![]() It’s best to discuss with your veterinarian whether the dewclaws should be removed or not and to help determine whether it is cruel to remove a particular animal’s dewclaws. The removal of dewclaws is becoming controversial with many in the veterinary community believing it should only be done when medically required. The puppies are only a few days old when they are given a local anesthetic and the dewclaws removed. Some breeders will remove dewclaws from German Shepherd puppies. The animal will feel pain after the procedure, but the vet will prescribe medication to help prevent pain and infection. If a dewclaw is to be removed, whether for show or because of a health issue, it is best to have a qualified veterinarian perform the surgery so the dog can receive anesthetic and preventative medication to prevent infection. German Shepherd dewclaws are thought to serve a purpose, often helping dogs move with agility and to prevent joint and gait issues as the dog grows older. ![]() Image Credit: Niels Hansen, Pixabay Is it Cruel to Remove German Shepherd Dewclaws? It’s believed that dewclaws help to prevent arthritis and help to support the leg when the dog is running, so the removal of dewclaws is not recommended for most dogs. Many veterinarians now believe that dewclaws should not be removed unless there is a reason for removal, such as tumors or severe injuries. The amount of dewclaws that require removal by vets does not justify removing a. Occasionally an adult dog will irreparably damage a dewclaw and have to have it removed, but the majority of dogs with dewclaws will go all their life without any problem. Dog shows also encouraged the removal of the dewclaws, often to achieve conformation, meaning it makes the structure of the leg more aesthetically pleasing. Dogs do suffer dewclaw injuries, but that is because they use them and therefore need them. Breeders encouraged it as a way to prevent injury because the dewclaw can get torn or injured when the dog is playing or running. Should Dewclaws be Removed?įor many years, the removal of dewclaws on dogs was a normal procedure. A German Shepherd may have them, but it is less likely than other large dog breeds, such as Saint Bernards, Newfoundlands, and Great Pyrenees. Genetics play a large factor in whether a dog has rear dewclaws. These dewclaws are pliable and can be moved around easily. Rear dewclaws can be attached to the hind leg by bone, but they are usually attached to the hind leg only by skin, not bone and tendon. ![]() German Shepherds may have rear dewclaws on their back paws, but it will vary from animal to animal.
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