Typical Total Cost Range (National Average)
Based on national average veterinary pricing. These are typical ranges — your actual costs may be significantly higher or lower.
Cost data last updated April 2026. Based on veterinary pricing data from practices across the United States.
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Severity Levels
Costs vary dramatically with severity. Pick the level that most closely matches your situation for a tighter cost range.
$2,500 - $4,000
Small dog with a partial tear or full tear that can be managed with the less expensive lateral suture technique.
$4,000 - $5,500
Medium to large dog with a standard TPLO (tibial plateau leveling osteotomy) procedure.
$5,000 - $6,000
Large athletic dog with CCL tear plus torn meniscus, requiring extra surgical repair and extended rehab.
Cost Breakdown
Exam Fee
Initial examination and assessment
$75 - $150
Diagnostics
Blood work, X-rays, ultrasound, etc.
$250 - $600
Treatment
Medications, procedures, surgery
$1,500 - $4,000
Hospitalization
Overnight stays, monitoring, ICU
$675 - $1,250
What to Expect at the Vet
A torn cranial cruciate ligament (CCL, equivalent to the human ACL) is one of the most common orthopedic injuries in dogs. Without surgical repair, the knee joint becomes unstable, leading to chronic pain, arthritis, and meniscal damage. TPLO (tibial plateau leveling osteotomy) is the gold-standard surgical treatment, though lateral suture techniques are an option for smaller dogs.
This is classified as a moderate emergency. Seek care today.
Note: Up to 60% of dogs who tear one CCL will tear the other within 1-2 years. TPLO has the strongest outcomes for dogs over 30 lbs. Lateral suture is less expensive but may not hold up as well in large, active dogs. Post-operative physical therapy is standard practice.
Your veterinarian will perform an initial examination ($75-$150) followed by diagnostic tests ($250-$600) to determine the appropriate treatment approach. Treatment costs ($1,500-$4,000) vary based on the specific intervention needed. Hospitalization and monitoring ($675-$1,250) may be required.
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