Cost of Dog Hip Dysplasia Surgery

The cost of hip dysplasia in dogs can cost up to $6,000 depending on factors like surgery, anesthesia, medications, and physical therapy.¹ Hip dysplasia is a common developmental issue in dogs where the ball and socket of the hip joint don’t grow at the same rate.

In many cases, pet insurance may be able to cover some or all of the costs associated with your dog’s surgery. Here’s what you need to know about canine hip dysplasia surgery and the cost of different treatment options.

Dog Hip Dysplasia Surgery Costs

Three kinds of surgeries may be offered to your dog. Here are their average costs and recovery timelines.¹

These estimates don’t include additional costs like prescription medications, follow-up visits or rehabilitation.

If your dog is showing signs of hip dysplasia, like limping or lameness, your veterinarian may recommend surgery. The vet may charge a consultation fee to see whether your dog would be a good fit for hip dysplasia surgery, which can cost between $50 and $150.¹ During the consultation, they’ll look for looseness, range of motion, and grinding of the joints.

After a consultation, diagnostic tests like X-rays and blood work will help the vet decide if surgery is necessary. Dog X-rays can cost between $150 and $250, while pre-surgical blood work may cost up to $200.^2,3

Types of Dog Hip Dysplasia Surgeries

If your dog is diagnosed with hip dysplasia, your vet may recommend one of three surgeries, each varying in cost, complexity, and recovery time. Here’s an overview of each surgery type.

Double or Triple Pelvic Osteotomy (DPO/TPO)

DPO/TPO surgery costs between $1,200 and $2,000 and is often recommended for dogs younger than 10 months old.¹ This procedure involves cutting and rotating parts of the ball-and-socket joint to improve hip function.⁴

After DPO/TPO surgery, your dog may need up to 8 weeks of rest. Follow-up X-rays at the 6-week mark are often required so the vet can monitor the healing process.¹

Femoral Head Osteotomy (FHO)

Femoral head osteotomy (FHO) surgery involves removing the head of the femur (the ball of the hip joint) and allowing scar tissue to form a “false joint.” The cost of this procedure ranges from $1,800 to $2,400. Your dog may need to use their leg sooner (7 – 10 days post-surgery) to recover from FHO surgery compared to DPO/TPO.¹ This will likely require physical therapy, which you might have to pay additional costs for.

FHO surgery is generally recommended for smaller dogs (under 50 pounds) but can also be performed on larger dogs. Costs for this surgery may vary based on the dog’s size and activity level.

Total Hip Replacement (THR)

Total hip replacement surgery is often the most expensive option, costing $5,600 – $6,000 for the procedure itself and $200 – $300 for follow-up appointments. This surgery replaces the entire ball-and-socket joint with prosthetic implants.¹

After THR surgery, your dog may need to recover in an animal hospital for about 3 – 5 days. They’ll also likely need about 2 months of at-home care and physical therapy.¹ Although THR surgery is costly, it generally provides the best long-term relief over the dog’s lifetime.⁵

Factors That Affect the Hip Dysplasia Surgery Cost in Dogs

Several factors can affect the cost of hip dysplasia surgery for dogs, including the following:

• Type of surgery: Costs vary depending on whether the procedure is DPO/TPO, FHO, or THR.
• Severity of hip dysplasia: More intense cases in dogs may require more complex and costly surgical interventions.
• Dog’s age, size, and overall health: Younger dogs, large breed dogs, and dogs with additional health issues may incur higher costs because of the increased surgical and anesthetic needs.
• Number of affected hips: Treating both hips usually costs more than a single hip.
• Location of the vet office: Costs can vary based on geographic location and the local cost of living.
• Hospitalization: Expenses for the length of the hospital stay and any additional in-house care needed contribute to overall costs.
• Diagnostic testing: Costs for pre-surgical diagnostics — like X-rays, blood tests, and other necessary tests — can add up.
• Follow-up care and rehabilitation: Post-surgery follow-up appointments, imaging, and physical therapy or rehabilitation services may also be needed.

Alternatives to Canine Hip Dysplasia Surgery

Surgery isn’t always necessary for managing hip dysplasia. Many dogs benefit from non-surgical treatments that can help ease their symptoms and improve overall mobility. Consider these alternatives before deciding on hip dysplasia surgery.⁶

• Physical therapy: Specific exercises and therapies, like hydrotherapy, can help strengthen muscles around the hip joint, which can reduce pain and improve your dog’s mobility.
• Dietary changes: Adjusting your dog’s diet can help manage weight and reduce stress on their hips.
• Exercise regimens: Low-impact physical activities, like swimming, can maintain your dog’s joint health and mobility.
• Anti-inflammatory medications: These medications can help manage pain and inflammation caused by hip dysplasia.
• Supplements: Joint supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, may support your dog’s joint health.
• Acupuncture: This alternative therapy can provide pain relief and improve joint function.

Worried About the Cost? Dog Insurance Can Help

Hip dysplasia surgery for dogs can be costly, often reaching thousands of dollars. Each surgical option involves time and commitment to ensure your dog recovers fully and enjoys an active life.

Before moving forward with surgery, talk to your vet about alternative therapies that might help treat your dog’s hip dysplasia.

For financial assistance, consider MetLife Pet Insurance. Our policies can help cover alternative treatments, like acupuncture, as well as surgical procedures. Get a quote today to find out how we can support your pet’s health and well-being.