The look required for some breeds of dogs means puppies have to have cosmetic surgery, an issue that has sparked international debate. Dr. Paul McCarthy, head of surgery at Mississippi State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, said docking tails and cropping ears has no medical value for the animals. This is done for the sake of cosmetics and is driven by breeders and competition.
Many people try to keep the same standards of competition for their own pets.
Dr. Cory Langston, head of community practice at MSU's veterinary college, said removing the dew claws is one procedure performed on newborn puppies that has medical value. It serves no purpose and removing it prevents it from getting caught or torn off later. The procedure to remove dew claws is mild and just takes a second to perform. It is done without anesthesia because the puppy's body cannot handle the drugs. A few breeds such as Great Pyrenees require the dew claws be left on for competition in shows.