Dog X-Ray Costs: What to Expect and How to Save

X-rays are one of the most common tools vets use to figure out what’s wrong with a sick dog. Whether your vet needs to spot a broken bone, find a swallowed object, or even detect cancer, X-rays can review your dog’s skeleton, abdomen, or teeth to diagnose the problem. And X-rays are typically fast, noninvasive, and don’t cost as much as a CT scan or MRI.

The cost of X-rays for dogs can vary a lot depending on different factors. So it’s important to talk to your vet about what’s included in the price and additional costs to consider. Knowing what to expect can help avoid confusion and make sure there are no surprises on your bill. 

How much does a dog X-ray cost?

The cost of a dog X-ray typically ranges from $75 to $500 per image, depending on factors such as a dog’s condition and the veterinarian clinic where it’s done. 

While most general veterinarians can perform and interpret X-rays, some cases may require more detailed imaging or a second opinion from a radiology specialist. These specialty services tend to be on the higher end of the price range. 

Before scheduling an X-ray for your dog, your vet can provide you with a cost estimate based on your pet’s specific needs.

What factors affect the cost of a dog X-ray?

The cost of a dog X-ray can vary significantly based on several factors. Here’s what to consider: 

• Location: Veterinary costs differ based on geography and clinic type. Clinics in cities or regions with a higher cost of living typically charge more for services. Also, private veterinary clinics and specialty hospitals generally have higher prices than low-cost or nonprofit veterinary clinics supported through donations. 

• Number of X-rays needed: The more images required, the higher the cost. In some cases, multiple X-rays from different angles are needed to get a clear diagnosis of a dog’s condition. Also, if an initial X-ray is not clear, additional scans may be needed. 

• X-ray area: The body part being scanned can affect the cost. More complex areas, such as joints, teeth, and the spine, often need to be looked at from multiple angles. A simple chest X-ray may cost less than a more detailed spinal or dental scan. 

• Dog’s size: Larger dogs might need additional X-rays to cover a full area. And if anesthesia is needed, large dogs require more, which can increase costs. 

• Anesthesia: Most dogs are moderately sedated for X-rays. This is to reduce stress and ensure images of diagnostic quality. The use of anesthesia adds to the total price of an X-ray. 

• Prescan examinations: In some cases, a vet will run tests before giving a dog anesthesia. If sedation is needed, a vet may check your dog’s health with a blood test first. This type of blood test ranges from $100 to $200 on average.

Does pet insurance cover X-rays?

Yes, most pet insurance plans cover diagnostic tests such as X-rays. Wellness and preventative add-on plans are usually not required for X-ray coverage. However, it’s important to review your specific policy details since coverage can vary between providers and plans. Also, costs related to preexisting conditions are typically not covered by pet insurance policies.  

If you cannot afford a full-coverage plan, some pet insurance companies, such as ASPCA and Pets Best, offer stand-alone accident-only plans. Accident-only plans cost less than full-coverage plans and still cover X-rays after an accident. They cover costs related to accidents like swallowing a toy or eating chocolate, but they don’t cover care for illnesses, routine checkups, or preventive care. If your dog needs an X-ray because of a disease or illness, a full-coverage plan will be needed to offset the price.

Different factors can affect your dog's X-ray coverage. Here are some key ones:

• Preexisting conditions: Most pet insurance policies won’t cover X-rays for preexisting issues. If your dog had an accident or symptoms of an illness before your coverage started, an X-ray may not be covered.

• Waiting periods: Some plans have a waiting period before coverage kicks in. For example, you might have to wait 2 weeks after buying an accident-only plan to use the benefits. If your dog gets involved in an accident during or before the waiting period, the cost of an X-ray may not be covered.

• Coverage limits: Some insurance policies have limits on annual or lifetime payouts. If your dog’s X-rays costs exceed this limit, you’ll need to pay the difference out of pocket. For example, Spot Pet Insurance offers a full-coverage plan with a $2,500 annual limit. If your dog’s X-ray bill puts you over $2,500 in annual spending, you will have to pay for part of the scan out of pocket.

• Deductibles and coinsurance: Depending on your insurance plan, you may need to pay a deductible and a percentage of the X-ray cost (coinsurance).

EXPERT PICKS: WHAT TO READ NEXT

• Got vet bills? Veterinary expenses are generally not tax deductible unless they meet specific requirements. 

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• Is pet insurance worth it? Find out why one pet owner decided to skip pet insurance.

How can you lower the cost of a dog X-ray?

X-rays are a necessary diagnostic tool vets use to keep dogs healthy. Here are five ways to save on dog X-rays:

1. Compare prices at different clinics. X-ray prices can vary depending on the clinic and expertise of the vet. Check out different vets to find the best deal for your pet’s needs.

2. Visit a veterinary school. Veterinary school clinics often offer dog X-rays at a lower price. At these clinics, veterinary students perform X-rays under the close supervision of licensed veterinarians. You can find accredited school programs through the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges.

3. Look into a payment plan. If you can’t afford to pay the full cost of an X-ray, ask your vet about payment plan options. Some vets may allow you to spread the cost over several months to make your bill more manageable.

4. Apply for grants. Nonprofits, like Shakespeare Animal Fund, offer grants to low-income, older, or veteran pet owners who need help paying vet bills. If your dog’s condition meets their criteria, you could receive financial support.

5. Consider crowdfunding. Online crowdfunding platforms, such as Waggle and GoFundMe, can help you set up a campaign to raise money for your dog’s X-ray costs. Friends, family members, and even strangers can contribute donations to help support your pet’s care.

When are dog X-rays necessary?

Dog X-rays can help diagnose a variety of problems. Here are some problems that can be diagnosed with the use of X-rays: 

• Teeth that need extracting

• Ingested foreign objects

• Tumors or cancer

• Fractured bones

• Liver disease

• Pancreatitis

• Hip dysplasia 

• Arthritis 

Although X-rays can provide a lot of information about your dog’s health, there are some limitations. For example, X-rays cannot fully image tissues, ligaments, and organs. If your dog has little body fat or is obese, X-rays may not be able to distinguish between their organs. Depending on your pet, using a combination of different diagnostic tools, such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, may be the best way to determine what’s going on.

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Written by:

Manfred Sy

Manfred Sy has worked as a canvasser for county elections, a research analyst in the background-checking industry, and a private tutor. Research and education have always been his focal points, and he hopes to continue to contribute in both areas.

Edited by:

Charlene Rhinehart, CPA

Charlene Rhinehart, CPA, is a personal finance editor at GoodRx. She has been a certified public accountant for over a decade.

Reviewed by:

Ghanasyam Bey, DVM

Ghanasyam Bey, DVM, is from Cleveland, Ohio, and attended Princeton University for undergraduate studies. After a year of biology research at Duke University, he attended Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine.

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