This is the most common congenital abnormality affecting the ureters. For unknown reasons, it is more common in female puppies than males. An ectopic ureter is one which does not empty into the bladder as is normally expected. Rather, it empties urine into another location. In the female, ectopic ureters oftentimes empty into the vaginal canal. One or both ureters may be involved.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms vary depending on exactly where the ureters empty. In the case of the female, urine may simply leak out of the vaginal opening with the puppy dribbling urine on a constant basis. As a result of improper urinary flow and bladder storage, urinary tract infections are common. Most commonly, the puppy never develops proper control of urination.

What are the risks?

Most patients with ectopic ureters will experience severe urinary complications including infections and urine scalding of tissue. Urine scalding is the result of the constant dribbling of urine containing acid and waste products on areas of skin, vaginal linings, etc.

What is the management?

Surgery is the only permanent solution. The ectopic ureter(s) are repositioned so that they carry urine directly from the kidneys to the bladder, as is normally expected. Antibiotics are useful to control any associated infections.