Why We Leave the Front, but Remove the Rear
As your puppy’s breeder, my top priority is always the long-term health and well-being of every pup we raise. One question that often comes up is why we leave the front dew claws on, but choose to remove the rear dew claws—so here’s a quick explanation to help you understand our decision.
What Are Dew Claws?
Dew claws are small “extra” toes located on the inside of your dog’s legs. Think of them like thumbs! Front dew claws are found just above the paw on the front legs, while rear dew claws can appear (sometimes loosely attached) on the back legs.
Why We Keep the Front Dew Claws
The front dew claws are functionally important. They’re not just leftover anatomy—they actually help stabilize the wrist joint, especially when dogs are turning, running, or climbing. Studies (and years of observation in active, working, and sporting breeds) show that dogs who retain their front dew claws tend to have fewer injuries to the legs and shoulders, particularly those who are active or participate in performance sports.
Rear Dew Claws on a dog
Removing the front dew claws can cause long-term structural imbalance or increase the risk of arthritis or injury later in life. Because of their purpose, we do not remove healthy, well-attached front dew claws.
Why We Remove the Rear Dew Claws
In contrast, the rear dew claws are usually non-functional and often loosely attached by skin rather than bone. These can easily catch on things—like bedding, toys, or brush outdoors—and are much more prone to tearing or injury.
To avoid unnecessary pain or complications down the road, we remove rear dew claws within the first few days of life when it’s a quick and safe procedure. It heals rapidly at this stage and helps prevent issues later.
What This Means for You as a Puppy Owner
Since your puppy still has their front dew claws, you don’t need to worry about having them removed later—and you shouldn’t. They’re important for your dog’s balance, agility, and joint health. Just keep an eye on them during nail trims and make sure they don’t get too long. They may not wear down naturally like the other nails, so a quick trim now and then keeps everything comfy and healthy.
As for the rear dew claws, those have been safely removed shortly after birth, so you won’t have to think about them at all. No risk of snags, tears, or injury back there—which means fewer vet visits and more peace of mind.
In short:
Nothing extra you need to do
One less thing to worry about
Healthier paws for a lifetime of adventures
Giene Keyes
Amazon Storefront
www.moondogtraining.com
www.shootingstarwaterdogs.com
www.shootingstarlagotto.com
Giene Keyes is the owner of Moon Dog Training, LLC, offering positive in-home training, behavior consultations, and group classes across Southern Wisconsin. With over 30 years of experience, Giene specializes in manners and aggression cases, working closely with vets, shelters, service dog organizations, and dog daycares to improve animal behavior and staff education.
Giene is an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator and a licensed judge with the WI Dept. of Agriculture. She has taught Pet CPR & First Aid for the Red Cross, presented behavior seminars nationwide, and even taught chicken training for team-building events. Giene has been featured on radio, TV, and in magazines—including the cover of Wisconsin Woman—and is the author of a popular chicken training book.
In addition to her behavior work, Giene is the owner of Shooting Star Water Dogs. She is a responsible breeder of AKC Champion Portuguese Water Dogs and Lagotti Romagnoli, focusing on health, temperament, and structure. Her puppies are raised in a loving, home environment with a strong foundation in early socialization and lifetime support.