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DogInfectious

Canine parvovirus

Lethargy, poor appetite, repeated vomiting and severe, sometimes bloody diarrhea in a puppy or unvaccinated dog may indicate parvovirus. Disease often progresses quickly to dehydration, sepsis and shock and is life-threatening without treatment.

Emergency

Go to a clinic immediately if

  • A puppy or unvaccinated dog repeatedly vomits or has diarrhea, cannot drink, is very weak, cold or collapsed
  • Rapidly increasing weakness or complete refusal of food and water in a puppy is urgent even before diarrhea becomes bloody
Contact a veterinary clinic

Possible signs

  • Lethargy, poor appetite, repeated vomiting, severe or bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain and weakness
  • Dry gums, sunken eyes, reduced urination and feeling cold may signal severe dehydration and shock

What it is

Canine parvovirus damages the rapidly renewing cells of the intestinal lining and bone marrow. As the intestinal barrier fails, the body loses fluid and protein and bacteria may enter the bloodstream, while infection-fighting white cells fall. Signs often worsen quickly, especially in young and unvaccinated dogs.

What to expect at the veterinarian

Call ahead with suspected parvovirus so the dog can be received away from other animals. Assessment includes hydration, circulation, blood glucose and blood-cell counts; a rapid faecal test supports diagnosis, but an early negative result does not always exclude disease. There is no specific curative drug: care centres on fluids, nausea and pain control, nutritional support, antimicrobials when indicated and intensive monitoring.

Sources

Updated: 26 Oct 2026

Important information

This guide does not diagnose and does not replace veterinary advice.

Do not give human medicines, leftover antibiotics or other treatment unless a veterinarian directs you. If you are unsure how urgent a sign is, contact a veterinary clinic.