21/11/2023
Sometimes these stay short by themselves and donāt need maintenance, but sometimes they grow really long and need trimmed.
Goat dewclaws
Goats have dewclaws, which are small, non-functional hooves located higher up on their legs, above the main hooves. These dewclaws are not weight-bearing and don't significantly contribute to their movement. While their exact purpose is not entirely clear, they may provide assistance in maintaining balance and stability, especially on uneven terrain or during climbing.
In general, cutting a goat's dewclaws is not necessary unless they become excessively long or pose a risk of injury. Dewclaws in goats typically don't touch the ground and naturally wear down through normal activities. However, if you notice them becoming overgrown or causing discomfort to the goat, consider trimming them carefully, making small snips at a time. If there is no reason, please refrain from touching!
****many animals, including sheep, dogs, cats, and certain species of birds and ungulates, have dewclaws.