Wolf claws

As we are multiplying cases of wolf flints in the clinic, we decided to prepare a short article for you :)

Fifth finger or so-called. Wolf claw is also commonly found in most dogs. It does not matter whether it is a specific breed or a cross. It is actually the fifth toe on the hindquarters, which does not touch the ground.

Sometimes it is quite developed like other fingers with a bone backing. But it is often stunted when it hangs literally on the skin.

For some working breeds it is even a breeding mark. For French shepherds are typical even double wolf claws, which allegedly helped the dog to fight with bears and wolves. They were also helpful in running on the back of cattle and overcoming muddy terrain.

Wolf claw, however, is also a health risk, as it is more vulnerable than other fingers. Often it turns off and causes the dog pain. Therefore, dogs that do not require the standard is removed. The best and least painful is the removal of lupins in puppies a few days after birth. Obviously, older dogs must go into anesthesia during removal.

Breeds in which the fifth claw is a breeding sign are, for example:

• Briard,
• Beauceron,
• Picard Shepherd,
• Pyrenean Mastiff,
• Pyrenean Shepherd,
• Lundehund and others.