I have recently rescued an adult chocolate lab (female). Her past is a mystery. She has had all dewclaws removed. Can anyone tell me why this would be done?

[DoggieVogue]

I think that the only reason duclaws are removed is because they can easily be ripped off during play, etc. I'm not positive, but I'm pretty sure that that is the reasoning. It is not a necessity, but is very commonly done, usually a few days after birth. After that I think it is a more involved surgery.

[Yogi]

dewclaws are removed at 2 to 4 days of age. It is in fact an unnecessary claw that is a result of a 5th toe that through time was no longer needed and therefore no longer developed. It is commonly torn due to getting caught or snagged in something and is extremely painful for the dog when it happens, in addition it can be costly to remove after the initial first 2 to 4 days especially if it is partially torn. The claw serves no purpose but to be something that can become a painful reminder later. My Miniature Pinschers dewclaws are removed as well as my German Pinschers. In many breeds it is part of the breed standards.