Spaying and neutering pets is a common practice throughout the US, and it can benefit both the control of the stray population and the health and wellness of your pet. In this article, we will discuss what it means to neuter your pet, how much it costs, and the health benefits that can come with the procedure.
What is Neutering?
“Neutering” refers to the surgical removal of a pet’s testicles3. Because neutering is less invasive than spaying (the surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus), it typically costs significantly less1.
How Much Does It Cost to Neuter a Male Dog?
On average, it costs between $75 - $250 to spay a dog1. The cost can range depending on the breed and age of the pet as well as the type of clinic you use for the procedure. Here are a few different types of veterinary clinics and the average costs you can expect2:
Type of Veterinary Clinic | Average Cost |
State Voucher Program | $0 - $75 |
Low-Cost Clinic | $20 - $175 |
Non-Profit Veterinary Clinic | $50 - $350 |
Humane Society or ASPCA | $0 - $250 |
Private Veterinary Clinic | $200 - $500 |
What is the Best Age to Neuter a Male Dog?
According to the American Kennel Club, the best age to neuter a dog depends largely on their size. Toy breeds should be neutered when they’re between 6 and 9 months old, while larger breeds should be neutered when they’re older; between 12 to 18 months old4.
What are the Benefits of Neutering My Dog?
Multiple benefits can make neutering a dog worth it. Some of these include2:
Behavioral Issues: If your pet is constantly roaming in search of a mate or marking to try and attract one, neutering your pet can help resolve these behaviors.
Health Benefits: Neutering your pet can help prevent their risk for testicular cancer, and can also decrease their risk of hernia and enlarged prostate.
Population Control: A neutered dog can’t create a litter. This means even if your pet gets out, they won’t be able to impregnate another dog and create puppies that will later end up as strays or in shelters.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Neutering?
Yes, pet insurance can cover eligible vet costs associated with neutering.
Conclusion
The average cost of neutering a dog can range between $75 - $2501 depending on the age and breed of your pet and the clinic that you use. While this can seem expensive, neutering your pet can have both behavioral and health benefits. If you have any questions regarding the best time to neuter your pet, your vet will be able to provide you with guidance specific to your dog. To learn more about how to get cash back on the eligible costs of neutering your pet, read this article on pet insurance with wellness coverage.
Billingsley, B. (2024). How Much Does It Cost to Spay or Neuter a Dog? 2024 Price Guide, 1 Nov. 2024, In Dogster. https://www.dogster.com/dog-health-care/cost-to-spay-or-neuter-a-dog
Everything You Need To Know About Neutering Your DogIn Forbes Advisor, 3 Jan 2024, from https://www.forbes.com/advisor/pet-insurance/pet-care/cost-to-neuter-a-dog/
How Much Does It Cost To Spay or Neuter a Dog? In MetLife Pet Insurance. 14 Oct. 2024, from https://www.metlifepetinsurance.com/blog/pet-health/neuter-spay-dog-cost/
Klein, J. (n.d.). What Is the Best Age to Neuter or Spay Your Dog? In American Kennel Club. 5 Jan. 2024, from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/vets-corner/neutering-spaying-right-age-dog/
