dew claws

[Astroline]

A quick question: I got Tucker from a breeder and I knew that his dew claws were removed. However one of the claws was not removed fully and has grown back a tad bit. I am to understand this is a normal practice with breeders but my boyfriend seems to think that maybe we got Tucker from a bad breeder because of his dew claws being removed. So what is everyone's perspective on dew claws and their removal? Thanks!

[Mom of 2 Beagles]

Pooh Bear has one dew claw that is still partically there. Our vet said not to worry about it. It doesn't bother him.

Sadie's breeder didn't have her dew claws removed. We never did get them removed. They get really sharp.

[PFR]

My two had there dew claws removed when they went in for a spay and my older dog had his removed with his neuter. Ask the vet...

[Astroline]

I spoke with the vet he said not to worry about it. What I want to know is if it is common practice with breeders to remove them while they are a pup.

[Zookeeper]

Many breeders will have them removed. You take them in at a few days old and it's a very easy procedure. Much more intensive when they are older.

Duke and Violet both have theirs, but Duke even has back dew claws. I really have to watch that they don't get too long and he hates having them clipped.

[Astroline]

Is it more painful as an adult or as a puppy?

[Sephly]

Originally Posted By: astrolineIs it more painful as an adult or as a puppy?

probably as an adult, as a puppy its still under developed basically just a nub, that the vet snips off, takes like 30 seconds, most breeders have them done since usually the vet wont charge more then a few extra bucks to do it and its not something the dog needs really.

Either way with or without it doesn't bother the dog, it just helps so that they dont snag on things.

[beagletails]

As a breeder myself, I always have the dewclaws removed. The expense is minimal as a pup because no sedatives are necessary and as mentioned previously it is not fully developed. Some dogs have front and back dewclaws, but I have yet to see that in any of the beagles that have come through our home. The main reason to have them removed is because of the location of them. Since they do not meet the ground (and can't file themselves naturally) they are often forgotten and can grow to the point that they grow back into the dog's leg requiring surgery to repair. Also they grow so close to the leg it is hard to file or clip without risking injury to the dog. They serve no purpose to the dog unless the dog is to be used in hunting large animals. It helps the dog in treeing the animal and enables the dog to essentially hold onto the base of the tree. I hope that all makes sense.

[Astroline]

Thank you so much, I feel better knowing this.

[Brisen]

Maggie's dew claws were removed when she was a day or two old. Her breeder removes them from all her pups.