A dewclaw is a common name given to a non-weight-bearing toe of some mammals such as dogs and cats. The dewclaw is the first digit on the front and rear feet in dogs and cats. This makes them the equivalent to the thumb and big toe in humans.

Where is the dew claw on a dog?

Most dogs have four nails on each rear foot and five on their front feet. That extra nail on the upper, inner part of a dog's foot is the dewclaw. Did you come up with a different total? Have no fear, some dogs have dewclaws on their rear feet or even double dewclaws.

Are dewclaws on the front or back?

Dogs almost always have dewclaws on the inside of the front legs and occasionally also on the hind legs. Unlike front dewclaws, rear dewclaws tend to have little bone or muscle structure in most breeds. ... They can be used to lightly grip bones and other items that dogs hold with the paws.