruffwear boots.
Next, when you know your dog will be OK with boots, then the Ruffwear boots are a fantastic investment that come in handy throughout your dog’s life.
Recommended Reading
Redesigned Bark’n Boots Grip Trex Boots Better Than Ever
How to Introduce Your Dog to Wearing Boots
Discover PAWZ Boots
So helpful! I was actually just wondering about the exact same thing!
Yay! It’s like we say, not all Tripawds need them. They are super helpful for some dogs, not so much for others. The only way to find out is to try them but they should never be a source of stress or confusion for you or your pup. Thanks for reading!
We have a Corgi who just had his front right leg amputated. Needless to say its been an emotional time. Because of his body makeup, his front legs have always been stronger than his back. We have a house will all tile floors on the bottom level. He manages but I notice his back legs are weaker and he slips alot. I know part of this is just getting used to his new way of getting around. But I’m wondering if boots might be helpful to him in the beginning as he gets used to shifting his balance to the back. Any suggestions would be very helpful.
Hi Debi! It was so nice talking to you in the chat today. As I mentioned, your best bet is to put carpet runners down first, then see if he needs the boots. If he hasn’t worn them before you may want to check out Pawz rubber booties. They’re great for dogs who are newbies to shoes.
Thanks for joining us, we’re looking forward to following your journey!
The ice is really hazardous for Riley. I think the harness will help. The boots would be great on ice and protection from road salt and maybe on hot pavement too. Such wonderful gear. Riley getting stronger and bigger needs training before he gets lost or drags me down. Tripawd gear would be helpful for him.
(We live in four seasonal weather here in Toronto Canada.
Sounds like Riley will be set! The only thing about the boots, is that you want to make sure you don’t leave them on too long during summer. A dog’s feet can become sweaty and grow bacteria between the toes if not allowed to breathe.
Thanks for checking the gear out Janet. Let us know how he does.
Please keep in mind that dogs are only able to regulate their temperature through panting and their feet. If you use booties during warm weather or for extended periods of time, you could risk hyperthermia.
Thanks for the reminder TC! Great point.
Pele hated wearing shoes (would always chew them off and then get up and go) so I didn’t want to cause her any further stress as she was learning to walk on three. My house was all hardwood, and that’s like a skating rink to a new tripawd. I lined the entire house with a rug path. I hated the look, but she needed it. Eventually she stopped using the path and could navigate smooth surfaces without slipping. However, as a hunter (just her, not me) a couple times a lone forest adventure would have her come back home with a cut pad. Then, to keep the wound clean, a boot is necessary. So, trust that even dogs who hate a shoe/boot can be trained to tolerate it when necessary.
Your dedication to helping her get used to boots is awesome Joanna, thanks for sharing Pele’s story with us!
Hey! I just recently got a tripawd and we’re very active. Her back leg is the one amputated, and I was wondering if it would be okay for her to just wear a boot on her one back foot?
Yes, many people do just that. It provides extra traction on the single limb, and keeps the dog more comfortable. Ruffwear Boots are available in pairs. The Grip Trex are great for trail use.