Registering your dog in the OFA Dentition Database

By Dr. Mikel Delgado, PhD

For some dog breeds, full dentition is part of the breed standard (for example, Doberman Pinschers, Rottweilers, German Pinschers, Giant Schnauzers, and Leonbergers). Some breeds, such as Australian Shepherds, are prone to missing teeth. Other breeds, such as the brachycephalic dogs, may be at risk of dental problems that would result in retained “baby teeth.” The failure to lose all baby teeth can lead to crowding in the mouth and an abnormal bite.

The OFA Dentition Database is a certification that a dog has all of their permanent, adult teeth. It does not evaluate the health of the teeth or the presence (or absence) of dental disease.

To register a dog in the OFA Dentition Database, your dog must have a dental examination by a licensed veterinarian. Your dog should have their permanent teeth before scheduling the dental examination (most dogs have their permanent teeth by 6 months of age). 

Step 1

Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Download, print, and bring the OFA form to your appointment (found here). 

Step 2

Your veterinarian will examine your dog’s teeth. The veterinarian will make notes on the form regarding all 42 canine permanent teeth, recording any missing or persistent deciduous teeth (a baby tooth that is still present when the permanent tooth is erupting). 

Step 3

Your veterinarian will complete and sign the application form for OFA. Either you or your veterinarian can submit the form.

Send to: Orthopedic Foundation for Animals 

2300 E Nifong Blvd

Columbia, MO 65201 

Phone (573) 442-0418; Fax (573)875-5073 

www.ofa.org

Note: It is recommended that the permanent identification of the dog (e.g., tattoo, microchip) is verified by the veterinarian at the time of the evaluation.

Fee schedule (as of July 2022)

Note: this does not include the cost of your veterinary exam and radiographs

For Dogs 12 months or older: $15 each

A litter of 3+ dogs submitted together: $30 total

Kennel Rate (5+ dogs submitted together): $10 each

Step 4

If the owner authorizes release of any abnormal dentition, the dental chart of specific missing or persistent deciduous teeth will be included on the dog’s OFA webpage. Dogs with all adult teeth fully erupted will be assigned a breed registry number.