Should Golden Retriever Dew Claws Be Removed?

By: Rachel Erickson, 

Owner, and breeder at FBGR

Why We Leave Dew Claws on Our Field-Bred Golden Retrievers

One common question new puppy buyers ask is whether Golden Retriever dew claws should be removed. For many years, removing dew claws in puppies was considered standard practice among breeders. Today, however, the consensus is shifting — especially among breeders of athletic, working dogs.
At Field Bred Golden Retrievers, we leave dew claws intact, and this decision is based on modern understanding of canine anatomy, performance-dog structure, and real-world experience with active retrievers.

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