Removing dewclaws in Chihuahuas is an elective surgical amputation. The procedure is easiest and least invasive when performed on puppies under 5 days old. This does not hurt them, as no bone or muscle is yet attached.

For older dogs, it requires general anesthesia and stitches. Most veterinarians advise against the procedure unless the dewclaws are frequently snagged, torn, or causing recurring infections.

Because dewclaw removal is a surgical amputation, the approach depends heavily on your dog's age and the specific anatomy of their dewclaws:

Newborn Puppies (under 3-5 days old): At this stage, dewclaws are usually only attached by skin and not yet fused to the bone. A veterinarian can quickly snip them off. Many breeders perform this themselves (we do Not), but veterinary professionals strongly recommend having a vet do it using local anesthesia and sterile tools to prevent infection and severe bleeding.

Older Puppies and Adult Chihuahuas: By this time, the dewclaw is attached by bone and tendons. Removal requires a surgical amputation under general anesthesia. The vet will cut through the joint, tie off blood vessels, and place stitches. Full recovery takes 10 to 14 days, during which your dog will require pain medication, strict rest, and an Elizabethan collar (cone) to prevent them from chewing on the bandages and sutures.When is removal recommended?

Veterinarians generally leave dewclaws intact in older puppies/dogs unless there is a clear medical necessity. Dewclaws can be useful for sone dogs when gripping toys or gaining traction while running.

However, removal is often recommended if your Chihuahua's dewclaws: Regularly catch on carpets, bushes, or clothing, leading to painful tears.Are loose and "floppy," increasing the likelihood of accidental injury. Constantly become ingrown or develop recurring infections.

We personally fo not recommend having older puppy/dogs dewclaws removed.