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sql-serverdatabase-diagram

How to fix SQL Server database diagram error "Cannot execute as the database principal because the principal 'dbo' does not exist"?

When attempting to create a database diagram I get the following error:

Cannot execute as the database principal because the principal "dbo" does not exist

How do I fix this error?

Solution

  • This error occurs when the database owner for the files setting in the database properties is unassigned (or blank).

    To fix this:

    • Right click on the database you need to create a diagram for and choose Properties.
    • Choose Files from the left hand navigation menu of the Database Properties dialog box.
    • Enter sa in the owner field.
    • Click OK

    This gives the sa permission to create files on the server.

    You can also run this query to do the same thing:

    EXEC sp_changedbowner 'sa';

    src: SQL SERVER – Fix Error – Cannot execute as the database principal because the principal “dbo” does not exist