Dewclaw Information

Dewclaws serve an important purpose in canine anatomy! 

We often receive inquiries about why we do not support dewclaw removal, which is why we've created this page. 

At Mabry Labs, our commitment goes beyond just breeding Labrador Retrievers; we invest time in researching various aspects of dog care. Why do we prioritize this? 

Continuous research helps us enhance our understanding of dog health and well-being. Below, we outline the reasons behind our decision to retain dewclaws. 

Most breeders who perform dewclaw removal will do so from day one to day three, often at home without veterinary supervision. Although some may opt for a vet's assistance, many take the less responsible route. We choose not to share videos of home dewclaw removal, as they can be quite distressing. However, a simple online search will yield results if you're curious. 

Removing front dewclaws can adversely affect puppy health: active dogs that have had their front dewclaws removed may develop arthritis in the carpal joint, which can severely hinder their performance and working capability. 

Dewclaws play functional roles in self-grooming and providing stability to objects a dog may hold while lying down. They also help stabilize the carpal (wrist) joint, particularly when dogs are moving quickly or making sharp turns. Once removed, dewclaws cannot be reattached. 

Our property spans over 100 acres, adjacent to nearly 700 acres of national forest. Our dogs navigate rough terrain daily without ever injuring a dewclaw. If you choose to bring home a Mabry Lab, we will guide you on how to properly care for dewclaws. Beginning at just two weeks old, we start our puppies on nail care, which is easy to continue at home. We also show you how to wrap a leg for added protection during hikes—though you'll likely find this unnecessary, having this knowledge can be comforting. 

At Mabry Labs, when you welcome one of our pups into your home, we're always here to support you with Labrador care whenever needed. 

Below, you can find a short video and a link to an article that further discusses dewclaws. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for visiting Mabry Labs. We hope to see you soon!