In some cases, this is done at the same time as spay or neuter surgeries. This is why it's best to have this procedure done by a veterinarian, as they will remove all the bones so that nothing grows back.Īfter this early age, dewclaws must be removed by a veterinarian when the dog is sedated, as it is considered an amputation. It is possible when dewclaw removal is done at this age, that there can be regrowth of the nail. If done by a veterinarian, they are removed under local anesthesia, clamps, and a scalpel. When done at home, they are clipped off with scissors or nail clippers. Typically, dewclaws are removed by a breeder (or the breeder's veterinarian) at three to five days of age. Be sure to trim your dog's dewclaws regularly. Dewclaws can easily become overgrown, making them more at risk of getting caught and injured or growing back painfully into the dewclaw pad or a dog's leg. If your dog has either front or rear dewclaws, it's important to not forget about trimming them just like you do their regular nails. Another example is the Great Pyrenees, which is expected to have a dewclaw on each front leg and double dewclaws on each rear leg. These extra claws helped them climb rocky ledges in their historical job of hunting Puffin birds. The Norwegian Lundehund, a rare Spitz breed, has SIX toes on all four feet. However, there are breeds where dewclaws are a part of the breed standard and are required in the show ring. There are certain breeds of dogs, where it has become customary to show them with the front dewclaws removed. Bernard, Icelandic Sheepdogs, Briard, and a few others. They are typically seen in breeds such as the Great Pyrenees, St. Rear dewclaws, like front dewclaws, are genetic. Many hunting breeds have their dewclaws removed to prevent them from being caught and injured while running through brush and tough terrain. If you don't see a dewclaw on your dog's front paws, it was likely removed. In some breeds, there are even double rear dewclaws! Rear dewclaws are often only attached to the body by the skin. Do All Dogs Have Dewclaws? Rear dewclaws are rare, typically seen in only certain breeds, and do not seem to serve any function. For this reason, dogs who compete in agility or other dog sports can benefit from having front dewclaws. The dewclaw digs into the ground providing support to the limb when dogs turn. The dewclaw helps stabilize the carpus (the wrist) of the lead leg by touching the ground when a dog is in a gallop or canter. The front dewclaw has five tendons attached to it and plays a significant role when dogs are in motion, helps a dog grip and manipulate items they are chewing on, and helps some dogs get out of water. While the dewclaw does not offer all the same benefits as the human thumb - it's not opposable! - it still has an important purpose. Should an older puppy need dewclaw removal, we can remove them at the same time of their spay or neuter procedure since they will need to undergo full general anesthesia.A dog’s front dewclaw is often equated to a human’s thumb. Most puppies recover without incident from this low risk surgery. Removing dewclaws will prevent these weakly attached digits from getting tangled or caught, which can lead to painful injuries with a high risk of infection.ĭewclaw removal for puppies is a fairly simple procedure that is generally performed at 3-5 days of age, at which time they do not have to undergo general anesthesia. A puppy's dewclaws are the toes or digits located on the innermost aspect of the paw in approximately the same location as a human's thumb and are not used for walking. We also provide careful and effective dewclaw removal services on request to prevent future injury. Tail docking usually coincides with dewclaw removal. The suture line will need to be closely monitored daily for redness, swelling, discharge or pain. The surgical process is generally considered to be a very low risk operation and is a short procedure. Once your puppy is ready to return home, it will be important to follow home care instructions to ensure a successful recovery. Our veterinarians work closely with breeders to determine appropriate length of tail, and ensure a safe and successful outcome for your pet. Tail docking surgery for dogs is ideally performed when your puppy is between 3-5 days of age, and is generally performed at the breeder's request. We provide safe and effective tail docking services to help prevent future damage and maintain hygiene, while supporting compliance with specific breed standards.
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