What Does It Cost to X-Ray a Dog?

From fractures and bladder stones to foreign objects and pregnancy, X-rays (aka radiographs) are commonly used to diagnose a variety of conditions in dogs. X-rays can also be used to detect dental issues, enlarged organs, air trapped in the intestines, fluid in the lungs and joint degeneration.

X-Ray Cost for Dogs

The cost of dog X-rays ranges between $75 and $500 per image, with $150 to $250 being the average.¹ If you have pet insurance, X-rays may or may not be covered, so be sure to ask your carrier about your specific coverages.

There are several factors that can affect how much an X-ray for a dog costs, including:

• Sedation or anesthesia. Most dogs require some level of sedation so they stay still, but dogs that are especially nervous might need general anesthesia. Larger dogs require more sedative than smaller dogs. Sedation or general anesthesia can add $40 to over $200 to the total cost.¹
• Location of the X-ray. Certain areas of the body are easier to x-ray and read than others. Legs and paws are easier than a chest or tail, for example.¹
• Number of X-rays. If your vet needs multiple viewpoints or the body part is more complicated, more images may be necessary.¹
• Geographic location. Like just about everything else, price varies based on where you live.¹

More advanced procedures are more expensive. An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) for your dog can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $6,000.² A computed tomography (CT) scan typically ranges from $1,500 to $3,500,³ and an ultrasound is typically between $350 and $1,000.⁴

Average cost of medical scans for dogs

How an X-Ray for Dogs Works

X-rays are one of the most common diagnostic procedures for humans and pets. An X-ray machine produces a narrow beam of X-ray photons absorbed by mineralized tissues in the body, like bones and teeth. Soft tissue (muscles, ligaments, etc.) and organs absorb fewer X-rays — and air, an area that allows the photons to pass through all the way, doesn't absorb any.⁵

On an X-ray image, air inside or outside the body shows up black in color;⁵ soft tissue and organs show up as gray; and bones show up as bright white. This also means X-rays are mostly limited to bones, so if the concern is a ligament, muscle, inner structure of an organ or a denser area of the body like the skull, your veterinarian may recommend further imaging, such as a CT scan, MRI or an ultrasound.⁵

What Happens During a Dog X-Ray

There is no preparation needed for a dog X-ray unless your dog is going under general anesthesia, in which case your veterinarian will give you specific instructions about food and water restrictions. It's also essential for your dog to be still during the X-ray in order to get a clear image; sedation can help support this. If your dog is particularly calm and not in pain, they might not need any sedation.⁶

Because the body absorbs the rays or photons, radiology personnel typically wear special gowns and shields, and they will place a protective cover over the parts of the body not being radiographed. For this reason, pet owners are typically not allowed in the X-ray room.⁵

X-rays usually take only a few minutes, and then the digital images are available for your vet to view right away.⁶

Risks of X-Rays for Dogs

X-rays are generally safe, only used occasionally and if needed to make a diagnosis — but there is a slight risk, as radiation is involved.⁵ If you're concerned or want more information about potential risks, your veterinarian is your best resource. While many vets agree that the risk is slim to none, the FDA notes that there is a small increase in the possibility of developing cancer later in life in humans.⁷ However, in both humans and dogs, the benefits in the ability to diagnose with X-rays outweigh the risks.⁸

CareCredit Credit Card Financing for Dogs

The CareCredit credit card provides a convenient way to pay for your dog's vaccinations and other health and wellness expenses, including exams, medications and products at providers in the CareCredit network.* Apply today and continue your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App. You can find a provider on the go, manage your CareCredit account and easily access the Well U hub for more great articles, podcasts and videos. Use our Acceptance Locator to find a veterinarian that accepts CareCredit to help keep your pet healthy and happy for a lifetime of love.

Author Bio

Abbie Mood is a freelance writer with more than 10 years of experience. She has worked with clients of all sizes to create compelling content and she has written for the American Kennel Club, Marriott Bonvoy, Women's Health Online, Headspace and more.