If you are interested in the German shepherd breed you may see the term OFA while browsing websites, pedigrees or talking with breeders.

OFA stands for The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals.  This organization has several different health tests available to dog owners and breeders.  The most commonly used tests for the German shepherd breed are hip and elbow certifications.  Reputable breeders will x-ray and certify their dogs before they are used for breeding.  The dog must be at least 24 months of age in order for the x-rays to be presented to OFA.  They will evaluate prelim x-rays on dogs younger than 24 months of age, but the dog will not receive a certification.

Once x-rays are submitted to OFA, they will be evaluated by three experienced vets.  Hips are graded as excellent, good or fair if they are free of hip dysplasia.  If the x-ray is of poor quality or there are any other questions, the dog may be given a borderline rating.  In this case, OFA recommends that you redo the x-rays and submit them in six months for another evaluation.  If the dog has hip dysplasia, it is rated as mild, moderate or severe.  Elbows which are free of dysplasia are not rated, simply given a pass.  If there is signs of elbow dysplasia the x-rays are rated as grade I, II or III.

After the dog passes the OFA hip and elbow certification, you will often see this listed behind their name.  For example, if you see “OFA good H&E”, you will know that the dog has passed both the hip and elbow certification (with a good rating for hips).  OFA has an online database where you can look up the status of any dog.  If you are unable to find a dog that you believe should be listed, contact the OFA and ask about it.

Since poor positioning can affect the outcome, it is important to use a vet who has experience in taking OFA x-rays.

www.offa.org

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