Military Working Dog Boots

by

Moira the Military Working Dog got some new shoes to protect her paws from the hot sands in Iraq and this is how she reacted. The Belgian Malinois is not sure what to make of the booties at first, but she doesn’t let them distract her from playing with her handler!

What an adorable video. It’s heartwarming to see a MWD being looked after and having fun, given the challenging work they do. Be sure to share this video with your friends!

Heres something for the puppy pushers. The weather in many parts of the country is making walking a little tougher on K9s and MWDs. (Note: please stop commenting about this acronym – MWD is a Military Working Dog, WMD is a Weapon of Mass Destruction, and while there are definitely some bad ass working dogs out there, they are not typically considered WMDs.)

These are the Ruff Wear Barkn Boots Grip Tex boots for canines. Theyre all terrain boots with nonmarking Vibram soles – you might consider using them during warmer months too, if youre working somewhere that presents other threats to the dogs paws.

Anyway, theres a lot of snow- and ice-melting substances being used out there right now. Walking in the snow and slush left over from such use can push salt crystals up between the pads on the dogs paws (not a good thing). You also of course have to worry about chunks of ice and other debris. If you have the option at your kennel or residence, use a non-toxic, salt-free melting product. If you dont have any choice in the matter, get your partner in the Red Rocket Brigade a pair of good boots.

Purchase them here. Mad Duo Clear! From the website: Ruff Wear Bark’n Boots Grip TexRuff Wear Bark’n Boots Grip Tex are all season, all terrain boots designed for working dogs. (Sold in sets of 4)

Though the use of the booties is at the handler’s discretion, keeping their paws protected from the desert ground is vital to the success of the mission. If the dogs become more focused on the pain caused by the hot ground, it can deter them from the true objective at hand.

FAQ

Do vets recommend boots for dogs?

“They’re called boots,” said Senior Airman Nicholas, SFS working dog handler. “They have the Vibram soles just like our boots and they protect the actual padding of the dog’s paw. So, in rough terrain or if it’s hot outside, their padding has protection.”

Do military dogs wear booties?

But boots aren’t just for active dogs. As dogs begin to age, they may begin to drag their feet as they walk, which can damage their paw pads, so your veterinarian may recommend shoes for cushioning.