Does your dog’s nail split just from a brisk walk on the sidewalk? Or maybe they crack like dry spaghetti whenever you trim them? Weak dog nails aren’t just annoying—they can actually hurt. And once a nail splits past the quick? Ouch. That’s a one-way ticket to the vet, not to mention your dog limping around like they just stepped on a Lego.
If your pup’s nails seem brittle, soft, or prone to damage, don’t worry—you can do something about it. In fact, with the right care, diet, and products, you can strengthen your dog’s nails naturally and keep them healthy for the long haul.
Let’s dig into why dog nails get weak—and what you can do today to turn things around.
➨➨Don’t forget to read our detailed guide about dog nail problems & treatments as well as dog nail fungus.
What Causes Brittle or Weak Dog Nails?
There’s no single culprit here. Sometimes it’s a combo of factors working against your dog’s nail health. Common causes include:
- Poor nutrition (missing out on key vitamins like biotin or omega-3s)
- Frequent exposure to dry or rough surfaces
- Medical issues like fungal infections or autoimmune disorders (always rule this out with your vet if nails are really bad)
- Age (yep, just like people, nails can get more brittle over time)
Now let’s talk solutions—because there’s a lot you can do.
►► Not sure how to trim those claws? Check out: How to Trim your Dog’s Nails Like A Pro
7 Effective Ways to Strengthen Your Dog’s Nails
1. Add Biotin to Their Diet
Biotin (aka Vitamin B7) is a powerhouse when it comes to nail, skin, and coat health. It helps strengthen keratin—the protein that makes up your dog’s nails—and promotes healthy growth. Just keep in mind that Biotin doesn’t work overnight. Expect to see improvements in nail strength after about 4–6 weeks of consistent supplementation.
Try This: Zesty Paws Multivitamin 8-in-1 Bites
These soft chews are loaded with biotin, omega-3s, and other goodies to support overall health—including those claws.
Support your dog’s overall wellness with these tasty, vet-approved soft chews. Packed with essential nutrients like biotin, glucosamine, omega-3s, and probiotics, they promote strong nails, healthy skin, joint mobility, gut health, and more. One daily chew = total body support in a peanut butter-flavored bite dogs love!
2. Use a Paw and Nail Moisturizer
Nails get brittle when they’re too dry—especially in the winter or if your dog’s constantly walking on concrete. Moisturizing helps keep them flexible and less prone to snapping. Apply it after walks or before bed when your dog is winding down to avoid it rubbing off immediately.
Try This: Musher’s Secret Dog Paw Wax
It’s not just for pads—it works great on nails too. Rub a little on the nail bed and outer nail to lock in moisture.
Give your dog’s paws year-round protection with this food-safe, all-natural balm made from moisturizing oils and waxes. Originally crafted for Canadian sled dogs, it forms an invisible shield against snow, salt, hot pavement, rough terrain, and more. Safe for cats, chickens—even horses—and gentle enough for sensitive pets. Bonus: it’s totally lick-safe!
3. Incorporate Omega Fatty Acids
Healthy fats = healthy nails. Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids help nourish nail beds from the inside out, keeping them strong and less brittle.
Try This: Native Pet Sockeye Salmon Oil
It’s a fish oil supplement you can squirt right over your dog’s food. Bonus: it also supports a shiny coat and reduces inflammation.
Sustainably sourced from Bristol Bay, Alaska, this premium salmon oil delivers a powerful dose of omega-3s to support your pet’s skin, coat, joints, heart, and brain. Rich in EPA, DHA, and astaxanthin, it helps reduce itching, shedding, and inflammation—while boosting overall wellness from nose to tail. Great for both dogs and cats!
4. Feed a High-Quality Diet
Nail health starts with overall nutrition. If your dog is eating low-quality kibble, even the best supplements might not make much of a dent. Look for a dog food that’s rich in whole proteins, amino acids, and healthy fats.
Try This: Ollie
Ollie crafts fresh, gently cooked meals tailored to your dog’s nutritional needs—no filler, no mystery meat.
Fresh, human-grade food made from real ingredients for a healthier pup today and tomorrow. Recipes made from whole food ingredients, slow cooked for nutrition and flavor and always fresh.
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5. Keep Nails Trimmed (But Not Too Short)
This one sounds counterintuitive, but regular trimming helps prevent nails from catching and splitting. Just don’t cut too close to the quick (the sensitive part with blood vessels). That can cause pain and increase risk of infection. Grind a little bit once a week instead of waiting until the nails are super long. Short sessions are less stressful and more effective.
Try This: Casfuy Dog Nail Grinder
It’s easier on sensitive nails than clippers and gives you more control over how much you remove.
Make nail care stress-free with this vet-recommended diamond bit grinder. With 2 speeds, 3 size ports, and ultra-low noise, it’s perfect for trimming nails on small to large pets—without the fear factor. Rechargeable, cordless, and easy to hold, it’s the ideal tool for safe, painless at-home grooming.
6. Avoid Over-Bathing or Harsh Shampoos
Too much bathing (or using the wrong shampoo) can dry out not just your dog’s skin—but their nails, too.
Try This: Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Dog Shampoo
It’s soap-free and super gentle, keeping your dog clean without stripping away natural oils.
Keep your pup clean and comfy with this soap-free, pH-balanced shampoo made from natural and organic ingredients like oatmeal, shea butter, and aloe. It gently cleans, conditions, and relieves itchy, dry skin—without harsh chemicals or fragrances. Cruelty-free, earth-friendly, and perfect for sensitive pets.
7. Check for Underlying Issues
If your dog’s nails are constantly splitting despite all of the above, it’s time to rule out a medical issue. Nail disorders like lupoid onychodystrophy (an autoimmune disease), fungal infections, or even certain cancers can cause nail deformities or weakness.
A trip to the vet might uncover something that supplements and grooming alone can’t fix.
Bonus Tip: Let Them Walk Naturally on Grass and Dirt
Walking on natural surfaces like grass or dirt gives the nails a gentle workout without the wear-and-tear of pavement. Think of it like using a nail file vs. a belt sander. Whenever possible, vary your dog’s walking routes to include softer terrain.
Quick Checklist for Stronger Dog Nails
Here’s your mini cheat sheet to strengthen your dog’s nails naturally:
✅ Add a biotin-rich supplement
✅ Use a moisturizing balm regularly
✅ Include omega-3 fatty acids
✅ Feed a high-quality diet
✅ Trim nails weekly with a grinder
✅ Bathe gently with moisturizing shampoo
✅ Visit the vet if nail issues persist
Strengthen Dog Nails with Your Vet’s Help
Again, always visit your vet before giving your dog any sort of supplement, even seemingly benign ones.
Your vet will be able to take a look at your pet’s medical history to assess which supplements are safe for him and also do a thorough exam to determine the cause of his brittle nails if that is an issue.
Working with your vet, you should be able to start to strengthen dog nails starting now.
Final Thoughts
Your dog’s nails might not be the first thing you think about when it comes to their health—but they’re more important than you realize. Healthy nails keep your dog comfortable, active, and injury-free.
So, if you’ve been dealing with cracking, splitting, or “ouch, you broke ANOTHER one?”—you’re not alone. The good news is, a few small changes in their grooming routine and diet can make a big difference.
