9 best dog walking boots to keep your feet warm, dry and of course, stylish

I've learned a thing or two from walking my dog for the past six or so years and one of them is what to wear dog walking - because comfort, warmth and plenty of pockets are key. I've recently swapped wearing my everyday sneakers for a pair of waterproof dog walking boots for ladies. Nothing is worse than wearing your beloved sneakers or chunky boots and finding them ruined from muddy parks, gravelly trails or even your own dog's mud-caked footprints (been there!)

Treading the pavements twice-daily puts a certain amount of wear and tear on your shoes, not to mention your feet. And it's taken a lot of trial and error for me to find my perfect pair of ladies dog walking boots.

Of course, you can wear your usual shoes or boots for dog walks but us seasoned dog walkers know that they soon get worn out or ruined or become uncomfortable when you’re racking up over 10,000 steps a day. Since you’re out in all weathers and terrains, investing in a pair of boots just for walking your dog will not only save your favourite pair, but your feet too. 

What to look for in the best ladies dog walking boots

A good dog walking boot should be comfortable (you’ll be walking a lot in them), waterproof (who knows with the British weather) and hard-wearing (you want them to last). Extra grips can be a bonus too, to cover all types of terrain and if they’re warm it’s an added bonus. If not, a pair of thick walking socks should help keep your feet toasty.

Look for rambling boots and hiking boots, those designed for avid walkers, as they’ll bear the qualities that you’re looking for too. You can go for the lighter versions, or those from high street brands like John Lewis, Amazon or Millets – you don’t have to be shopping at niche stores to find them. 

A good dog walking boot not only scores major points on the practicality scale, but there’s plenty of stylish pairs too so you don’t have to scrimp on style for substance.

How I chose the best ladies boots for dog walking

• Personal experience: As a dog owner, I am pretty well versed in what makes a good dog walking boot. I’ve been walking my dog, Sal, twice a day for the past five plus years and I’ve gone through enough pairs of trainers and boots to know what works – and what isn’t worth it.
• Trusted reviews: Since I’ve not tried every boot on the high street, I’ve done my research from reading online reviews to highlight those that get great reviews across the board. I’ve even included a pair Princess Kate has been known to sport.
• Waterproof: Having a waterproof boot is a bonus for dog walking, and I’ve included as many waterproof dog walking boots as possible – no-one wants soggy feet.
• Material: These boots need to be long-lasting and hard-wearing, and I’ve included as many as possible that score top marks in those categories, or feature well known hard-wearing materials like leather. 
• Sole: Grippy soles – doesn’t sound glam but is essential for dog walking, since you’re going out in all weather conditions. Not to mention if an over-excited dog pulls you, you need something that’ll ground you as much as possible!