# Which dog breeds have rear dewclaws and what purpose do they serve?

Natalie Fletcher · August 4, 2026

> Rear dewclaws are essentially vestigial structures in dogs, similar to a human’s thumb, and they can provide additional grip and stability...

Rear dewclaws are essentially vestigial structures in dogs, similar to a human’s thumb, and they can provide additional grip and stability, especially in breeds that are active or involved in agility sports.

Not all dog breeds have rear dewclaws; their presence is more common in specific breeds such as the Great Pyrenees, Briard, and Anatolian Shepherd, which were developed for herding and protection.

**Also worth reading:** [What purpose do sloth claws serve and how do they differ from other animal claws?](https://lawr.io/knowledge/what_purpose_do_sloth_claws_serve_and_how_do_they_differ_from_other_animal_claws.php) · [What are the definitive legal AI hallucination mitigation strategies for law firms in 2026?](https://lawr.io/knowledge/what_are_the_definitive_legal_ai_hallucination_mitigation_strategies_for_law_firms_in_2026.php) · [How to calculate AI legal tech ROI in 2026 for law firms and corporate legal departments?](https://lawr.io/knowledge/how_to_calculate_ai_legal_tech_roi_in_2026_for_law_firms_and_corporate_legal_departments.php)

The rear dewclaw can help dogs maintain traction on uneven terrain, which is particularly beneficial for working breeds that need to navigate rough landscapes.

Some breeds, including the Beauceron and the Norwegian Elkhound, are known to have double rear dewclaws, which may enhance their grip and stability even further.

While some breed standards officially recommend the removal of dewclaws, many owners opt to keep them for functional reasons, especially in breeds that still utilize their dewclaws in work or sport.

Dogs with rear dewclaws may be less susceptible to injuries in the event of slipping or falling, as these additional claws can help stabilize their body during sudden movements.

The presence of rear dewclaws varies widely between individual dogs, even within the same breed, due to genetic factors and selective breeding practices.

Dewclaws can be prone to injury, particularly if a dog frequently engages in activities that put stress on the hind legs, making regular checks for signs of trauma important for pet owners.

Some breeds with rear dewclaws, like the Great Pyrenees, have historically been used as livestock guardians, where the dewclaws may have aided in their ability to navigate rugged terrain while protecting flocks.

The evolutionary significance of rear dewclaws is debated; while they may not serve a crucial function in modern breeds, their persistence suggests that they were once beneficial to ancestral dogs.

Dewclaws in dogs can also vary in terms of size and functionality; in some dogs, the dewclaw may be fully formed and functional, while in others, it may be small and less developed.

Genetic studies have shown that rear dewclaws are more likely to be present in breeds that are closely related to their working dog ancestors, indicating a link between function and breed history.

The maintenance of dewclaws is important; improper trimming can lead to painful conditions, and neglecting them can result in overgrowth and potential injury.

Many dog owners are unaware that dewclaws can be removed, but this procedure is often controversial among veterinarians and breeders, as it can lead to complications if not done properly.

Some dog breeds, such as the Scottish Terrier, may have a genetic predisposition to rear dewclaws, suggesting that selective breeding practices can influence this trait.

In some regions, the presence of rear dewclaws might be considered a breed standard, while in others, they may be viewed as a defect, highlighting cultural differences in dog breeding.

The biomechanics of a dog’s movement can change based on the presence of dewclaws; studies suggest that dogs with functional dewclaws may exhibit more stability while running or jumping.

Rear dewclaws can also play a role in a dog's communication; during play or social interactions, the use of their hind legs can involve more complex movements that utilize these extra digits.

The evolutionary purpose of rear dewclaws is still being researched; some scientists propose that they may have served as a grip for climbing or gripping prey in early domestic dogs.

Understanding the function and care of rear dewclaws can lead to better health outcomes for dogs, as awareness of this trait can inform training, exercise, and overall canine welfare strategies.

Canonical: https://lawr.io/knowledge/which_dog_breeds_have_rear_dewclaws_and_what_purpose_do_they_serve.php
Markdown: https://lawr.io/knowledge/which_dog_breeds_have_rear_dewclaws_and_what_purpose_do_they_serve.php/index.md