WHAT’S THE hottest fashion accessory for dogs this season? Boots.

You wouldn’t want to go barefoot outdoors in winter, right? So consider that when walking your dog. All that snow, ice and cold pavement can be harmful. “In freezing temperatures, wet feet on a dog can cause frostbite of the pads on the paw,” says Lindsey Wolko, CEO of the Center for Pet Safety. Footwear can also protect against the dangers of sometimes-toxic deicers on walkways. Major pet supply retailers offer a variety of boot sets, usually for $30 to $35. (Fashionistas with cats, you’re out of luck. That tabby is not going to stand for anything on those paws.)

If your dog resists boots, an alternative is to keep a bucket of warm water near the door to rinse their paws, Wolko suggests. Another good practice, says veterinarian Heather Berst, medical lead at animal health company Zoetis, is to rub paw wax or balm on their pads before a walk. —Matt Alderton