Your dog’s nails continually grow, and you have to trim them to prevent a variety of health problems. Most dogs require nail cutting every one or two months, but various factors can impact the growth rate. Use this pet grooming guide to learn more about your pet’s nails and what makes them grow.

What Makes Dogs’ Nails Grow?

1. Where They Walk

Pavement and hard, textured surfaces will naturally wear down your dog’s nails. You may not need to trim them as often if you walk your dog several times a day on the sidewalk. The concrete will do the job for you.

Hard indoor surfaces might not have the same effect. Tile and hardwood flooring aren’t hard or textured enough to wear down nails. Instead, long nails will make it difficult for your dog to grip these surfaces. They’ll also scratch hardwood flooring when they slip.

2. How Active They Are

The more dogs walk and run on hard surfaces outside, the more likely nature will trim their nails. Aging pets are less active, so you’ll need to stay on top of trimming their nails. Small breeds like papillons that spend the bulk of their time indoors will also need more frequent trimmings.

Long nails can tear, cause joint problems, and be extremely uncomfortable. These issues might discourage your pet from moving around, further increasing nail growth. Take a close look at your dog's paws. If the nails can touch the floor while they’re standing, it’s time for a pet grooming session.

3. What They Eat

Brittle, slow-growing nails could indicate that your dog is deficient in a vitamin or mineral. Many supplements encourage nail growth, including biotin and fish oil.

A well-balanced diet containing crude protein, phosphorus, and calcium will also contribute to nail growth and overall health. Make sure to consult a veterinarian about a new diet or any sudden changes in your dog’s nail health.

Many pet owners like to leave nail trimming to the professionals. Golden Heart Boarding & Grooming of North Pole, AK, provides comprehensive pet grooming services. They’re committed to creating a relaxing, spa-like experience for pets and also offer dog and cat boarding services. Visit their website to learn more about pet grooming, or call (907) 488-6866 to schedule an appointment.