8 Best Dog Socks
- Molly Weinfurter
- 14 hours ago
- 5 min read
Socks for dogs? Sounds like a silly concept, but this product is beneficial for many dog parents. They can protect paws from various surfaces and stop your dog from licking and chewing on their feet. I sometimes make my dog wear socks at night so she doesn’t lick her feet loudly in the middle of the night. So, if you’ve ever wondered what dog socks are and where you can get some, keep reading.
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What are Dog Socks For?
Dog socks can be used in any situation where you need to cover your dog’s feet. This could include:
Protecting paws from hot and cold surfaces
Preventing dogs from licking wounds
Preventing dogs from excessively licking their paws
Offering better traction on slippery surfaces
Keeping paws warm
If you’re looking for a product to protect your dog’s feet from extremely hot or cold surfaces outside, make sure the socks have a sturdy, waterproof bottom. Dog shoes are often better for outdoor activities than socks.
What to Look for in Dog Socks
Even though dog socks are a simple product design, there are lots of options out there. Consider the following aspects to help you find the best socks for your dog.
Material
It’s important that the socks are comfortable on your dog’s feet. These products are commonly made with materials like cotton, nylon, polyester, and spandex. If you’re shopping in person, feel the socks to make sure they’re soft and cozy. For those shopping online, check the reviews to see what other dog parents thought of the comfort.
Size
While socks are stretchy, it’s important that they fit comfortably. If they’re too loose, they may fall off, but if they're too tight, they could restrict movement. Look at the product’s sizing guide to determine which size is right for your dog. Some socks even have a strap to help keep the sock tight on your dog’s feet.
Non-Slip Base
Most dog socks have a non-slip base to give them traction on smooth surfaces like hardwood floors. This usually includes a textured pattern that makes the socks cute and practical. Some socks even have a thick, waterproof layer on the bottom to offer traction while also making the socks suitable for outdoor use. Consider how much traction you want on your dog’s socks.
Style
Finally, don’t forget about aesthetics. Dog socks come in nearly any color and pattern imaginable, so feel free to select a pair that looks cute on your dog. Of course, the appearance won’t affect the sock’s purpose, but it sure adds to the charm.
Best Dog Socks
There are lots of canine socks on the market. Below are some of the many options to choose from.
These adorable socks are called TigerToes because the grippy pattern on the bottom resembles tiger stripes. The gray and black socks are tall, covering your dog’s legs up until their joints. Each sock has a Velcro strap to secure it on. Plus, it comes in seven sizes so dogs of all breeds can have socks to protect their paws.
The PupTeck socks come with lots of variety, allowing dog parents to choose from 13 colors and five sizes. They’re short and have a Velcro strap that secures them (although the straps are detachable if needed). The socks have a paw-shaped non-slip base on both sizes in case the socks rotate while your dog is wearing them.
This is another versatile option, coming in 18 color patterns and five sizes. Each pair comes with a non-slip base, which may look different depending on the style you choose. The pattern could have paw prints, stars, hearts, or flowers. These socks have wide elastic straps that can be removed if needed.
These Ruffwear socks are an easy way to add a layer of protection around your dog’s paws. They can be worn alone or with Ruffwear’s dog boots. They’re available in blue or brown, and they have four sizes. The shape makes them fit securely around dog feet, but these socks don’t have non-skid bases.
Kurgo’s dark gray dog socks are similar to Ruffwear’s socks because they can be worn alone or with Kurgo dog shoes. They’re a simple design that’s available in six sizes. They fit snug because of their compression style, and they’re made with breathable, quick-drying fabric. However, they don’t have non-slip bases.
This is a great outdoor option for your dog. The socks have a sturdy, waterproof base to prevent your dog’s paws from getting uncomfortably damp outside. They’re a great alternative to dog shoes because they’re tight with a Velcro strap, making them less likely to slide off. They’re available in three colors and five sizes.
If you love cute styles for canine socks, this is the perfect pack. It comes with four sets of four socks, all of which have adorable designs like hearts, Mickey Mouse, and ducks. In addition to being charming, they also have paw-shaped slip-resistant bases. These socks are ideal for small dogs since they only come in small and medium sizes.
This unique product covers your dog’s entire front legs, making it the ideal option for dogs who need to stop licking for medical reasons. It’s made of soft, breathable fabric, and it wraps around your dog’s shoulders. It has slip-resistant bases that are ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. Plus, it’s available in at least five sizes so dogs of all breeds can benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Put a Sock on a Dog’s Paw?
To put a sock on a dog, stretch it wider than your dog’s paw and gently slide it over their foot. The sock should be snug enough to not slide off, but it shouldn’t be so tight that it causes discomfort. As your dog gets used to their new socks, reward them for remaining calm while you put them on.
Are There Downsides to Dog Socks?
Dog socks aren’t beneficial for every dog. Some dogs may experience discomfort, restricted movement, reduced traction, or the urge to chew on the socks. To provide as many benefits as possible, make sure the socks are the right size, made of a comfortable material, and have non-slip bases.
Do Vets Recommend Dog Socks?
Vet sometimes recommend canine socks in certain situations. They may suggest them as a method to protect paw injuries or prevent slipping on smooth surfaces.
How Do You Make Dog Socks Stay On?
Most dog socks are tight enough to stay on without sliding, but some have Velcro straps to become tighter. If your dog’s socks keep falling off, you likely need a smaller size.
Why Do Dogs Eat Socks?
Dogs may eat socks because they’re bored, they like the smell, they’re teething, or the texture feels like a toy. To reduce sock-chewing behaviors, redirect their behavior and reward them when they chew on a dog toy instead.
Do You Need Dog Socks?
Most dogs don’t need socks, but they can be a helpful tool in many situations. They can prevent excessive licking, protect your dog’s feet, and offer warmth and comfort. If you think your dog could benefit from canine socks, consider one of the products above or shop at pet supply stores near you.
