My Pet Ruined My UGGs—Now What?

You love your pet. You love your UGGs. But lately, it feels like the two just don’t mix.

One moment you’re slipping into the cosy warmth of your favourite boots, and the next—you’re staring at a chewed seam, a clawed toe, or worse, the unmistakable scent of wet fur embedded in the sheepskin. Maybe you’ve just brought home a new puppy or adopted a curious cat, and you're already eyeing your UGGs with anxiety, wondering how long they’ll survive.

UGG boots aren’t just shoes—they’re a little slice of comfort, and when pets mistake them for chew toys or scratching posts, it’s more than just frustrating. It's expensive. It's avoidable. And yes, it's fixable.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly why pets are drawn to UGGs, what kind of damage to look out for, how to protect your boots, and what to do if the worst has already happened. Whether you're in damage control or prevention mode, you'll walk away with practical, real-world tips to keep your UGGs looking good and feeling plush—without locking your pets out of the house.

Why Pets Love UGGs

UGG boots are basically a luxury bed for your feet—soft, warm, and made of natural materials like sheepskin and suede. Unfortunately, your pet agrees. To them, UGGs are a strange but irresistible mix of toy, scratching post, chewable object, and snuggle buddy.

Here’s why pets can’t seem to leave your UGGs alone:

The Smell

UGGs absorb your scent, especially if you wear them barefoot. To your dog or cat, they smell like you—and that’s comforting. Dogs in particular use scent as a way to bond, so they might chew or cuddle your boots just to feel close to you.

The Texture

Suede and sheepskin feel a lot like prey animals or plush toys. For puppies, kittens, or high-energy breeds, that texture is super tempting to bite, scratch, or paw at.

The Warmth

Ever found your cat curled up on your boots? UGGs retain heat and feel like a soft little bed. That makes them perfect for naps, but not great for the shape of your boots.

Curiosity or Boredom

Sometimes it's not emotional—it’s just boredom. Young pets and even older ones who aren’t properly stimulated might turn to your boots as entertainment, especially if they’re left out and easily accessible.

The problem? These innocent instincts can turn into serious wear and tear—chewed seams, claw marks, fur mats, and even persistent smells that are hard to get rid of. So while your pet isn’t being malicious, your UGGs still pay the price.

Common Types of Damage Pets Cause to UGG Boots

If you've owned UGGs and a pet at the same time, chances are you’ve already seen some of this damage up close. From bite marks to stubborn smells, here’s what your boots are up against:

Chewing and Tearing

Dogs—especially puppies—are notorious chewers. The soft sheepskin lining and suede exterior make UGGs a prime target. You might notice shredded seams, gnawed soles, or even full chunks missing from the boot.

Scratching and Clawing

Cats love to knead and scratch, and suede feels like an upscale scratching post to them. Claw marks can leave visible lines, bald spots, or even tears in the material.

Staining and Soiling

If your pet has accidents or decides to mark territory, UGGs can suffer. The absorbent nature of sheepskin means any liquid, including saliva, urine, or muddy paw prints, soaks in quickly and can be tough to clean.

Fur and Dander Buildup

UGGs are fur magnets. If your boots are a regular napping spot, you’ll likely find layers of hair woven into the lining, sticking to the exterior, and building up over time, especially if your pet sheds a lot.

Odour Transfer

Boots that smell like pets (or worse, like a mix of pets and feet) can be a dealbreaker. Once the natural odours of your dog or cat settle in, they can be hard to neutralise without damaging the material.

Each type of damage might seem small at first, but over time, it adds up. Fortunately, with the right preventative steps (and a bit of know-how), you can stop most of it before it starts.

How to Prevent Damage Before It Starts

Prevention is easier—and cheaper—than repair. And the good news? You don’t need to lock your boots in a safe or keep your pets in a separate room. A few simple changes to your habits and environment can make a big difference.

Store Your UGGs Out of Reach

It sounds obvious, but it’s the most effective tip. Keep your UGGs in a closed cupboard, on a high shelf, or in a pet-proof box. Avoid leaving them by the door or on the floor where pets can easily grab them.

Use a Pet Deterrent Spray

There are sprays available (like bitter apple or citrus-based options) that make items less appealing to chew or lick. Make sure anything you use is safe for suede and won't stain—always spot-test first.

Give Your Pet a Better Alternative

Redirect the behaviour. For dogs, provide chew toys that are just as satisfying as your boots. For cats, a quality scratching post placed near their usual attack zone can help. Praise and reward them when they use the “approved” item instead.

Avoid Scent Triggers

If you wear your UGGs barefoot, consider using an odour-neutralising spray designed for shoes. The less your boots smell like you, the less appealing they’ll be to your pet.

Train “Leave It” Early

Simple training commands like “leave it” or “no boots” work wonders over time. Consistency is key—don’t make exceptions, even if they look cute cuddled up on them.

Create a No-Shoe Zone

If your pet roams freely, consider keeping certain areas shoe-free. A basket with a lid or a hallway cabinet can keep temptation out of sight and out of mind.

By setting clear boundaries and offering pet-friendly alternatives, you can protect your UGGs without constantly worrying every time your back is turned.

What to Do if the Damage Is Already Done

So your pet got to your UGGs. Maybe it’s a nibble at the heel, a muddy paw print, or a full-on sheepskin massacre. Don’t panic—many types of damage can be fixed or at least improved. Here’s how to tackle the most common issues without making things worse.

For Chewed or Torn Areas

If the damage is minor, like a small tear or a frayed seam, you can try a DIY repair. UGG sells replacement insoles and UGG care kits that can help restore structure and fluff. For deeper chews or missing chunks, suede repair kits or fabric glue may work temporarily. Use a suede patch from inside the boot or a discreet area for best results.

For Scratches and Scuffs

Suede brushes can work wonders here. Gently rub the damaged area to lift the suede nap and minimise the appearance of scratches. For deeper gouges, try using a suede renovator spray to even out the colour and restore softness.

For Stains or Pet Accidents

If your pet had an accident on your UGGs (it happens), the quicker you act, the better. Blot—don’t rub—any liquid with a clean cloth. Then, lightly dampen the area with cold water and use a suede-safe cleaner or a mix of equal parts white vinegar and water.

Avoid soaking the boots. After cleaning, stuff them with newspaper or a shoe form to help retain shape and let them air dry away from heat. Once dry, brush with a suede brush to revive the texture.

For Fur and Dander Build-Up

Use a lint roller, sticky tape, or a rubber glove (slightly dampened) to pull off pet hair from the outside. For the inside lining, gently shake out the boots or use a hand vacuum with a soft brush attachment.

For deeper cleans, UGG’s sheepskin cleaner and conditioner can help, or you can take them to a professional cleaner who specialises in suede and shearling.

For Lingering Odours

Baking soda is your friend here. Sprinkle it inside the boots, let it sit overnight, then shake or vacuum it out. You can also tuck in dryer sheets or activated charcoal sachets to absorb lingering smells. Just avoid heavily perfumed products that might irritate your pet or mask the scent temporarily without removing it.

UGG Boot Care Tips for Pet Owners (Short & Sweet)

• Clean regularly:
  Brush suede weekly and shake out or vacuum the inside to remove fur and debris.

• Use a protective spray:
  Apply a suede-safe water and stain repellent to make cleaning easier and protect against pet mess.

• Store properly:
  Keep boots in a cool, dry place—away from heat and humidity. Use a storage box or cloth bag.

• Maintain shape:
  Use boot shapers or stuff with paper or fabric when not in use to prevent sagging or warping.

• Rotate your footwear:
  Alternate pairs to let your UGGs breathe and reduce build-up of odours or wear.

• Keep a “house pair”:
  Use an older or backup pair for lounging at home with pets, and save your best pair for outings.

When to Let Go of Your UGGs

Sometimes, no matter how much effort you put into cleaning, fixing, or hiding your UGGs, they end up too damaged to wear out. If they’re torn, stained beyond recognition, or have taken on a permanent odour, it might be time to retire them—but that doesn’t mean you have to throw them away. Many pet owners repurpose their old UGGs into cosy house slippers. Even if they’re no longer fit for the street, they’re still perfect for lounging at home on cold mornings. 

Feeling crafty? Some people salvage the undamaged parts and transform them into mittens, hot water bottle covers, or even ear warmers. And if there’s truly nothing left to save, it’s okay to let them go guilt-free. Some retailers offer recycling programs, or you can simply thank them for their service and move on. Letting go doesn’t mean failure—it means they were well-loved, and now you’re ready to protect the next pair even better.

Grab a pair of UGGs at UGG Australia Classic and treat them with a water- and stain-resistant spray to keep them pristine. Plus, with the care tips in this guide, you’ll help them thrive—even in a pet-friendly home.