Winter Boots Confuse Adorable Puppy

You would think that animals don’t need shoes, because their soles are not soft like ours and they are probably used to stepping on the rough ground. But just as we humans like to wear shoes to be stylish, so do our dogs. Or dog owners do, so that their dogs can be stylish too…

Actually, dog booties, as they are called, are quite common in sled dog races. Many races require booties as a basic element of dog care. The Yukon Quest Sled Dog Race, for example, requires mushers to carry no fewer than eight booties per dog.

This is the first time for this puppy trying on some doggy shoes, and she doesn’t know how to walk in her new boots! She doesn’t seem to mind them, but walking in them presents a sort of challenge for the agile dog, so instead of trotting towards her owner like the happy little pup that she is, she performs a sort of high, improvised rack, confused by what ever is wrapped around her paws. Still, all that confusion did not wipe a single shred of that wide puppy smile!

For many dog owners, finding dog boots that stay on can be a real challenge. The key is finding a bootie that is flexible enough to feel comfortable, but still allows durability and support for, say, a hard-hitting hike through rocky terrain. Look for boots that are snug around the ankle, have a bit of space at the toes and allow some wiggle room, but still offer support.

Like most dogs out there, this American Eskimo named Niko doesn't know what to do when he's wearing his winter boots!