How much does hip dysplasia surgery cost for dogs?
How much does hip dysplasia surgery cost for dogs?
$1,200 – $7,000+ average surgery cost (one hip)
$4,000 – $14,500 all-in treatment cost (one hip)
Dog hip dysplasia surgery cost
Dog hip dysplasia surgery costs $1,200 to $7,000+ for the surgical procedure with anesthesia. Puppy hip dysplasia surgery costs $800 to $1,000 for the less invasive procedure for dogs less than 20 weeks old. Diagnostic imaging, blood work, and post-op care are charged separately and will increase the overall cost.
| Surgery type | Average cost per hip | Recovery time |
|---|---|---|
| Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) | $1,200 – $2,500 | 6 weeks |
| Double or Triple Pelvic Osteotomy (DPO/TPO) | $3,000 – $6,000 | 4 – 6 weeks |
| Total Hip Replacement (THR) | $3,500 – $7,000+ | 12 weeks |
| Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis (JPS) | $800 – $1,000 | 10 days |
Dog hip dysplasia is a painful condition affecting the hip joints, leading to mobility issues. Surgery is often recommended to alleviate pain and improve quality of life. Surgical treatments include:
Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO)
FHO surgery for dogs costs $1,200 to $2,500 per hip, depending on the dog’s size and age. FHO surgery involves removing the femoral head of the hip joint to create a "false" joint.
This procedure does not restore normal hip function but effectively manages pain and is suitable for both young and mature dogs. Recovery typically takes about 6 weeks.
Double or Triple Pelvic Osteotomy (DPO/TP)
DPO or TPO surgeries cost $3,000 and $6,000 per hip on average and are performed on young dogs under 10 months old. The procedure involves cutting and rotating the pelvic bone to improve joint function. Recovery includes physical rehabilitation and takes about 4 to 6 weeks.
Total Hip Replacement surgery (THR)
THR is the most effective treatment for severe cases of hip dysplasia that involves replacing the entire hip joint with metal and plastic implants. Dog hip replacement surgery costs $3,500 to $7,000+ per hip, making it the most expensive option. Recovery requires about 12 weeks, with significant improvement in mobility and pain relief.
Juvenile Public Symphysiodesis (JPS)
Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis (JPS) is a preventive puppy hip dysplasia surgery costing $800 to $1,000. Vets perform this procedure on puppies between 12 and 20 weeks of age, ideally at 14 to 16 weeks for optimal results.
This method involves cauterizing the growth plate of the pubic bone, causing the hip sockets to rotate outward as the pelvis grows, reducing the severity of hip dysplasia.
The lower cost of JPS surgery for puppy hip dysplasia makes it an attractive choice for early intervention to avoid more expensive surgeries in the future.
Dog hip surgery cost breakdown
Dog hip dysplasia surgery costs can vary significantly depending on the specific procedure, diagnostic tests, and post-operative care required. The estimated all-in treatment cost including diagnosis, surgery, and post-op care can range from nearly $4,000 to more than $14,500.
| Procedure | Estimated cost | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Initial vet visit cost | $50 – $80 | Consultation to assess symptoms and recommend diagnostic tests |
| Diagnostic dog X-ray cost | $150 – $250 | Diagnostic imaging to identify the condition |
| Diagnostic dog MRI cost | $2,500 – $6,000 | Detailed imaging of the soft tissues within the hip joint |
| Pre-surgical bloodwork cost | $100 – $200 | Determines the dog’s health risks with anesthesia |
| Surgical procedure with anesthesia | $800 – $7,000+ per hip | Treatment varies based on veterinarian recommendation |
| Post-operative care | $400 – $1,000 | Post- surgical monitoring, follow-up exams, and medications as needed |
| Estimated total cost | $4,000 – $14,530+ |
The total cost depends on several factors, including:
Severity of the condition: More advanced cases of hip dysplasia may require more complex and expensive surgical procedures, while milder cases might be managed with less invasive treatments.
Dog's size and age: Larger or older dogs may require more anesthesia and complex procedures.
Geographical location: Prices vary significantly by region, with urban veterinary hospitals having higher prices than rural ones.
Veterinary clinic: Different clinics may charge differently based on their expertise and facilities. Specialty surgical centers and emergency hospitals generally charge more than regular vet clinics due to their advanced capabilities and round-the-clock staffing.
What is hip dysplasia in dogs?
Hip dysplasia occurs when a dog's hip joint develops improperly, causing a mismatch between the ball and socket. In a healthy hip, the ball fits snugly into the socket, allowing smooth movement. In a dysplastic hip, misalignment leads to painful rubbing and grinding, resulting in gradual joint deterioration.
What causes dog hip dysplasia?
Dog hip dysplasia is primarily caused by genetic factors that typically affect large and giant breeds with rapid growth. The condition often begins developing in puppies before they turn one year old, even if symptoms don't appear until later in life.
The following factors can contribute to the development or progression of hip dysplasia:
Breed predisposition: Large and giant breeds are more susceptible, including mastiffs, St. Bernards, Rottweilers, retrievers, and bulldogs. Some smaller breeds like French bulldogs and pugs can also have it.
Rapid growth: Excessive growth rate, particularly in large breed puppies, can contribute to the development of hip dysplasia.
Improper nutrition: Unbalanced nutrition, especially during puppyhood, can influence the likelihood of developing hip dysplasia.
Obesity: Excess weight puts additional stress on joints, which can worsen existing hip dysplasia or even induce the condition.
Exercise: Both too much and too little exercise can be problematic. Excessive exercise, particularly on hard surfaces, can strain developing joints, while insufficient exercise can lead to muscle weakness and weight gain.
Proper nutrition, weight management, and appropriate exercise can help reduce the risk or severity of hip dysplasia in predisposed dogs.
Surgical alternatives for hip dysplasia in dogs
There are several non-surgical alternatives for managing hip dysplasia in dogs, including:
Weight management and controlled exercise
Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Pain management medications and anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS)
Alternative therapies (e.g., acupuncture, laser therapy, CBD oil)
Injectable treatments for joint health
These alternatives can help manage symptoms but don't cure the condition. A combination approach, tailored to each dog's needs and guided by a veterinarian, is most effective.
Hip dysplasia surgery FAQs
What are the signs of hip dysplasia in dogs?
Common signs of hip dysplasia in dogs include difficulty in walking or jumping, limping, decreased activity level, and pain during movement.
Is surgery always necessary for dog hip dysplasia?
No, surgery is not always necessary for dog hip dysplasia. You can manage mild cases with lifestyle changes and medication. Vets recommend surgery for more severe cases.
Does pet insurance cover hip dysplasia surgery?
Many pet insurance plans cover this surgery if no symptoms were present before policy activation. Always check with your provider for specific coverage details.
Will my dog need surgery on both hips?
Hip dysplasia often affects both hips, but surgery needs to vary by case. Your vet will assess each hip's condition and recommend treatment. If both hips require surgery, it's usually done one at a time, with a 3- to 6-month gap between procedures.
Questions to ask your veterinarian about hip dysplasia in dogs
When discussing hip dysplasia in dogs with your veterinarian, ask these important questions about the diagnosis, treatment options, pain management, lifestyle modifications, and follow-up care required:
Diagnosis
What tests or exams do you use to diagnose hip dysplasia in my dog?
How severe is my dog's hip dysplasia based on the exam and/or imaging results?
Are both hips affected or just one?
What is the long-term prognosis for my dog's condition?
Treatment options
What are the recommended treatment options for my dog's specific case?
Do you recommend conservative management or surgical intervention at this stage?
If surgery is recommended, what specific procedure do you suggest and why?
What are the risks and potential complications of the recommended treatments?
Pain management
What pain relief medications do you recommend for my dog?
Are there any side effects I should watch for with these medications?
How often should I administer pain medication?
Lifestyle modifications
What dietary changes can help manage my dog's weight and joint health?
What type and amount of exercise is appropriate for my dog?
Are there any activities my dog should avoid?
Do you recommend any specific joint supplements?
Are there any physical therapy exercises I can do with my dog?
How can I modify my home environment to help my dog (e.g., ramps, non-slip surfaces)?
Follow-up care
How often should my dog be re-evaluated?
What signs should I watch for that may indicate the condition is worsening?
Are there any long-term complications I should be aware of?
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.