The majority of dogs have 5 toes on each front paw and 4 toes on each hind paw.
The fifth toe on the front paw is called a "dewclaw." Dewclaws are similar to thumbs and provide dogs with extra traction when running or when gripping objects between their paws.
Breeds such as the Saint Bernard and Great Pyrenees are bred to have dewclaws on their hind paws as well as on their front paws. Some mixed breeds are born with hind dewclaws as well, unfortunately however sometimes the extra toe is not well attached by bone and can become a hazard.
The risk of having an extra toe that is loosely attached to the body is that it can easily become caught and tear off (ouch!).
Therefore, it is commonly recommended for the extra dewclaw to be removed in order to avoid injury - this is typically done at the time of a dog's spay or neuter, but can also be done at any point in a dog's life.
