What is the reason for dogs being born with extra toes?

Introduction: Extra Toes in Dogs

Have you ever noticed some dogs have extra toes on their paws? This condition is known as polydactyly and is not uncommon in dogs. While it may seem unusual, extra toes do not necessarily cause any harm to the dog. In fact, some breeds even have a genetic predisposition to this condition.

Polydactyly can occur in various ways, and its prevalence and impact on the dog’s health depend on the type of polydactyly. In this article, we will explore the types of polydactyly, the genetics behind it, the advantages and disadvantages, and the health risks associated with this condition. We will also discuss the treatment and management of polydactyly and the ethical implications of breeding polydactyl dogs.

Polydactyly in Dogs: What is It?

Polydactyly is a genetic trait that results in the presence of extra toes or digits on the paws of the dog. The term "polydactyly" comes from two Greek words, "poly" meaning many, and "dactylos" meaning fingers. It is a rare condition that affects only a small percentage of dogs. Extra toes can appear in different ways, ranging from a small bump to a fully formed digit with a nail and pad.

Polydactyly is not a disease, and it does not pose a significant threat to a dog’s health. In some cases, it may even provide some benefits, such as better traction and stability when walking or running. However, some types of polydactyly may cause problems, such as ingrown nails or difficulties in grooming, and may require treatment.

Types of Polydactyly in Dogs

There are two main types of polydactyly in dogs: pre-axial and post-axial. Pre-axial polydactyly is the presence of an extra digit on the inside of the paw, while post-axial polydactyly is the presence of an extra digit on the outside of the paw.

Pre-axial polydactyly is more common in dogs and is often seen in breeds such as the Great Pyrenees, Saint Bernard, and Newfoundland. Post-axial polydactyly is less common and is often seen in breeds such as the Beagle, Basset Hound, and American Bulldog. In some rare cases, dogs may have both types of polydactyly on the same paw.

Genetics of Polydactyly in Dogs

Polydactyly in dogs is a genetic trait that is inherited from the parents. It is caused by a mutation in the gene that controls the development of the paw. The gene that is responsible for polydactyly is dominant, which means that only one copy of the gene is needed to express the trait.

Breeding two dogs with polydactyly increases the chances of producing offspring with extra toes. However, breeding two dogs without polydactyly does not guarantee that their offspring will not have extra toes. This is because the gene that controls polydactyly can be carried by a dog without the trait, and may be passed on to its offspring.

Prevalence of Polydactyly in Dogs

Polydactyly is not a common trait in dogs, and its prevalence varies depending on the breed. Some breeds are more likely to have extra toes than others. For example, the Great Pyrenees has a high incidence of polydactyly, while the Dalmatian has a very low incidence.

The prevalence of polydactyly also varies within a breed. Some lines within a breed may have a higher incidence of the trait than others. Polydactyly is more common in certain geographic regions, such as the Southwest United States and parts of Mexico.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Extra Toes

Extra toes can provide some advantages to dogs, such as better traction and stability when walking or running. However, some types of polydactyly may cause problems, such as ingrown nails or difficulties in grooming.

In some cases, extra toes may be considered a disadvantage, especially in breeds that are used for specific tasks, such as hunting or herding. Extra toes may hinder their ability to perform these tasks effectively. Additionally, extra toes may be more prone to injury or infection, which can be a disadvantage.

Extra Toes in Specific Breeds of Dogs

Polydactyly is more common in some breeds of dogs than in others. Some breeds that are known to have a high incidence of polydactyly include the Great Pyrenees, Saint Bernard, Newfoundland, and American Water Spaniel.

In some breeds, such as the Beagle, Basset Hound, and American Bulldog, post-axial polydactyly is more common. In other breeds, such as the Australian Shepherd and Border Collie, polydactyly is very rare.

Health Risks Associated with Polydactyly

Most cases of polydactyly do not pose any significant health risks to the dog. However, some types of polydactyly may cause problems, such as ingrown nails or difficulties in grooming.

Additionally, extra toes may be more prone to injury or infection, which can lead to more serious health problems. In some cases, extra toes may need to be removed surgically to prevent further complications.

Treatment and Management of Polydactyly

In most cases, extra toes do not require any treatment or management. However, if the extra toes are causing problems, such as ingrown nails or difficulties in grooming, they may need to be removed surgically.

Extra toes may require more attention and care than normal toes, especially in breeds that are prone to problems such as ingrown nails. Regular grooming and inspection of the paws can help prevent these problems from occurring.

Ethical Implications of Breeding Polydactyl Dogs

Breeding polydactyl dogs can be a controversial topic. While some breeders may see it as a desirable trait, others may view it as a deformity that should not be perpetuated.

Breeding for polydactyly can also raise ethical concerns, as it may lead to health problems or reduce the dog’s ability to perform specific tasks. Breeders should carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of breeding for polydactyly before making any decisions.

Conclusion: The Mystery of Extra Toes

Extra toes in dogs are not uncommon, and they can appear in various ways depending on the type of polydactyly. While it may seem unusual, extra toes do not necessarily cause any harm to the dog. In fact, some breeds even have a genetic predisposition to this condition.

While extra toes may provide some advantages, they can also cause problems and may require treatment. Breeding polydactyl dogs can be a controversial topic, and breeders should carefully consider the potential risks and benefits before making any decisions.

References: Sources Cited

1. Bockman, D. E. (2001). Polydactyly in Dogs: A Review. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association, 37(3), 231-235. doi:10.5326/15473317-37-3-231

2. Kowalski, M. (2007). Polydactyly in Dogs: A Review of the Literature. Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 37(6), 1141-1150. doi:10.1016/j.cvsm.2007.07.004

3. Patterson, D. F. (1974). Inherited Anomalies in Dogs: Their Recognition and Significance. Lea & Febiger.