Mary Allen
Introduction: What are dewclaws?
Dewclaws are a dog’s extra digit located on the inside of their front or hind paws, slightly above the ground. They are similar to thumbs in humans and are often referred to as the dog’s "thumb". Some dogs have dewclaws on all four paws, while others only have them on their front paws. Dewclaws are not used for walking and are often removed when the puppy is a few days old to prevent them from getting caught on things and causing injury.
Common breeds with dewclaws
Many dog breeds have dewclaws, including the Beauceron, Briard, Great Pyrenees, Anatolian Shepherd, and Bernese Mountain Dog. Some breeds, such as the Australian Shepherd, also have the potential to develop double dewclaws. In general, dewclaws are more common in larger dog breeds.
The Great Pyrenees and their dewclaws
The Great Pyrenees is a breed that is well-known for having rear dewclaws, which is not as common in other breeds. The rear dewclaws on a Great Pyrenees are attached by bone, making them more functional than those on other breeds. It is believed that this extra digit helps the Great Pyrenees with stability and traction when walking on uneven terrain.
Are dewclaws more common in working dogs?
Dewclaws are more common in working dogs, such as the Anatolian Shepherd and the Great Pyrenees, which were bred for herding and guarding livestock. The extra digit can provide additional stability and traction when navigating rough terrain, which is important for these types of jobs. However, not all working dogs have dewclaws, and some non-working breeds, such as the Bernese Mountain Dog, also have them.
Dewclaws and the Anatolian Shepherd
The Anatolian Shepherd is a breed that is known for having double dewclaws on their hind legs. These extra digits are thought to provide the dog with additional grip and stability when performing their duties as a livestock guardian. However, some breeders choose to remove the dewclaws to prevent them from getting caught on things and causing injury.
The controversy surrounding dewclaw removal
There is a lot of debate surrounding dewclaw removal in dogs. Some breeders and veterinarians believe that removing the dewclaws is necessary to prevent injury, while others argue that it is unnecessary and can cause pain and discomfort for the dog. There is also some evidence to suggest that dewclaws can provide additional stability and traction for dogs, particularly in working breeds.
Do all breeds have dewclaws?
Not all breeds have dewclaws, and some breeds only have them on their front paws. Breeds that are more likely to have dewclaws include those that were bred for working, such as herding or guarding livestock. However, there are also some non-working breeds, such as the Bernese Mountain Dog, that have them.
Dewclaws in hunting dogs
Dewclaws can be particularly important for hunting dogs, as they provide additional traction and stability when running and navigating rough terrain. Breeds such as the Beagle, Bloodhound, and Coonhound often have dewclaws, and some hunters even choose to leave them intact as they believe they provide an advantage in the field.
The importance of dewclaws in dog sports
Dewclaws can also be important for dogs that compete in sports such as agility and flyball. These sports require dogs to navigate obstacles quickly and efficiently, and having dewclaws can provide additional grip and stability when jumping and turning.
The Bernese Mountain Dog and their dewclaws
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a breed that is known for having dewclaws on their hind legs. While this is not as common as front dewclaws, it is believed that the extra digit provides additional traction and stability when the dog is hiking or working in the mountains.
The effects of dewclaw removal on a dog’s health
Dewclaw removal can cause pain and discomfort for the dog, particularly if it is done without anesthesia or if the wound becomes infected. It can also affect the dog’s gait and balance, particularly if the dewclaws are removed from the hind legs. Some studies have even suggested that removing dewclaws can increase the risk of arthritis later in life.
Conclusion: To dewclaw or not to dewclaw?
Ultimately, the decision to remove dewclaws is up to the individual breeder or owner. While some argue that it is necessary to prevent injury, there is evidence to suggest that dewclaws can provide additional stability and traction for dogs. It is important to consider the breed and the dog’s intended use when making this decision, and to ensure that the procedure is done in a safe and humane manner.