Why Nail Care Isn’t the Same All Year Round
Just like our own hair, skin, and nails, a dog’s nails respond to changes in the weather and environment. The shift from warm summers to cool winters, from dry air to damp ground, or from active walks to indoor days – all of these affect nail growth, strength, and overall paw health.
Seasonal nail care often goes unnoticed, but it plays an essential role in your dog’s comfort and well-being. As the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) explains, changes in temperature and humidity can impact more than just coat condition – they also influence nail growth and quality.
In this guide, we’ll explore how weather and lifestyle changes across the year affect your dog’s nails, and what you can do to keep them healthy through every season.
Understanding How Dog Nails Grow
Dog nails are made primarily of keratin, the same protein found in hair and skin. The nail grows from a base called the matrix, where new cells form and harden as they move outward.
Nail growth is influenced by:
- Genetics and breed
- Diet and nutrition
- Activity levels
- Weather and environmental conditions
While genetics and diet set the foundation, seasonal and lifestyle changes can speed up or slow down nail growth.
For instance, dogs who spend more time walking on rough outdoor surfaces during summer may naturally wear their nails down, while winter indoor dogs often experience faster growth and softer nails due to reduced friction and lower humidity.
How Weather Affects Nail Growth and Health
1. Summer: Natural Filing and Hydration Balance
During summer, most dogs are more active outdoors. The combination of walks on pavements, grass, or sand helps naturally file nails down. This often means you might need fewer trims – but it also brings a few hidden challenges.
Hot weather and hard surfaces can make nails brittle if your dog isn’t hydrated enough. Additionally, exposure to saltwater or sand can dry the nail surface, leading to cracks.
Summer nail care tips:
- Provide plenty of fresh water to keep nails and skin hydrated.
- Rinse paws after beach trips to remove sand and salt.
- Apply a paw balm if you notice dryness or splitting.
- Continue regular trims, even if nails appear short, to maintain shape and prevent fraying.
Dogs who love swimming may have slightly softer nails, as water exposure can weaken keratin over time. After each swim, dry their paws thoroughly and check for small chips or breaks.
2. Autumn: The Transition Season
As the weather cools, dogs often shift from long outdoor walks to shorter outings. The reduction in natural wear can cause nails to grow faster than you might expect.
Increased humidity in many regions during autumn can also soften nails slightly, making them easier to trim but more prone to flaking if not maintained.
This is a good time to establish a consistent grooming routine before winter sets in.
Autumn nail care tips:
- Trim nails every two to three weeks as activity levels drop.
- Inspect nails for soft spots or splits caused by moisture.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in omega-3s to support strong nail growth.
If your dog spends more time indoors, keep an eye on nails catching on carpets or furniture.
3. Winter: The Dry and Brittle Season
Cold weather, low humidity, and fewer walks can all lead to faster nail growth and weaker structure. In winter, nails often become dry and brittle, increasing the risk of cracking.
Indoor heating also removes moisture from the air, which can affect paw pads and nails.
Winter nail care tips:
- Keep nails short and smooth to prevent splits and slipping.
- Use a paw moisturiser to protect nails and pads from dryness.
- Trim gently after a warm bath, when nails are slightly softer.
- Schedule trims every two to four weeks, depending on growth rate.
The RSPCA Australia recommends checking nails monthly, particularly during cooler months when nail growth often accelerates.
If your dog shows signs of limping or discomfort, it may be due to long nails altering their gait.
4. Spring: Renewal and Rapid Growth
Spring is a season of renewal, and that applies to your dog’s nails too. Warmer weather, better nutrition, and increased activity after a slow winter can trigger a boost in nail growth.
Dogs also shed old skin and fur layers more heavily in spring, meaning their body’s keratin production is in full swing – and nails can grow faster than expected.
Spring nail care tips:
- Trim nails more frequently to stay ahead of faster growth.
- Keep a regular grooming schedule to balance coat and nail care.
- Monitor for allergies or skin irritation, as excessive licking can weaken nails.
- Incorporate foods rich in biotin and zinc for healthy new nail tissue.
Outdoor walks on varied terrain help naturally shape nails, but remember to inspect paws afterward for debris or small cracks.
How Lifestyle Changes Impact Nail Growth
1. Indoor vs Outdoor Dogs
Outdoor dogs often experience more nail wear due to walking on concrete, grass, or dirt. Indoor dogs, especially those on soft flooring, don’t have this natural filing effect and often need more frequent trims.
2. Activity Level
Active dogs wear their nails down naturally, while less active dogs – including older pets or smaller breeds – often experience quicker overgrowth.
3. Diet and Hydration
Poor nutrition or dehydration can lead to weak, brittle nails regardless of the season. Ensure your dog eats a balanced diet rich in protein, fatty acids, and minerals to support healthy nail growth all year round.
Practical Nail Care Tips for Every Season
- Trim regularly: Every 2–4 weeks, adjusting based on activity and growth.
- Check nails after walks: Look for cracks, chips, or lodged debris.
- Moisturise paws: Use pet-safe balms to prevent dryness and splitting.
- Use grinders safely: They give you control and reduce the risk of cutting into the quick.
- Keep nails clean: Dirt and bacteria can weaken the nail structure.
- Monitor nail colour and texture: Sudden changes could indicate diet or health issues.
Common Seasonal Nail Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution |
| Dry, cracked nails | Cold, dry weather | Increase hydration, use paw balm |
| Fast growth | Less outdoor activity | Trim nails more often |
| Soft nails | Humid climate or swimming | Dry paws thoroughly, supplement biotin |
| Nail discolouration | Fungal or bacterial infection | Visit your vet for diagnosis |
| Pain when walking | Overgrown nails altering posture | Trim and check joint alignment |
Seasonal issues can sneak up quickly, so inspect your dog’s paws regularly, especially during climate transitions.
When to Seek Veterinary Help
If your dog’s nails are splitting, discoloured, or causing limping, it’s a clear sign that something isn’t quite right. A quick check with your vet can help identify whether the issue is due to simple overgrowth or an underlying health condition.
Persistent problems such as brittle or soft nails can sometimes point to nutritional deficiencies, fungal infections, or even joint discomfort that affects how your dog walks and wears down their nails.
FAQs About Seasonal Nail Care
Do nails grow faster in summer or winter?
They often grow faster in warmer months due to increased blood circulation and activity.
How often should I trim my dog’s nails?
Every two to four weeks on average, depending on the season and activity level.
Can cold weather make my dog’s nails brittle?
Yes, dry winter air can cause nails to lose moisture, making them more prone to cracking.
Should I use moisturiser on my dog’s nails?
Yes, pet-safe balms help maintain flexibility and prevent splitting, especially in dry climates.
Do swimming and saltwater affect nail health?
They can. Always rinse and dry your dog’s paws after swimming to avoid drying or softening the nails.
Conclusion: Nail Care That Adapts With the Seasons
Your dog’s nails are always growing, but how they grow changes with the weather and their activity. By adjusting your care routine throughout the year, you can prevent cracking, splitting, and discomfort – keeping every step light and pain-free.
From hot summers and sandy paws to cool winters and cosy floors, seasonal awareness makes all the difference. Regular trims, hydration, balanced nutrition, and proper paw care will keep your dog’s nails strong, flexible, and healthy no matter the season.