2 Answers

Dew claws' original purpose is believed to be enabling dogs with better grip when they run or catch pray.

Uses

Since the dog's dew claws are located higher than the other claws, people often assume they have no use. Actually, a dog may use his dew claw to hold on to objects, such as bones, to keep them steady as they are chewing on them. They might use a dew claw to scratch an itch or remove something from their teeth. Some of the faster, slender-legged dogs extend their legs and push off on the dewclaw to give them more speed.

Possible Problems

Dew claws can get snagged on things like blankets and carpeting, possibly causing trauma for the dog. If a dew claw becomes snagged, the dog may pull hard in a desperate attempt to free himself. This could tear the dew claw off the paw, causing an injury that needs professional medical attention. If the dew claws are not kept clipped, they can curl inwards, creating a greater chance of injury.

Read more: Why Do Dogs Have Two Dew Claws? | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/info_8437246_do-dogs-two-dew-claws.html#ixzz1xfyc4ma9