Most breeds that have hind dew claws have their origins in Europe which could suggest common ancestry.īut it is also probable that the trait evolved from the breed’s lifestyles that are characterized by native terrains. Related Post: How Late Can You Remove Dew Claws? You should be careful when choosing to declaw because the anesthetics used for the surgery could result in some unforeseen complications. In some breeds, owners are allowed to choose whether to declaw or not. In fact, rear dewclaws have to be removed in some of the breeds to meet the standard. Several dog breeds can have hind dewclaws but only a few breeds need them as part of the breed standard. That said, rear dewclaw injuries are not that common. This should only be done by a veterinarian and the procedure should happen when the puppy is a few days old. Rear dewclaws that stick out and yet are not firmly attached to the bone are bound to cause injury and it’s usually best to remove them.

It is believed that removing the hind dewclaws can help to prevent injury of the dog in adulthood. Just think of this dewclaw as similar to the human thumb-and just like the thumb, canines use the dewclaw for grasping.ĭepending on the breed, the dewclaw can be on the front or the rear of the foot and they can also be both on the front as well as the hind feet.įront dewclaws have undisputed importance but the hind dewclaws usefulness is debatable.Īs a result, some breeders opt to declaw them when the puppies are still small. This fifth toe is what is referred to as a dewclaw.

Most canines have paws that have four toes on the paw but they also have another fifth toe that is positioned a little higher than the other toes. As an Amazon Associate, we may receive a small commission from qualifying purchases but at no extra cost to you.

Double dew claw dog breeds