Last updated: September 2026
Quick answer: Spaying a female dog in the UK costs around £485 on average in 2026 for a standard operation, with prices ranging from about £230 for a small dog to over £900 for a large dog. Keyhole (laparoscopic) spays usually cost more. Spaying costs roughly a third more than castrating a male because it is internal abdominal surgery. Pet insurance doesn’t cover routine spaying, but health plans and some charities can reduce the cost.
This guide explains what affects the price, what’s included and how to budget. For male dogs, see dog neutering costs.
How much does it cost to spay a dog?
In its 2026 survey of UK vets, ManyPets found the average cost of a standard surgical spay was around £484, up 12% in just over a year. Keyhole spays were left out of that average because they are typically much more expensive.
| Price found | |
|---|---|
| Lowest | £230 (small dog, Swansea) |
| Average | £484.37 |
| Highest | £902 (large dog, South Wales) |
On average, spaying was around 34% more expensive than castration.
Why spaying costs more than castration
A spay removes the ovaries and usually the womb through an incision in the abdomen. It takes longer, needs more anaesthetic and involves more aftercare than castration. Larger and older dogs, and dogs in season or overweight, can be more complex to operate on, which can increase the price.
Standard spay vs keyhole spay
| Standard (open) spay | Keyhole (laparoscopic) spay | |
|---|---|---|
| Technique | One larger incision | Two or three small incisions using a camera |
| What’s removed | Usually ovaries and womb | Often ovaries only |
| Cost | Around £484 on average | Around £700 for small dogs to £1,000+ for large dogs (£411 to £1,267 in the ManyPets survey) |
| Availability | Most practices | Practices with laparoscopic equipment |
Ask your vet which option suits your dog and what each costs at your practice.
What the price usually includes
A quote normally covers a pre-operative check, anaesthetic, surgery, pain relief on the day and at least one post-operative check. Pre-anaesthetic blood tests, a recovery suit or cone and take-home pain relief are sometimes extra, so ask for an itemised quote.
Does pet insurance cover spaying?
No, not routine spaying of a healthy dog. If your vet removes the womb to treat an illness, such as a womb infection (pyometra), that is treatment for a medical condition and may be covered, subject to your policy. See does pet insurance cover neutering and routine care?
How to pay less
- Compare local prices. Neutering is one of the services practices must list under the CMA’s price-list rules; see your rights after the CMA vet review.
- Use your health plan discount if your practice offers one; see vet health plans.
- Check charity schemes if you receive means-tested benefits; Dogs Trust, Blue Cross and the RSPCA may be able to help eligible owners.
- Plan it into the first year alongside vaccinations and microchipping; see a puppy’s first-year vet costs and dog vaccination costs.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to spay a small dog?
Less than a large dog, because the operation is quicker and needs less anaesthetic. The lowest price in the ManyPets survey was £230 for a small dog.
Is a keyhole spay worth the extra cost?
Some owners choose it for the smaller wounds. Ask your vet about the benefits and costs for your dog.
Can I spay my dog while she’s in season?
Many vets prefer to wait until a few months after a season. Ask your vet.
Does insurance cover complications after spaying?
It depends on your policy. Some insurers treat complications from an elective procedure as excluded. Check the wording.
What’s the best age to spay a dog?
It depends on breed and size. Ask your vet for advice for your dog.
Key takeaways
- A standard dog spay costs around £485 on average in the UK in 2026.
- Prices range from about £230 for small dogs to over £900 for large dogs.
- Keyhole spays usually cost more than standard spays.
- Insurance doesn’t cover routine spaying, but health plans and charities can help.
Prices are typical ranges based on published surveys, not quotes. Ask your practice for its current price.