Canine Coronavirus
Moderate severityInfectiousAlso known as: CCoV, Canine enteric coronavirus
A gut virus that usually causes mild, short-lived diarrhea on its own. It matters most as a co-infection: a dog fighting coronavirus and parvo at the same time gets far sicker than either alone, which is why it shows up in the same shelters and kennels. It is a dog virus and is not the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 in people.
Reported on ParvoMaps
Symptoms to watch for
- Sudden loose, foul-smelling, orange-tinged diarrhea
- Lethargy and low appetite
- Occasional vomiting
- Usually little or no fever
- Severe illness if parvo is present too
How it spreads
Spread through infected feces, then picked up by sniffing, licking, or grooming. Contaminated bowls, floors, kennels, and shoes carry it, so it moves fast anywhere dogs are housed together.
Prevention
Strict sanitation, prompt cleanup of feces, and keeping unvaccinated puppies away from communal areas. A vaccine exists but is not part of the core series; most healthy adult dogs recover with supportive care, so ask your vet whether your dog's situation warrants it.
Related infectious conditions
Frequently asked questions
What are the symptoms of Canine Coronavirus in dogs?
Common signs include Sudden loose, foul-smelling, orange-tinged diarrhea, Lethargy and low appetite, Occasional vomiting, Usually little or no fever, Severe illness if parvo is present too. Signs vary by dog and stage — contact your veterinarian if you notice them.
How do dogs catch Canine Coronavirus?
Spread through infected feces, then picked up by sniffing, licking, or grooming. Contaminated bowls, floors, kennels, and shoes carry it, so it moves fast anywhere dogs are housed together.
How can I prevent Canine Coronavirus in dogs?
Strict sanitation, prompt cleanup of feces, and keeping unvaccinated puppies away from communal areas. A vaccine exists but is not part of the core series; most healthy adult dogs recover with supportive care, so ask your vet whether your dog's situation warrants it.
Is Canine Coronavirus dangerous to dogs?
Canine Coronavirus is considered moderate severity. A gut virus that usually causes mild, short-lived diarrhea on its own. It matters most as a co-infection: a dog fighting coronavirus and parvo at the same time gets far sicker than either alone, which is why it shows up in the same shelters and kennels. It is a dog virus and is not the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 in people.
Educational information only — not veterinary advice. If you think your dog is sick, contact your veterinarian.