Shepherd vs Open Dental: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Shepherd and Open Dental comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Shepherd
Cloud-based practice management software built by vets, for vets, to streamline operations and enhance patient care.
Best for you if:
- • Cloud-based veterinary practice management system designed by vets.
- • Automates tasks like invoicing, medical records, and inventory to boost efficiency and revenue.
Open Dental
Comprehensive, customizable, and affordable practice management software for dental offices of any size.
Best for you if:
- • Comprehensive dental practice management software.
- • Highly customizable with extensive features for clinical and administrative tasks.
| At a Glance |  Shepherd |  Open Dental |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Practice Management | Practice Management |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Shepherd | Open Dental |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Practice ManagementEHR/EMR | Practice ManagementEHR/EMR |
How Shepherd and Open Dental Compare
Shepherd
Cloud-based practice management software built by vets, for vets, to streamline operations and enhance patient care.
Paid
Open Dental
Comprehensive, customizable, and affordable practice management software for dental offices of any size.
Paid
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Shepherd
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has been rated yet.
Go with: Shepherd
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Shepherd
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are practice management tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
Shepherd
- Our pick for this comparison
Open Dental
The Bottom Line
Shepherd is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shepherd or Open Dental better?
Shepherd scores high/100 in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are Shepherd and Open Dental used for?
Shepherd: Cloud-based practice management software built by vets, for vets, to streamline operations and enhance patient care.. Open Dental: Comprehensive, customizable, and affordable practice management software for dental offices of any size..
What does Shepherd cost vs Open Dental?
Shepherd is a paid tool. Open Dental is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.