How Often for a Coronavirus Dog Vaccination?

Canine coronavirus causes a highly infectious intestinal condition in dogs. The virus replicates inside a dog’s small intestine. While considered a mild disease, puppies are most at risk for developing serious complications. Coronavirus is often confused with parvovirus, however, both are different and infections can occur simultaneously. Regular vaccinations protect against canine coronavirus.

Symptoms of coronavirus are similar to parvovirus and include nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite and diarrhea. The diarrhea is often yellow in color and can include blood or mucus. Diarrhea is often accompanied by a foul odor. With prolonged diarrhea and vomiting, dehydration becomes a concern.

Because coronavirus is considered a mild condition, is typically not life threatening and often accompanies parvovirus, many veterinarians do not recommend the additional vaccination. In areas with high coronavirus occurences, the coronavirus is often included with the DHPP -- distemper, hepatitis, parvo and parainfluenza -- vaccine. Typical administration of these vaccinations begins between 6 to 8 weeks of age and is repeated every three to four weeks until the puppy reaches 16 to 20 weeks of age. A booster is given when the dog reaches a year old and then additional boosters administered every one to three years, depending on the vaccination given.