Is a dog's liver on the right or left side? - briefly
The canine liver is located primarily on the right side of the body, with a small portion extending towards the center. It is a vital organ responsible for various functions including protein synthesis, blood detoxification, and nutrient breakdown.
Is a dog's liver on the right or left side? - in detail
The liver in a dog, as in most mammals, is located primarily on the right side of the body. This large, reddish-brown organ plays a critical role in various metabolic processes, including detoxification, protein synthesis, and nutrient breakdown. The liver is situated within the abdominal cavity, beneath the diaphragm and above the stomach and intestines. It is divided into four lobes: the left lateral lobe, the right medial lobe, the quadrate lobe, and the caudate lobe. Despite its predominant position on the right side, a small portion of the liver extends across the midline to the left side of the abdomen. This anatomical arrangement allows for optimal blood flow from the digestive organs to the liver via the portal vein, facilitating effective nutrient absorption and waste removal.