Last updated: September 2026
Quick answer: Neutering (castrating) a male dog in the UK costs around £360 on average in 2026, with most prices between about £175 for a small dog and £660 for a large dog. Size, location and your choice of practice make the biggest difference. Pet insurance doesn’t cover routine neutering, but some vet health plans include a discount, and owners on certain benefits may qualify for subsidised neutering through charities.
This guide covers what castration costs, what the price includes and how to pay less. For female dogs, see dog spaying costs.
How much does it cost to neuter a male dog?
In its 2026 survey of UK vets, ManyPets found the average cost to castrate a male dog was £360.43, an 11% increase in just over a year.
| Price found | |
|---|---|
| Lowest | £175 (small dog, Birmingham) |
| Average | £360.43 |
| Highest | £663 (large dog, London) |
What changes the price
- Size and weight. Larger dogs need more anaesthetic and longer surgery, so most practices price by size band.
- Location. Practices in London and the South East tend to charge more.
- Your practice. Prices vary between independent and corporate-owned practices, and between practices in the same town.
- Complications. Castrating a dog with a retained (undescended) testicle is a more involved operation and usually costs more, as the Kennel Club notes.
- Extras. Pre-anaesthetic blood tests, a buster collar or recovery suit and pain relief to take home may be charged separately.
What the price usually includes
Ask what a quote covers. It typically includes a pre-operative check, the anaesthetic and surgery, pain relief on the day and a post-operative check. Some practices also include take-home medication and a cone, while others charge for them.
Does pet insurance cover neutering?
No. Routine neutering of a healthy dog is treated as elective and is excluded by standard policies. If surgery is needed to treat an illness, such as a testicular tumour, it may be covered as illness treatment. See does pet insurance cover neutering?
How to pay less
- Compare practices. Once the CMA’s price-list rules apply, neutering is one of the prices practices must publish; see your rights after the CMA vet review.
- Check your health plan. Many practice plans give a discount on neutering; see vet health plans.
- Look for subsidised schemes. Dogs Trust works with over 1,200 practices to offer subsidised neutering from as little as £50 for owners on means-tested benefits with certain breeds. Other charities, such as Blue Cross and the RSPCA, may also help eligible owners.
- Budget for it in the first year. Neutering is one of the biggest one-off costs of a new dog; see a puppy’s first-year vet costs.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to neuter a small dog?
Yes. Smaller dogs need less anaesthetic and shorter surgery, so most practices charge less.
Why is spaying more expensive than castration?
Spaying involves internal abdominal surgery and more aftercare. ManyPets found it around 34% more expensive on average.
Can I get my dog neutered for free?
Some charities offer free or subsidised neutering for eligible owners, usually those on certain benefits. Check Dogs Trust, Blue Cross and the RSPCA.
How much does a vet consultation cost before neutering?
A pre-operative check is often included. A standalone consultation costs around £60; see vet consultation costs.
What’s the best age to neuter a dog?
It depends on breed, size and sex. Ask your vet for advice for your dog.
Key takeaways
- Castrating a male dog costs around £360 on average in the UK in 2026.
- Prices range from about £175 for small dogs to over £660 for large dogs.
- Insurance doesn’t cover routine neutering, but health plans and charities can reduce the cost.
- Ask what a quote includes before you book.
Prices are typical ranges based on published surveys, not quotes. Ask your practice for its current price.