Do Dogs’ Dewclaws Have Useful Purposes?

A dog’s dewclaws are often compared to human thumbs, though they are not opposable and don’t serve as crucial a function. Located on the inside of a dog’s front legs, some dogs also have dewclaws on their hind legs, and certain breeds even have double dewclaws on their rear legs. If your dog still has theirs, it’s helpful to understand their role and whether they might affect your dog's health.

Dewclaws in Canine Evolution and Function

Historically, in wolves and ancient wild dogs, dewclaws were functional aids for survival. They helped these animals grip and subdue prey, manipulate food, and provided critical traction and stability on rough terrain, including climbing. Modern domestic dogs may use their dewclaws less frequently, but these claws still offer several practical benefits.

Front dewclaws are composed of bone, muscle, skin and claw, all connected by tendons and ligaments, which allows some movement and support. Rear dewclaws, when present, are usually less firmly attached, sometimes connected only by skin and soft tissue. The degree of attachment varies between dogs, affecting their utility and risk of injury.

Useful roles of dewclaws include:

• Grip and Manipulation: Dogs use front dewclaws to hold bones, toys or other objects between their legs, aiding in chewing and playing.
• Traction and Stability: When dogs make sharp turns, sprint, or navigate slippery or uneven surfaces, dewclaws help stabilize the wrist joint and improve grip.
• Climbing and Agility: Some breeds with double rear dewclaws, such as Great Pyrenees, use them as brakes or additional footholds for stability on steep or rocky ground.
• Sport Performance: In canine sports like agility, dewclaws provide anchorage and balance during fast, tight turns and obstacle navigation.

Despite these functions, large or loosely attached dewclaws may snag on vegetation or debris, leading to injury or risk of tearing, which is an important consideration for active or working dogs.

When and Why Dewclaw Removal is Considered

Dewclaw removal used to be common in many breeds to prevent injury, typically performed shortly after birth. However, routine removal of dewclaws, especially front ones, is now more controversial and often discouraged unless there is a clear medical reason.

If your dog’s dewclaws are large, loose or prone to catching and tearing, your vet might recommend removal as a preventive step. This minor surgical procedure requires general anaesthetic. The best timing is often when your dog is spayed or neutered to reduce the number of anaesthetics.

Working dogs that trek through dense undergrowth or rough terrains, such as search-and-rescue or hunting dogs, sometimes have dewclaws removed to reduce risk. Conversely, sporting dogs competing in agility events may benefit from retaining dewclaws for enhanced grip and performance.

Proper Care for Dewclaws

If your dog retains their dewclaws, regular inspection is important. Unlike other claws that wear down naturally through walking, dewclaws often grow long and need clipping to prevent snagging or growing into the leg.

Clipping dewclaws carefully and regularly helps prevent injuries, infections, or painful ingrown claws. Always be gentle and consider seeking professional grooming advice if you're unsure.

Monitoring for scratches or irritations on the adjoining leg will also help in catching problems early. Routine care ensures dewclaws don’t become a liability, allowing dogs to benefit from their natural functions safely.

Summary and Responsible Ownership

Dewclaws are more than just vestigial remnants; they play several useful roles in a dog’s grip, balance, and athletic ability. Removing dewclaws without clear justification can deprive dogs of important support and may increase the risk of injury to limbs.

As a responsible dog owner, observe your dog's dewclaws and consult your vet about their health. Make decisions about removal based on veterinary advice and your dog’s lifestyle, ensuring their comfort and safety at all times.

For those looking to find a puppy, remember to seek reputable breeders who prioritise health and natural anatomy over cosmetic procedures like routine dewclaw removal.