Originally Posted by
Islandguy85
My .02.
My understanding is that they are removed to prevent tearing injuries while working in the field. I have had several dogs with theirs removed and do not think it caused one bit of issue. They do it very shortly after birth without anesthetic and it is a quick clip and covered w some surgical glue to heal generally without issue. You can still feel the bony part of the digit under the skin after it heals. If you are cutting it, you want to remove the entire nail bed otherwise you will have all sorts of issues with the nail trying to grow back under the skin and I recommend having a professional do this. I am sure there are situations where ppl screw this procedure up and have or cause complications.
I have also seen plenty of working dogs without them removed and have never had issue with it.
I believe the theory is that it is less traumatic and less expensive to be proactive..... In 17 years in the industry I can not say that I recall seeing a single ripped dew claw but I am sure it happens. Others will chime in at some point but sometimes it is easier to not jump on some of these threads.....
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