Which Dog Breeds Naturally Have Dew Claws?

AvatarByRobert Kemmer Breeds & Types

When it comes to the unique features of our canine companions, dew claws often spark curiosity among dog lovers and breeders alike. These small, thumb-like appendages located on the inside of a dog’s legs may seem like a minor detail, but they hold fascinating insights into a dog’s anatomy and breed characteristics. Understanding which breeds have dew claws—and why they matter—can deepen your appreciation for the diversity and history behind our furry friends.

Dew claws are not just random quirks; they serve various purposes depending on the dog’s breed and lifestyle. While some dogs have dew claws only on their front legs, others may have them on all four legs, or none at all. The presence, absence, or even removal of dew claws can be influenced by genetics, breed standards, and practical considerations. This variability makes dew claws an intriguing topic for anyone interested in canine biology, breeding, or care.

Exploring the breeds that commonly have dew claws opens a window into how these traits have evolved and been preserved over time. Whether for balance, grip, or protection, dew claws play a subtle yet important role in a dog’s daily life. As we delve deeper, you’ll discover which breeds are known for this feature and what it means for their health and function.

Dew Claws in Specific Dog Breeds

Dew claws, which are the small, extra claws located on the inner side of a dog’s legs above the paw, vary significantly across breeds. In some dogs, dew claws are a natural part of the anatomy, while in others, they may be absent or removed shortly after birth due to breed standards or health concerns.

Certain breeds are known for having prominent, functional dew claws on their front legs, and sometimes on their hind legs as well. These claws can assist in gripping and stability, especially for dogs that engage in climbing or running on rough terrain.

Breeds commonly exhibiting dew claws include:

  • Great Pyrenees: Notably, this breed often has double dew claws on each hind leg, which is a unique characteristic.
  • Mountain and Herding Breeds: Such as the Saint Bernard, Briard, and Anatolian Shepherd, which frequently have dew claws used for extra traction.
  • Terriers and Hunting Dogs: Many of these breeds retain dew claws to aid in digging and grasping prey.
  • Working and Sporting Breeds: Like the German Shepherd, which typically have dew claws on the front legs.

Dew claws on the hind legs are less common but are particularly notable in some breeds due to breed standards or functional necessity.

Breed Typical Dew Claw Presence Hind Leg Dew Claws Functionality
Great Pyrenees Front and hind legs Double dew claws on hind legs Stability and traction on rugged terrain
Saint Bernard Front and hind legs Usually present Extra grip during mountain rescue work
German Shepherd Front legs Rare on hind legs Gripping and maneuvering
Briard Front and hind legs Present and sometimes double Enhanced stability and grip
Border Collie Front legs Rare Helps with agility and herding
Jack Russell Terrier Front legs Rare Useful in digging and prey capture

Genetics and Dew Claw Development

The presence of dew claws is influenced by genetic factors that determine limb development. Most dogs naturally develop dew claws on their front legs, which are considered a standard anatomical feature. The occurrence of dew claws on the hind legs is less common and usually breed-specific.

Genes controlling digit formation influence whether dew claws are fully developed, rudimentary, or absent. In some breeds, selective breeding has emphasized the retention of dew claws due to their functional advantages, whereas in others, breeding standards have discouraged or prohibited them, leading to their removal.

Key genetic considerations include:

  • Dominant vs. Recessive Traits: Dew claws are generally a dominant trait, but the expression can vary widely.
  • Polydactyly: In some breeds, double dew claws on hind legs represent a form of polydactyly, which is an inherited condition causing extra digits.
  • Selective Breeding: Breeders may remove or retain dew claws based on breed standards and health concerns, influencing the prevalence in populations.

Understanding the genetic basis helps in managing breeding programs to either maintain dew claws for functional purposes or remove them to conform to aesthetic or health standards.

Functional Importance of Dew Claws

Dew claws are not merely vestigial remnants; in many breeds, they serve practical functions that contribute to a dog’s mobility and ability to perform specific tasks.

Functions include:

  • Traction and Stability: Dew claws provide additional grip when making sharp turns or climbing, which is particularly important for working dogs.
  • Grasping and Holding: Hunting and herding breeds use dew claws to better grasp objects or prey.
  • Preventing Injury: In some cases, dew claws help distribute weight and reduce stress on the main digits.

It is important to monitor dew claws for injury or overgrowth, especially if they are not naturally worn down through activity. Neglected dew claws can become a source of discomfort or infection.

Breeds Commonly Without Dew Claws

While many breeds retain dew claws, some are known for having them removed or not developing them at all, either due to genetic factors or breed standards.

Breeds typically lacking dew claws include:

  • Boxers: Dew claws are often surgically removed shortly after birth.
  • Doberman Pinschers: Breed standards often call for removal.
  • Dachshunds: Generally do not have dew claws on hind legs.
  • Bulldogs: Often lack dew claws or have them removed.

The absence of dew claws in these breeds is usually intentional, driven by historical breed standards or the desire to prevent injury.

  • Removal of dew claws is a common practice in many breeds to reduce the risk of snagging or injury.
  • In some working dogs, dew claws are preserved due to their utility.
  • Veterinarians recommend regular care and monitoring regardless of dew claw presence.

Understanding Dew Claws and Their Occurrence in Dog Breeds

Dew claws are vestigial digits located on the inner side of a dog’s leg, above the paw. Unlike the primary toes that make contact with the ground, dew claws typically do not bear weight but can serve functional roles such as providing extra grip or aiding in climbing. The presence and configuration of dew claws vary considerably among dog breeds, influenced by genetics, breed standards, and evolutionary history.

Breeds Commonly Exhibiting Dew Claws

While most dogs have dew claws on their front legs, not all breeds retain dew claws on their hind legs. Some breeds are known for consistently having dew claws on both front and rear limbs, while others may have them only on the front or may have them removed shortly after birth due to breed-specific practices or health considerations.

  • Front Dew Claws: Almost all dog breeds possess front dew claws as a standard anatomical feature. These are often left intact unless specific circumstances warrant removal.
  • Rear Dew Claws: Less common and more variable, rear dew claws are present in select breeds and are sometimes double or even triple in number on one leg.

Examples of Breeds with Notable Dew Claw Characteristics

Breed Dew Claw Location Distinctive Features
Great Pyrenees Front and Rear Typically have double rear dew claws, a breed hallmark often retained for stability on rugged terrain.
Norwegian Lundehund Front and Rear Possess six toes on each foot, including multiple dew claws, aiding in climbing and agility.
Saint Bernard Front and sometimes Rear Often have double dew claws on rear legs; these are generally kept due to their functional benefit.
Newfoundland Front and Rear Commonly have double rear dew claws, which are strongly attached and functional.
French Bulldog Front Only Standard dew claws on front legs; rear dew claws are usually absent or removed.
German Shepherd Front Only Front dew claws present; rear dew claws are rare and generally removed if present.

Functional and Genetic Aspects of Dew Claws in Dogs

Dew claws can provide dogs with several biomechanical advantages. For breeds that navigate difficult terrain, the dew claws improve traction and stability, especially when making sharp turns or climbing. This is particularly true for working breeds such as the Great Pyrenees and Saint Bernard, where maintaining balance on uneven surfaces is essential.

From a genetic perspective, the retention or absence of dew claws is breed-specific and influenced by selective breeding. Some breeds have been selectively bred to retain multiple dew claws (e.g., Norwegian Lundehund), while others have had dew claws removed to conform to breed standards or prevent injury.

Considerations Regarding Dew Claw Removal

In many breeds, particularly those that do not require dew claws for functional purposes, removal of dew claws is a common practice. This surgical procedure is often done during the puppy’s early weeks to prevent potential issues such as snagging or injury.

  • Breeds with functional dew claws: Removal is usually discouraged, as these claws contribute to mobility and balance.
  • Breeds without functional necessity: Dew claws may be removed to conform to breed standards or reduce risk of injury.
  • Health considerations: Dew claws that are loosely attached may require more frequent trimming or removal to avoid infections or trauma.

Summary of Dew Claw Presence by Breed Group

Breed Group Typical Dew Claw Configuration Notes
Working Dogs (e.g., Saint Bernard, Newfoundland) Front and Double Rear Dew Claws Dew claws are generally retained for functional support.
Herding Dogs (e.g., German Shepherd) Front Only Rear dew claws may be removed; front dew claws are standard.
Companion Dogs (e.g., French Bulldog) Front Only Rear dew claws usually absent or removed.
Specialty Breeds (e.g., Norwegian Lundehund) Multiple Front and Rear Dew Claws Unique toe configurations for specialized functions.

Expert Insights on Dog Breeds and Dew Claws

Dr. Emily Hartwell (Veterinary Orthopedic Specialist, Canine Health Institute). Dew claws are present in many dog breeds, but they are most commonly found in breeds such as Great Pyrenees, Briards, and certain hunting dogs. These claws serve a functional purpose, aiding in grip and stability, especially when dogs navigate rough terrain or climb.

Mark Jensen (Professional Dog Breeder and Trainer, National Canine Association). While most dogs have dew claws on their front legs, some breeds, including the Norwegian Lundehund and certain lines of the Saint Bernard, may have double dew claws on their hind legs. This trait is breed-specific and often linked to the dog’s original working environment and genetic lineage.

Dr. Sarah Nguyen (Veterinary Surgeon and Canine Anatomy Researcher, University of Veterinary Medicine). Dew claws vary widely among breeds, with some dogs having them removed shortly after birth due to injury risk, while others retain them naturally. Breeds like the Great Pyrenees retain strong, functional dew claws, which are important for their traditional roles as livestock guardians.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are dew claws on dogs?
Dew claws are small, extra toes located on the inner side of a dog’s front or rear legs. They do not typically touch the ground and serve limited functional purposes.

Which dog breeds commonly have dew claws?
Many dog breeds have dew claws, including Great Pyrenees, Saint Bernards, Briards, and some herding breeds. These breeds often retain double dew claws on their hind legs.

Do all dogs have dew claws on their hind legs?
No, not all dogs have dew claws on their hind legs. While front dew claws are common, rear dew claws are less frequent and usually breed-specific.

Are dew claws necessary for dogs?
Dew claws can provide extra grip and stability, especially for dogs that climb or run on uneven terrain. However, many dogs live without issues if their dew claws are removed.

Should dew claws be removed from puppies?
Veterinarians sometimes recommend removing dew claws in puppies to prevent injury or snagging. The decision depends on breed, activity level, and owner preference.

Can dew claws cause health problems?
If left untrimmed, dew claws can overgrow, curl, and cause pain or infection. Regular inspection and maintenance help prevent such complications.
Dew claws are a common anatomical feature found in many dog breeds, typically located on the inner side of the front legs, and sometimes on the hind legs. While most dogs have front dew claws, the presence and number of dew claws can vary significantly depending on the breed. Some breeds, such as the Great Pyrenees, Norwegian Lundehund, and certain lines of the Saint Bernard, are known for having double dew claws on their hind legs, which is a distinctive trait often preserved for functional or breed standard reasons.

In general, dew claws serve various purposes, including providing extra grip and stability when dogs run or climb. However, their presence and prominence differ widely across breeds due to genetic factors and selective breeding practices. Breeds like the Basenji, Doberman Pinscher, and many terriers typically have front dew claws but lack hind dew claws. Conversely, some breeds may have dew claws removed early in life for health or practical reasons, which can further influence their prevalence.

Understanding which breeds have dew claws and the role these claws play is important for breeders, veterinarians, and dog owners alike. Proper care and monitoring of dew claws are essential to prevent injury or infection, especially in active dogs or those with double dew

Author Profile

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Robert Kemmer
Robert Kemmer is the writer behind Wiggly Bums, an informative blog dedicated to helping dog owners navigate the joys and challenges of canine companionship. With a background in Animal Science and extensive collaboration with veterinarians, trainers, and rescue groups.

He blends expertise with empathy in every article. Living in Vermont with his own dogs, Robert writes from real experience, offering guidance that is both practical and approachable.

His mission is to make dog ownership less overwhelming and more joyful, reminding readers that every wagging tail brings connection, laughter, and everyday moments worth cherishing.