Renal Agenesis
Also known as: Nierenagenesie · Kidney agenesis · Unilateral renal agenesis · Congenital renal agenesis
Overview
What it is
Renal agenesis is a congenital condition where a puppy is born missing one or both kidneys due to a developmental failure in the womb. While the complete absence of both kidneys is fatal shortly after birth, a dog can survive with a single kidney because the remaining organ enlarges to compensate for the filtration workload. This urinary system defect is typically diagnosed using abdominal ultrasound imaging.
How it presents
Dogs with only one kidney often show no symptoms early in life, and the condition is frequently discovered during routine veterinary scans. If the remaining kidney begins to fail as the dog matures, owners may notice signs of kidney disease such as increased thirst, frequent urination, vomiting, and weight loss.
Treatment
The missing tissue cannot be replaced, but the condition is manageable through lifelong supportive care, specialized diets, and medications to protect the remaining kidney. Lifetime management and monitoring costs typically range from €1,500 to €7,000.
How it's tested
Abdominaler Ultraschall(US)
Primary testUltrasoundEin abdominaler Ultraschall (Sonographie) dient dem bildgebenden Nachweis des Fehlens einer oder beider Nieren im Bauchraum.
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Cardiac-OFA
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Renal Agenesis?
Renal agenesis is a congenital condition where a puppy is born missing one or both kidneys due to a developmental failure in the womb. While the complete absence of both kidneys is fatal shortly after birth, a dog can survive with a single kidney because the remaining organ enlarges to compensate for the filtration workload. This urinary system defect is typically diagnosed using abdominal ultrasound imaging.
How is Renal Agenesis tested?
Tests currently in our database: Abdominaler Ultraschall.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.