Puppy Dewclaw Removal: Should You Remove Your Bullmastiff Dog’s Dewclaws?

Website design By BotEap.comThis is a question that is asked most often. The spur is the small “fifth” claw that grows higher on the leg than the others. Unlike the other four claws that have constant contact with the ground, this claw sometimes appears not to touch the ground when the dog is standing. However, it makes contact with the ground while the dog is running.

Website design By BotEap.comSome Havanese breeders will have their pups’ dewclaws removed by a veterinarian when they are just a few days old as part of their general health procedure. These breeders and their social circles have tried to label this as a healthy and responsible practice.

Website design By BotEap.comThe reason for this is that dewclaw removal has been perceived by some to offer both health and safety benefits for dogs. The dewclaws have been seen as a weak claw that can sometimes become loose and partially pull out or catch objects while the dog is running. The logic is that removing the dewclaws eliminates these dangers. However, there is still a large and very legitimate debate about the validity of the claim that dewclaw removal is healthy for your Havanese.

Website design By BotEap.comAs a dog breeder for over 14 years, I have personally never had any negative issues related to dewclaws. It is my opinion that dewclaws should not be removed as a general practice. There are always situations where dewclaw removal may be necessary for particular dogs, but as a universal practice, it can ultimately cause more harm than good.

Website design By BotEap.comIn fact, new research shows that by removing dewclaws you may be doing long-term damage to your Havanese and promoting health problems like joint laxity and arthritis.

Website design By BotEap.comThe following excerpt from Dr. Zink is very applicable to the Havanese breed, as Havanese are well known for their “running like crazy” activity and are commonly used in agility competitions…

Website design By BotEap.com“….The dewclaws have the important function of reducing the torque applied to the front legs, especially when dogs are turning at a gallop… Without the gripping action of the dog’s “thumbs”, there is more tension in the front legs. carpal ligaments. This can cause the ligaments to stretch and tear over time, resulting in joint laxity and ultimately arthritis.” (excerpt from the article “Dogs in Canada” by Chris Zink DVM.,Ph.D)

Website design By BotEap.comFor more information on Havanese dogs, visit KASE Havanese at http://www.kasehavanese.com