Final answer:
The kidneys of dogs cannot normally be palpated because they are located deep within the abdominal cavity and are protected by layers of muscles and fat.
Step-by-step explanation:
The kidneys of dogs cannot normally be palpated because they are located deep within the abdominal cavity and are protected by layers of muscles and fat. Palpation is a technique that involves feeling the internal organs through the body wall, but in the case of dogs, it is difficult to feel the kidneys directly.
Additionally, the kidneys are positioned behind other organs such as the liver, intestines, and stomach, making them further inaccessible for palpation. However, veterinarians may be able to feel the kidneys in certain cases, such as when they are enlarged or diseased.