Can You Declaw a Dog? Pros, Cons, Kinder Alternatives

Are you frustrated by your dog's digging and scratching habits? If so, you may wonder if declawing your dog would solve these problems and make your life easier. However, removing a dog's claws is more complex and harmful than it may seem. So let's explore the answer to the question "Can you declaw a dog?" and discuss kinder alternatives to declawing that prioritize your pet's well-being.

Can You Declaw a Dog?

The simple answer is yes, you can declaw a dog, but you should never do it.

Declawing is cruel and unnecessary not only for dogs but also for cats. Both species have non-retractable claws that are part of their bones and are essential for balance and mobility. Declawing either animal would involve amputating the entire end of its toes, essentially cutting off its fingertips! This procedure would cause immense pain and suffering for the animal, making it both unethical and inhumane.

Why Do Some People Want to Declaw Their Dogs?

Some pet owners think declawing their dogs will stop them from scratching. For example, some dogs may scratch the carpet or scratch at the door. They may also believe declawing would make their pets look nicer or cleaner. However, these are not good reasons to declaw a dog. We will discuss ways to prevent or manage these issues without harming your pet later in this article.

Is Declawing Dogs Illegal?

Declawing dogs is not illegal in most countries, but it is strongly discouraged by veterinarians and animal welfare organizations. In some places, such as Germany and other European countries, declawing dogs is considered animal cruelty and banned by law.

In Canada, some provinces, such as Alberta, have also voted to ban declawing dogs and other medically unnecessary procedures. There is no federal law against declawing dogs in the US, but some states or cities may have their regulations.

Did you know...?

Dogs need their claws for more than just scratching. Their claws help them grip the ground and maintain their speed and balance. A dog without claws would have trouble walking, running, and jumping and could develop joint and muscle problems over time.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Declawing Dogs?

While there are very few benefits to surgically removing dogs' claws, many reasons exist for not pursuing this procedure. Let's look at some perceived benefits and reasons against declawing dogs.

Perceived Benefits of Declawing Dogs

• It may prevent them from scratching furniture, floors, or people
• It may reduce the risk of nail infections or injuries
• It may be necessary in rare medical cases where the nail or toe is severely damaged or diseased

Reasons Against Declawing Dogs

• It is excruciating and traumatic for the animal
• It requires significant surgery with risks of bleeding, infection, and complications
• It affects their balance, mobility, and ability to grip objects
• It causes long-term health problems such as arthritis, joint issues, nerve damage, and behavioral issues
• It deprives dogs of their instincts and behaviors
• It is unethical and inhumane

What Are Some Kinder Alternatives to Declawing Dogs?

Since you should never declaw a dog unless necessary for medical reasons, looking into more humane methods of dealing with their long, sharp nails is the right approach. Let's talk about some kinder options to put our pets' well-being and natural behaviors first.

1. Regular Nail Trimming

Regular nail trimming is one of the most effective and humane alternatives to declawing. Maintaining your dog's nails can prevent damage to furniture and injuries while promoting their overall foot health. Trimming nails regularly also minimizes the risk of painful breaks, ingrown nails, and discomfort during movement.

Here are some tips on how to trim your dog's nails:

• Use a sharp pair of nail clippers designed for dogs
• Hold your dog's paw firmly but gently
• Cut off tiny bits of the nail at a 45-degree angle
• Avoid cutting the quick (the pink part of the nail containing blood vessels and nerves)
• Should you accidentally cut the quick, apply styptic powder or cornstarch to stop the bleeding quickly
• Praise your dog and offer a treat as a reward after each nail
• If your dog is nervous or resistant, start slowly and gently increasing the frequency and duration of trimming sessions

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2. Scratching Posts and Pads

Consider providing suitable scratching posts and pads to satisfy your dog's natural instincts. These designated areas allow your pet to engage in appropriate scratching behaviors without causing damage to furniture.

Here are some examples of scratching posts and pads for dogs:

• Sisal rope or carpet-covered posts or boards
• Cardboard or wood-based scratchers
• Rubber or silicone mats or toys

Use durable materials and positive reinforcement methods, like treats or praise, to reinforce the behavior of using alternatives.

3. Environmental Modifications

Making minor adjustments to your home environment can also protect your furniture. Here are some ideas:

• Consider using furniture covers or investing in scratch-resistant materials more resistant to damage.
• Place deterrents like double-sided tape or aluminum foil on vulnerable surfaces to discourage your dog from scratching in those areas
• Provide your dog with plenty of toys, chews, and activities to keep them entertained and stimulated.
• Trim any overgrown bushes or plants that tempt your dog to dig or scratch outdoors.
• When your dog starts to scratch, teach them to respond to commands like "leave it" or "off."

4. Digging Prevention

Some people may want to declaw their dogs because they dig holes in the yard or garden. However, digging is a natural and enjoyable behavior for dogs, and declawing would not stop them from doing it. Instead, try to understand why they do it and provide appropriate outlets for their energy and instincts.

Here are some possible reasons why your dog digs and how to prevent it:

• Boredom: Are they bored and have nothing to do? Providing enough exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction are the solutions to preventing this. Interactive toys, puzzles, or games work great for keeping them busy.
• Escape: Maybe they dig to escape from the yard or explore the outside world. Ensure your fence is secure and high enough to prevent your dog from jumping over. You could also install chicken wire or rocks along the bottom of the fence to deter digging.
• Hunting: Digging sometimes happens when they are hunting for prey, such as rodents, insects, or worms. Use humane methods to eliminate any pests from your yard or garden. You can also redirect your dog's hunting instincts by playing fetch, tug-of-war, or hide-and-seek.
• Comfort: Your dog may dig to get a comfortable spot to lie down, especially in hot or cold weather. To prevent this, provide a cozy shelter, bed, or mat where they can rest easy. Please ensure they can access shade, water, and ventilation outside.

5. Other Options

If none of the above alternatives work for you or your dog, please consider other less invasive and harmful options than declawing. Examples include:

• Nail caps are soft plastic covers that fit over your dog's nails and prevent them from scratching. They are easy to apply and last for several weeks. However, some dogs may not tolerate or try to chew them off. You must regularly monitor your dog's nails and replace the caps.
• Nail filing is another way to smooth out your dog's nails and reduce their sharpness. You can use a nail file, a grinder, or a sandpaper board to gently file your dog's nails after trimming them. However, some dogs may be afraid of the noise or vibration of the tools. Please be careful not to file too much or too fast!
• Soft paws are rubber tips that fit over your dog's claws and act as shock absorbers. They protect hardwood floors from scratches and reduce noise when your dog walks. However, they are not widely available and may be challenging to find. They may also fall off easily or irritate paws.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to declawing dogs, the answer is clear: it is inhumane and not recommended. Declawing a dog—or a cat—involves amputating the entire end of their toes, causing immense pain and suffering. Instead of putting your pet through that, please focus on alternative solutions prioritizing their well-being and natural behaviors.

Regular nail trimming, providing scratching posts and pads, making environmental modifications, digging prevention, and other options are some of the kinder solutions that you can try instead. Remember that your dog's claws are part of their identity and function and deserve respect and compassion.

Sources and Further Reading

• Alberta Veterinarians Vote to Ban Declawing - It’s Inhumane | Globalnews.ca
  Alberta veterinarians have voted to ban medically unnecessary surgical procedures such as removing an animal's claws, ears, tails and vocal cords.
• Can Dogs Get Declawed? | Wag Walking
  You must take extreme caution when approaching declawing for your pet, as there is a big question as to whether the benefits outweigh the risks. But if your dog has a nail bed infection or similar infection, is declawing even an option?
• Trim Your Dog's Nails Safely: Tips, Tricks, And Grooming Techniques
  Trimming your dog's nail is an essential part of a healthy grooming routine, but the job can be daunting. Learn more about nail trimming tips and technique.

This article is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge. It is not meant to substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and individualized advice from a veterinary medical professional. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.

© 2023 Louise Fiolek