How many claws are on a dog's paw? - briefly
A typical dog has five claws on each front paw and four claws on each hind paw.
How many claws are on a dog's paw? - in detail
Dogs, like most mammals, possess a characteristic set of digits on their paws. Each dog's paw typically comprises four toes on the front and four on the back. However, there is an additional digit that often goes unnoticed—the dewclaw. The dewclaw is a vestigial fifth toe located higher up on the inner side of the paw. While it may appear to be detached or non-functional in some breeds, in others, it can be quite useful for gripping and balance. Therefore, a dog's paw generally consists of five claws—four primary ones and one dewclaw. This configuration is a result of evolutionary adaptation, providing dogs with the necessary agility and grip for various terrains and activities.