The short answer
A cardiac exam is one of the AKC-listed national breed club recommendations for Miniature Schnauzers. It is a clinical evaluation intended to look for heart findings in a breeding dog. DNA screening is not a general clearance of the heart, and a normal examination is not a lifetime guarantee.
What this means for your home
Ask for the parents’ cardiac evaluation records, including who performed the exam and when. Crowned has stated that its parents are Embark-tested, but we have not seen documentation of separate cardiac evaluations and do not claim they were done. Your veterinarian can advise you on routine heart checks for your own dog and whether any symptoms need prompt attention.
Three useful takeaways
- Ask for dated cardiac records for each parent.
- Do not call a DNA result a cardiac exam.
- Discuss coughing, fainting, or unusual exercise intolerance with a veterinarian.
Want the wider picture? Return to health & testing or the complete Miniature Schnauzer guide.