A total hip replacement for a dog in Spain costs €2,500–€5,000 per hip (2026). If both hips need operating on, the cost roughly doubles. Petplan España (Petplan Ibérica, S.L.) reimburses 100% of that vet bill up to €3,100 a year, with a €45 excess.
Key facts:
- Total hip replacement (per hip): €2,500 – €5,000.
- Both hips: roughly double.
- When it’s needed: severe dysplasia, advanced arthritis, some fractures or an irreparable dislocation.
- Breeds most at risk: German Shepherd, Labrador, Rottweiler and St Bernard.
- Recovery: 8 to 12 weeks, with rehabilitation.
- Petplan cover: 100% up to €3,100/year, €45 excess, any vet, from €20/month.
A total hip replacement is one of the most advanced —and most expensive— surgeries in veterinary orthopaedics. It replaces the damaged joint with an artificial one and gives mobility back to dogs with chronic pain. It’s used when other options are no longer enough, and its high cost catches many families by surprise.
This article explains when it’s needed, which dogs are candidates, how much it costs in Spain, and how pet insurance helps you face it.
What is a hip replacement and when is it needed?
A total hip replacement replaces the head of the femur and the hip socket with artificial components. It’s considered when pain and loss of mobility can’t be controlled with medication or physiotherapy: severe hip dysplasia, advanced arthritis, certain fractures or a dislocation that can’t be repaired. It’s a highly specialised surgery, usually done at referral centres, with very good results in terms of quality of life.
Which dogs are candidates?
They are usually large and giant breeds with dysplasia or advanced arthritis: German Shepherd, Labrador, Rottweiler or St Bernard, among others. The dog’s size and weight affect the type of implant and the cost. A replacement is also considered in younger dogs with badly damaged joints, to avoid years of chronic pain.
How much does a hip replacement cost for a dog in Spain?
A total hip replacement for a dog in Spain costs €2,500–€5,000 per hip in 2026, depending on the size of the dog, the type of implant and the centre. Here are the reference ranges:
| Item | Reference cost |
|---|---|
| Total hip replacement (per hip) | €2,500 – €5,000 |
| If both hips need operating on | roughly double |
| Consultation, X-rays and rehabilitation | depending on centre |
On top of the prosthesis itself come imaging, hospitalisation and rehabilitation that can last several weeks. Veterinary fees in Spain are not regulated, so they vary between clinics and cities.
What does the price of the operation include?
It’s worth looking at the whole picture: the specialist consultation, X-rays (sometimes under sedation), pre-anaesthetic blood work, anaesthesia, the implant and surgery, hospitalisation, medication and the rehabilitation afterwards. When asking for a quote, check what’s included and whether the price is for one hip or both.
Does pet insurance cover a hip replacement?
Yes, with one important caveat: as it usually stems from dysplasia with a hereditary basis, it’s essential to take out insurance while the dog is healthy, since pre-existing conditions are excluded. Taken out in time, Petplan España reimburses 100% of the vet bill up to €3,100 per year, with a €45 excess, including physiotherapy. As a replacement usually exceeds the annual limit, cover applies up to the maximum —still a very significant relief.
The model is simple: you take your dog to the referral centre of your choice, pay the bill and claim the reimbursement under the terms of your policy. Petplan policies start from around €20 a month. The full list of cover and exclusions is set out in the policy terms.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a hip replacement cost for a dog?
Between €2,500 and €5,000 per hip; if both hips need operating on, the cost roughly doubles.
When does a dog need a hip replacement?
In cases of severe hip dysplasia, advanced arthritis, certain fractures or an irreparable dislocation, when medication and physiotherapy are no longer enough.
Does pet insurance cover a hip replacement?
Petplan reimburses 100% of the bill up to €3,100 per year (with a €45 excess). As it usually exceeds that limit, cover applies up to the annual maximum, as long as it is not a pre-existing condition. Check the policy terms.
How long does a dog take to recover?
The usual recovery is 8 to 12 weeks, with progressive rehabilitation.
Methodology: reference cost ranges compiled from public sources in the Spanish veterinary sector (2026). Prices vary by clinic, city, dog size and severity of the case.
