Dew Claw Removal

[Kathy Wilson]

Why is the removal of dew claws so widespread? I hear it's because the dog could get it's dewclaw caught on something. I have been known to catch my 'baby' toe on things from time to time but I definitely do not want it amputated. Some vets are in favor of dewclaw removal and some are not. Would love to hear from the rest of you what your views are and why.

[Adina P]

Here is what I found from past discussion: http://www.doodlekisses.com/forum/topics/2065244:Topic:139451

My thoughts are that dew claw removal is not necessary and dew claws may be useful to dogs.

[Kathy Wilson]

Adina, thanks so much for the link. I should have searched for the topic before I posted.

[Marianne *OZZY & ZOEY]

If the dew claw is not causing a problem it should be left alone. Ozzy had both of his removed as they were growing in upside down and getting caught on everything. Even if I tried to keep them cut short he would have had a problem as to they way they would grow. His are removed and he doesn't seem to miss them. Zoey has hers and no problem at all.

[Noble Vestal Labradoodles]

I interviewed over 30 Indianapolis vets and only 1 had ever had to work on a torn dew claw, several had commented that it could happen~~~

There are far greater reasons to leave them.

[Kathy Wilson]

My vet admitted this as well. He believes in early removal but admitted that tears rarely happen. Said it's easier to do on a puppy than a full grown dog. Still, I'm for leaving them alone unless they are growing in the wrong direction.

[Tammy & Gracie]

Gracie still has her dewclaws. When she was spayed I asked the vet if we needed to remove those as well. He commented that we should leave them alone. He added that in an older pup this is a very painful procedure, describing it as feeling like amputating one of my toes.