If you've ever closely examined your dog's paws, you might have noticed a small claw higher up the leg, separate from the rest of the toes. This unique feature is called a dewclaw, and though often overlooked, it plays an interesting role in your dog’s anatomy and history.

Dewclaws have sparked curiosity and debate among pet owners and breeders for decades. Should they be removed? Are they functional or simply a leftover from evolution? Let’s explore what dewclaws are, why they exist, whether they need to be removed, and how to take care of them properly.

What Exactly Is a Dewclaw?

Dewclaws are extra digits found slightly above a dog’s paw, closer to the wrist area on the front legs. They’re positioned much like a human thumb and are not in contact with the ground when your dog stands. Most dogs are born with dewclaws on their front legs, but some breeds also develop them on their rear legs.

In some breeds, such as the Great Pyrenees and Beauceron, you may even notice double dewclaws—two extra digits on a single paw. These are usually located on the hind legs and are considered a breed standard in some working dogs.

Why Do Dogs Have Dewclaws?

To understand why dogs have dewclaws, it's useful to look at their evolutionary past. Early ancestors of today’s dogs were believed to be more agile and adapted to climbing, similar to cats. Dewclaws may have provided them with additional grip when navigating uneven terrain or climbing.

As dogs evolved and developed into land-based, fast-running animals, the dewclaws lost most of their original function and were gradually positioned higher up the leg. In modern dogs, these claws rarely touch the ground, and for many breeds, they are considered non-essential.

That said, not all dewclaws are entirely useless. Certain dogs, especially working breeds such as search-and-rescue dogs, sled dogs, or hunting dogs, may actually use their dewclaws for added traction and grip when running or making sharp turns on rough or icy surfaces. In some cases, dewclaws help stabilize the dog’s lower leg joints during motion.

Which Dogs Typically Have Dewclaws?

All dogs are born with dewclaws on their front legs. However, only a few breeds naturally develop rear dewclaws, and even fewer develop double dewclaws. Breeds known for rear dewclaws include:

  • Great Pyrenees

  • Beauceron

  • Briard

  • Icelandic Sheepdog

  • Saint Bernard

If your dog doesn’t appear to have any dewclaws, they may have been surgically removed shortly after birth, which is common practice among some breeders.

Should Dewclaws Be Removed?

The question of dewclaw removal is a long-standing debate in the pet community. Some breeders choose to remove them when puppies are only a few days old. At this stage, the dewclaws are still soft and not yet fully attached to bone, making the procedure quicker and easier.

The main reason for early removal is to prevent future injuries or to meet breed appearance standards. However, dewclaw removal is often considered cosmetic rather than medically necessary in healthy dogs.

Removing dewclaws from adult dogs is more complicated. Since the claws are connected to bone, muscle, nerves, and blood vessels, the procedure requires general anesthesia and postoperative care. In adult dogs, dewclaw removal is typically only performed if:

  • The dewclaw is repeatedly injured or torn

  • There is a persistent infection or tumor

  • The claw is abnormally formed or causes ongoing issues

Unless medically indicated, most veterinarians advocate keeping dewclaws intact. Dewclaws contribute to wrist joint stability and provide extra control in movement—particularly for active or athletic dogs.

Common Dewclaw Issues

Although dewclaws are generally harmless, they are prone to injury more than the other nails. Because they often don't make contact with the ground, dewclaws don't get naturally worn down through daily activities. This can lead to overgrown nails, which may curl, become ingrown, or catch on objects.

Here are some common dewclaw-related problems:

1. Broken Dewclaws

A broken dewclaw can cause bleeding and pain, especially if the quick (the inner part of the nail with nerves and blood supply) is exposed. It may happen due to trauma or if the nail gets caught on something.

If your dog breaks a dewclaw and there is mild bleeding, you can apply cornstarch or styptic powder to stop it. However, if the bleeding is heavy or the claw is fractured at the base, it’s best to consult a veterinarian.

2. Infections

Dewclaws can become infected due to trauma, ingrown nails, or constant licking—especially if your dog suffers from allergies or anxiety. Symptoms include:

  • Swelling around the nail

  • Redness or warmth

  • Foul odor

  • Pus or discharge

Veterinary care is necessary for infections, and treatment usually includes antibiotics, bandaging, and possibly the use of an Elizabethan collar to prevent further licking.

3. Loosely Attached Rear Dewclaws

Some rear dewclaws are loosely attached with little or no bone support. These claws are more vulnerable to injury because they dangle and are easily caught on surfaces or fabrics. In these cases, surgical removal may be recommended to prevent recurring injuries.

How to Take Care of Dewclaws

Maintaining your dog’s dewclaws is an important part of paw care. Unlike other nails, dewclaws don’t get filed down naturally and may grow faster than you expect. Neglecting them can lead to curling, cracking, or breakage.

Here are some simple dewclaw care tips:

  • Regular Trimming: Trim the dewclaw as often as the rest of your dog’s nails—usually every 2–4 weeks.

  • Monitor for Overgrowth: Keep an eye on the length and curvature of the dewclaw. If it begins curling inward or toward the leg, it’s time for a trim.

  • Check During Grooming: Make dewclaw inspection a routine part of grooming. Look for signs of swelling, discoloration, or discharge.

  • Use Proper Tools: Nail clippers made specifically for dogs or a rotary grinder are best for trimming. Avoid cutting into the quick to prevent pain and bleeding.

  • Ask Your Vet for Help: If you’re unsure about trimming, your vet or a professional groomer can do it for you and show you how to do it safely at home.

Final Thoughts

Dewclaws might seem like a strange or unnecessary part of your dog’s anatomy, but they are a natural feature that can still serve a purpose. While not all dogs use their dewclaws actively, they contribute to balance, movement, and even emergency traction in some situations.

Routine maintenance and occasional vet checks are usually all that’s needed to keep dewclaws healthy. Unless there’s a medical reason for removal, it’s best to leave them intact and treat them like any other part of your dog’s body—with care and attention.

By understanding dewclaws and staying attentive to their condition, you’re helping your dog stay healthy, happy, and injury-free.