So are mine but those with dew claws are a sight more dexterous.

I shall watch all mine more closely next time.

I was quite surprised when I first noticed just how much dexterity those with their dew claws had over the others, I guess it's like us eating an apple if we had no thumb, we'd still be able to do it just not quite as well as with the thumb intact.

The dobe I knew with cropped ears got water in them when it rained.

I think it is appalling, I also question the ethics of someone who says openly that they have cropped dogs and that it is illegal. Not clever IMO.

rune

its not the dogs that are illegal.its the proceedure,where i live...in the u/k can you own a cropped dog at all.?respectfully.

My Mum's collie ripped his dew claws off twice and had to have them surgically removed which took ages to heal. The vet said he thought certain types of dog were generally more prone to ripping them and would like to see them removed routinely as pups in some breeds and when the claw doesn't lie flat to the wrist. Two of my dogs have rear dew claws, one has firm ones, one floppy and neither have caught them as they are not energetic dogs that charge around. Docking isn't something I have a problem with in working dogs and I wish the law didn't involve showing docked dogs as it's very unfair. Cropping is something I see no need for at all.

dew claws are used in turning

My Mum's collie doesn't seem to have been affected by having his dewclaws removed - he still jumps, twists and turns like before. Maybe it's subtle but certainly he can still chase and catch his ball.

Yes--you can import from some countries where it is legal. You do get a lot of anti feelings from other dog owners and you can do nothing with them at any events.

rune

i never said those without them have problems...just what they are used for(and hence why they often rip).