About KaiPets
KaiPets is a new pet accessory brand on the market whose first product is the boots we just tested! When writing this review, they are only available through Amazon.
Do dogs need boots?
The question of whether dogs need boots is a common one among pet owners. The answer, however, isn’t straightforward as it varies from dog to dog and depends on various factors.
Different types of boots serve different purposes. For example, boots can protect a dog’s paws from extreme temperatures, such as hot pavement or cold snow. They can also prevent paw drying and cracking caused by salted roads during winter walks. Additionally, boots can provide traction on slippery indoor surfaces and protect paws from sharp objects on rocky terrain.
The decision to use boots ultimately comes down to your dog’s individual needs and sensitivities. Some dogs may require boots more than others, depending on their breed, size, age, and health conditions. It’s essential to observe your dog’s behavior and how they react to different terrain and temperatures to determine if boots are necessary.
We wrote an article about things to keep in mind when using boots on hikes over the summer since there are just as many pros as cons around the topic. We also have another article on the different types of winter boots, the differences between summer vs. winter boots, and much more.
If you want to read more educational posts, check out our Articles page!
What size of boots does my dog need?
When it comes to choosing the right size of boots for your dog, it’s essential to follow the sizing guide provided by the manufacturer. Most companies provide sizing instructions on their product site, so be sure to check before purchasing.
To measure your dog’s paws accurately, place a sheet of paper on the ground and have your dog stand on it. Lift the opposite leg to put weight on the paw you want to measure and draw lines on both sides of the paw. You can then measure the distance on the paper later without causing any stress to your dog.
Some companies ask for the paw’s width, while others size based on the paw’s length, so it’s crucial to check the sizing guide for each brand.
It’s recommended to measure all of your dog’s paws since the front paws may differ in width from the back paws. You also need to ensure a snug fit, as loose-fitting boots can cause your dog to lose balance and chafe their feet.
Avoid the common misconception that leaving the straps looser or ordering a size larger will make the boots more comfortable for your dog. Just like hiking in oversized boots, ill-fitting shoes can cause discomfort and pain for your pet. Therefore, aim for the most precise measurement possible for optimal comfort and performance.
The details of the KaiPets Boots
The KaiPets Boots are designed to be versatile, 4-season boots to be worn in different conditions.
They have a rigid, non-slip rubber sole for protection on rough trails. The top is made of a combination of PU leather and stain-resistant synthetic suede. The inside is lined with fleece to prevent chafing and provide extra warmth during the cold winter walks.
They are held in place by two adjustable velcro straps. The top one doubles as a reflective stripe for visibility in the dark. There are also two more small reflective details on the front of each boot.
The boots are waterproof to keep the paws dry on muddy hikes or in melting snow.
KaiPets Boots Review
The KaiPets Boots are well-made, solid boots that feel durable. The leather front reinforces the boot for rocky trails above the tree line, which protects the paws and the claws and extends the boots’ lifetime.
The boots are easy to put on with their wide opening and can be adjusted well with the two straps. When we tested similar boots before, sooner or later, we ran into the velcro straps opening up when dirt accumulated in the velcro. This is also more prone to happen when there are no left and right boots (like in the case of these boots) since the opposite leg can brush against the end of the velcro strap, slowly opening it up. We haven’t used these boots long enough due to the summer heat to properly test for these scenarios, but we will update the review if we have any input on the straps.
Although the boots are meant to be 4-season boots, the fleece lining and waterproof design don’t make them ideal for extended use over hot days. Dogs sweat on their paws, so the inside of the boots becomes moist after a while, which can cause chafing and rubbing. Since they are not breathable, they keep the dirt and water out well, but they also prevent the dog from cooling down through their paws.
When writing the review, the boots are available in five sizes, but they will offer seven sizes soon to cater to all dogs. The shoes come in a set of fours, so one might need to order two complete sets if the dog’s back paws need a smaller size.
We tested sizes 4-6 to see what fits Mia the best and help KaiPets clear up the pre-launch sizing chart. Mia needed size 5 for the front paws, and the back ones were between size 4 and 5. For dogs in between sizes, these boots can crease more on the top than other options on the market because the suede top is soft and doesn’t hold its shape, as well as a more rigid material would. The extra material on the top could cause chafing if used over a more extended period, so be sure to flatten out and “fold” the excess fabric on the top when securing it with the straps if this seems to be a problem for your dog.
Below you see some creasing, and in other photos, you can see it well-fitting and flat when flattened out before securing the straps.
These boots are a solid choice when your dog needs protection from glass, thorns, and sharp rocks. The solid rubber sole is thick enough for protection and has a non-slip detail to provide some grip. However, remember that dogs lose grip when wearing boots with a solid bottom, so be careful using them on steep, slippery trails.
The fleece lining and the suede top are a great choice to add padding and reduce the chance of rubbing, but the combination of the rigid leather top and the rubber sole with the soft suede causes the boots to hold their shape a little less if they are not a perfect fit for the paws.
Where to buy?
You can find the KaiPets Boots on Amazon.
Disclaimer: this review contains an affiliate link, which supports Dog Gear Review if you purchase the product after clicking on it without costing you anything extra. However, using affiliate links will never compromise us writing unbiased, honest reviews!
