Cooper, who is almost ten, has had a reddened, slightly swollen area above his left dew claw for a few weeks now. He doesn’t seem bothered by it at all, no excessive licking, chewing, the area isn’t open. The area has basically remained unchanged from when I first noticed it early October. The Vet tech had a quick look at it and suggested I monitor it to see if it goes away. Has anyone had any similar issues with their Lab?
From my understanding the only dew claws that should ever be removed are the ones on the hind legs as they are not attached to leg as well. They are prone to catching or tearing which can cause infections. This being said I don't think there is any reason to remove them. Just trim your dogs nails.