Dew claws are vestigial thumb-like claws located on the inside of a dog’s front or rear legs (https://dog-dew-claw-function.pixeliq.space/). They typically do not touch the ground and are considered non-functional. There is some controversy around removing dew claws in dogs. Proponents argue that dew claws serve no purpose and can get snagged and torn, while opponents claim they still serve a function for grasping and balance. Those in favor of removing dew claws will cite reduced risk of injury, while those against removal say it is an unnecessary cosmetic surgery and the claws still have sensory function. There are pros and cons on both sides that need to be weighed carefully when deciding. Overall, the topic of removing dew claws evokes passionate debate.
What Are Dew Claws?
Dew claws are extra digits found on the inner side of a dog’s front and rear legs. They typically consist of a nail anchored in place by ligaments and tendons with support provided by one to three bones. Dew claws on the front legs usually have full bone and muscle structure, while rear dew claws tend to only be attached by skin and ligaments.
Front dew claws have three phalanx bones while rear dew claws may only have one phalanx bone. The front dew claw anatomy is very similar to the other toes, with muscles, tendons, nerves and blood vessels present to allow functioning. Rear dew claws are more like remnants and have little anatomical function. Due to the difference in anatomical support, rear dew claws are more prone to tearing and injury than front dew claws.
Overall, the main purpose of dew claws is to provide dogs with a good grip and traction when running, jumping or lightly grasping objects. They serve an important purpose for active dogs who are constantly using their paws.
Pros of Removing Dew Claws
One of the main pros for removing dew claws is to avoid potential injury. Dew claws can easily catch on objects or terrain while a dog is running or playing, and tearing a dew claw can be very painful and lead to infection (tier1vet.com). Since they don’t touch the ground, dew claws serve little functional purpose for most dogs.
Additionally, removing dew claws can help keep the paws clean. Dew claws can collect dirt but don’t get worn down from ground contact (gundogmag.com). For dogs that dig or enjoy the outdoors, removing dew claws may be cleaner.
Conforming to breed standard is another reason some owners choose to remove dew claws. Certain breeds like the Norwegian Lundehund require dew claw removal per the breed standard. For these dogs, dew claw removal maintains the traditional look and characteristics of the breed.
Cons of Removing Dew Claws
There are some downsides to consider when deciding whether to remove a dog’s dew claws. Some of the main cons include:
Potential nerve damage – The dew claw is connected to nerves in the paw, so removing it carries a risk of nerve damage. This could potentially cause long-term pain or mobility issues for the dog. Nerve damage is especially a concern if the dew claws are removed later in life rather than as a puppy.
Loss of function/stability – Dew claws may play a role in providing stability for dogs, especially when making sharp turns while running or maneuvering. Removing them could potentially impact agility and function (Dewclaw Disagreement: Should Dewclaws Be Removed?).
Unnecessary surgical risk – Any time anesthesia is used, there are inherent risks, albeit minimal. Unless there is a health reason to remove dew claws, avoiding an unnecessary surgery eliminates this small risk.
Breed Differences
Some breeds are more likely to have their dew claws removed than others. This is often done for functional reasons related to the breed’s purpose.
For example, dew claw removal is very common in some hunting and sporting breeds like Retrievers, Pointers, Setters, Spaniels, and Bracco Italianos. Since these dogs are active hunters and runners, loose dew claws could tear or catch on brush, risking injury [1].
Herding breeds like Australian Shepherds and Collies also frequently have rear dew claws removed to reduce risk of injury while herding livestock. Loose dew claws could catch on fences or get stepped on by hoofed animals.
In contrast, dew claw removal is less prevalent in some breeds like Great Pyrenees, St. Bernards, and Briards where rear dew claws actually help dogs gain traction in snowy or mountainous terrain [2].
For any breed, it’s important to consider the dog’s lifestyle and purpose before deciding on dew claw removal.
When to Remove Dew Claws
The ideal time for dew claw removal is when the puppies are between 3-5 days old, according to Gull Point Veterinary Clinic. This is because the puppy’s nervous system is not fully developed at this age. Removal at this young age is easier on the puppy and allows for a quicker recovery process. If the procedure is done by a veterinarian, the dew claws can be quickly clipped off and the wounds cauterized to minimize bleeding and pain.
Removal of dew claws on older puppies or adult dogs requires general anesthesia. This makes the process more invasive, stressful, and expensive. The recovery process is also longer the older the dog is, taking several weeks for the surgical wounds to fully heal. There is also a greater risk of infection and other complications when dew claws are removed later in life. Thus, it is ideal to remove dew claws when puppies are just a few days old if deemed necessary.
Alternatives to Removal
Instead of surgically removing dew claws, some alternatives exist to help prevent injury and irritation to dew claws.
Trimming
Regular trimming and maintenance of dew claws can help prevent them from snagging and tearing. According to [https://tier1vet.com/removing-dew-claws/] Trimming dew claws every 2-3 weeks when they are puppies, then less frequently as they grow older, can keep them neat, short and less likely to get caught on things.
Careful Monitoring
If the dew claws are tightly attached and positioned properly, they may not require removal. In such cases, carefully monitoring the dew claws and trimming when needed may be a viable alternative to surgical removal. Owners can check that dew claws are not getting caught or injured during activities.
Making the Decision
Deciding whether or not to remove your dog’s dew claws is an important choice that requires careful consideration. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
Consider your dog’s breed and what they typically do. For example, according to PetMD, herding breeds like Briards, St. Bernards, and Great Pyrenees often use their dew claws to turn and pivot while herding. Removing them could impact their natural abilities.
Think about your dog’s activities and lifestyle. If they are active in sports like agility or fieldwork, the dew claws may provide additional stability and traction. Removal may limit their performance.
Assess if there are any medical reasons for removal, like torn or injured dew claws. This is the main medical justification for removal. Otherwise, it’s typically best to keep them intact.
Consult your veterinarian for guidance based on your dog’s specific needs. Let them examine your dog and provide professional advice on whether removal is recommended or not.
Consider alternatives like trimming or taping rather than full removal if the dew claws are prone to injury. This allows you to keep the nail while minimizing the risk of tears.
Think carefully through the pros and cons. Removal is permanent – you can’t reattach a dew claw. Be sure you understand the potential impacts before proceeding.
With your vet’s counsel, weigh all the factors before deciding what’s right for your dog’s health, breed, and lifestyle when it comes to dew claw removal.
Caring After Removal
Proper aftercare is crucial for your dog’s comfort and healing after dew claw removal surgery. Here are some tips for caring for your dog post-operation:
Bandaging the paw and preventing licking of the incision site is important. Your vet will provide you with bandaging instructions. It’s usually recommended to keep the bandage clean and dry for 24-48 hours. Preventing your dog from licking, chewing or scratching the incision is key to avoid infection. An Elizabethan collar may be necessary.
Pain management will also be prescribed by your vet, commonly in the form of oral medication. Follow your vet’s dosage instructions closely and finish the entire course of medication. Signs of pain include whimpering, lack of appetite and lethargy. If your dog is in obvious distress, contact your vet. Ice packs applied to the paw may also help reduce inflammation and discomfort.
According to Pet MD, the incision site should be inspected daily for any signs of redness, discharge, swelling or pain, which could indicate potential complications like infection. Contact your vet immediately if you notice anything abnormal. Stitches are usually removed 10-14 days after surgery. Avoid strenuous activity while your dog is healing.
With proper at-home care following the procedure, your dog should make a full recovery within 2-3 weeks after dew claw removal surgery.
Conclusion
In summary, dew claws are the vestigial nails located higher up a dog’s front or hind legs. While some breeds are commonly born without dew claws, most dogs do have them. There are pros and cons to removing dew claws – some of the pros include preventing potential injuries and avoiding the risk of painful tearing if they catch on something. The cons include the costs and risks of anesthesia and surgery. For certain active working breeds, removal may be recommended, but for many dogs, especially companion breeds, dew claws may be left intact with no issues. If you do opt for removal, be sure to do it within the first few days of life to minimize complications. Provide proper aftercare to keep the area clean and monitor for any signs of infection. Work closely with your veterinarian to determine what’s best for your individual dog.
Ultimately there is no one-size-fits-all recommendation when it comes to dew claw removal. Consider your dog’s breed, activity level, and personal needs. Weigh the potential risks and benefits. Removal is not an absolute requirement for most dogs, so take your time to make an informed decision that’s right for both you and your pup.
