What is wrong with my dogs nails?

[Steff12]

My dog Max has a serious nail problem during the summer season,but we don't know exactly what it is or how to treat it.He is always licking his feet and doesn't let anyone go near them. His nails are somewhat flakey/brittle, some of the longer nails just split in half or twist sideways.Most of his nails are very short, to where they barely stick out from under his fur, however, during the winter months he has no sign of this problem and some of the nails even start to grow.He is an inside dog but he spends alot of time outside is there some kind of vitamin or food we could give him to make them stronger?  They have been black colored for awhile but i'm not sure if that's a factor or not. I have tried to research these symptoms but most sites only mention certain breeds,he is a Moutain Feist mix. I would just like to know what is wrong and if there is any home remedies or medicine we could try. Thanks so much

[Soon_to_be_DVM]

Just for a side not if your dog is eating a well balanced diet he/she does NOT need any type or Vitamin supplements!!  Black nails is no big deal.  Because it is a seasonal thing I would say it is an allergy.  Have your vet check it out but they should be able to get you a spray or something to help and also check to see if there is a fungal infection.  Good Luck!

[ddeiman]

It might be an immune problem called lupoid onychodystrophy. This usually is seen in greyhounds but can be other breeds. It only effects the nails and nail beds and is easily treated with tetracycline and niacinamide. Ask you vet about this or have them consult a vet dermatologist. The meds are usually a lifetime treatment but they do fine on them with no ill effects. Both are human drugs so you can price shop online pharmacies like costco or check local walmarts for $4 generic fills if that turns out to be it you can save some money. Good luck!

[lonewolf07]

It could be a fungus thing or even an allergy.  To strengthen his nails, I don't know.  Calcium might help but I would probably take him to the vet.  The condition of his nails might mean something, especially if it only happens in the summer.

There are also sprays - homemade and from the vet - that can help to keep him from licking his feet.  It seems like foot licking season for dogs  = )

[KikiMay]

It could possibly be some type of fungi infection. So I would suggest to go to a vet and have the dog checked. I do not know if there is some other home remedy you can try.
Kiki