Where are the kidneys located in a dog? - briefly
The kidneys of a dog are located on either side of the spine, just behind the last ribs and in front of the lumbar vertebrae. They play a crucial role in filtering blood and removing waste products from the body.
Where are the kidneys located in a dog? - in detail
The kidneys in dogs are paired organs located on either side of the spine, towards the back of the abdominal cavity. They are positioned slightly lower than the last rib, typically between the lumbar vertebrae L1 and L4, with the left kidney usually situated a bit more cranially (towards the head) compared to the right one. This asymmetry is a common anatomical feature in many mammals, including dogs. The kidneys are well-protected by the ribcage and lie within the retroperitoneal space, which means they are situated behind the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity (the peritoneum). This location allows them to efficiently filter blood, remove waste products, and regulate electrolyte balance without being compromised by the movement of other organs within the abdomen.