Dew claws when lure racing and track racing

[B.P.R 2,798]

Just been reading up on an article about whippets and greyhounds lure coursing/racing and track racing.

 

In a part it shows a greyhounds dewclaws strapped up so they cannot catch when running and so they couldn't get caught on the lure line.

 

I know some people remove the dewclaws at a very young age but my whippet has still got them.

 

What's the advantages/disadvantages of dew claws and does anybody strap them up when either working or racing?

 

Just trying to learn a little bit more, you don't know if you dont ask. Cheers

[whin 463]

try runningon hard ground with dew clas youl se what happens i get mines taken of at 2 days best way as they are ahinderance for a working dog

[Malt 379]

Advantages: (IMO) a dog with dew claws can turn change direction slightly faster when running at speed.

 

Disadvantages: This, when you're fed up of your dog being laid up with a broken claw and results in 4-6 weeks out of your season..

 

 

 

[graham4877 1,181]

last bitch had them, was gonna get them off, but all i did was clip them right back, never had a problem as they were tiny, pup i've got here now has them, they are coming off, pup i've got coming has got them off so should save a bit money! realy the breeder should take them off when they are 2 days old!

[chartpolski 28,436]

I've got one with and one without.....absolutely no difference in running, turning or owt else !!

 

Cheers.

[troter58 1,711]

better off imo atb troter

[Fabapocalypse 35]

My dog has huge dew claws and stopper pads - the stopper pads tend to come off worst at racing as he hits the lure really hard so skids to a sudden stop; he once ended up with really sore stoppers (it doesn't matter to him if he wins or not so long as the lure dies ). I use leg protectors which last a lot longer than vetwrap and are easier to get on and off. Maybe dew claws are more at risk in the working environment where the turning is more violent and the terrain more varied? Mine no longer works so I've not the same experience of that. The protectors cover both anyway.

 

[paulus 26]

ive got two with and one without, i carnt tell any difference when running, however i did remove then from the last litter as i came to the conclusion that its one last thing to worry about.

[iworkwhippets 13,214]

Over the years, ive run dogs with dew claws on and off, no difference in their running, turning etc, i have 3 dogs, and for their benefit, they have been removed, cos they are working doggies

Edited October 2, 2011 by iworkwhippets