Below, we provide an overview of the costs of cruciate ligament surgery for dogs using the various surgical methods. These costs are based on the binding regulations of the Fee schedule for veterinarians (GOT).
Cost overview
TPLO – Costs
The cost of a TPLO operation starts at approximately... 3500 EUR (Operation including inhalation anesthesia, materials & medications).
In addition, the TPLO also has significant Physiotherapy costs which take longer than, for example, a ZLig surgery.
TTA-Rapid – Costs
The cost of a TTA rapid surgery starts at approximately... 2500 EUR (Operation including inhalation anesthesia, materials & medications).
Experience shows that physiotherapy costs are somewhat lower than with TPLO but higher than with ZLig surgery.
ZLig – Costs
The cost of a ZLig operation starts at approximately... 3200 EUR (Operation including inhalation anesthesia, materials & medications).
Experience shows that physiotherapy costs are lower than with TPLO or TTA.
Petlig – Costs
The cost of a Petlig operation (bilateral A cruciate ligament tear (in surgery) starts at approximately... 4000 EUR (Operation including inhalation anesthesia, materials & medications).
Experience shows that physiotherapy costs are lower than with TPLO or TTA.
Lateral suture rein – Cost
The cost of a lateral thread rein starts at approximately...2200 EUR (Operation including inhalation anesthesia, materials & medications).
Experience shows that physiotherapy costs are lower than with TPLO or TTA.
Cost overview: Cruciate ligament rupture in a dog
Phase 1 Preparation & Diagnostics
Before an operation can be performed safely, a thorough examination is necessary:
| Initial orthopedic examination & gait analysis | approx. €80 – €150 |
| Digital X-ray (usually 2 planes) including sedation | approximately €250 – €350 |
| Preoperative blood profile (anesthesia check) | approx. €80 – €120 |
| Subtotal Diagnostics | approx. €410 – €620 |
Phase 2 The operation (including materials and anesthesia)
The costs depend largely on the chosen method and the weight of your dog:
TPLO / TTA
Zlig (replacement band)
Thread reins
Phase 3 Aftercare & Rehabilitation
The following appointments are essential for optimal healing:
| Wound check & suture removal | approximately €50 – €80 |
| Follow-up X-ray (after approximately 6-8 weeks) | approximately €150 – €250 |
| Physiotherapy (package approx. 5-10 sessions) | approximately €300 – €600 |
| Subtotal aftercare | approx. €500 – €930 |
Estimated total costs (example TPLO)
Including diagnostics, surgery, materials and complete aftercare.
Note: All prices are indicative and include VAT, according to the German Veterinary Fee Schedule (GOT).
Depending on the tariff, dog surgery insurance often covers these costs up to 100% %.
General comments on the costs of cruciate ligament surgery for dogs
Why do cruciate ligament surgery costs for dogs start at these amounts?
The cost varies depending on several factors, including the weight and the resulting increased material consumption, and the complexity of the surgery – for example, whether the meniscus is also removed. The materials used also differ considerably in their purchase price.