Mary Allen
Introduction: What are dew claws?
Dew claws are the small, extra toes located on the inside of a dog’s front and/or back legs, above the paw. They are often referred to as the "thumb" of the dog’s foot and are believed to be remnants of an evolutionary adaptation that once helped dogs climb trees. Dew claws are not present in all dog breeds and can vary in size and shape.
The purpose of dew claws in dogs
Dew claws serve a variety of purposes for dogs, including providing extra traction when running and turning, and acting as a stabilizer when the dog is holding onto something. They can also help prevent injuries by absorbing shock and distributing weight evenly across the paw. Dew claws are particularly useful for breeds that are used for hunting, herding, or other types of work that require quick movements and agility.
Do all dogs have dew claws?
No, not all dogs have dew claws. Some breeds have dew claws on their front legs only, while others have dew claws on all four legs. Breeds that are more likely to have dew claws include Great Pyrenees, Saint Bernards, and Anatolian Shepherds. However, many breeds have had their dew claws removed through selective breeding or as a routine procedure shortly after birth.
When do puppies develop dew claws?
Puppies are born with dew claws, although they are often not visible right away as they are attached by a small piece of skin. Dew claws can usually be seen and felt by the time puppies are two weeks old. It is important to keep an eye on dew claws as they grow to ensure that they are not causing any discomfort or becoming ingrown.
How to care for dogs’ dew claws
Regular grooming and nail trimming can help keep dew claws healthy and prevent them from becoming overgrown or snagged. If a dog’s dew claws are particularly long or curved, a veterinarian may recommend trimming them more frequently. It is also important to keep the area around the dew claw clean to prevent infection.
Can dogs’ dew claws fall off naturally?
While dew claws can be removed surgically, they can also fall off naturally in some cases. This is more common in older dogs or dogs that have experienced trauma to the area. If a dog’s dew claw falls off, it is important to keep the area clean and monitor it for signs of infection.
Reasons why dew claws may need to be removed
Dew claw removal is often recommended for dogs that have a history of dew claw injuries or for breeds that are prone to dew claw problems. Dew claws that are excessively long, curved, or loose can also pose a risk to dogs, as they can become snagged or torn. In some cases, dew claws may need to be removed due to cancer or other medical issues.
How is dew claw removal surgery performed?
Dew claw removal surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and involves removing the entire dew claw, including the bone and surrounding tissue. The area is then sutured closed and a bandage is applied. The dog may need to wear a cone or other protective device to prevent them from licking or biting at the area.
Risks and complications of dew claw removal
As with any surgery, there are risks and potential complications associated with dew claw removal. These can include infection, bleeding, and pain. It is important to follow all post-operative instructions and monitor the area closely for any signs of complications.
How to prevent dew claw injuries
Preventing dew claw injuries can be difficult, but there are some steps that can be taken to reduce the risk. Keeping dew claws trimmed and checking them regularly for signs of damage or infection can help. Avoiding rough play or activities that can put excessive strain on the dew claws can also be beneficial.
Conclusion: Understanding dew claws in dogs
Dew claws may seem like a small and insignificant part of a dog’s anatomy, but they can serve an important purpose and require proper care and attention. Whether a dog has dew claws or not, it is important for owners to be aware of their pet’s unique needs and take steps to keep them healthy and happy.
Additional resources for dog owners on dew claws
- American Kennel Club: Dewclaws on Dogs – What Are They For?
- VCA Hospitals: Dewclaw Removal in Dogs
- PetMD: Dew Claws on Dogs: Everything You Need to Know