Everything You Need to Know About Dog Dewclaws

Dogs have an interesting feature on their feet that many may overlook. Typically, dogs have four nails on each rear foot and five on the front. The fifth nail, positioned on the upper, inner part of the foot, is known as the dewclaw. This small part of a dog’s anatomy can sometimes appear on the rear feet or even exist in pairs, known as double dewclaws.

Understanding the function and significance of dewclaws can be helpful for dog owners. These nails might be used for gripping objects or for stability. There’s no need for concern if a dog has more or fewer dewclaws, as these variations are just part of canine diversity.

What Are Dewclaws?

Dewclaws are like the extra digits on a dog’s feet, somewhat comparable to human thumbs and big toes, although not exactly the same. On a dog’s front foot, the toes that touch the ground represent the pinky, ring finger, middle finger, and index finger in human terms. The dewclaw serves as their “thumb.” This is also true for the back foot if a dewclaw, acting like a “big toe,” is present.

Dewclaws can vary in how they are attached to a dog’s foot. Commonly, a single front dewclaw is firmly attached. It can move a little but is connected by bones and ligaments to the leg. Rear and Double Dewclaws are often less securely attached, typically only by skin, which makes them more flexible and mobile.

Understanding the nature of dewclaws helps in knowing their role and care requirements in a dog’s anatomy.

Anatomy of Dog Dewclaws

Dog dewclaws are small, thumb-like digits located higher up on a dog’s paw. While some dogs have these on both front and hind legs, others may only have them on the front.

Structural Features

Dewclaws contain bone, muscle, and tendons, allowing some movement. They are usually located on the inside of the leg, just above the paw. The bone structure of the dewclaw is similar to that of other fingers, but more compact.

While front dewclaws often connect directly to the bone, hind dewclaws might be more loosely attached. This affects how functional the dewclaw is. It may assist in grip during activities like climbing or running. Regular trimming is important, as the nail can often curl inward without ground contact to wear it down naturally.

Variations Across Breeds

The presence and structure of dewclaws can vary widely among dog breeds. Most dogs have dewclaws on their front legs. Some breeds like the Great Pyrenees also have them on their hind legs.

Breeds bred for specific tasks, like climbing or racing, might retain functional dewclaws that aid in those activities. In some cases, certain breeds may have double dewclaws, where two are present on one leg. Removal of dewclaws is common in breeds not requiring them for their tasks, sometimes for safety during work or play.

Do Dewclaws Have a Purpose?

Dewclaws attached by bone to a dog’s front foot play an important role. When racing or moving quickly, a dog’s front feet may bend so much that the dewclaws touch the ground. This contact provides extra traction, especially when the dog is turning or navigating slippery surfaces. It also helps stabilize the wrist joint.

Some dogs benefit from their dewclaws for other activities too. They use them to climb trees or to grip objects better, aiding in chewing. Dewclaws attached only by skin are less clear in their usefulness.

Dewclaw Attachment and Potential Health Risks

Dewclaws are small, thumb-like toes on a dog’s paw. Sometimes, they can be injured or develop health problems. Awareness of these issues helps in providing timely care.

Dewclaw Injuries

Dewclaws can catch on things and tear, making them prone to injury. Active dogs who run through rough terrain, like woods or rocky areas, face this risk more often. Torn dewclaws can cause pain, bleeding, and a risk of infection.

Some dogs may also fracture a dewclaw if they accidentally hit or jam it against a hard surface. While these injuries are common, they can often be treated with a vet’s help. Professional treatment may include cleaning wounds or even surgery if necessary.

Common Dewclaw Health Issues

Infections and ingrown nails are common dewclaw issues. An ingrown dewclaw nail occurs when the nail curls and grows into the pad, causing pain and swelling. If a dog licks their dewclaw excessively, it might signal discomfort or an infection.

Regular trimming is a simple way to prevent nail overgrowth. Dog owners can also watch for signs of redness or swelling around dewclaws. Early detection of these problems makes treatment easier and helps avoid more serious health issues. Regular vet check-ups are also beneficial for overall paw and dewclaw health.

The Debate: Dewclaw Removal

Dewclaw removal in dogs is a topic that sparks discussions among pet owners and veterinarians. Some believe it offers safety benefits, while others argue it can be unnecessary and harmful.

Pros of Dewclaw Removal

Removing dewclaws can help prevent injuries. Dogs with dewclaws may snag them on surfaces, leading to tears or breaks. Such injuries can be painful and may require veterinary care. In active dogs, especially those participating in sports, the risk might increase. By removing the dewclaws, potential injuries can be avoided, ensuring safety during vigorous activity.

Some veterinarians suggest removing dewclaws in puppies. The process is often simpler when the dog is young, as bones and tissues are still soft. This makes the procedure less painful and reduces recovery time. Owners of certain breeds prefer dewclaw removal for cosmetic reasons. In some dog shows, a clean leg appearance is valued. Breeds like the Great Pyrenees or Briard, which naturally have double dewclaws, might be exceptions.

Cons of Dewclaw Removal

On the flip side, dewclaw removal can mean unnecessary surgery. Not all dogs experience injury risks from their dewclaws. For many dogs, the dewclaws do not cause any problems during their lifetime. Surgery always carries risks, including infection and pain, making the benefits questionable for some owners.

Dewclaws play a role in a dog’s movement. They provide extra grip and help in activities like climbing or turning. Some experts argue that removing them might affect a dog’s overall balance. There is also a natural aspect to consider. Many believe dogs should remain as they are born, only altering them for health reasons, not for cosmetic or speculative safety.

Managing Dewclaw Injuries

Dewclaw injuries can happen, although they aren’t very common. A dog’s nail might become ripped off, cracked, split, get an infection, or even grow inward if it isn’t trimmed right. These types of injuries can cause a lot of pain and might get infected because of where dogs walk.

It’s recommended to have a veterinarian look at these injuries promptly. Veterinarians can take care of torn nails, trim ingrown ones (sometimes using sedation), and provide antibiotics or painkillers as needed.

Proper Care and Maintenance of Dewclaws

Dewclaws need regular attention to prevent problems. Regular trimming and watching for any signs of issues are key.

Trimming Dewclaw Nails

Dewclaws usually don’t wear down naturally because they don’t touch the ground. They can grow too long and curl, leading to ingrown nails or even injury. Trim dewclaw nails about every 3-4 weeks, checking their length each time.

Use a sharp dog nail clipper. Place the clipper perpendicular to the nail and clip in small sections. It’s important to avoid cutting into the quick, which can cause bleeding and pain. If you see a dark spot in the middle of the nail, you’ve reached the quick. Invest in styptic powder to stop bleeding if necessary. For first-timers, a veterinarian or groomer can demonstrate the process safely.

Monitoring for Signs of Infection or Injury

Check dewclaws regularly for redness, swelling, or oozing, which are signs of infection. Injuries can occur if the dewclaw gets caught on something, causing it to tear.

If an injury or infection is present, seeking veterinary assistance should be a priority. Keeping the area clean is crucial. Use mild antiseptic cleansers if recommended by a vet and avoid using human antiseptics. Monitor the dewclaw’s healing and keep the dog from licking or biting the area to aid recovery.

Surgical Procedures Involving Dewclaws

Dewclaw surgeries often involve removal, especially if the dewclaws are loose or cause injury. Proper post-surgical care helps ensure pets heal quickly and comfortably.

Dewclaw Removal Surgery

Dewclaw removal can occur at various life stages, though it is often done when dogs are young. The procedure is usually straightforward, involving the removal of the entire dewclaw digit.

Veterinarians use local or general anesthesia, depending on the dog’s age and health. The removal can prevent future injuries or infections if the dewclaw is loose. Some dog breeds may benefit from such removal due to their activity level and environment.

Pet owners should discuss the pros and cons with their vet to determine if this surgery is necessary for their dog.

Post-Surgical Care

After surgery, dogs need careful monitoring to prevent infection. Keep the wound clean and dry, changing bandages as advised by the vet. Limiting the dog’s activity helps in proper healing.

Pain management is crucial—veterinarians may prescribe medication to ease discomfort and reduce swelling. Follow the vet’s instructions closely, ensuring any signs of complications are addressed swiftly.

Regular follow-up appointments are essential to check on recovery progress. By maintaining proper care, dogs can return to their daily activities without long-term issues.

Breed-Specific Considerations and Dewclaws

Some dog breeds have unique considerations when it comes to dewclaws. Working dogs may rely on them for function, while show dogs must adhere to breed standards.

Working Dogs and Dewclaw Function

In breeds like the Great Pyrenees and Saint Bernard, dewclaws can serve important functions. These dogs often have double dewclaws on their hind legs. This helps with stability on rough terrain, especially during work or rescue tasks. For breeds like Border Collies and Australian Shepherds, front dewclaws aid in agility and turning.

Many owners of working dogs choose to keep these dewclaws intact. Removing them might affect the dog’s performance in tasks that require agility or stability.

Show Dogs and Breed Standards

Breed standards for show dogs often specify the presence or absence of dewclaws. Some breeds, like the Briard, require dewclaws to be present for competitions. This can vary greatly across different breeds, so breeders and owners need to check specific regulations.

In other breeds, dewclaws might be removed early on to meet these standards. For example, removal is common in Labrador Retrievers, where dewclaws are not part of the defined standard. This ensures that the dog fits within the guidelines for appearance and competition.

Tips for Keeping Dewclaws Tidy

Dewclaws, like other nails on a dog’s paws, need regular attention. While active dogs might naturally wear down their nails, most require regular trimming. Dewclaws are less likely to touch the ground and more prone to becoming too long without regular care.

Check dewclaws frequently because they don’t often touch the ground, and they can easily become overgrown. Trim dewclaws with care and use appropriate tools to trim dewclaws safely.

It’s important to avoid cutting too close to the quick, which can cause pain. Seek Professional Help If unsure about trimming dewclaws, a visit to the veterinarian or groomer can provide guidance and assistance.

Regular care ensures dewclaws remain healthy and comfortable for your pet.