Are you having a hard time getting your dog to like dog shoes? We know not all dogs are the same, but here are a few suggestions to help get your dog comfortable with wearing dog shoes:

1. Start Slowly: Begin by introducing the shoes gradually. Let your dog sniff and explore the shoes without putting them on. This helps reduce any initial curiosity or fear.
2. Positive Reinforcement: Each time your dog shows interest in the shoes, reward them with a treat or praise. This helps create a positive association with the shoes.
3. Short Sessions: When you first put the shoes on, start with short periods—just a few minutes at a time—and gradually increase the duration as your dog becomes more comfortable.
4. Distraction and Play: Once the shoes are on, engage your dog in a fun activity, like playtime or a walk. This can help them forget about the shoes and focus on the enjoyable experience.
5. Use Flexible Shoes: If you’re introducing shoes for the first time, try ones made from soft, flexible materials, like Dog Mocs, which allow your dog to feel the ground and move naturally, making the transition smoother.
6. Be Patient: Every dog is different, and it may take time for your dog to adjust to wearing shoes. Be patient and consistent, and don’t force the shoes on if your dog seems too stressed.

With patience and positive reinforcement, most dogs can get used to wearing shoes comfortably!

Winter can be a magical time, full of snowflakes, cozy evenings, and snowy walks with your dog. However, for pet owners, it also brings a set of unique challenges—particularly when it comes to protecting your dog's paws from the harsh effects of ice melt chemicals.

Many owners are unaware of just how damaging these chemicals can be to their dog's delicate paws, so let’s dive into the issue and offer an easy solution that can keep your furry friend safe, comfortable, and happy all season long.

The Risks of Ice Melt Chemicals to Your Dog’s Paws
Most ice melt products, especially those based on sodium chloride (rock salt), magnesium chloride, and calcium chloride, are incredibly effective at preventing slips on icy walkways. However, they come with hidden dangers for dogs. Here’s why:

1. Chemical Burns and Irritation
   When your dog walks over surfaces treated with ice melt, the chemicals can get lodged between their paw pads or on the fur around their paws. The result? Chemical burns, redness, or irritation on their sensitive skin. If left untreated, this can lead to painful sores or cracked paws.
2. Licking and Ingestion
   Dogs are known to lick their paws after walks, which means they might ingest small amounts of ice melt. This can cause gastrointestinal distress or, in more severe cases, poisoning. Even ingesting small amounts of rock salt can lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive thirst.
3. Dryness and Cracking
   The salts in ice melt products also absorb moisture, which can leave your dog's paw pads dry, cracked, and vulnerable to infection. Cold, dry conditions during winter only exacerbate this problem.

Protecting Your Dog's Paws from Harmful Chemicals
So, how can you keep your dog safe from the harmful effects of ice melt chemicals during the winter months? While wiping their paws after walks or using paw balms can help, these measures may not always be enough, especially if your dog frequently walks in areas heavily treated with ice melt.

That’s where a practical solution comes in: Dog Mocs leather dog shoes.
Dog Mocs are a stylish and practical solution to protect your dog’s paws from the dangers of ice melt chemicals. Made from durable, water-resistant deerskin leather, Dog Mocs offer complete protection against the harsh winter elements. Here’s how Dog Mocs can help:

• Complete Protection Against Ice Melt Chemicals
  Dog Mocs act as a barrier between your dog’s paws and the ice melt chemicals, preventing any contact with potentially harmful substances. No more worrying about burns, irritation, or licking up harmful chemicals.
• Comfort and Fit
  Designed for comfort, Dog Mocs fit snugly around your dog’s paws without restricting their natural movements. The soft leather ensures a flexible, comfortable fit that your dog can wear for extended periods.
• Warmth and Moisture Resistance
  Not only do Dog Mocs protect from chemicals, but they also help keep your dog’s paws warm and dry, even in the snowiest of conditions. This is especially important for dogs with sensitive paws that may crack in the cold, dry air.
• Durable and Long-Lasting
  These shoes are made to withstand tough winter conditions. Whether your dog loves to play outside or go on long walks, Dog Mocs are built to last and provide reliable protection throughout the entire winter season.

How to Use Dog Mocs
Using Dog Mocs is simple—just slide them onto your dog’s paws before going outside, ensuring they’re secure and comfortable. After your walk, you can easily remove the shoes and check your dog’s paws for any snow or debris. They’re lightweight and easy to store, making them a hassle-free solution for winter walks.

Conclusion
Ice melt chemicals are a hidden danger that many dog owners overlook when preparing for winter walks. While cleaning your dog’s paws after walks and using paw balms can help, the best solution for full protection is a pair of Dog Mocs leather dog shoes. With these shoes, you can confidently take your dog outside without worrying about their paws coming into contact with harmful chemicals or suffering from dryness and irritation.

Ready to give your dog the protection they deserve this winter? Try Dog Mocs today and enjoy a safer, more comfortable winter season with your best friend.

In addition to our Classic Brown, we are excited to announce 3 new colors: Black, Turquoise, and Navy Blue.
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Custom colors are constructed from the same 100% Deerskin as our Classic Brown and will be just as tough and durable. Customizing your Mocs is an opportunity to add your own personal “flair”. PLUS, you can MIX-N-MATCH! Buy the Classic Brown for “off-roading”, and some stylish Black for strutting around town. With four choices, the combinations are ENDLESS! (Well, not really. Surely, there’s a mathematical end to the options, but who wants to do that work??)

We want to hear from you! After a summer full of walks, hikes, and conquering daily routines, tell us how your Mocs helped you and your fur-baby live your best lives!

- Camping and Hiking Adventures
- Saving your dog's paws from Hot Pavement
- A safer and happier dog on Slippery Floors
- Helping your working dog do its job more safely

TO ENTER:

Email your story to, [email protected], and please include photos of your dog, AND the worn Dog Mocs! Please enter by 9/30/24.

WHAT YOU'LL WIN:

We'll randomly pick 3 stories to win a free set of Mocs, PLUS a $50 gift card to the online store of your choice.

Tell us a story like...

​"These mocs are the best! Gus would always do long runs in the mountains with me, but suffered a carpal injury requiring surgery. For the past two years he’s suffered from nail drag and would constantly have nail injuries preventing him from joining me on the trails. I tried most other booties with no success, as they irritated his dew claw and were often too bulky to run well in. Thanks to Dog Mocs we have been back up and running up to 15 miles on some days with no nail issues, plus he doesn’t seem to even notice that he’s wearing a moc. They seem very durable, as he does tend to drag the very toe edge of the shoe, but I think they’ll last a decent amount of time even in the rugged terrain. These have made both me and my dog very happy!"
- Chris S.

As the summer sun warms up the pavement and trails, many dog owners find themselves wondering: "Does my dog need shoes in the summer?" It's a valid question, considering the potential risks of hot surfaces and outdoor elements. Let's explore whether dog shoes like Dog Mocs are necessary for your furry friend during the summer months.

1. Protection from Hot Surfaces:
One of the primary reasons dog shoes are considered in the summer is to protect your pup's paws from hot surfaces. Asphalt, concrete, sand, and even certain types of grass can heat up quickly under the blazing sun, potentially causing burns or discomfort to your dog's sensitive paw pads. Dog shoes act as a barrier between your dog's paws and the scorching ground, providing much-needed protection during walks or outdoor activities. Our breathable leather dog shoe provides protection while still enabling your dog to naturally stay cool.

2. Preventing Paw Pad Injuries:
Beyond just hot surfaces, summer terrain can pose other hazards to your dog's paws. Sharp rocks, broken glass, thorns, and other debris can easily cause cuts, scrapes, or punctures. Dog shoes offer a layer of defense against these hazards, reducing the risk of injuries that could lead to pain or infection. This is especially important for adventurous dogs who love exploring rugged terrain or urban environments.

3. Allergens and Irritants:
Summer brings along allergens like pollen, grass, and various plant species that can trigger allergies in dogs. Additionally, certain outdoor irritants like pesticides or fertilizers used on lawns can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Dog shoes can help minimize your dog's exposure to these allergens and irritants, keeping their paws clean and protected during outdoor adventures.

4. Enhanced Traction and Stability:
Some dogs may struggle with traction on slippery surfaces, particularly around pool sides or in wet conditions. Dog shoes with non-slip soles can provide added traction and stability, reducing the risk of slips, falls, or injuries, especially for senior dogs or those with mobility issues.

In conclusion, while dog shoes may not be a necessity for every dog during the summer, they can offer valuable benefits in terms of protection, comfort, and safety, especially in hot or challenging outdoor environments. If you're planning on spending extended periods outdoors with your furry companion or if you live in an area with extreme temperatures or rough terrain, investing in a pair of Dog Mocs is a worthwhile consideration to ensure your dog's well-being and enjoyment during the summer months. If you have any questions about Dog Mocs, please let us know in the comments below. 

Chris recently wrote to us to let us know how Gus was benefiting from Dog Mocs and we wanted to share in case you didn't think of this as an option to help your dog with nail issues.

"These mocs are the best! Gus would always do long runs in the mountains with me, but suffered a carpal injury requiring surgery. For the past two years he’s suffered from nail drag and would constantly have nail injuries preventing him from joining me on the trails. I tried most other booties with no success, as they irritated his dew claw and were often too bulky to run well in. Thanks to Dog Mocs we have been back up and running up to 15 miles on some days with no nail issues, plus he doesn’t seem to even notice that he’s wearing a moc. They seem very durable, as he does tend to drag the very toe edge of the shoe,  but I think they’ll last a decent amount of time even in the rugged terrain. These have made both me and my dog very happy! "

Beware of foxtails while out and about with your dogs! Foxtails have barbed razor-sharp needles that are dangerous to your dog. If you are exposed, thoroughly inspect the hot spots (ears, nose, eyes, underbelly, between toe pads). Wearing Dog Mocs will help make sure that they do not get between their paw pads/toes. 

- Foxtails can go up the nose and migrate to the brain.
- Embedded foxtails can cause pain and even death in extreme cases
- Pets with long fur and long ears are especially prone to getting foxtails
- Foxtails move in one direction. They dig in, and they do not come out on their own.
- Foxtails love paws and can easily embed between toes.
- Foxtails can dig into any part of the body, and they don't dissolve.
- Foxtails pieces can easily be inhaled & puncture a lung!
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​You may have asked yourself "does my dog need shoes?" Even as the owner of a dog boot company, I’ll be the first to admit……not always.   The need for some type of paw protection for your dog depends on factors such as breed, type of activity, weather, and terrain, among others.   Let’s say you’ve got a Husky and you’re heading out to play in the snow.   That dog is built for such conditions and you may not need shoes or boots.   Or maybe you and your dog are playing fetch in the local dog park, which is grassy….again, probably don’t need shoes.  But what if I live in an area like Phoenix and the air temp is 110 deg?   Surfaces like asphalt or concrete can be upwards of 190 degrees!   ANYTHING  you do in those conditions should include paw protection.  Maybe you’re heading out for a day hike in the mountains and you’ll be traversing very rocky terrain, which can easily slice a paw.  Again, probably a good idea to put some boots on those paws.  

Your dog’s paw pads are nothing more than calloused skin.  Those paws are not impervious to pain, cuts, and bruising.   Sure, they might be a little tougher than our feet, but don’t get complacent.  There are dangers everywhere, from a city street, to desert terrains….from mountain hikes, to icy paths.    Hot pavement….sharp rocks….thorns and stickers…broken glass….salt and ice melt chemicals.  And even the tile and wood floors in our homes can be treacherous for an older dog, or one with an injury.   You should consider the following factors when determining when to put on some dog boots…..Your specific dog, (age, breed, health)…..Weather conditions….Length of activity…. Terrain…Potential Dangers.
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So, it’s safe to say dog boots are a helpful part of your dog’s accessories.  Now comes the next important question….What type of boot should I get?   Search “dog boots/shoes” on Google or Amazon and you’ll get 20 different makers of boots, but all have virtually the same characteristics….Fabric construction, (usually a nylon mesh), Velcro straps and a rubber sole.  There’s also one that looks like a rubber balloon, and some “sock” options, (obviously you’re not taking your dog on a hike in SOCKS!!). And then there’s one dog boot that is completely different from all the rest…..Dog Mocs.   The ONLY 100% deerskin leather boot on the market.  No Velcro, no man-made fabric, and definitely NO rubber sole.  ​

Ok, why is leather better?   Let’s look at your dog.  For a dog, the ability to “feel” the ground is a critical part of how it navigates the world around him/her.   A dog’s sense of touch on the ground is giving the brain important information, allowing the dog to move safely through the current environment.   How firm is the surface?   What’s the temperature?  Am I walking on grass, rocks, pavement, ice?  Is that water?    We can determine all that based on our sight and experiences.  We don’t need to walk barefoot to know if we’re on the street, or in the mountains, or on grass.   Our eyes tell our brain what’s going on around us.  But a dog can’t reason and understand the world that way.  They might recognize a familiar path, but until the paws hit the ground, they don’t know if it’s muddy and soft, or dry and hard.  Everything our dogs do is affected by what they feel beneath their paws….Can I jump up on that table? (Of course, knocking all the food off)….Can I turn on a dime at full speed?   Can I stop myself before knocking you down?  Can I clear that branch on the path?   Am I swimming or walking across that stream?   

​​A dog NEEDS to feel the ground….it’s as simple as that.  And that explains why you’ll always see them “freaking out” when you put on boots with a rubber sole.  (We’ve all seen those videos!)   Our fur-buddies are looking at us with two questions….Why did you just take away my ability to feel the ground under my paws??    And.….When are you taking them off???   But all of this “drama” is completely avoided with the soft, deerskin construction of Dog Mocs.   Yes, they are like a moccasin for dogs.   Deerskin is very soft, (although extremely tough and durable), allowing the dog to “feel” the ground just at it would naturally.   Take that same dog who just refused to walk in rubber-soled boots and put Dog Mocs on, and you’ll see a completely different reaction.   Walk 3 steps.  That’s all it takes for a dog to realize it can still feel the ground and off it goes…..running, jumping, playing just at it would without anything on its paws.  

So, does my dog need shoes?   We trust your judgement, as a loving pet parent.   But if, for you, the answer is “YES”, there’s really only one choice that protects the paw, while honoring the dog and how it needs to feel the ground to best navigate its world. 

With every purchase of Dog Mocs, you can personalize each pair with the name of your dog, (or anything you’d like to engrave, like a phone number). Using the best technology, and with the finest precision, your dog’s name is permanently etched into the front of your Mocs, for a beautiful look that will proudly display your love for your dog, and make you and your buddy the envy of the town!!
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