Puppy's got a new pair of boots!

Winston is one happy dog!  

This fall we had discussed the possibility of getting Winston dog boots because while running on the pavement after his frisbee he tore his pad.  We had to spend a few days putting a sock on his foot every time we went outside.  Fast forward 3 months and add 12 inches of snow and I'm carrying Winston back into the house because he refuses to walk.  The combination of salt, ice and snow packed in his paws led to him alternating limping and coming to a complete stop.  I carried him back to the house and immediately started my search for dog boots.  

I researched the different boots and brands.  Ruffwear seemed to have the best product reviews.  Then after a little more research it seemed the Ruffwear Summit Trex would be best because Winston still has his dewclaws.  The Summit Trex boots are taller than the Ruffwear Grip Trex.  They are also more day to day than the Ruffwear Polar Trex, which are a tall boot made for snow and other fun winter activities.  

We measured his foot as recommended by the Ruffwear website.  Winston's front paws measured 2.5" and his back paws measured 2".  I found the Ruffwear Summit Trex boots on Ebay for a great price in size 2.5"  I was trying to decide what size I should buy when the 2.5" sized boots were up for auction.  I decided to get them and search for 2" boots for his back paws later if we needed them.    

Application

We have found that it is much easier to have Winston lay down to put the boots on.  This prevents the whole losing balance while putting them on issue.  Initially they were kinda tricky to get all the toes in without catching his toenails and making sure the boot is on all the way.  

It gets much easier with practice.  

Once Winston gets the boots on he doesn't walk differently or seem to mind at all.  He has been able to run around and even run through deep snow having lots of fun.  

  I did notice that Winston's  2.5" boots seem to fit great on his front paws but are a little loose on his back paws and need to be tightened for him in deep snow or mud so they don't come off.  I will keep looking for 2" boots for his back paws.  It will probably be easier to just buy another set of boots so we have spare boots in the event one gets lost.  

I hope to get a full review posted on YouTube soon.  I have some video of Winston in the snow with his boots on and hope I'll be able to get some footage on him on the trails for my review.