At the surgery, putting a dog to sleep usually costs under £100 before any cremation. A vet who comes to your home charges more, from about £240 for a dog. These are two practices' published prices, read on 15 October 2026; your own vet's will differ, so ask them.
What two UK vets charge
Station House Vets, in Welburn near York, lists euthanasia at the surgery from £80 for a small dog, £83 for a medium dog, £89 for a large dog and £94 for an extra large dog, with cats from £78, on a price list updated in August 2026. It says a consultation fee may apply and that sedation, if the vet advises it, is charged separately. Cremation is extra.
The Travelling Vet, a practice that only does home visits, charges £240 for a dog under 25kg, £275 from 25 to 40kg, £310 from 40 to 70kg and £380 over 70kg, and £175 for a cat, with sedation included. Add an individual cremation and the same visits come to £480, £530, £595 and £720, or £390 for a cat.
What changes the price
- Surgery or home. A home visit costs more because the vet travels, usually with a nurse.
- The size of the dog. Both lists charge more as the weight goes up.
- Sedation. Many vets sedate first so the dog is calm and sleepy. One list above includes it; the other charges for it separately.
- Out of hours. Evenings, weekends and bank holidays usually cost more. If you can choose the day, ask before you book.
- Cremation. This is often the larger part of the bill. Our pet cremation cost guide compares two crematoria's published prices.
How do you know when it is time?
The PDSA puts the question as one of quality of life. Has your dog stopped enjoying food, walks or play? Are they in pain, or do they seem miserable? Are there more bad days than good ones? If most of the answers are yes, book a conversation with your vet. You do not have to decide alone, and you do not have to decide in the consulting room.
Can you stay with your dog?
Most vets will let you stay, and many owners want to. Cats Protection's advice for cats holds for dogs too: settle it with your vet beforehand, so no one has to ask you on the day. If staying would be too much, saying goodbye first and waiting outside is a kind choice as well.
If money is tight
Tell your vet early; many practices will spread the cost. If you receive certain benefits and live near a PDSA Pet Hospital, you may qualify for help from the PDSA, so check its eligibility page before the appointment.
Afterwards
The first days after are often the hardest. Our list of free UK pet bereavement helplines is a good place to start, and the guide to burying a pet at home covers the rules if you would like to bring your dog home.