FAQ

Q: Why should my dog wear shoes?

A: Dog shoes provide important protection for your pup’s paws in a variety of situations. They help guard against sharp objects like broken glass, as well as seasonal hazards. In the summer, pavement can reach scorching temperatures that can cause burns, while in the winter, ice-melting salt can lead to painful chemical burns.

Shoes can also be helpful for dogs with allergies by shielding irritating debris. On top of the safety benefits, many owners appreciate the convenience — it’s often easier to slip off shoes than to wash paws after every walk.

Q: How do I get my dog to wear shoes?

A: If your dog has never worn shoes before, it’s totally normal for them to walk a little funny at first. Some dogs adjust quickly, while others may need a few days of training.

We recommend starting with two shoes on the front paws and letting your dog walk around for a few minutes at a time — with plenty of treats and positive reinforcement! Once your dog is comfortable with the front shoes, add the back ones and repeat the process.

Most dogs adjust within a few short sessions of 10–15 minutes a day. For more help, check out our tips & tricks page. 

Q. How do I know which size to order? 

A. Please see our sizing page with our size chart for details. 

Q. Do you offer split sizes? 

A. Not at this time. We find that most dogs can and should wear the same size Air Pups on all four paws. We recommend choosing your size based on the width of your dog's front paw, as they tend to be slightly larger than the back paws. 

Q: Will Air Pups stay on my dog’s feet?

A: Yes — Air Pups are designed to fit most dogs and stay securely in place during normal use. After a short break-in period, they should fit snugly and not slip off. I personally walk and run Winston at least 6 miles a day in his Air Pups, and they stay secure throughout. 

If the shoes are falling off, it’s often a sizing issue. Be sure you’ve selected the correct size — shoes that are too large won’t stay secure. When putting them on, make sure your dog’s nails reach the end of the toe box before fastening the straps. If the paw isn’t fully inside the shoe, it’s more likely to come off.

Q: How long can my dog wear Air Pups?

A: Like all dog shoes, Air Pups are not intended for extended or continuous use. We recommend wearing them for no more than a few hours at a time. While our breathable mesh design helps with ventilation, your dog’s paws still need time to air out naturally.

For longer use — such as covering a paw injury or helping senior dogs with traction on hardwood floors — we suggest speaking with your veterinarian to determine what’s best for your pup.

Q. How often do I need to replace my dog's shoes? 

A. The lifespan of a set of Air Pups will depend on many factors: how often your dog is wearing the shoes, how many miles he or she is putting in them, and the types of surfaces that your dog is walking on. If you see holes in the bottom tread, it is time for a replacement. 

Q: Do dogs like wearing shoes?

A: Just like when introducing a new collar, harness, or coat, most dogs will have some kind of reaction the first time they wear shoes. It’s completely normal!

With a little patience and consistency, putting on shoes can become as routine as clipping on a leash. Over time, your pup will start to associate their Air Pups with going on fun walks and adventures.

Q: I’ve noticed some irritation on my dog’s paw after wearing the shoes. Is this normal?

A: We’re sorry to hear that! Mild irritation can happen with any dog shoe, especially when a pup is still getting used to them. Just like we need time to break in new sneakers, dogs may need a short adjustment period too.

We recommend starting with shorter walks to help break in the shoes and give your dog time to adjust. This also gives you a chance to spot any potential trouble areas early on. Adding dog socks or boot liners can help reduce friction — just like socks make our shoes more comfortable. If your pup has a dewclaw, wrapping it with vet wrap or covering it with a sock can help prevent rubbing.

We want to make sure your dogs' Air Pups fit as comfortably as possible. Please reach out if you have any size or fit concerns at info@airpup.com 

Q. Do I have to pair dog shoes with dog socks? 

A. No, socks do not have to be worn with Air Pup shoes. However, we recommend it. Just as our shoes are more comfortable with socks, boot liners add comfort to your dog's shoes. Additionally, if you are walking your pup long distances or your dog has a prominent dewclaw, a sock will reduce the chances of the shoe rubbing. I can walk Winston 10+ miles in his Air Pup shoes + Air Pup socks without any irritation. 

Air Pup socks are made with a thin, sweat-wicking material. There is no need to size up in the shoe to make room for the sock. Some customers find that a sock also enhances the fit of the shoe. 

Q. What makes Air Pup shoes different from other dog shoes on the market? 

A. My dog Winston is a very active pooch! Together we have logged thousands of miles testing different dog shoes. What we discovered is that most dog shoes don't stay on properly, don't last, or simply aren't stylish. That's why I created Air Pups -- with fit, fashion, and function in mind. 

Here's what sets Air Pups apart: 

• Breathable, padded mesh for comfort
  Unlike many dog shoes that claim to be waterproof but end up trapping heat, moisture, and odor, Air Pup shoes are made with the same breathable mesh found in high-performance human sneakers. This allows your dog’s paws to stay cool, dry, and fresh—minimizing discomfort and reducing the risk of paw irritation or odor buildup.
  
• Double straps for a secure fit
  Each shoe has two adjustable straps for extra security—so they stay on, even during zoomies.
• Reflective materials for safety
  We’ve incorporated reflective elements into the design for added visibility during early morning or evening walks.
• A one-of-a-kind silhouette
  Air Pups feature a proprietary design that flexes with your dog’s natural paw movement, making them more comfortable and functional than stiff, generic dog boots.
• Durable, high-quality materials
  Many dog shoes on the market are made with flimsy materials that wear down, tear, or fall apart after just a few uses. Air Pups are different. We use premium materials inspired by human athletic footwear—designed to withstand daily wear and tear, from city streets to rugged trails. These shoes are built to last, so you won’t have to constantly replace them.
  
• Vet-tested and recommended
  Air Pups are tested and recommended by veterinarians who care about your dog’s comfort and paw health.

Q. What are Air Pup shoes made out of? 

A: Air Pup shoes are made entirely from high-quality, man-made materials, including:

• Breathable polyester mesh for ventilation and comfort

• Durable ripstop nylon for added strength and tear resistance

• Rubber soles for traction and paw protection

• Hook-and-loop (Velcro) closures for a secure, adjustable fit

• Synthetic patent leather for a stylish, water-resistant finish

These carefully selected materials are designed to balance comfort, durability, and style—just like a premium human sneaker.

Q: How do I wash my Air Pups?

A: You can hand wash your Air Pups or machine wash them on a cold cycle. If using a washing machine, we strongly recommend placing each shoe in a separate laundry bag to prevent the Velcro from sticking to itself or other clothing.

To protect the patent leather toe boxes from creasing, wash the shoes alone or with a very light load. Air dry only—do not put Air Pups in the dryer.

To extend the life of your shoes, avoid exposing them to extreme heat. High temperatures can weaken the adhesive and damage materials, so never place Air Pups on a radiator, near a heater, or in a dryer.

Q: How do I wash my Air Pup socks?

A: For best results, turn the socks inside out before washing. Machine wash on cold and air dry only. Avoid using heat or a dryer, as it may damage the materials or affect the fit.