Before you think that ‘dogs with shoes’ is a ridiculous thing, let me first tell you that my dog also has socks. Winter in the city is no joke for urban dogs who trot down Spadina for their morning walk. They city salt streets can damage and burn paws, cause infections and is a general no-no for all puppies. Some dog owners have used balloons on paws, others have used Muttluks (mitten kind). This is my 3rd winter with Jacob and since he was one Muttluk short of a pair (we lost one of four last winter), we went searching for new ones. Ruffwear boots! They are for dogs on the go! So far so good.

From the website: Bark’n Boots™ Grip Trex™ all-condition, all-terrain, all-season…True to our commitment of designing and producing innovative dog gear that enhances the shared interactive bond between humans and canines, Ruff Wear has revolutionized canine paw wear. Our Bark’n Boots™ Grip Trex™ feature two major advancements in dog boots—an upper inspired by human shoes and a high performance Vibram® sole.

Jacob wears size SMALL. I got them at Dogfather & Co for $67 at Rosedale station ($59 off ruffwear.com). You can get Muttluks for $54 at Timmie’s. This is serious stuff, look what I found on CDOA about winter care…. Dry/Cracked Paws: These usually develop because of the rock salt that is found on most sidewalks and driveways in the city, but also due to weather conditions like snow, ice and extreme cold. Go on walks and have fun in the winter! Just stay warm and dry!