Old Dog Paws Slipping on Floor: Dogs are well-suited to a wide range of terrains. They can survive in muddy, damp, and even freezing environments because to their claws, but they have trouble on slick, hard surfaces like home floors.
If your flooring are polished wood, laminate, or plastic, you might have observed that your dog shuffles off when it gets excited or struggles to maintain balance when walking. Even while it might seem funny at first, it could hurt your dog as well as harm the floor.(Old Dog Paws Slipping on Floor)
Old Dog Paws Slipping on Floor
Why do dogs slip on the floor?
French Bulldog sitting on the kitchen tile floor. Have you ever painstakingly picked your way across an icy driveway? Or slipped and slid across a freshly-cleaned hardwood floor in your socks (accidently or on purpose)? If so, you may have an idea of what a dog experiences when he or she walks on a smooth surface like wood or tile floors.
To keep from slipping, dogs attempt to use their toenails for traction. They flex their toes and dig the nails into the ground, just like soccer cleats. This works great on surfaces like grass, dirt, or carpet that have a bit of give to them. However, on hard smooth surfaces, dogs can’t dig their toenails into anything. Therefore, the dog has less traction and is more likely to slip.(Old Dog Paws Slipping on Floor)
- Age (older dogs)
- Osteoarthritis in dogs
- Dog leg amputation (dogs with three legs)
- Torn ACL in dogs
- Paralysis
- IVDD in dogs
- Hip dysplasia in dogs
- Dogs with back legs collapsing (i.e. hind end weakness)
- Strained iliopsoas (i.e. groin muscles)
What’s so bad about a dog slipping on the floor?
Apart from increasing the likelihood of a dog slipping, the factors mentioned above also increase the dog’s susceptibility to further injuries. Therefore, we most definitely don’t want these frail or wounded pets to trip and fall! However, in all honesty, we don’t want any dogs to trip over any floorboards.
After falling more than once, dogs may lose confidence and develop a fear of specific rooms or flooring types. A dog that has a fear of hardwood flooring could give up on moving to be nearer to their family. Because of increased stress and loneliness, this may lead to a decline in the dog’s quality of life.(Old Dog Paws Slipping on Floor)
How to Keep an Old Dog From Slipping
While there are several strategies to prevent an elderly dog from slipping on the floor, it’s critical to identify the underlying cause of the problem. urgent a variety of causes, elderly dogs may trip and fall. Occasionally, these issues can be extremely serious and need urgent medical intervention.
16 Ways to stop old dog paws slipping on floor
1.Trim Those Nails
A dog’s foot will rock backwards due to long nails, which will interfere with the dog’s toe pads making proper weight-bearing contact with the floor. You might wish to clip your dog’s nails as short as possible if they are quite long.
If you are having trouble keeping your dog’s nails trimmed, speak with your veterinarian or a groomer. If the nails on your elderly dog have been long for a while, you will need to take additional care to avoid cutting into the quick, which might cause discomfort, bleeding, and reluctance on your dog’s part to have his paws touched in the future.(Old Dog Paws Slipping on Floor)
2.Trim Hair Between the Paws
Make sure to regularly cut back any hair that grows between your dog’s toe pads. One of the main reasons dogs trip and fall on hardwood floors is hair in between the pads.
Again, since this delicate process requires your dog to be extremely cooperative and many dogs are uncomfortable having their feet handled, your veterinarian or groomer may be able to assist you.
3. Implement Good Joint Care
It’s crucial to take proper care of your joints in addition to your feet. Dogs with arthritis see a decline in their ability to move their joints and muscles as they age. These days, a number of over-the-counter and prescription drugs are available to relieve arthritis-related pain and inflammation.
The most often given treatments for canine joint issues are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, include Metacam, Deramaxx, Rimadyl, and Previcox. Another alternative is to use tramadol, however this medication only masks pain without treating inflammation. Veterinarian-administered Adequan injections have proven beneficial for several dogs suffering from osteoarthritis.
Read more: 15 Ways to Keep an Old Dog From Slipping on the Floor
4. Paw Pad Care
The main use of a dog’s paw pads is for grip. Because of their texture, they can offer traction in a similar manner to how tires do on the road. However, if your dog’s paws have grown smooth and worn out, this might be the root of the issue since they will not offer any grip at all.
To assist your dog’s paws get better, use moisturizers, waxes, or balms. If your dog’s paws are in extremely horrible shape, you might want to take them to the doctor to see if they can do anything to help.
5. Claw Care
Similar to this, your dog’s claws can aid in traction, particularly on line or tile surfaces. However, if your dog is stumbling on wood or other hard surfaces, it might be because of their large claws.
Dogs who walk a lot on concrete and other abrasive surfaces may not require claw cutting as frequently as other dogs, but most dogs require trimming every six weeks or so. Check to see whether trimming the claws—or having a groomer do it for you—helps reduce slipping.(Old Dog Paws Slipping on Floor)
6.Dog Socks
Soft socks can cause slipping rather than cure it, but you can get textured socks that have small textured pads or a textured surface. It can be a challenge to persuade a dog to wear socks if they have never worn them before, but start slow and build up the amount of time you have your dog wear a pair. They may eventually appreciate the fact that they aren’t sliding from wall to wall.
7. Improve your dog’s joint health
Solutions two through five dealt with particular ways to create traction on your dog’s body. However, we’re going to temporarily change course and examine how to prepare a dog’s physique for success on slick surfaces. Improving the joint health of your dog is the first step towards achieving this.
To recap, a joint is the intersection of two bones. The range of motion in limbs is made possible by these joints. To put it another way, they allow the muscles to move the bones in a way that allows the dog to run, walk, leap, play, etc.
8. Start doing physical therapy exercises with your dog
Physical therapy can be an excellent alternative for dogs dealing with age- or injury-related musculoskeletal problems in addition to strength training. Although physical therapy and strength training may appear to be similar at first, there are several important distinctions.
The goal of strength training is to increase muscular mass. Physical therapy, on the other hand, can help a dog regain lost or diminished function by teaching it how to utilize its muscles. Physical therapy and strength training are both crucial. Additionally, a dog may benefit from using one or both of these approaches, depending on the circumstances.
Strength training is not always as “targeted” as physical therapy. Furthermore, it frequently necessitates guidance about certain workouts and techniques from a veterinarian or physical therapist.(Old Dog Paws Slipping on Floor)
Read more: What are some ways to prevent an old dog from slipping on the floor?
9. Adhesive
Not just any adhesive will do, but you can get adhesive pads or strips designed for the purpose of putting on the bottom of your dog’s feet. These add a textured layer between your dog and the floor.
Some dogs dislike the feeling of having pads attached and may try to chew them off, so you will have to keep an eye on your dog, especially the first few times they wear these pads.(Old Dog Paws Slipping on Floor)
10. Gate Off Slippery Surfaces
If it’s possible and there’s a room or area that’s particularly slick, think about installing a stairgate to keep your dog out of that location. While opening a stairgate is a simple task for people, dogs may find it challenging, if not impossible, to negotiate them.
As an alternative, you can close doors, albeit this might not be the best choice if you want to have your dog with you in the living space that you are sealing off.(Old Dog Paws Slipping on Floor)
11. Work on weight management
A dog’s muscles and joints experience more pressure and tension when they are overweight. The joints get more worn out and lose their protective padding at the ends of the bones as a result of the increasing strain on them. It hurts a lot when bone scrapes against bone as a consequence.
Additionally, overweight dogs wear out more quickly. They become less active as a result, which may result in muscle atrophy. As you can see, being overweight may set off a chain reaction that impacts several areas of a dog’s anatomy. The dog finds it harder and harder to walk normally and not slip as the spiral progresses.(Old Dog Paws Slipping on Floor)
12. Strength Training
If your dog does slip and slide, it could be a sign that they have poor muscle strength. In any case, stronger muscles will make it easier to maintain good leg position and posture and therefore reduce the risk of slipping. Take your dog to a canine sports class or find ways to enhance their muscular strength at home.
13. Senior Support Sling
It can be quite challenging for senior dogs to walk on slick floors and particularly challenging to stand up on such surfaces. Your dog is supported by a sling, so if you notice them having trouble standing up, you may approach them and help with the weight while also providing stability. It will assist them in getting up safely and lessen the strain on their muscles and joints.(Old Dog Paws Slipping on Floor)
Read more: Why Does My Dog Freak Out When I Go in the Pool?
14. Use a sling or harness for support
Slings are helpful for physical rehabilitation exercises as well. Dogs that are relearning how to walk can be supported by a harness while they get guidance on correct foot placement from another person.
While the Help ‘Elm Up is a wearing harness ideal for dogs that require more assistance and support to stand and walk, the Ginger Lead offers greater “on-demand” support for mobility. Obviously, the largest drawback of slings is that you have to be there to assist your dog. They do have a role, even though they are not the ideal option all the time.
15. Give your dog some wheels
Dogs can now have the delightful modern choice of carts. They aren’t meant for any old dog, though. Usually, they are limited to tripawds and paralyzed canines.
Carts can be a great method for a dog with one of these illnesses to go around without your continual assistance. With carts, your dog is less likely to tumble since they support the weakest area of their body and don’t need a harness to hold them up.
Please be aware that carts need to be fitted to the dog and that there is a learning curve for both the dog and the human.(Old Dog Paws Slipping on Floor)
16. Get New Flooring
It is an extreme solution, but you can change your hard, slippery floor surfaces for something more textured and less likely to cause slippage. Consider carpets or, if you want a wood floor, opt for something with a textured or rough surface, rather than a smooth wood surface.
Conclusion
Dogs and slippery surfaces don’t always go well together. Surfaces like wood and even some tiles can prove especially difficult for your dog to get traction and stay upright. Slipping on a floor surface can lead to damage to the floor and potential injury to the dog.
It may also prevent your dog from going into certain rooms of the house. Hopefully, using one or more of the tips above, you can help stop your dog from slipping on hard floors around your home.
FAQ
- Why do older dogs slip more?
Worn Paw Pads: Over time, a dog’s paw pads can become dry, cracked, and thin, reducing traction.
Arthritis: Joint pain and weakness can make it harder for senior dogs to grip the floor.
Reduced Nerve Sensation: Diminished feeling in the paws makes it difficult for them to sense changes in texture
- What dangers does slipping pose?
Falls and Injuries: Slipping can lead to pulled muscles, sprains, or even broken bones in older dogs.
Loss of Confidence: Fear of falling can make dogs hesitant to move, impacting their mobility and quality of life.
- How can I make my floors less slippery?
Area Rugs and Runners: Place strategically placed rugs or runners on frequently used areas for better grip.
Non-Slip Mats: Use rubber-backed mats in specific areas like by food and water bowls.
Consider Flooring Options: If replacing flooring is an option, explore textured tiles or wood with a matte finish.
- Are there paw-related solutions?
Regular Trimming: Maintain good nail length to prevent splayed toes and improve balance.
Paw Balm or Wax: Certain products formulated for dogs can help hydrate and soften paw pads, improving grip.
Grip Socks or Boots: Consider dog booties with rubber soles for added traction indoors.
- When should I consult a veterinarian?
Sudden Onset of Slipping: If your dog’s slipping is new, consult your vet to rule out underlying medical conditions.
Frequent Falls: If your dog falls frequently, a vet can assess their mobility and offer additional support.
Visible Pain: Any signs of pain or discomfort in the paws warrant a veterinary visit.
- Are there other ways to help my senior dog?
Joint Supplements: Discuss joint health supplements with your vet to support mobility.
Ramps and Steps: Provide ramps or small steps to help your dog navigate furniture or get on and off beds.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight can put extra strain on joints, making slipping worse.
- How can I prevent my dog from developing paw pad problems?
Regular Paw Inspections: Check your dog’s paws regularly for cracks, dryness, or foreign objects.
Hydration: Ensure your dog drinks plenty of water to keep paw pads hydrated.
Gradual Introduction to New Surfaces: If introducing a new textured surface, allow your dog to get accustomed to it gradually.
- Are there any risks associated with dog boots or socks?
Overheating: Monitor your dog for signs of overheating if using booties indoors, especially in warmer weather.
Chewing: Some dogs might try to chew off boots or socks, so supervision is necessary.
- What if my dog dislikes wearing boots or socks?
Positive Reinforcement: Introduce boots or socks gradually with treats and praise.
Start Slow: Begin with short wear times and gradually increase the duration.
Alternative Options: If boots are not tolerated, focus on other solutions like paw balm and rugs.
- Is there anything else I can do to keep my senior dog safe?
Keep Walks Manageable: Adjust walks based on your dog’s ability, avoiding slippery outdoor surfaces during wet weather.
Provide a Safe Space: Ensure your dog has a designated area with comfortable bedding and good traction.
