Pyrenean Mountain Dog
This next breed, also called the Great Pyrenees, has one dewclaw on each hind leg, and they usually have two on the front. This pooch can trace its ancestors back for hundreds of years and was bred to be a watchdog over livestock. As history repeats itself, this breed still makes a great guard dog. They are great with children, loyal, and friendly. They also require a lot of exercise.
The Anatolian Shepherd is another ancient breed that almost always has a double set of hind dewclaws. These large dogs are another breed that is great with children, plus this pooch extends his love to other animals, as well. Very loyal and protective, the Anatolian Shepherd has a low drive to target prey. On the other hand, they can fight their owners over dominance by ignoring commands.
The 20 Dog Breeds With Dewclaws
Below, we look at the breeds that have both front and hind leg extra digits, plus some popular breeds with the appendage.
The American Pitbull, or Pit for short, is our first breed with a dewclaw. This dog is very energetic, playful, and fiercely loyal. They use the extra claw to hold toys, run, and climb if need be. Labeled as a dangerous breed, if this pup is trained with a firm hand, love, and affection, they are very loyal, cuddly pups that love to play and give kisses.
Next, we have the Catalan Sheepdog. This pup ranges in their use of the extra finger, yet most of them have dewclaws on the front and back legs. Bred as herding and working canines, their extra digit helped them run, pull, and even dig. They are friendly, hard-working, and energetic animals.
This lovable giant has both back and front legs adorned with an extra digit. It is thought the dewclaw may have come in handy during the days when the St. Bernard was out looking for people lost in the snow. Now, it’s a great toy prop. This pooch is gentle, loyal, and very intelligent. As one of the biggest dogs in the world, this bear of a pup is remarkably mild-mannered and calm.
This rather large and in charge puppy is recognized for having six toes per foot. They typically also have two dewclaws on each paw, plus they are double-jointed in one of their toes. As an energetic and happy dog, this breed is ready to work, run, and play. They are also loyal, intelligent, and do well with a firm hand to guide them.
Do Chihuahuas have rear dew claws?
Dewclaws are a 5th ‘extra’ nail that is primarily found on the front paws; in some cases, there can be back dewclaws or even double claws (two in each area). … Per AKC breed standards, Chihuahuas in the show ring may or may not have dewclaws; it is the breeder or owner’s discretion.
Why Do Dogs Have Dew Claws? | Answered by a Vet Tech
Do dogs have thumbs? In the ongoing, slow-burning processes of evolution, parts of bodies adapt, change, or get left behind. Some of these bits and bobs get caught in limbo as vestigial structures — they’re still there, but they no longer serve a purpose.
Think of your coccyx, or tailbone, or perhaps your appendix. The former illustrates that in an older configuration, people used to have tails, and the latter once served a digestive function. As it turns out, dogs do have thumbs, but they, too, have been relegated to the bargain bin of utility. Dog dewclaws, historically spelled “dew claws” or “dew-claws,” are largely atavistic appendages, which dogs retain to this day.