How To Avoid Leaks In Your Dog Walking Boots

Leaking dog walking boots can be a frustrating and uncomfortable problem for pet owners. When taking our furry friends out for a walk, it is essential to have reliable and waterproof footwear to protect our feet from the elements. However, if our dog walking boots are leaking, it can lead to damp and cold feet, which can ultimately affect our overall comfort and enjoyment during the outing.

There’s nothing worse than spending a lot of money on a decent pair of  leather dog walking boots and the leather cracks and they start to leak! As we all know, it doesn’t matter if your leather boots are leaking, your dog still demands a walk!

One of the main causes of leaking dog walking boots is worn-out or damaged material. Over time, the constant exposure to water, mud, and rough terrain can cause the boots' fabric or seams to deteriorate. When this happens, water can seep through the small cracks and gaps, resulting in leaks. To avoid this issue, it is crucial to invest in high-quality dog walking boots made from durable and waterproof materials. Additionally, regularly inspecting and maintaining the boots by cleaning them properly and treating them with waterproofing agents can help prolong their lifespan and prevent leaks.

Another potential cause of leaking dog walking boots is improper sizing or fit. If the boots are too loose or too tight, they may not provide an adequate seal around the foot, allowing water to enter. It is essential to choose dog walking boots that have a snug fit without being too restrictive. Trying on different sizes and styles, as well as consulting the manufacturer's sizing guide, can help ensure a proper fit. Additionally, considering features like adjustable straps or laces can provide a customised fit and prevent leaks.

A bit of care is needed to maintain the natural features of leather. Over time changes in temperatures and humidity, exposure to water and soil, dust buildup, and pollution all have an impact on the leather. Without proper care the leather will start to crack, split and become really uncomfortable to wear, especially if exposed to rock salt, farmyard muck or peaty mud. Such chemicals can degrade the leather uppers.

Caring for your Dog Walking Boots

It doesn’t have to be time consuming or laborious to look after your boots. By following these simple “do’s and don’ts” steps below it will help to preserve the leather, keeping your dog walking boots waterproof, breathable and comfortable to wear.

Do’s

• Allow your boots to dry before cleaning
• Use a soft brush or sponge to remove dirt from the leather
• Take extra care to remove mud from around the stitching
• Remember to clean around the eyelets and remove the laces
• Use a footwear cleaning solution such as Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel to clean off mud and to maintain breathability of the leather
• Apply a waxy waterproofing treatment for boots to ensure the leather remains waterproof

Dont's

• Dry your leather boots near a radiator or fire as this will dry out the leather too quickly
• Use normal soap to clean your boots as the chemicals will dry the leather
• Leave wet laces in the boots
• Put your boots in the washing machine

How to clean the inside of your dog walking boots

From time to time it is necessary to clean the inside of the boots. As your feet get hot they sweat. A small amount of salty sweat can clog the breathable membrane in the boots. Follow the steps below to clean the inside membrane of your boots:

• Remove the insoles and clean with warm soapy water
• Use a soft washcloth with warm soapy water to clean the inside of the boots
• Stuff newspapers into the boots to draw excess water
• Allow the boots to dry naturally i.e. away from a heat source

In conclusion, dealing with leaking dog walking boots can be an inconvenience for pet owners. However, by investing in high-quality and waterproof boots made from durable materials and ensuring a proper fit, we can minimise the risk of leaks and enjoy our dog walks comfortably. Regular maintenance and inspections are also crucial to identifying any signs of wear or damage early on and taking appropriate measures to prevent leaks.

Last Modified: 25th Sept 2023

(Original 16th Feb 2017)

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