How Much Does it Cost to Neuter a Dog?

There’s nothing like bringing a puppy into your home and your life. Their boundless energy and playful antics bring immense joy and happiness. But in order to take the best care of our little fur babies, we’ve got to make sure we spay or neuter them when the time comes. If it’s time for your pup to get snip-snipped, you may be wondering, “How much does it cost to neuter a dog?”

Great question! A variety of things can impact the cost. For instance, your dog’s size and age, their breed, your state and the particular vet you choose. 

In this blog post we’ll cover costs of both neutering and spaying your dog as well as identify some of the specific factors that influence cost. We’ll also discuss what is included in the fee and the benefits of getting the procedure done.

Neutering VS Spaying: What’s the Difference?

Neutering is a term used to describe the sterilization of male dogs. This procedure removes the male dog’s testicles. Spaying describes the surgical procedure whereby a female dog’s ovaries and uterus are removed.

Both procedures are done under anesthesia. Neutering is a less invasive surgery because the testicles are on the outside of your dog’s body. Spaying is more invasive as the vet will have to make an incision to gain access to a female pup’s reproductive organs. 

Both procedures take about an hour to perform and there are minimal risks involved with young, healthy puppies. After a healing duration of a few days, dogs can get back to their normal routines.

How Much Does it Cost to Neuter a Dog?

Neutering a dog can cost anywhere from $35 all the way up to $350. Why is there such a wide range in pricing? As we mentioned earlier, the cost of neutering a dog is directly impacted by a variety of factors including your dog’s age, breed, their overall health, the zip code you live in and the vet clinic you decide to use.

As an example, a young puppy that is in great health and lives in a small town in Ohio will have a less expensive vet bill than an older dog with preexisting conditions that lives in Los Angeles, CA. The latter dog will most likely require pre-op blood work to determine they are healthy enough to undergo the procedure. They may also require different kinds of sedatives than a puppy, which may cost more. And of course, a vet in the middle of Los Angeles will most likely charge more than a vet in a small town in Ohio.

Find out what pet insurance covers neutering.

How Much Does it Cost to Spay a Dog?

Similar to neutering, the cost of spaying a female dog will vary depending on the same factors of age, breed, location, etc. Typically speaking, average spaying costs range from $50 to $500. As we mentioned earlier, spaying is a more invasive and complicated surgery, which is why it often costs more. And, as with neutering, if spaying is performed on an older dog with preexisting conditions that require blood work before surgery, you can expect additional costs.

Why Does the Size of Dog Impact Cost?

The bigger the dog, the more anesthesia and surgery time is required. Also, larger dogs require more suture materials and more pain medication. This is why there can be a big difference in vet bills between a Great Dane puppy and a Chihuahua puppy.

We will note that some vet clinics charge a flat rate for spaying and neutering regardless of the size of dog. If cost is a factor for you, and you don’t already have a vet that you love, you may want to do some research into local clinics in your area to find one that charges a flat fee. 

When Should You Spay or Neuter a Dog?

Usually dogs between the ages of six to nine months will be ready for spaying and neutering. While this is the ideal age, puppies as young as eight weeks old can also be spayed and neutered, provided they are healthy.

Veterinarians can also spay and neuter older dogs. In these situations, however, post-surgery complications can be a bit higher, so it’s important to have your vet thoroughly check your dog out to determine if he or she is a good candidate for the procedure. 

What are the Benefits of Spaying or Neutering a Dog?

If you are wondering if you really even need to bother with spaying or neutering your pup, the answer is yes. There are actually numerous benefits and here are some of the top ones:

It’s Healthier for Them

Did you know spaying or neutering your dog can help them live longer? Spaying actually prevents mammary tumors and uterine infections, while neutering prevents testicular cancer and prostate issues.

Better Behavior

By spaying your female dog, you will ensure she never goes into heat, attracting intact males from around the neighborhood. And by neutering your boy dog, you will stop him from trying to escape and looking for a female dog in heat.

As an added bonus, intact male dogs have a tendency to mark their territory. This is a nice way of saying he may lift his leg and pee all around your house. Intact males tend to be more aggressive and that can make going on walks and trips to the dog park difficult, if not dangerous.

Reducing the Number of Homeless Dogs

Unless you are a professional breeder, there is really no reason not to spay or neuter your dog. There are already so many wonderful pups out there who are in dire need of a good home. Spaying and neutering helps stop the tragedy of pet overpopulation. 

Pet Insurance Can Help You Cover the Costs of Spaying and Neutering

Pet insurance is a great way to ensure you can afford to care of your fur baby. While most plans don’t automatically cover the costs of spaying and neutering, a majority of providers offer wellness plans that can help you pay for these procedures as well as routine care and vaccinations. 

Pet Insurance Review makes it incredibly easy for you to choose the right plan for your pup. You can read some of the reviews left by over 140,000 pet parents just like you, or take 2 minutes to get a personalized quote.

References:

1. “Spaying and Neutering Dogs 101: Everything You Need to Know” Retrieved from: https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/spay-and-neutering-dogs-101-everything-you-need-know
2. “Cost of neutering a dog (castration) – 10 things you need to know” Retrieved from: https://dogsvets.com/cost-of-neutering-a-dog/
3. “SPAY AND NEUTER FOR CATS AND DOGS” Retrieved from: https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/c/spay-and-neuter

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.