Dachshunds are among the most popular dog breeds, known for their long, low bodies and short legs. But do these elongated pups have dew claws like other breeds? Let’s take a closer look at the anatomy of dachshunds to find out.
What Are Dew Claws?
Dew claws are vestigial digits on the inner side of a dog’s front or hind legs. They are essentially remnant thumbs and big toes. Most dogs have dewclaws on their front legs, but some breeds also have them on the hind legs. Dewclaws typically have little bone or muscle structure and are relatively useless.
Dachshunds Usually Lack Dew Claws
The majority of dachshunds do not have rear dew-claws. This is because breeders have selectively bred dachshunds this way over time. Dewclaws on the hind legs would get in the way of a dachshund’s purpose – digging and flushing out burrowed animals. Extra digits would also be prone to injury as dachshunds scurry through underground tunnels.
However, some dachshunds are occasionally born with vestigial dewclaws on their hind legs. These are often removed shortly after birth. Front dewclaws are much more common in the breed.
Why Might Dew Claws Be Removed?
There are a few reasons why rear dewclaws may be surgically removed from newborn dachshund puppies:
- To prevent injury – Dew-claws have little bone structure and can easily snag or tear. This risk is amplified given the dachshund’s underground hunting activities.
- To adhere to breed standards – Hind dew-claws are considered a defect by breed standards. Removing them allows the dog to conform to the ideal dachshund anatomy.
- For cosmetic uniformity – Breeders often want a litter to look uniform. Leaving dew-claws on some, but not all, puppies can detract from this
Are There Any Benefits to Dew Claws?
While dachshunds lack a real need for rear dew claws, some argue they aren’t entirely useless. Potential benefits include:
- Extra gripping power – Dew claws can provide added traction and grip, such as when jumping or climbing.
- Identification purposes – Dew claws offer another distinguishing physical characteristic, which can be useful for ID purposes.
- Proprioception – They provide nerve connections that may enhance a dog’s proprioception (body awareness).
Ideally Suited for Their Purpose
When you look at a dachshund, it’s clear that these dogs are specially designed for their traditional hunting role. Their elongated bodies allow them to burrow underground, while their stubby legs enable sharp, rapid movements inside tunnels. Hind dewclaws would only get in the way of their innate abilities. So, while dew-claws serve purposes for other breeds, dachshunds are ideally suited in their absence.
Should Dew Claws Be Removed From Dachshund Puppies?
Dew claw removal is a common practice with dachshund breeders. But is it necessary? Or is it an unnecessary cosmetic procedure? The debate around docking dew claws continues.
On one hand, some argue it prevents injury for a hunting dog like the dachshund. Due to their precarious attachment, dew claws can easily catch on things and tear them. Removing them early on may save the dog pain later.
However, others see dew claw removal as an unnecessary mutilation of the dog for primarily cosmetic purposes. They argue that dogs use dew-claws, and removing them inhibits natural abilities. Also, with proper care, dew claw injuries are preventable.
There are pros and cons to consider with dew claw removal:
Pros of Removing Dew Claws
- Prevents future injuries
- Adheres to breed standards for competitions
- Provides aesthetic uniformity within a litter
Cons of Removing Dew Claws
- Permanently removes part of the dog’s anatomy
- Amputation procedures pose risks of infection, poor healing
- May inhibit proprioception and climbing ability
The choice comes down to breeder preference and what they feel is best for their puppies. Since dachshunds are not heavily reliant on their dew claws, removal is generally not a detrimental procedure. But owners should thoughtfully weigh the decision.
Should You Remove Dew Claws From Other Dog Breeds?
Just because dachshunds usually lack rear dew claws does not mean they are unnecessary for all dogs. Several breeds are represented to retain their dew claws and use them for functionality.
For example, the Great Pyrenees mountain dog uses its dew-claws to grip rocky terrain. Similarly, other large or sporty breeds like St. Bernard and Briard rely on dew claws for traction and maneuverability. Dew claw removal would limit their natural abilities.
Here are some critical considerations before removing dew claws from other breeds:
- Was the dog breed developed to use its dew-claws for a purpose? If so, they are likely essential to keep.
- Do the dew-claws have proper bone structure? Well-developed dew-laws are less prone to injury.
- Will the dog be used for activities where dew-claws provide extra grip, such as dog sports?
- Does the dog live primarily indoors, reducing its need for dew claws?
Without a compelling reason, such as recurrent injury, dew claw removal should be avoided in breeds that use them functionally. Talk to your vet about what is appropriate for your dog.
FAQ’s
What breeds don’t have dew claws?
Some breeds, like dachshunds, greyhounds, and mastiffs, often lack rear dew claws.
How many claws does a dachshund have?
Dachshunds have four claws on each front paw and usually none on the rear.
Do dachshunds have retractable claws?
No, dachshunds do not have retractable claws like cats. Their claws are fixed.
Why are dachshunds paws so big?
Dachshunds have paws that are larger than their body size to aid them in digging and burrowing underground.
Conclusion,
Most dachshunds lack rear dew-claws since they provide no benefit to their breed purpose and can become a hassle. However, the relevance of dew-claws varies across dog breeds based on their history and uses.
While dachshunds have largely evolved without them, they serve a functional purpose for other breed types. Consider your dog’s lifestyle and energy level before removing its dew-claws solely for cosmetic conformity. With the guidance of your vet and breeder, determine what makes the most sense for your faithful companion.
