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How much does it cost to neuter a dog?

By Your Dog Magazine editors · Updated · How we check

A neuter removes a male dog's testicles under general anesthesia. Prices vary between full-service clinics and low-cost programs, so it is worth comparing.

What the surgery is

The AVMA describes neutering as removing the testicles. Your dog is examined first, has general anesthesia and pain relief, and needs a few quiet days while he heals. A vasectomy is a less common alternative that prevents puppies but leaves the hormone-producing organs.

Lower-cost options

  • Animal shelters, humane societies and city or county voucher programs
  • The SpayUSA database of low-cost clinics, which the ASPCA recommends

What changes the price

  • Size and age
  • A testicle that has not descended, which turns it into a longer surgery
  • Extras such as bloodwork, a cone and take-home pain medication

Ask for a written estimate

An estimate lists each line, so you can compare two clinics fairly. Ask what is included, what could be added once your dog is under anesthesia or examined, and whether there is a lower-cost option the vet is comfortable with.

What other owners paid

Loading what owners paid…

Your turn: what did you pay for neuter?

Anonymous. We keep the amount, state, type of clinic, size and year, and only show totals once five owners have reported.

How we put this page together

We do not publish estimates. The figures above come only from readers, and we show a typical price once at least five people have reported one. Medical facts are from:

Prices change by region and clinic, so use these as a guide and ask your vet for an estimate.

Frequently asked questions

At what age should a dog be neutered?

There is no single best age for dogs, according to the AVMA. Talk it through with your vet based on breed, size and health.

Questions from dog owners

Got a question about How much does it cost to neuter a dog?? Ask it here. We answer the useful ones on this page.

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