Abstract

Canine enteric coronavirus (CECoV) is an enveloped RNA virus classified within the Alphacoronavirus genus. It contains a single-stranded, positive-sense RNA genome and is recognized as a common pathogen affecting the intestinal system of dogs, especially those that are young or not immunized. The present study was conducted to explore the molecular features of CECoV circulating among dogs in the Wasit and Baghdad provinces. For this purpose, genomic and phylogenetic analyses were performed using the Reverse Transcriptase–Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) approach. A cross-sectional study was conducted by collecting rectal swabs from 170 dogs with gastrointestinal problems that presented to Baghdad and Wasit Veterinary private clinics from December 2023 to March 2025. The dogs were aged 2 months to 5 years. In each sample, we gathered clinical and demographic information, including household details and clinical history of diarrhea. The molecular testing results revealed that 23 positive samples (13.5%) out of 170 were examined. All the positive samples were classified as Canine enteric coronavirus type Ⅱ based on molecular M and S genes analysis. The phylogenetic analysis results uncovered that the isolates of this paper were strictly linked to Canine enteric coronavirus. Reference isolates that had previously been isolated from dogs showed 94.59-96.23 identity with Brazilian and Iraqi strains for the M gene, and 90.91-93.65 identification with the Brazilian strain for the S gene. Given the significant diversity of Canine enteric coronavirus and its variable toxicity, the findings underscore the necessity of continuous monitoring research. This research was essential for enhancing understanding of the virus's epidemiology and development.