Cavaliers as a breed, do have some health problems that are hereditary and potential owners should be aware of these.

Most reputable breeders have their breeding stock tested for heart and eye problems regularly.

Hearts are tested for MVD (see below) by specialist cardiologists who can certify them if clear.

Eyes are tested for retinal dysplasia (folds in the retina) by a specialist ophthalmologist.
However this does not appear to be a major problem in Cavaliers.

New owners should also be aware of the condition of Syringomyelia or SM (a neurological problem)
Breeding bitches and stud dogs may be MRI scanned (head and neck area) and this can identify potential problems with this condition.

Some Cavaliers can have problems with luxating patellas (slipping kneecaps) and a few can have problems with their hips.

By far the commonest problem experienced by many (but not all) Cavaliers – is MVD – Mitral Valve Disease (a heart condition), which often develops, in middle-aged or older dogs. This is not present at birth but may develop gradually over the years.
This means, in simple terms, that the dog's heart develops leaky valves, which fail to close properly, and so the heart does not work as a pump, properly and efficiently.
(The heart is actually only a large muscular pump).

When MVD develops, the valves do not close properly and this causes a back-flow of blood and further problems. Most ordinary vets can hear this easily with a stethoscope, and will be able to tell you if a murmur is present and how severe it may be.

If it does occur, medication will help most of these cases often for a long time.
Making sure the dog never becomes overweight helps.
This is not usually a painful condition however – and many dogs can have a reasonable quality of life for many years.

Most dog breeds do have some hereditary or genetic problems associated with them and Cavaliers are no exception. However – Cavaliers’ potential problems are usually treatable and this should not deter any owner from enjoying owning a Cavalier.

Buying from reputable breeders who have their breeding stock checked and tested regularly may not totally avoid all these problems, but should minimise the risks.