duclaws

Question
We recently acquired a gentle and beautiful little 45# shepherd mix from an area shelter. She is extremely gentle and lives to be belly-scritched.  We couldn't have found a better pup.  The small duclaws on her hind legs stick straight out and are attached only by skin.  Strange appearing...possibly from an injury?  I can see that they could easily be ripped away by catching them on something. Should I have them removed?

Answer
Yes,it is always recommended to have the back ones removed,because a lot of times they do get torn off,causing the dog pain and a high risk of infection

It is a minor surgery and far less painful then having them caugh on something

so yes,have them removed