Health Testing

At Minvalonnie, health testing is a fundamental part of our breeding programme and a responsibility we take seriously.

The long‑term health and wellbeing of our dogs — and the puppies we may bring into the world — is always our highest priority.

All of our breeding dogs undergo the full range of health testing appropriate for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. At Minvalonnie, this means completing every recommended assessment for the breed, as well as several additional tests that go beyond the standard guidelines to ensure the highest possible welfare and long‑term health.

Our health testing includes:

• Cardiologist Heart Testing (MMVD Screening)

Performed by a specialist cardiologist to assess for Mitral Valve Disease — the most significant hereditary concern in Cavaliers.

• MRI Scan for Chiari‑like Malformation & Syringomyelia (CM/SM)

A full MRI scan interpreted by a neurologist to identify any signs of CM/SM and to support responsible, informed breeding decisions.

• BVA/KC Eye Examination

A certified ophthalmologist checks for hereditary eye conditions such as cataracts, retinal issues and dry eye/curly coat syndrome indicators.

• BVA Hip & Elbow Scoring

X‑rays are taken by a qualified vet and assessed by BVA specialists to evaluate hip and elbow structure, joint health and the risk of hereditary dysplasia.

This helps ensure sound movement and reduces the risk of joint issues in future generations.

• LABOKLIN Cavalier DNA Panel

We complete the full LABOKLIN DNA panel recommended for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, including:

• Dry Eye/Curly Coat Syndrome (DE/CC)

• Episodic Falling Syndrome (EFS)

• Congenital Macrothrombocytopenia (CM)

• Muscular Dystrophy (MD) (where relevant)

• Additional hereditary markers included in the CKCS Pack B

These tests confirm genetic status (Clear / Carrier / Affected) and help ensure responsible pairing decisions.

• Kennel Club DNA Profiling (Parentage Verification)

All breeding dogs are DNA profiled with the Kennel Club.

This provides:

• Verified genetic identity

• Accurate parentage confirmation

• Permanent record integrity

• Transparency for future generations

While not a health test, KC DNA profiling is an important part of responsible, traceable breeding.

• General Health Screening

Routine bloodwork, physical examinations and ongoing monitoring to ensure overall wellbeing and suitability for breeding.

• Additional Tests Where Appropriate

Depending on age, history or individual need, we may also carry out:

• Heart re‑checks

• Repeat MRI scans

• Specialist consultations

• Further orthopaedic or neurological assessments

These assessments help reduce the risk of inherited conditions and allow us to make informed, responsible breeding decisions. We carefully review health results alongside pedigree, structure and temperament when planning each pairing, ensuring every decision supports the long‑term health of the breed.

Health testing is not a one‑time process.

Where required, tests are repeated in line with current guidelines to ensure ongoing monitoring and accuracy. We stay up to date with the latest recommendations and adjust our approach as needed to maintain the highest standards.

While no breeder can ever guarantee a completely risk‑free puppy, we do everything within our control to minimise risk and breed as responsibly as possible.

Our commitment to transparency means we are always open about the health testing we carry out and are happy to discuss this with prospective owners.

At Minvalonnie, health is never compromised — it is the foundation of every decision we make.