Keeping vs Removing Dewclaws in Labradors
Dewclaws are the non-weight-bearing first digits that most Labradors are born with on their front limbs. There are two types of dewclaws - attached and unattached. Attached dewclaws are connected to the foot, like other toes, via bones and tendons. The dog can use these digits to hold toys in place, gain traction on tight turns, or even pull themselves out of broken ice. They can actively move and use these digits. Unattached dewclaws, on the other hand, are basically held in place by skin alone and serve little purpose to the dog. Most dogs have attached dewclaws in the front, while many rear dewclaws are unattached. Most Labradors are born without hind dewclaws, but with front dewclaws. Nearly all front dewclaws in Labradors are attached.
For generations, these front dewclaws were considered completely without purpose and potentially even a hinderance to hunting dogs that have to navigate heavy brush. While it is possible for any dog to tear their dewclaw nail, it is actually more common for dogs to tear other nails than the dews. It is important, as with any nails, to keep the dewclaw nails trimmed to lower the risk of tearing. If improperly cared for, they can grow too long or even back onto themselves and into the pad. It is still common practice for many breeders to remove dewclaws from puppies at 2-5 days of age, before the nerves fully form, though it can also be done at a later date (generally at spay/neuter) if they are problematic. It is important to note that there is no way to tell if a dewclaw will be attached or unattached at only a few days old, though as stated, nearly all front dewclaws will be attached. The attitude toward removing dewclaws is shifting, and many veterinarians consider this to be a completely unnecessary procedure when the digit is attached. While problematic dewclaws do occur, they are relatively rare when trimmed properly. Preemptively removing dews on all puppies, therefore, is not warranted. The procedure is also not without risk, as excessive scar tissue, granulomas, and regrowth can occur and cause problems. Some performance homes are also pushing back against the practice, noting that for sports like agility, the dogs use those dewclaws for gripping on tight turns and for traction. There is also anecdotal data that may suggest increased risk of carpal arthritis in dogs with removed dewclaws, though more research is needed to confirm this trend. While it is not necessarily 'wrong' to remove dewclaws, we will not be doing so on our litters. Please note, dewclaw removal is not considered the breed standard in Labradors, though it is allowed. Further reading/references:
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