"Understanding Dog Dewclaw Injuries: Essential Info You Should Be Aware Of"

Understanding Your Dog's Dewclaws: Prevention and Treatment of Common Injuries

Dewclaws, the tiny toes found on the inner portion of a dog's legs, may surprise you to learn they can significantly vary in number, with some canines possessing as few as 16 or as many as 24. This variation is due to a unique appendage called dewclaws.

The majority of dogs have five toes on their front paws, with four weight-bearing toes and one dewclaw. On their rear paws, they typically have four toes. Some dogs may also have a small dewclaw on their back paws, while select breeds, such as the Great Pyrenees and Anatolian Shepherds, may even boast double dewclaws.

Despite their small size, dewclaws can pose problems for both dogs and their owners. To navigate the challenges they present, here's a comprehensive look at dewclaws on dogs.

What is a Dewclaw on a Dog?

A dewclaw is a small, non-weight-bearing toe found on the inner side of a dog's front or back leg. Most dogs have dewclaws on their front paws, while some may also have them on their hind limbs. Some breeds, like the Great Pyrenees and Anatolian Shepherds, may even sport double dewclaws on their hind legs. The Norwegian Lundehund, an uncommon dog breed, boasts at least six toes on each foot.

The front dewclaw is typically fully formed, complete with bones and firmly attached to the limb. In contrast, the rear dewclaws are usually only attached by skin or a small tendon, providing a more flexible structure. Depending on the individual dog, rear dewclaws may flop around or possess a bony attachment.

Contrary to popular belief, front dewclaws serve a purpose for dogs who have them. They use these appendages to seize toys or treats during play, as well as for digging, climbing onto furniture, or even scaling fences. Research suggests that front dewclaws contact the ground while dogs run at high speeds, providing additional stability and preventing limb twisting.

Common Dewclaw Injuries in Dogs

Regrettably, dewclaws are more prone to injury than other canine nails. Symptoms of a dewclaw injury may include:

Limping
Bleeding
Excessive licking
Swelling or warmth around the toe
Yelping or flinching upon touching the affected limb

If you observe any of these signs in your dog, it is crucial to consult your veterinarian to address the issue. Some dogs may mask signs of pain, so even if your pet does not appear to be in distress, a dewclaw injury may still be causing discomfort.

The most frequent dewclaw issues include torn or broken dewclaws, overgrown dewclaws, ingrown dewclaws, and infected dewclaws.

Torn or Broken Dewclaws

Dewclaws are prone to injury during play or work due to their position on the inner side of the leg. As a result, torn or broken dewclaws are relatively common among active dogs. A badly broken dewclaw can produce significant bleeding, but the amount of blood lost generally depends on the severity of the break.

When a dog's dewclaw is torn or broken, the quick (the part containing the nail's nerves and blood supply) is often exposed, leading to intense pain. The exposed quick is incredibly sensitive, with even cold air causing discomfort.

It may be tempting to attempt home treatment for a torn or broken dewclaw, but professional medical attention is essential. As a temporary fix, a bandage or styptic powder can be used to help stop the bleeding before seeking immediate veterinary care.

When you bring your dog to the veterinarian, they will remove any mobile or partially attached parts of the damaged nail. This is necessary because any movement of the damaged nail will continue to irritate the injured quick. The area will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution, and the hair around the nail will be shaved to prevent infection. The affected limb may also be bandaged for a few days to shield the sensitive quick.

To prevent complications, it is vital to ensure the bandage is not too tight, limiting circulation to the rest of the paw. It is also important to keep your dog from chewing at the wound site, tearing off the bandages, or licking the dewclaw, which can lead to infection.

Overgrown Dewclaws

Regular dog nails wear down with regular contact with floors and pavement. However, because dewclaws rarely encounter abrasive surfaces, they are more likely to become overgrown, particularly in less active dogs who do not engage in digging or frequent play.

Overgrown dewclaws put your dog at risk of snagging the nails on objects such as carpets or furniture, leading to tearing or breaking.

Fortunately, dewclaw removal is seldom necessary unless the overgrown nail causes repeated injuries or infections. Regular nail trimming with a good pair of dog nail clippers and some practice is all that is required to maintain them. The quick of the nail grows as the nail grows. Therefore, be cautious when trimming overgrown dewclaws, cutting only small portions at a time.

Ingrown Dewclaws

Due to their natural curvature, overgrown dewclaws can penetrate the flesh if left unchecked, leading to ingrown dewclaws, which are common in long-haired breeds whose coats often conceal the dewclaws. Inactive dogs whose other nails wear down during regular play may also be susceptible. An ingrown dewclaw is incredibly painful, necessitating veterinary attention.

Your veterinarian will carefully trim the ingrown dewclaw, clean the wound, and may bandage the area for several days. Pain relief medication and antibiotics will likely be prescribed. To prevent licking at the wound site, which can hinder healing and promote infection, it is advisable to have your dog wear an e-collar for a week or two during the healing process.

Infected Dewclaws

Dewclaw infections may result from a variety of causes, including ingrown dewclaws or any trauma to the nail or skin surrounding the dewclaw. Bacteria from a dog's mouth may also be transferred to the nail bed during licking or chewing.

Infected dewclaws are usually bacterial infections but can sometimes be fungal. Signs of an infected dewclaw may include your dog licking the area more often than normal, a foul odor near the affected paw, pus in the hair around the affected toe, or inflamed skin around the dewclaw. If you suspect an infected dewclaw, prompt veterinary care is crucial to prevent the infection from spreading to the bone.

Treatment will vary depending on the underlying cause of the infection. Most treatment plans will include oral anti-inflammatory medications, oral antibiotics or antifungals, and paw soaks. Soaking the paw in a diluted chlorhexidine solution or Epsom salts can help draw out pus and reduce inflammation. An e-collar may also be recommended to prevent your dog from licking the infection site and to keep the affected foot clean and dry during the healing process.

Medicated sprays such as Gentamicin Sulfate with Betamethasone and Derma GeL can help protect wounds, soothe pain, and promote healing. Your veterinarian may suggest these options to benefit your dog during the recovery from a dog dewclaw injury.

Cost to Treat Dewclaw Injuries

Vet bills for the prevention and treatment of dewclaw injuries may be costly. Regular nail trimming is the best means of prevention, but accidental injuries can still occur.

Here's a rough estimate of the associated costs for the primary types of dewclaw injuries:

Basic treatment for a torn or broken dewclaw: $45-$125
Treatment for infected dewclaws or severe cases: $100-$300
Nail trim, including dewclaw care: $10-$30

Pet insurance that covers accidents and illness may help offset the expenses associated with treating dewclaw injuries. For example, MetLife Insurance provides up to 90% reimbursement, has no breed exclusions or age limits, and provides immediate accident coverage.

Should You Cut a Dog's Dewclaw?

Because dewclaw nails do not wear down naturally, it is essential to regularly check your dog's dewclaws for overgrowth, especially in breeds with long or shaggy coats. If the nail appears long or is starting to curl, trimming the dewclaw is necessary but should be done carefully.

If your dog is anxious or resistant during nail trims, it may be best to take them to a professional groomer or a veterinary clinic. If your dog tolerates the process, trimming dewclaws can be performed at home with some practice.

Tailoring your technique to your dog: In dogs with lighter-colored nails, it is easier to see the quick and avoid cutting it. In dogs with dark or black nails, cut only small amounts of the nail at a time, and cease if you encounter resistance or bleeding.
Using the correct tools: Use dog nail clippers or grinders specifically designed for trimming dewclaws.
Building trust and creating positive associations: Gradually train dogs to tolerate nail trims through reward-based training, involving positive reinforcement such as treats and praise.

Preventing Dewclaw Injuries

Regular dewclaw nail trimming, proper wound management, and, in some cases, surgical intervention are effective strategies for managing dewclaw injuries in dogs. Dewclaw removal is an option for floppy rear dewclaws, but it is less common for front dewclaws or those with bony attachments. Your veterinarian can help decide if dewclaw removal is suitable for your dog.

In conclusion, strategic dewclaw nail trimming combined with prompt veterinary care when injuries occur are the primary methods for managing dog dewclaw injuries effectively. Dewclaw removal may be considered in specific cases to reduce the risk of recurrent injuries.

Sources[1] ASPCA[2] University of Illinois[3] American Kennel Club[4] Pet Health Network

A diligent pet owner with concerns about pet health may consider pet insurance to help cover the costs associated with dewclaw injuries in dogs, such as torn or broken dewclaws and infections.
In light of the unique role science plays in understanding pet health and health-and-wellness, research suggests that front dewclaws serve a purpose for dogs, providing additional stability and preventing limb twisting during high-speed running.