Dew clawing is the name given to the removal the non-weight bearing toe of a dog (or cat). This essentially is the removal of a thumb or big toe for a human, but it’s used by dogs to grip toys and bones and can also be used when a dog is running. As with all dogs toes, these nails do need to be trimmed regularly to avoid injury or bleeding.
It is against the law to perform this surgery without a legitimate reason, and for this reason all dogs who have had their dewclaws removed will need to show the appropriate vet attestation.
Some dogs as they get older, may need this surgery in the case that the dew claw becomes large, swollen and there is a danger of infection.
