Should You Remove Dew Claws? What New Research Says About Dog Health

Last year I was having a discussion with my
Granddaughter, who is a Veterinarian, about dew claw
removal. She told me recent studies have shown that
should be avoided, so I did some research to be better
informed.

Dew claw removal in dogs can have unintended negative
consequences for a dog’s long-term health and function.
Dew claws, especially the front ones, are not useless
“extra” toes; they are attached by bone and tendons and
can make contact with the ground during high-speed
movement. When dogs run, turn sharply, or navigate
uneven terrain, the dew clews help stabilize the carpus
(wrist joint) and reduce torque on the leg. Removing
them may increase strain on other joints and soft tissues,
potentially contributing to injuries over time, particularly
in active or working dogs that rely on agility and rapid
directional changes.

There are also behavioral and quality-of-life
considerations. Dogs use their front paws, including their
dew claws, to grip objects such as toys, bones, or
climbing surfaces. Removing the dew claws may subtly
affect their ability to stabilize items or perform natural
behaviors. While not every dog will experience noticeable problems
after dew claw removal, the potential downsides highlight the
importance of carefully weighing medical necessity against
tradition or appearance before choosing the procedure.