Are Dog Dewclaws Really Useful? 5 Key Roles & Care Tips

Dog dewclaws are often likened to human thumbs but lack opposability and don't have as critical a function. Typically found on the inside of a dog’s front legs, some dogs also sport dewclaws on their hind limbs. Certain U.S.-popular breeds like the Great Pyrenees puppies even feature double dewclaws on their rear legs. If your dog keeps theirs, it's helpful to understand what purpose these claws serve and their potential impact on your pup’s health.

Evolutionary Background and Practical Functions of Dewclaws in Dogs

In ancestral canines and wolves, dewclaws played valuable roles for survival. They assisted in gripping and controlling prey, manipulating food, and enhanced traction on tough or slippery terrain — even aiding in climbing. Though today’s domesticated dogs may not rely on dewclaws as much, these claws continue to offer multiple functional benefits worth noting.

Front dewclaws consist of bone, muscle, skin, and claw, interlinked by tendons and ligaments that permit some movement and strength. Rear dewclaws, if present, usually have a looser attachment, sometimes connected solely by skin and soft tissue, which can influence their usefulness and injury risk.

Dewclaws contribute to:

• Grip and Object Handling: Dogs often use their front dewclaws to hold items like bones or toys between their legs, facilitating chewing and play. American dog owners know this is common with breeds like the Labrador Retriever puppies, who love interactive play.
• Traction and Joint Stability: When dogs make rapid turns, sprint, or traverse slick or uneven ground, dewclaws help stabilize the wrist and improve grip, contributing to safer movement.
• Climbing Support & Balance: Breeds known in the U.S. like the Great Pyrenees use double rear dewclaws as extra footholds and brakes when navigating steep or rocky terrain, reflecting their heritage as mountain guardians.
• Enhancing Athletic Performance: In dog sports such as agility trials, dewclaws offer anchors for balance and quick directional changes.

However, dewclaws that are large or loosely attached might catch on brush or debris outdoors, which risks injury or torn claws — a common concern for active or working dogs in many American regions.

When to Consider Removing Dewclaws

Dewclaw removal has historically been routine for some breeds to prevent injuries, often done in puppies shortly after birth. Yet in modern veterinary practice in the U.S., routine removal, especially of front dewclaws, is more controversial and is usually discouraged without clear medical need.

Your U.S.-based veterinarian may suggest removing dewclaws if they’re prone to snagging or injury—especially if they’re loose or abnormally large. Typically, this minor surgical procedure is done under general anesthesia, often timed alongside spay/neuter surgeries to limit the number of anesthetic events for the pet.

Working dogs that frequently move through thick underbrush or rugged environments, like search-and-rescue dogs or hunting dogs, might benefit from dewclaw removal to lower injury risks. In contrast, dogs involved in competitive sports often retain their dewclaws for their performance advantages.

How to Care for Your Dog’s Dewclaws

For dogs who keep their dewclaws, regular checks are essential. Since dewclaws don’t wear down naturally during regular walking, clipping them frequently is necessary to avoid snagging or painful ingrown claws.

Trimming dewclaws carefully can prevent injuries, infections, and discomfort. American groomers and veterinarians often recommend periodic grooming sessions for this purpose, especially for active dogs.

Owners should also monitor the skin next to dewclaws for scratches or signs of irritation, catching issues before they worsen. Proper maintenance ensures dewclaws support your dog’s natural movements without causing problems.

Summary: Responsible Ownership and Dewclaw Decisions

Dewclaws are not just evolutionary leftovers; they significantly contribute to a dog’s grip, balance, and athletic capabilities. Removing dewclaws without genuine cause might deprive dogs of valuable functional support and could increase limb injury risks.

American dog owners should keep a close eye on their pet’s dewclaws and discuss any concerns with their veterinarian. Decisions about removal should always be guided by veterinary advice tailored to your dog’s lifestyle and well-being.

If you’re searching for a new puppy, remember to find reputable Great Pyrenees breeders or other responsible breeders who prioritize health and natural features rather than elective cosmetic procedures like routine dewclaw removal.