WHAT ARE THEY?
Bondage paws are another accessory you can use during your “pet play”. They can be for any animal that has “paws” (not just dogs) – domestic cats, wolves, etc. The interesting thing with paws is that they are one of the few additions that you can “make” yourself.
Aside from making you look more like your animal, it can alter the way you move around or interact with objects. This enhances the role play and/or power-control factors. Adding locks is another step further into this kind of play.
WHAT MATERIALS DO THEY COME IN?
Since you can DIY them, the sky is the limit, but there are “traditional” materials or things that are more common. Here are some examples…
LEATHER – These usually come in “pouch mittens” – basically bags for your hands. They will either be plain or have detailing that makes them look like actual paws (or a cartoon version). Warning, they can be a bit expensive. Get fake leather for cheaper if you love the look but don’t have the budget.
RUBBER – Great for people who have rubber fetishes and need something durable. The more solid rubbers are also all the stronger to wear and tear.
LATEX – Not like the Halloween masks, more like the kinky material that people wear as clothing. They can come in many shapes – from baggies (like leather) to fingerless gloves that are more of a fashion statement.
FABRICS – Felt, fur, whatever. You can have pink polka dot cotton if that floats your boat. They are also easier to sew yourself if you need to save a buck.
TAPE – This is a great bondage trick. Wrap your pup’s hands in plastic wrap (to protect them from the tape) then wrap them up snug (but not too tight). You can draw on paw prints too if you want! Also, if you’re worried about allergies, there is “bondage tape” which sticks to itself and not the body.
WHICH SHOULD YOU BUY?
There’s no right/wrong or good/bad. What’s your budget? Are you just starting out or looking for something that shows you’re more passionate about this kind of play? Is it a gift? Do you have any material allergies?
After that, look at the actual bondage aspect – is just a pull tie, cosmetic clasps, hard-core leather straps, number of buckles, buttons etc. How is it held on your hand and is it a form of bondage you’ll be comfortable with.
Factor all your details together and choose one that feels right.
OTHER THINGS TO WATCH FOR
The other way to make sure you’re happy with your purchase is to look at the product pictures, read the reviews, look at the number of reviewers, see where it’s made, look at the return policies, etc. You can even message the seller directly if you have more questions. Just make sure you’re not overpaying just because the word “kink” or “BDSM” is part of the title.
TAKING A LOOK AT ONE EXAMPLE…
I chose a random product from Google search. Let’s take a look at what we have and if it’s worth buying.
The first thing that stands out is the company. They specifically make products for certain kinds of role-playing (age and animal). They also give measurements (however simple). I wish there were more pictures from different angles – I can’t see the bondage strap, but I’m assuming it’s a buckle. The detailing and construction look good, although suede will get dirty faster than leather. The rivets holding it together look solid.
But now … the price.
I know leather isn’t cheap, but I’ve bought jackets for less than this. I’m wondering how much of a markup this set has. It’s definitely not for beginners, and even if I was graduating to veteran gear, I would still want to make sure I wasn’t being ripped off. A quick look at the returns policy tells me that returns are only for defective merchandise.
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Want more BDSM or Kink articles, check out these…
- Understanding BDSM Terminology – Fetish vs Kink
- Pet Play 101 – A Quick Look at Human Kittens, Pigs, and Puppies
- International Pet Day – Ideas to Spoil Your Human Pet
Anything you want to add? Share in the comments!