How much does it cost to cremate a dog?
How much does it cost to cremate a dog?
$40 – $200 cost for communal cremation
$100 – $450 cost for private cremation
One of the most difficult parts of dealing with the loss of a beloved dog is deciding how best to honor them and preserve their memory. Cremation is more affordable than burial and still offers you many options to memorialize your four-legged companion and keep them close to your heart.
In this guide, we'll explain the types of dog cremation available and the costs involved.
Cost to cremate a dog
Dog cremation costs $100 to $450 for private cremation or $40 to $200 for communal cremation. The cost to cremate a dog depends on the method and the dog's size and weight, with lower prices for small dogs like Chihuahuas and higher prices for large breeds like Saint Bernards or Great Danes.
| Dog's weight | Communal cremation* | Private cremation* |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 15 lbs. | $40 – $70 | $100 – $200 |
| 16 to 30 lbs. | $45 – $80 | $130 – $250 |
| 31 to 50 lbs. | $50 – $100 | $150 – $275 |
| 51 to 80 lbs. | $75 – $125 | $200 – $300 |
| 81 to 100 lbs. | $85 – $150 | $220 – $350 |
| Over 100 lbs. | $95 – $200 | $250 – $450 |
*Not including euthanasia services, transportation of the body, or an urn.
What is dog cremation?
During cremation, the technician gently places your dog's body in an enclosed chamber which reaches temperatures of up to 2,000° F. This intense heat reduces the organic matter to ashes and dried bone fragments, which are then pulverized until they reach a sand-like consistency.
Depending on the type of cremation you select, your dog's body is either cremated alone in the chamber or together with other pets.
Types of dog cremation
There are three types of cremation available for dogs. Most crematories offer private and communal cremation options. Some crematories also offer individual cremation, but that option is far less common.
Private cremation is the most expensive option and costs $100 to $450 depending on your dog's size. With this method, your dog is cremated alone, ensuring the ashes don't get mixed with other pets' remains. The crematory may let you view the cremation and will return your dog's ashes to you.
Communal cremation, also called group cremation, is the most affordable option at $40 to $200. The crematory cremates several pets in one chamber and does not return the ashes to you. Some companies spread the ashes in a memorial garden for you.
Individual cremation costs $75 to $300 and is also called semi-private or partitioned cremation because several pets are cremated in the same chamber, separated by dividers. Though the bodies are separated, some mixing of ashes occurs. The term "individual" can be misleading because it implies your dog is cremated alone.
To determine which type of cremation is right for your dog, ask yourself whether it's important for you to get the ashes back and whether you want to witness the cremation or not. Cremation viewing and the return of your dog's ashes are only available with private cremation.
Dog cremation cost factors
The type of cremation you choose—private or communal—and your dog's size and weight have the biggest impact on the cost. However, these other factors also affect the total fee:
Transport fee: Some pet crematories will pick up your dog's remains from your veterinarian's office for free, while others charge $50 to $100. If your dog passes away at home, pickup fees range from $75 to $150 during business hours and up to $200 during evenings or weekends.
Returning your dog's ashes to you: If you opt for private or individual cremation, crematories charge $20 to $30 to return the ashes to you by mail and up to $50 to deliver them in person.
Cremation viewing / witnessing: Some crematories allow you to witness your dog's private cremation for an extra fee of $20 to $75. Though many people find this idea too painful, some prefer to observe the cremation to get a sense of closure or to see how the crematory treats their dog's remains.
Euthanasia: The cost of dog euthanasia ranges from $100 to $450, not including cremation. Prices depend on whether the euthanasia occurs in your home or at the vet’s office.
Additional dog cremation costs
Cremation prices typically only include the service itself. However, most companies offer urns or decorative boxes for an extra fee. Some companies also sell jewelry and other memorabilia made with or designed to hold some of the ashes, allowing you to always keep your dog close to your heart.
Urn or box: Pet urns and memorial boxes cost $50 to $350 and come in a wide range of styles and materials. Metal urns and wood boxes with paw print designs are a popular choice. Some memorial boxes can also display a photo of your dog.
Engraving: Custom engraving on an urn, memorial box, or name plate adds $10 to $50.
Paw print: Most cremation companies can provide your dog's paw print preserved in clay for $20 to $40.
Hair or fur clipping: Keepsake hair or fur clippings enclosed in a clear protective sleeve cost $10 to $25.
Other cremation keepsakes: Many companies offer cremation jewelry and keepsakes, with widely varying prices. They can mix your dog's ashes in glass or epoxy or even form them into a diamond. They can also form cremation stones for you to keep, scatter in nature, or create an outdoor memorial.
Dog ash scattering or burial cost
After the pet crematory delivers your dog's cremains, you also have the option to bury the ashes or scatter them on your own private land or in a scattering garden. Each of these methods allows you to visit the site of your dog's ashes later if you choose.
Pet ash scattering gardens provide a beautiful, tranquil place for people to scatter the ashes of beloved pets. Most scattering gardens are designated areas within cemeteries and feature benches or meditative walking paths. Some cemeteries allow you to scatter your pet's ashes for free, while others charge $100 to $500.
Pet burial costs $300 to $1,500 if you choose to bury the urn or box containing your dog's ashes in a dedicated pet cemetery. Prices for burial plots vary significantly by location. A headstone or grave marker costs an additional $50 to $300+.
Dog cremation FAQs
Does pet insurance cover dog cremation costs?
Most pet insurance plans do not cover the cost of dog cremation or burial. Some insurance providers offer coverage for end-of-life services like pet euthanasia and cremation as an add-on policy at an extra charge.
How long does dog cremation take?
Cremation takes 1 to 4 hours, depending on your dog's size. If you opt for private cremation, the crematory will return the ashes to you within a few days to two weeks.
Where can I get my dog cremated?
Many independent local crematories specialize in cremation for dogs and other pets. Several nationwide organizations like Lap of Love also provide dog cremation services in addition to in-home euthanasia.
Do vets cremate dogs?
Veterinarians typically do not offer on-site cremation services for dogs or other pets because the process requires specialized equipment and permits. However, most veterinarians work with pet crematories in their area.
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.