Abdomen is the rear section of a dog’s body, located behind the ribcage. It contains many vital organs including the intestines, stomach, liver, kidneys and reproductive organs.
The abdomen is commonly referred to as the “belly” region. A tucked-up abdomen giving a slender waistline is considered ideal for many breeds.
An overly bloated or distended abdomen can be a sign of weight issues, pregnancy, or potential health problems like bloat or masses. Palpating the abdomen is part of routine veterinary exams to check for abnormalities.
The length, tuck, and overall appearance of the abdomen is an important breed characteristic in dog shows and conformance judging.