Removing back dew claws? Same time as spaying?

[Skeuomorph]

I have a large breed dog who has front and back dew claws. The back ones seem very dangly and, while she hasn’t injured them yet, I’m worried she will.

I haven’t had a dog who had back dew claws before so not sure what’s the best approach, and want to consider all aspects before discussing with the vet.

For those who have had a dog with these, did you remove them? If not, do you wish you had done so?

She’s due to be spayed in the next few months.

If I decide to remove, would having it done while she’s under for spaying be an option, do you think?

Yes we routinely remove dewclaws at same time as neutering. Back ones often have no bony connection so it’s just a skin incision to remove them.

That was quick!

Thanks very much, @Patchworksack. Will ask vet to add removal when spaying.

Mine has one on the back which is really just hanging off a bit of skin.

We haven't removed it as most of his operations have been urgent or emergency rather than planned. As he is 7 this year and despite his many accidents he hasn't injured that one (has split his front dew claws but they are very much attached).

I would take advice from your vet. We have seen many many vets over the years and only one mentioned that it might be worth removing it if he ever has 'planned' operation for something else.

Yes I have a dog who had rear dewclaws, and yes I had them removed the first time he had surgery for something else (cruciate). His were very floppy and it was only a matter of time until he caught them on something. It was a bigger operation than I thought though, but was still the right choice.

My dog had a floppy rear dewclaw removed when he was neutered at 12months old. It was recommended by the vet in case the claw caught on something and was torn. All went smoothly with his recovery, but we were warned beforehand that it wasn't always a straightforward procedure because healing can take longer than you might expect.

Our girl dog only had one very floppy back leg dew claw. Vet removed it when she was spayed. Worked perfectly for her as the spay recovery gave her foot a chance to heal.