How much does dog hip dysplasia surgery cost?
Last updated: May 2026 · Methodology · Sources
Hip dysplasia surgery costs $1,200–$3,500 per hip for an FHO and $4,500–$7,000+ per hip for a total hip replacement (THR). All-in, including diagnosis and aftercare, expect $4,000–$14,500. Both hips doubles it.
Cost components
| Component | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orthopedic consult + X-rays | $200 | $450 | $600 |
| Pre-op bloodwork + anesthesia | $350 | $600 | $900 |
| FHO (femoral head ostectomy), per hip | $1,200 | $2,200 | $3,500 |
| Total hip replacement (THR), per hip | $4,500 | $5,800 | $7,000 |
| THR prosthetic implant | $1,500 | $2,000 | $2,500 |
| Hospitalization, pain meds, post-op X-rays | $350 | $700 | $1,200 |
FHO removes the ball of the joint and lets a "false joint" form — best for smaller/lighter dogs. THR replaces the joint with an implant and is pricier but restores more normal function for larger dogs.
FHO vs. total hip replacement
- FHO ($1,200–$3,500/hip) — removes the femoral head; relies on muscle and scar tissue. Cheaper, good for dogs under ~50 lb and for pain relief.
- THR ($4,500–$7,000+/hip) — replaces the joint with a prosthesis; restores the most normal function, preferred for larger dogs. Add $1,500–$2,500 for the implant.
What drives the cost
- Procedure choice — THR is roughly double an FHO.
- One hip or both — bilateral cases double the surgical cost.
- Specialist surgeon — board-certified orthopedic surgeons cost more than a GP.
At-risk breeds
Hip dysplasia is largely hereditary and most common in larger breeds: German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers, and Great Danes. If you own one, factoring this risk into your insurance decision early pays off.
Cost with vs. without insurance
Hip dysplasia is covered by accident-and-illness insurance if the policy predates any signs — many insurers treat it as pre-existing if symptoms showed before enrollment, and some have orthopedic waiting periods. Worked example for a $5,000 THR:
| Scenario | You pay |
|---|---|
| No insurance (full bill) | $5,000 |
| Insurance, 80% reimbursement, $500 deductible met | $1,400 |
| Signs appeared before the policy / waiting period | May be excluded |
For at-risk breeds, insure early and check the orthopedic waiting period before symptoms appear. Run the trade-off in our insurance vs. savings calculator, or build a full visit estimate in the vet bill calculator.
Related dog cost guides
- Dog ACL/CCL surgery cost — the other big orthopedic surgery.
- Dog X-ray cost — how hip dysplasia is diagnosed.
- Dog sedation & anesthesia cost — part of any orthopedic surgery.
- Insurance vs. savings — run the math for at-risk breeds.
FAQ
How much does dog hip dysplasia surgery cost?
$1,200–$3,500 per hip for an FHO and $4,500–$7,000+ per hip for a total hip replacement. All-in, including diagnosis and aftercare, expect $4,000–$14,500.
What is the difference between FHO and THR cost?
An FHO removes the femoral head and costs $1,200–$3,500 per hip; a total hip replacement uses a prosthetic implant and costs $4,500–$7,000+ per hip — roughly double.
Does it cost more to do both hips?
Yes — bilateral surgery roughly doubles the surgical cost, though some clinics discount the second hip. Not every dog needs both done.
Which breeds are most prone to hip dysplasia?
Larger breeds: German Shepherds, Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers, and Great Danes. It's largely hereditary, so at-risk breeds should be insured early.
Does pet insurance cover hip dysplasia surgery?
Often yes, if the policy predates any signs and you've cleared the orthopedic waiting period. If symptoms appeared before enrollment, many insurers treat it as pre-existing.