The OFA was founded by John M. Olin in 1966, after several of his dogs became affected by hip dysplasia. Originally studying hip dysplasia alone, the OFA has expanded its efforts and now studies and has health databases on a wide range of diseases including elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes, thyroid, cardiac, congenital deafness, sebaceous adenitis, and shoulder O.C.D.
The OFA was established in 1966 by John M. Olin following the occurrence of hip dysplasia in his dogs. Initially focused on hip dysplasia, the organization has since expanded its research to encompass a wide range of health conditions such as elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, thyroid issues, cardiac problems, congenital deafness, sebaceous adenitis, and shoulder O.C.D.