OFA Certification: Why It Matters For Potential Pet Parents

July 22, 2025

Welcoming a new puppy into the family, there’s nothing quite like it. The wiggly tails, floppy ears, and big, bright eyes easily win our hearts. Beyond the lovable chaos and puppy kisses, however, comes a big responsibility. One serious thing that no caring pet parent should ever overlook is health, both now and down the road. Having a fur baby means committing to their long-term happiness and well-being. This is where OFA certification comes in. 

You’ve done your research on breed, size, training, and personality. You may even have already scoped out groomers, vets, and dog-friendly places. But an important part of a dog’s future is heritable health, and this can easily be neglected. That’s why vets and breeders recommend OFA certification, a trusted way to screen for both genetic and orthopedic conditions before they turn into big problems. 

What is OFA Certification?

OFA stands for the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. This non-profit organization was founded in 1966 and has one core mission: Improving the health and well-being of companion animals by lessening the incidence of genetic diseases. If you’re looking for the gold standard in health screening for canines, this is it.

When a dog is OFA-certified, this means that it has been officially evaluated for specific conditions and found to be clear or within acceptable health standards. OFA certifications are based on testing and are often peer-reviewed by a panel of veterinary specialists in a myriad of fields such as cardiology, ophthalmology, radiology, or genetics. 

What Does OFA Certification Screen For?

OFA screening covers a wide range of hereditary and structural conditions that commonly affect dogs, such as:

Hip Dysplasia – An abnormal formation of the hip socket that can potentially cause mobility problems and arthritis

Elbow Dysplasia – A genetic disorder wherein joint development in the elbow is affected (this is common in large breeds)

Patellar Luxation – A condition that causes the kneecap to dislocate or move out of its normal location

Eye Disorders – OFA tests for genetic eye diseases in partnership with the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists

Thyroid Function – Vital for maintaining a healthy weight, metabolism, and energy levels

Cardiac Issues – Functional or structural heart problems, which may not be apparent in young puppies

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) – A progressive spinal cord disorder which affects older dogs (common in particular breeds)

Each test will require either a physical exam, X-ray, or genetic sample collected by a licensed veterinarian. The data is submitted by the vet to the OFA, which then reviews the results. Following the review, a rating is assigned to the dog, with results like “Excellent”, “Good” and “Fair” meaning a dog is free from major issues. The certification history is uploaded to their public database. 

Why OFA Certification Matters

So we’ve broken down what it is and what it does. Now let’s delve more into why it matters. 

It lessens the risk of genetic disease

Puppies are more at risk of developing issues later in life if they come from parents with a family history of genetic disorders or have poor hip scores. Having OFA-certified parents means your pup begins life with a good genetic foundation. 

It assists breeders in making smarter decisions

Responsible breeders rely on OFA evaluations as they plan litters, ensuring that the dogs they breed meet health standards. This way, individual outcomes are improved and the breed is strengthened overall. 

It provides transparency

OFA’s database is fully accessible to the public. Through this, potential owners can gain valuable insight into a pup’s background.

It supports lifelong wellness for your pup

It’s true that no test can predict all health outcomes, but the OFA certification gives peace of mind that your pup comes from a lineage of good health. Think prevention rather than treatment.

The Petland Promise: Certified Confidence

If you’re unsure where to begin in your search for a healthy pup, you can breathe easy. Petland prioritizes healthy and ethical breeding practices. They only partner with USDA-licensed breeders who follow OFA testing protocols and are Canine Care Certified through Purdue University’s welfare program. Their breeders are also required to maintain health care, housing, genetic screening, and socialization standards. You can be confident that your pup’s parents were tested for common issues, giving you extra reassurance that your new best friend’s health has been thoughtfully considered from day one. 

Smart Starts = Healthier Pups

Choosing a puppy is a happy, life-changing decision. Remember that behind every wagging tail should be a solid foundation of good health. For a truly healthy start, inquire about OFA certification. It’s a small step today that helps prevent big issues tomorrow, ensuring your pup grows up active, playful, and in good health. 

Take the path towards setting your fur baby up a happy, healthy life by your side. Your future self (and your pup) will thank you!

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✓ This article has been reviewed by Petland Oklahoma’s expert team to ensure accuracy and reliable pet care guidance.