Where are a Dog’s Dew Claws and What are They For?
Dew claws (often spelled dewclaws and called a dog’s “thumb” nail) sit on the inside of the leg, usually 1–4 inches above the paw. Some dogs have them on the front legs only, others on all four, and a few have double dew claws on one or more legs.
What are they for?
Use is limited, but many dogs use front dew claws to help grip toys or chews; rear dew claws may aid traction.
Why Dew Claws Need Special Attention
Dew claws often sit too high to touch the ground, so they don’t wear down naturally and can curl. Left untrimmed, a curled dew claw may grow into the pad, causing pain and infection.
They can also be hard to spot on long-haired dogs, so make a habit of checking for them.
Should Dew Claws be Removed?
Breed standards vary: some require dew claws to be present (even double on the hinds), others allow or prefer removal. Always check your breed’s standard (e.g., via the AKC) before making cosmetic decisions.
Anatomy varies too: some dew claws are attached by bone, others by skin only. Loosely attached claws are more prone to injury and some owners choose vet removal for medical reasons.
Important: Never attempt removal at home. If a dew claw is torn, infected, or repeatedly injured, see your veterinarian. Laws and best practices differ by region.
If Your Dog has Dew Claws
- Check them frequently for any damage.
- When trimming your dogs’ nails make sure to trim the dew claws too. Pliers style clippers
are the best trimmers to use if a dew claw is growing inwards. A flat metal nail file is another option. - If a dew claw has grown round try to trim it down to a half circle. Be just as careful as with the other nails not to injure the quick.
- If someone else, such as a professional groomer, is trimming your dog’s nails, make a point of checking each time that no dew claws have been forgotten.
Care & Trimming Tips
- Check frequently for cracks, tears, or overgrowth.
- Trim dew claws whenever you trim other nails.
- If a dew claw is curling inward, pliers-style clippers often give better access; a flat metal file or grinder can help finish the shape.
- For severely overgrown claws, trim gradually over a few sessions to avoid hitting the quick.
- Aim to reduce a curled claw to about a half-circle—stop if you see the pulp/quick.
- Double dew claws often grow at different angles/rates—trim the outer one first (it snags more), then the inner.
Safety: Keep styptic powder handy. If you hit the quick, apply with gentle pressure for 10–30 seconds. Persistent bleeding or pain? Call your vet.
If Someone Else Trims Your Dog’s Nails
After a grooming appointment, check that dew claws weren’t missed—they’re easy to overlook, especially on fluffy legs.