How much does dog ACL surgery cost?
Last updated: May 2026 · Methodology · Sources
TPLO (most common): $4,000–$7,500. Lateral suture (smaller dogs): $2,000–$3,500. Add $300–$1,000 for rehab. Note: dogs technically have a CCL (cranial cruciate ligament), but most owners and clinics call it ACL — the procedures are the same.
Procedure options
| Procedure | Best for | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TPLO | Medium to giant breeds | $4,000 | $5,500 | $7,500 |
| TTA | Medium to large | $3,500 | $5,000 | $7,000 |
| Lateral suture | Toy/small breeds <30 lb | $2,000 | $2,800 | $3,500 |
| Pre-op imaging + bloodwork | — | $300 | $500 | $900 |
| Post-op rehab (8–12 weeks) | — | $300 | $600 | $1,200 |
What's included
- Pre-anesthetic exam + bloodwork
- Anesthesia + surgical time + implants/sutures
- 1–2 nights hospitalization
- Pain meds, e-collar
- 2–3 follow-up rechecks
Often extra
- Physical therapy / rehab
- Joint supplements long-term
- Second-leg surgery (40–60% of dogs tear the other ACL within 12–18 months)
Insurance fit
ACL/CCL injuries are typically covered by accident-and-illness insurance after waiting period. Important: many policies treat the second leg as a "bilateral condition" — if one leg was diagnosed before policy start, the other may be excluded. Read the policy carefully.
FAQ
Can dogs heal without surgery?
Small dogs sometimes recover with strict rest, but partial tears and large dogs almost always need surgery for normal function. Talk to a board-certified surgeon for the best path.
What's the recovery timeline?
Strict rest 2 weeks, controlled leash walks 4–8 weeks, gradual return to normal activity over 12–16 weeks. Rehab speeds recovery and reduces second-leg risk.