Yes, many breeders, especially in the US for sporting/hunting dogs, traditionally remove dewclaws to prevent future injuries, viewing them as non-essential, but this practice is declining as some breeders and owners keep them for stability, especially for agility or active pets, though some European countries now ban the procedure entirely. The decision depends heavily on breed, activity level, and personal philosophy, with arguments for both removal (injury prevention) and retention (function, stability).

Do vets recommend removing dew claws?

Veterinarians generally recommend against removing healthy dewclaws, especially front ones, as they aid in balance and grip, but may suggest removing problematic rear dewclaws that dangle loosely and pose a high risk of snagging and injury, particularly in active dogs. The decision depends on the individual dog's dewclaw type (front vs. rear, attached vs. loose) and lifestyle, with removal usually reserved for severe injury or disease, or performed by a vet on young puppies to prevent future complications.

Should breeders remove dew claws?

One area where I do have a firm stance is removing dewclaws once a dog is more than a few days old—I strongly advise against it. Early in my career, it was somewhat common to remove dewclaws during a spay or neuter, typically around six to eight months of age. These surgeries rarely went smoothly.

Does AKC recommend removing dew claws?

We support laws that target irresponsible and cruel owners and establish good standards for dog care. Ear cropping, tail docking, and dewclaw removal are long- accepted animal husbandry practices and do not constitute animal cruelty. These procedures improve the health and safety of dogs and should not be banned.

Is dewclaw removal considered animal cruelty?

In fact, fully declawing any animal, be it dog or cat, is considered animal cruelty in a number of countries, and has become an increasingly controversial procedure in the US. Dewclaw removal, while less controversial, has been growing increasingly unpopular in modern pet owner circles.

I’m Done Breeding Reptiles... FOR GOOD! Here's Why

How much do vets charge to remove dew claws?

Vets usually charge a puppy exam fee and a dewclaw removal fee for each puppy. Depending on the practice, this cost is around $30–$40 per puppy and up.

What is the 7 second rule for dogs?

The "7-second rule" for dogs is a simple test to see if pavement is too hot for their paws: press the back of your hand to the ground for seven seconds, and if it's too hot for you to hold comfortably, it's too hot for your dog's paw pads, which can easily burn on surfaces like asphalt, concrete, and even artificial turf. This helps prevent paw burns by prompting you to walk during cooler times (early morning/late evening) or stick to grass, as tarmac can get extremely hot even on moderately warm days.
 

At what age should a dog's dew claws be removed?

Some dog breeds routinely have their front dewclaws removed to “improve” their appearance in the show ring. When breeders elect to do so, they should have this procedure performed by a veterinarian when their puppies are under 5 days old and only after the area has been numbed with a local anesthetic.

Does dew claw removal hurt puppies?

That procedure is more difficult and painful, and infection is a common side effect. So, if you're going to have a dewclaw removed, it's best to do it in those first few puppy days. Breeders usually remove dewclaws from puppies that are between two and five days old.

Is dew claw removal considered cosmetic?

For most adult dogs, removing dewclaws is considered unnecessary aesthetic surgery. If a dog's dewclaws don't present a problem, they should be left alone.

Who can legally remove the dew claws in a puppy which has not yet opened its eyes?

Therefore, legislation in relation to dewclaws remains unchanged and a lay person or veterinary surgeon may continue to remove the dewclaws of puppies whose eyes have not yet opened.

Is it cruel to declaw a dog?

Yes, declawing a dog is widely considered cruel and inhumane by animal welfare organizations and many veterinarians, as it's a painful amputation of the last bone in each toe (like cutting off a human's fingertip down to the first knuckle) that can lead to chronic pain, arthritis, spinal issues, and behavioral problems, with only rare medical necessity justifying it. It's illegal in many countries and some US locations, often seen as a drastic measure for convenience rather than a valid solution for destructive behaviors.
 

Do dog dew claws grow back after removal?

Dewclaws generally do not grow back once they are surgically removed. However, if the removal was not complete and some residual tissue remains, there can sometimes be regrowth of a partial nail or claw.

What is Golden Retriever syndrome?

Congenital myasthenic syndrome is a group of inherited neuromuscular disorders that are characterized by progressive muscle weakening that worsens with exercise.

Why do Golden Retrievers smell so much?

If your Golden Retriever suffers from allergies, they might emit a foul smell. Sometimes, the allergies cause yeast to grow on the skin.

What is the only breed of dog that is unable to bark?

The Basenji is known as the "barkless dog". The first specimens of the Basenji were brought from the source of the Nile as presents to the Pharaohs of ancient Egypt.

Why do breeders not remove dew claws?

They actually serve a purpose to the stability of their paw and legs. My Dane has his dew claws as well and we've never had a problem. That I know of I've never heard of any Dane breeder removing the dew claws.

Do all vets recommend dewclaw removal?

When it comes to the front dew claws, this surgery is only recommended in cases of severe injury or disease. There are instances when veterinarians recommend the removal of rear dew claws that are loosely attached or double in order to prevent injury.

Is anesthesia needed for dew claw removal?

If the procedure is performed on a very young puppy, local anesthesia and quick surgical techniques are used to minimize discomfort. For older dogs, general anesthesia is required, and recovery is slightly longer.

What is the 7 7 7 rule for dogs?

The "7 7 7 rule" for dogs is a puppy socialization guideline, originally by Pat Hastings, suggesting exposing puppies to 7 different people, 7 different locations, and 7 different surfaces/objects/sounds/challenges (variations exist) by about 7 weeks old to build confidence, resilience, and prevent fear or anxiety as adults. Key experiences include meeting diverse individuals, visiting different places like a vet's office or friend's house, walking on various substrates (grass, tile, carpet), and encountering new objects and gentle challenges (like tunnels or boxes).
 

What is the hardest month with a puppy?

The "worst" month of puppyhood varies, but common tough stages include 3-4 months (intense biting/teething, potty training issues, sleep disruption) and the 6-12 month adolescence period (rebelliousness, boundary testing, increased energy/independence, "terrible teens"), with the biting often peaking around 13 weeks. While teething (4-6 months) brings destructive chewing, adolescence brings behavioral challenges as hormones kick in, leading to disobedience and independence.
 

---