What is OFA?

OFA radiographs are diagnostic images submitted to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, where board-certified veterinary radiologists review and assign an official grade or certification. These results help determine whether a pet has normal joint conformation or signs of disease.

Why Are OFA Radiographs Important?

OFA radiographs play an essential role in both preventive care and responsible breeding:

• Early Detection of Joint Issues

  Identify conditions such as hip or elbow dysplasia before they cause significant discomfort or mobility issues.

• Breeding Certification

  Provide official certification for breeding dogs, helping reduce the risk of passing on hereditary joint conditions.

• Peace of Mind

  Even if your pet isn’t intended for breeding, OFA results can give you valuable insight into their long-term joint health.

The OFA does not require dogs to be purebred or registered in order to perform an OFA evaluation or to register test results into our databases. OFA evaluations are most often performed on purebred or registered dogs to help prevent passing on genetic malformations within a purebred line of dogs.

When Should My Pet Have OFA Radiographs?

• Breeding pets: Typically performed at 2 years of age or older for final OFA certification

• Younger pets: Preliminary evaluations can be done earlier (as young as 4 months), especially for at-risk breeds

• Active or large-breed dogs: Screening is often recommended due to a higher risk of joint issues

What do I need to know before scheduling an OFA screening test?

Radiography of females in estrus or pregnant should be avoided due to possible increased joint laxity (subluxation) from hormonal variations. OFA recommends radiographs be taken one month after weaning pups and one month before or after a heat cycle. Physical inactivity because of illness, weather, or the owner’s management practices may also result in some degree of joint laxity. The OFA recommends evaluation when the dog is in good physical condition.

Information Necessary to bring to your appointment

• Full Registered Name (if applicable)

• Registration number (if applicable)

• Microchip Number or Tattoo (if applicable)

• Patient Age or Date of Birth

• AKC Registration paperwork (if applicable)

How long before I get results back?

OFA certification turnaround time is usually 2-3 weeks after the application is submitted.