Below is a discussion on the subject of dew claw removal that was posted by a very well respected Veterinarian on another site.

This discussion pertains to "competition and performance" dogs who endure a lot more physical stress than your average hunting dog.

Ive always had dew claws removed on any dog I've owned or bred. If I didn't trust and respect the source of this "new" information I would continue removing dew claws. Now....I'm not so sure.

https://www.retrievertraining.net/fo...e-for-Dewclaws