Dews & Dont's of Dewclaws!
- VVCC
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
We do not remove front dewclaws on our pups. However, we do remove rear dewclaws. We don't get a lot of questions about why, but thought it would be a good idea to offer an explanation why. In this blog post we will do just that.
Why Removing Front Dewclaws from a Puppy Is Not a Good Idea
When puppies are a few days old, some breeders routinely remove their front dewclaws—sometimes unknown to new pet owners, who later wonder whether that was wise. Though this may appear routine or safe, closer examination reveals substantial anatomical, functional, and welfare concerns. Below is a comprehensive exploration of why we believe front dewclaw removal deserves careful reconsideration.
1. It Is an Amputation Under Anesthesia
Beyond cosmetic or convenience rationale, front dewclaw removal—unless done when the puppy is under just days old—is a surgical amputation under anesthesia. As emphasized by veterinary professionals, anesthesia, however safe, always carries risk—even for young, healthy pups. As dewclaws mature, they develop bone, muscle, nerves, and ligament attachments, making removal a more involved surgical procedure with pain, recovery, and potential complications. Tier 1 Veterinary Medical CenterPreventive Vet
2. Dewclaws Serve Functional, Biomechanical Purposes
Far from vestigial, front dewclaws are connected by tendons and muscles; anatomical evidence shows that when dogs run or turn, these claws contact the ground and reduce rotational torque on the carpal (wrist) joint. Noted veterinary researcher M. Christine Zink observed in stop-action photography that the dewclaw helps stabilize the front paw during dynamic movement. Dogs without dewclaws appear more prone to foot injuries and
developing arthritis. WikipediaPinPoint Vet Care
Beyond high-impact sports, dewclaws assist in gripping objects, whether holding a bone, awkward chew toy, or when climbing slippery terrain. One blog notes that dewclaws help dogs gain traction on surfaces like riverbanks and support tasks like gripping food items. PinPoint Vet CareHome and Field Dogs
3. Long-Term Health Risks: Arthritis and Joint Instability
Without dewclaws to help stabilize the joint, the wrist area experiences increased strain. Over time, this can lead to carpal ligament laxity, joint instability, and the early onset of osteoarthritis. Veterinary sources caution that removal of functionally attached dewclaws can predispose dogs to painful degenerative changes in the front limbs. Preventive VetGun Dog Magazine
4. Injury Prevention Is Overstated—Dewclaw Injuries Are Rare
One of the most common justifications for removal is to prevent the dewclaw from snagging on brush or being torn. Yet many veterinarians report that dewclaw injuries are no more common than other toe injuries and are relatively rare in typical house pets. Most dogs never suffer a dewclaw injury significant enough to justify preventive surgery. Whole Dog JournalTier 1 Veterinary Medical Center
Moreover, proper care—like regular trimming and monitoring—mitigates many risks without resorting to surgery. BWMAmerican Kennel Club
5. Clinical and Community Observations: Anecdotes Supporting Health Risks
Discussion forums among dog owners and trusted veterinary blogs offer real-world accounts echoing scientific findings:
One Reddit user remarked:
“Front dew claws are actually attached to soft tissues in the leg that support the ankle joint. Removing the dew claws can weaken this support. So I really do dislike the practice of removing front dew claws.” Reddit
Another added:
“The more compelling argument against removing dew claws … is that the dew claws serve a purpose.… [They] help stabilize the carpus … preventing excessive torque on the leg.… Removing them can lead to lameness.” Reddit
These accounts align with veterinary evidence that dewclaw removal can destabilize joints and lead to compensatory stress elsewhere in the limb.
6. Differential Approach: Rear Dewclaws vs. Front Dewclaws
Not all dewclaws carry the same risk or function. Rear dewclaws are often loosely attached, with little bone or ligament support, and are more prone to injury. In certain cases, removal of rear dewclaws may be justifiable, especially if they pose a snagging hazard or are ingrown. However, front dewclaws tend to be firmly connected and functionally significant—making the calculus between front vs. rear removal markedly different. BWMWikipedia
7. Post-Surgical Complications and Aftercare Burden
Dewclaw removal, especially in older puppies, requires proper surgical technique, anesthesia, pain management, and diligent aftercare: bandaging, possible antibiotics, restricted activity, and monitoring for infection or suture complications. Failure to properly manage this can result in infection, scarring, or prolonged pain. Whittington Veterinary ClinicPreventive Vet
Conclusion
Removing front dewclaws in puppies is not a benign cosmetic choice—it is a surgical amputation that eliminates a functionally significant digit that supports stability, locomotion, and manipulation. The long-term risks of joint instability, arthritis, and biomechanical stress far outweigh the rare benefit of preventing a snag-related injury.
Instead of routine removal, a responsible path emphasizes monitoring and trimming, reserving surgical intervention for genuine medical necessity (such as a malformed or loose dewclaw). Choosing to preserve front dewclaws demonstrates respect for canine anatomy, long-term health, and ethical veterinary practice.
This analysis draws upon peer-reviewed veterinary observations, anatomical studies, reputable veterinary association positions, and real-life documented experiences to underscore why preserving front dewclaws often represents the wiser choice.
