My dog is missing a dew claw. Is it a problem? Do dogs need them?

Question

my dog is completely missing his dew claw and toe (the toe that the claw sits on) it looks like he was either born without it or it was taken off by a vet.. he has all of the other dew claws and toes just not on that one foot.. can he live without one? are they important? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered

Jenny, DVM · Accepted Answer

He can live with out and most people have them removed as puppies as they tend to cause problems for some. the nails never touch the ground so the nail can get ingrown and long and scratch easy or get caught in blankets and rugs when laying down. They serve no purpose to a domestic animal

My dog is missing a dew claw. Is it a problem? Do dogs need them?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

How do I safely fix my dog or cat's painful hangnail at home?

Why is my 5-week-old chick struggling to walk with splayed legs?

Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?

Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?

Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?

Share