Dental–Skeletal–Retinal Anomaly (DSRA) in the Cane Corso

Dental–Skeletal–Retinal Anomaly (DSRA) is a rare, inherited developmental disorder that affects multiple body systems, specifically the teeth, skeletal structure, and eyes (retina). The condition is present from birth and is caused by a genetic mutation, not by environment, diet, injury, or management.

In the Cane Corso, DSRA is recognised as a breeding-related condition, not an acquired disease. Dogs are either genetically affected or they are not. While the severity of clinical signs can vary, DSRA can result in lifelong physical and visual impairment and should be regarded as a serious welfare concern.

What Does DSRA Affect?

DSRA impacts three primary systems. Not all affected dogs will show signs in all areas, and severity can range from mild to severe.

Very fragile teeth due to a serious gum inflammation

Dental Abnormalities

Dental changes are often among the earliest signs observed.

Common findings include:

  • Missing teeth or incomplete tooth development

  • Abnormally shaped teeth

  • Poor enamel quality

  • Increased susceptibility to early dental disease

Dental issues may require ongoing veterinary and dental management throughout the dog’s life.

Limb deformities

Skeletal Abnormalities

Skeletal involvement can vary widely between individuals.

Possible signs include:

  • Abnormal bone growth or limb deformities

  • Altered or uneven gait

  • Stiffness or reduced range of motion

  • Reduced mobility in moderate to severe cases

Skeletal changes may become more apparent as the dog grows and matures.

Sore Eyes

Retinal and Eye Abnormalities

Ocular involvement relates to abnormal development of the retina.

This may include:

  • Retinal malformations

  • Reduced visual acuity

  • Progressive visual impairment

  • Partial or complete blindness in more severe cases

Eye-related symptoms may not be immediately obvious in young puppies and can become more noticeable over time.

Progression of teeth and gums

Onset and Progression

DSRA is congenital, meaning dogs are born with the condition.
Clinical signs are often noticeable early in life, particularly dental and skeletal changes. Visual impairment may be subtle initially and progress as the dog matures.

Because DSRA affects development, symptoms do not resolve with age and should be expected to require lifelong management.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on a combination of:

  • Clinical examination

  • Dental assessment

  • Orthopaedic evaluation

  • Ophthalmic examination

  • Genetic testing where available

Early identification is important to allow appropriate management planning and to prevent affected dogs from being bred.

Treatment and Management

There is no curative treatment for DSRA.
Management is supportive and focused on maintaining comfort, function, and quality of life.

Management strategies may include:

  • Regular dental care and monitoring

  • Orthopaedic support, physiotherapy, or pain management where required

  • Ongoing ophthalmic assessments to monitor vision changes

  • Environmental adaptations for dogs with visual impairment

Prognosis varies depending on the severity and combination of systems affected. Many dogs can live comfortable lives with appropriate support, but the condition should not be minimised.

Prevention and Breeding Responsibility

DSRA is entirely genetic. Once a dog is born, the condition cannot be prevented or reversed.

Effective prevention relies on responsible breeding practices:

  • DNA testing of breeding dogs where the mutation is known

  • Never breeding affected dogs

  • Avoiding carrier × carrier matings

  • Full transparency and disclosure of health testing results to puppy buyers

Because DSRA is not influenced by management or environment, ethical breeding decisions are the only meaningful form of control.

The story of Melinda - AFFECTED FROM A SERIOUS GENETIC DISEASE CALLED DSRA

Key Takeaway

Dental–Skeletal–Retinal Anomaly is a serious congenital condition, not a cosmetic issue and not a result of poor care.

The responsibility for preventing DSRA lies entirely with breeders through:

  • Genetic awareness

  • Appropriate testing

  • Honest disclosure

  • Ethical decision-making

Education and transparency protect not only individual dogs, but the long-term health and credibility of the Cane Corso breed.