Grip for the dog who splays out on the hardwood

How to stop a senior dog slipping — and which tool to pick

Slipping on smooth floors feeds on itself: a dog that has slipped starts to brace and shuffle, which makes the next slip more likely. Three tools fix the footing, and each suits a different dog.

Non-slip socks — the whole-paw fix

Socks with a grippy sole cover the entire pad, so there's traction everywhere the foot lands. They're the fastest, most complete fix — if your dog will keep them on. Look for adjustable straps and grip on both sides of the sole. Best for a dog that tolerates having something on its feet.

Toe grips — for dogs that won't wear socks

Rubber rings sit on the nails and grip the floor, leaving the pad bare — so many dogs forget they're wearing them. They stay on for days once fitted, and they're the answer for a sock-refuser. They need reasonably healthy nails to hold onto.

Paw wax — the lightest touch

A natural wax rubbed on the pads adds a little tack and conditions dry, cracked senior pads at the same time. It's the least grippy option and it wears off, but there's nothing worn on the foot — good for a dog that won't tolerate anything, or as a supplement to socks or grips.

The free half of the fix

Before you buy anything, look at the routes your dog actually takes — from bed to door, to the water bowl, up to the couch — and lay runners or washable rugs along them so the dog has a grippy path to the places it needs. Traction gear plus a few well-placed rugs solves most slipping without a wheelchair or a harness ever entering the picture.