Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Cells, Microbes & Viruses => Topic started by: tecnocato on 06/02/2009 12:16:04

Title: Why do (most) dogs have 18 fingers and not 20?
Post by: tecnocato on 06/02/2009 12:16:04

Israel Melandez asked the Naked Scientists:
   Why do (most) dogs have 18 fingers and not 20? What are the theories
behind the two front "thumbs"?... Mine use it all the time, especially
when hoarding toys.
What do you think?

Title: Why do (most) dogs have 18 fingers and not 20?
Post by: RD on 21/02/2009 18:33:57

Quote

The dewclaws are not dead appendages. They can be used to lightly grip bones and other items that dogs hold with the paws. However, in some dogs these claws may not appear to be connected to the leg at all except by a flap of skin; in such dogs the claws do not have a use for gripping as the claw can easily fold or turn.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dewclaw