While your Border Collie’s paws are much tougher than your feet, there are still occasions when they need protecting.
Arguably the best way to keep your Collie’s paws safe is to get them a good set of doggie shoes. In the summer dog boots can help protect your pups paws from hot tarmac and other hot surfaces. While in the winter, dog shoes can help keep your Collie’s paws dry and safe from nasty substances such as rock salt or ice melt.
To help you make a decision on the best dog shoes for your Border Collie we rounded up the top ones from Amazon. Additionally, at the end of this article we have included more information on how to select the best dog shoes for Border Collie, how to find the correct size and much more.
The Best Dog Shoes & Boots for Border Collies
QUMY Waterproof Reflective Dog Boots
One of the highest recommended and reviewed set of canine shoes is from QUMY. Their Waterproof Reflective Dog Boots feature a wide split seam opening that makes it easy to put them on and take them off.
These tough dog boots also feature two reflective Velcro straps that provide finer adjustment and help to stop the shoes from falling off during intense play or exercise. The reflective straps also help you to see your dog when the sun goes down and there is not much light.
QUMY’s dog shoes are manufactured from a tough and water-resistant material that is great for all kinds of conditions. The anti-slip waterproof sole is created from durable and sturdy rubber that will keep your Border Collie’s paws safe from harmful substances and objects.
To join all the materials together, QUMY decided to use stitching rather than glue. This ensures that their dog shoes are tough and durable enough for all your Border Collie’s high energy activities. If your Collie gets the boots dirty or muddy during play they can be easily hand washed to bring them back to new-like condition.
QUMY’s Waterproof Dog Shoes come highly recommended and they have a 4-star rating with over 2,000 reviews. The shoes seem to be incredibly durable, however, some buyers have complained that it is difficult to find the right size for their dog and that the shoes get very heavy when wet.
Key Features:
- Treaded waterproof soles made from high quality rubber
- Great for high energy Border Collies who need extra paw protection
- Reflective Velcro straps that provide finer adjustment
- Made from durable and tough material that is sewn together
Specifications:
- Brand: QUMY
- Weight: 181g (6.4 ounces) shipping weight
Kurgo All Seasons Dog Boots
Another excellent choice for those who need shoes for their Border Collie is Kurgo’s All Seasons Dog Boots. These tough paw protecting dog shoes will be great for both harsh winters and blistering summers.
Kurgo’s dog boots are adjustable so you can get the perfect fit for your Collie and they won’t fall off. They also feature reflective strips for visibility in low light and they are manufactured from lightweight materials. While Kurgo’s dog shoes feature a tight weave mesh design, they are still breathable and provide ample ventilation for your Border Collie’s paws.
Kurgo has created these shoes from a water resistant material so they can be used in light rain, snow and on ice. The top part is made from ripstop leather and the sole is designed to mimic the structure of your Border Collie’s paw.
A total of six different sizes are available from XX-Small to X-Large, so you should be able to find the perfect size for your Collie. To get the right size, Kurgo states that the best way is to get your canine companion to stand on a ruler. You can then measure the widest part of their paw and compare it against the size chart provided by Kurgo.
The All Seasons Dog Boots have great reviews and Kurgo also offers a lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects. Some owners have complained about getting the right size, but this is a common complaint for all dog shoes.
Key Features:
- Made from breathable yet tough mesh material
- Excellent all seasons dog shoe
- Wide range of sizes available
- Water-resistant
Specifications:
- Brand: Kurgo
- Weight: 431g (15.5 ounces) shipping weight
Ultra Paws Durable Dog Boots
A great option for those with a more senior Border Collie is Ultra Paws Durable Dog Boots. They feature a non-slip sole and are manufactured from a flexible nylon material that conforms to your Collie’s paws. This makes them a slightly softer alternative to the two options we have already listed.
Despite being a bit softer than some other dog shoes, Ultra Paws’ Durable dog Boots are still tough and they will be able to handle even the most energetic Border Collie. They are perfect for both indoor and outdoor use in a range of different weather conditions. The strong thermoplastic sole will protect against nasty harmful substances and sharp objects.
These dog boots come in six different sizes from Petite to X-Large and they also feature Velcro straps for further adjustment. They are also designed with a generous amount of foam lining that ensures they are a comfortable, snug fit that will be perfect for your Border Collie.
Key Features:
- Made from nylon material that conforms to your Collie’s paws
- Foam lining inner for extra comfort
- Flexible, tough sole that has great traction
- Excellent for more senior Border Collies
Specifications:
- Brand: Ultra Paws
- Weight: 280g (9.9 ounces)
Ruffwear Grip Trex Outdoor Dog Boots
Do you like going running or hiking with your Border Collie? If you do, Ruffwear has got you sorted with their Grip Trex Outdoor Dog Boots. These dog shoes will protect your Collie’s paws from whatever the trail throws at you. They are ideal for hiking, mountain biking, trail running and loads of other outdoor activities.
One of the best features of these dog shoes is the Vibram non-marking outsole with rugged lug design. This high quality sole provides excellent traction and flexibility, so your Border Collie can tackle any terrain.
The upper part of the shoe is manufactured from tightly woven air mesh that keeps dirt and debris out while keeping your Collie’s paws comfortable and ventilated all day long. They also feature a wide opening that makes them easy to put on and take off.
A reliable hook-and-loop cinch closure system provides further adjustment and ensures that the boots stay on your Collie’s paws. Like many other dog shoes, Ruffwear’s product features reflective trim for low-light visibility.
With over 500 reviews and a four-star rating these are some of the highest reviewed dog shoes available today. The biggest complaint about Ruffwear’s Grip Tex shoes is that they lack padding on the inside.
Key Features:
- Fantastic for those looking for a durable dog shoe for hiking, running and other outdoor activities
- Vibram sole is higher quality than many other brands
- Mesh material keeps your Collies’s paws cool and comfortable
Specifications:
- Brand: Ruffwear
- Weight: 136g (4.8 ounces)
Zacro Protective Dog Boots
Zacro’s Protective Dog Boots are an excellent option for those looking for a slightly cheaper option for their Border Collie. They are easy to put on and take off with a wide and adjustable “magic” strap that provides extra adjustability.
The upper portion of the boot is made from a breathable and soft fabric material that provides protection from the outside elements. On the inside, Zacro have used velvet that provides extra warmth and will be comfortable for your Collie’s paws.
On the bottom of the shoe there is a tough anti-slip sole that provides traction, stability and protects your Border Collie’s paws from sharp thorns, hot pavement, nasty chemicals and more.
To get the right sizing, place your Border Collie’s paws on a blank piece of paper and mark from the longest toenail to the back of the paw. For the width, measure the widest part of the paw (the width of the paw should be smaller than the size of the boot for a proper fit).
Zacro’s Protective Dog Boots come highly recommended and they are praised for their ability to stay on highly energetic dog’s paws. The main issues people seem to have with them are getting the right size and putting them on.
Key Features:
- Low price when compared to many of the other options out there
- Anti-slip sole and breathable material
- Soft velvet interior material that is easier on your Collie’s paws
Specifications:
- Brand: Zacro
- Weight: 222g (7.8 ounces)
Best Dog Shoes for Border Collies Buyers Guide & FAQs
Selecting the right boots for your Border Collie is quite difficult. There are loads of different options out there and you can easily become overwhelmed with the choice. That’s why we have created this guide that should help you pick the right shoes for your Collie.
Picking the right shoes for your Lab is difficult. There are simply so many options to choose from and it is easy to become overwhelmed with the selection both online and at brick and mortar stores. That’s why we have created this guide to help you pick the best boots for your Labrador.
Things to Remember When Purchasing Shoes for a Border Collie
While shoes are not a requirement for a dog, they do have a number of benefits. However, if you are thinking about purchasing some boots for your Border Collie, you need to consider the following things:
Size – It is incredibly important that you get the right size shoe for your Border Collie. If you look at reviews of many dog shoes you will often find owners complaining about the fit or the fact that they fall off their pup’s paws. The problem is that they have usually got the wrong size and if they went one size bigger or smaller, the shoes would fit perfectly. Measure twice, buy once!
Durability – You can buy the best fitting and looking dog shoe in the world, but if it only lasts one play session or walk it is completely useless. While no dog boots will last forever with a Border Collie on top of them, a good pair should last at least a couple of years.
Shoe Type – There is no point in purchasing soft slipper-like dog shoes if you plan to take your Border Collie hiking or trail running. Some dog shoes are better for certain activities than others, so note down your reason for buying dog boots and purchase ones that meet your needs.
What Conditions They Will Be Used in – This is sort of similar to the above, but you need to look at what season and weather conditions you are planning to use the shoes in. If you are looking to protect your Collie’s paws from hot tarmac in the summer, you may want to go with something that is a bit more breathable and lighter. On the other hand, if you only want to use the shoes in winter you may want to purchase something that is a bit warmer. Some dog shoes are good for all seasons, so you could look at getting those as well.
Price – Price is always important, and it depends on how much you are willing to spend. There are loads of cheaper options out there that do a good job, so don’t think you have to buy the most expensive boots for your Border Collie.
Why Does My Border Collie Need Dog Shoes?
Your Border Collie doesn’t necessarily need boots or shoes, but they can be useful for those wanting a bit more protection for their dog. Here are some reasons why Border Collies should wear dog booties:
If your Collie is active – Border Collies tend to be very active dogs and they love to go hiking, running and biking with their human companions. While the pads of a Collie’s paws are pretty tough, they can still be easily damaged by sharp objects or other harmful items. A Border Collie’s paws can also wear out and become cracked if they are constantly running on hard surfaces such as tarmac.
If your Border Collie is more senior – For those with older Border Collies, dog boots can be an excellent option to help them move about a bit more. Elderly Collies tend to develop hip, knee and paw issues and an extra bit of cushioning and support can help make walking a bit easier. Another reason why older Border Collies should wear shoes is that they can help with traction on slipper surfaces.
To protect them in the summer – Hot tarmac or pavements can quickly burn your Collie’s paws. As we wrote in this article, you should avoid taking your Border Collie for walks in hot weather. If you do plan to take your dog out for walks when it is hot, make sure you get some shoes first.
To protect them in the winter – Shoes are not only useful to protect your Border Collie’s paws in the summer, but also the winter as well. Snow and ice can cause slipping hazards and many of the de-icing products used on roads are harmful to a Collie’s paws.
They help to keep your home tidy – Do you get annoyed when your Collie brings mud back into the house after a walk? If you find yourself facing this problem regularly you should invest in some dog shoes (or just clean their paws before you enter the house). Remove the shoes before you enter your house and enjoy a clean, mud free home.
How to Find the Right Size of Shoe for a Border Collie?
Without a doubt finding the right size is the most important thing about purchasing shoes for a dog. A dog shoe that is the wrong size is completely useless, so take note of the manufacturers size guide and read it thoroughly. We also recommend that you check out reviews to see what other owners have to say about the sizing of a particular shoe (might run big or large).
If you are still unsure about what size is correct for your Border Collie, we recommend that you contact the company selling the shoe. Most companies will be more than happy to assist you with sizing requirements.
When to put Dog Shoes On?
Once you have decided to purchase shoes for your Border Collie you must decide when they should wear them. Obviously, you won’t need to put them on all the time, so you need to consider what you may encounter during a walk. If your Border Collie may possibly come into contact with the following harmful items or substances you should put their shoes on.
- Hot surfaces such as tarmac
- Snow that is cold enough it squeaks when you walk on it
- De-iced or salted areas (salt can get stuck between their paws)
- If your dog is trying to keep their paws off the ground
- Slippery areas (especially so for older canines)
- Anywhere that has sharp objects that could puncture your Collie’s paws
How we Chose the Boots in this Guide
We chose the dog shoes in this guide based on the features provided, price, build quality and reviews. All the shoes in this buyers guide are well reviewed and perfect for your Border Collie.