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Writer's pictureCassidy Davis
Mar 216 min read

The Truth About Dewclaws: Why We Embrace Them at Davis Farm Boston Terriers

Hello, fellow dog lovers! Today, we're diving into a topic that sparks some debate in the dog community—dewclaws. Specifically, why we at Davis Farm Boston Terriers choose not to remove our puppies' dewclaws.


Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's start with a quick overview of what dewclaws are. Dewclaws are the extra toes or digits found on the inside of a dog's front legs (and sometimes on the hind legs too). They're often smaller and positioned higher up on the leg than the other toes.


Now, onto the big question—why do some people choose to remove dewclaws, and why do we choose not to? The decision to remove dewclaws is often based on traditional beliefs or concerns about potential injuries. However, at Davis Farm Boston Terriers, we believe that dewclaws serve an important purpose and should be embraced rather than removed.


One of the main reasons we choose not to remove dewclaws is because they are functional. Dewclaws are not just vestigial appendages; they serve a purpose in a dog's natural movement and balance. They can provide extra traction when running or turning quickly, especially on uneven terrain. Additionally, dewclaws can be used by dogs to hold onto objects or toys, much like a thumb for humans.


But functionality is just one part of the equation. Dewclaws also play a role in a dog's overall health and well-being. They are attached to muscles and tendons, and removing them can impact the dog's biomechanics and potentially lead to joint issues or changes in gait. By keeping dewclaws intact, we help our puppies maintain their natural structure and movement, which is essential for their long-term health.


Now, you might be wondering about the risks associated with keeping dewclaws. While it's true that dewclaws can be prone to injuries, such as tearing or snagging on objects, we take proactive measures to reduce these risks. We trim our puppies' dewclaws regularly to keep them at a manageable length and monitor their activity to ensure they stay safe and healthy.


"M. Christine Zink, DVM, PhD, DACVSMR, is a veterinarian with Johns Hopkins University, and has extensively studied dewclaws. Her research suggests that dewclaws are essential to a dog’s mobility. Zink’s 2015 study Form Follows Function-A New Perspective on an Old Adage features sequential images that she shot of dogs running. Zink’s images show that the dewclaws dig into the ground and prevent the legs from twisting and torquing which enhances and strengthens forward movement. As a result, she believes that dewclaws shouldn’t be removed. “If the dog doesn’t have dewclaws, the leg twists,” she wrote. “A lifetime of that can result in carpal arthritis, or perhaps injuries to other joints, such as the elbow, shoulder, and toes. When a dog runs, the entire foot, from the carpus to the toes, contacts the ground. If the dog then turns, it can dig the dewclaw (the equivalent of our thumb) into the ground to stabilize the leg and reduce torque on the rest of the leg.”


Muscles and tendons that connect to the dewclaw suggests that they are part of the dog’s ambulatory ability, says Zink. Though not proven, their removal is suspected to cause arthritis later in life. “Further proof of the front dewclaws’ functionality comes from anatomical studies demonstrating that that there are several tendons that connect muscles of the lower limb to the dewclaw. There are two major functioning tendons attached to the front dewclaws. Of course, at the other end of a tendon is a muscle, and that means that if you cut off the dewclaws, there are major muscle bundles that will become atrophied from disused. Those muscles indicate that the dewclaws have a function. Some veterinarians report a higher incidence of foot and carpus injuries and arthritis in dogs that lack dewclaws, likely because of additional torque on the leg. Thus, for working dogs it is best for the dewclaws not to be amputated. If the dewclaw does suffer a traumatic injury, the problem can be dealt with at that time, including amputation if needed.”


Johnny Myers, DVM, is a bird dogger, a waterfowler, and the owner of the Animal Wellness Center in Paducah, Kentucky. Dr. Myers is not a fan of removing dewclaws from newborn puppies. “Injured dewclaws are the least represented injury to the digits,” he said. “Removal isn’t as easy as it looks, either. There is a sweet spot where the dewclaw connects to the tendon, and it’s surrounded by nerves, blood vessels, and muscle. If the procedure isn’t precise then there can be collateral damage that appears later in the dog’s life. Presenting complications affecting older dogs typically involve arthritis or orthopedic tendonitis. So while the removal of a dewclaw may prevent a break, it may create significant issues later on. If you want to know what it’s like then try doing pushups with just four fingers. It’s not as easy as it is with five, is it?”


Nutrition can help create strong claws, says Eukanuba’s Scientific Services Nutritionist and avid bird dogger, Russ Kelley. “Ligaments connect them with muscle and bone. They also contain blood vessels and nerve endings. Keeping claws from injury is important, and nutrition can help strengthen the claws. Diets with appropriate amounts of protein, Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty acids, minerals like iron, zinc and magnesium, and vitamins like B-7 (biotin) and B-12 (cobalamin) help support nail growth and strength to withstand the tough upland and waterfowl environments.”"


Ultimately, our decision to keep dewclaws intact is rooted in our commitment to the well-being of our puppies. We believe that nature has a purpose for every part of a dog's anatomy, and dewclaws are no exception. By embracing dewclaws, we honor the natural beauty and functionality of our beloved Boston Terriers.


Declaw injuries are very rare and can often be prevented by not letting your dog's declaws get overgrown. "When it comes to maintenance, dewclaws are no different from your dog’s other nails. For most pets, regular nail trims are needed to keep their nails at a healthy length—especially for dewclaws, which aren’t in contact with the ground as frequently as the other nails. Dewclaws may need more frequent trims to prevent them from becoming overgrown."


What To Do If Your Dog Injures Its Dewclaw


In our journey of educating and advocating for the well-being of our furry friends, we delve into the topic of common dewclaw injuries. While dewclaws serve important functions, they can be susceptible to injuries that require careful attention and prompt treatment. Let's explore some of the common dewclaw injuries and what pet owners can do to address them effectively.


  1. Torn Dewclaws: One of the most common dewclaw injuries is a torn or partially torn dewclaw. This can occur due to rough play, snagging on objects, or accidental trauma. Signs of a torn dewclaw include limping, licking or biting at the paw, and visible damage to the dewclaw. What to Do: If you notice a torn dewclaw, it's essential to take immediate action. Clean the area gently with antiseptic solution and apply a clean bandage to protect the injured dewclaw. Contact your veterinarian for further evaluation and treatment, which may include trimming the damaged nail or potentially removing the dewclaw if necessary.

  2. Dewclaw Fractures: Fractures or breaks in the dewclaw can occur due to impact injuries or getting caught in tight spaces. Dogs may exhibit signs of pain, swelling, and reluctance to put weight on the affected paw. What to Do: Seek veterinary attention promptly for dewclaw fractures. Your veterinarian may recommend X-rays to assess the extent of the fracture and determine the appropriate treatment, which may involve splinting, bandaging, or surgical intervention depending on the severity of the fracture.

  3. Dewclaw Infections: Infections can occur in dewclaws that have been injured or torn, leading to redness, swelling, discharge, and discomfort for the dog. Bacterial or fungal infections can develop if the injured dewclaw is not properly cleaned and treated. What to Do: Clean the infected area with a pet-safe antiseptic solution and consult your veterinarian for guidance on antibiotic or anti-fungal treatment. Keeping the area clean and dry is crucial for preventing further infection and promoting healing.

  4. Ingrown Dewclaws: Ingrown dewclaws can occur when the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain and inflammation. This can happen if the dewclaw is not trimmed regularly or if the nail grows abnormally. What to Do: Carefully trim the ingrown nail to relieve pressure and prevent further discomfort. If the ingrown dewclaw is causing significant pain or inflammation, consult your veterinarian for assistance in safely addressing the issue.

By being vigilant and proactive in addressing dewclaw injuries, pet owners can help their furry companions recover quickly and avoid potential complications. Regular grooming, monitoring for signs of injury, and seeking veterinary care when needed are key components of dewclaw injury prevention and management.


We hope this article has shed some light on why we choose not to remove our puppies' dewclaws at Davis Farm Boston Terriers. If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, feel free to bark in the comments below!


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