What Are Dew Claws, And Why Do Dogs Have Them?

Dew claws, also known as vestigial toes, are the small, extra claws or nails found on the inner side of a dog's front or hind legs. Not all dogs have dew claws, but when present, they are typically found higher up on the leg, above the paw, and do not touch the ground when the dog is walking.

Dew claws are believed to be remnants of toes that were once functional in the evolutionary ancestors of dogs. Over time, as dogs' bodies adapted and evolved, these extra toes became less necessary for their survival. However, dew claws can still serve a purpose, although their function varies depending on the dog breed.

In some breeds, dew claws are fully formed and functional, serving as additional support when the dog is running, turning, or gripping objects. For example, certain working breeds, like the Great Pyrenees and the Anatolian Shepherd, have well-developed dew claws that aid them in their tasks.

In other cases, dew claws are not fully formed, and they may be loosely attached to the leg or even appear as a small, loose flap of skin. These dew claws have little to no practical use and can sometimes be prone to snagging on objects or getting injured. Due to this potential risk, many dog owners choose to have them removed when the puppies are young through a simple surgical procedure called dew claw removal.

It's important to note that the decision to remove dew claws is a personal choice made by the dog owner in consultation with a veterinarian. Some breed standards also require dew claws to be removed for showing purposes. If a dog has dew claws that are well-formed, properly attached, and not causing any issues, there is generally no need for removal.