What Is A Dogs Hook Claw For. Devil’s claw is unique because of its long hooked seed pods. If this dew claw is ignored during regular claw trimming, it can become too long and pose a few different problems.

At high speeds (especially when turning) or on slippery surfaces, these dewclaws provide extra traction and help stabilize the carpal (wrist) joint. Some dogs may not like the paw being handled if a traumatized nail is making the area sensitive. A true claw is made of hard protein called keratin.