I've met one dog ( a golden retriever ) who had the claws on its front feet removed....it was awful, I don't know what vet would do that!!

As far as the dewclaws, I don't think its too bad if they do it when they are tiny puppies. Nebo has front dewclaws, and I don't mind them. I *hate* back dewclaws though...I'd have to have the back dewclaws removed if my dog had them...they get caught on things too easily....very hard to clip also.