Susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV in Beagle Dogs

Simple Summary Many studies have evaluated the spread and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV in humans; however, the ability of the virus to infect pets, including dogs, has not been fully clarified. Accordingly, in this study, we evaluated the ability of SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV to infect beagle dogs. Our results showed that dogs can be infected by both viruses. Viral shedding into nasal secretions, feces, and urine was observed, and the lung tissues from the dogs inoculated with SARS-CoV-2 or MERS-CoV showed pathological changes, as well as changes in their lactate dehydrogenase levels. The coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome, coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has resulted in unprecedented challenges to healthcare worldwide. In particular, the anthroponotic transmission of human coronaviruses has become a common concern among pet owners. Here, we experimentally inoculated beagle dogs with SARS-CoV-2 or Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS-CoV) to compare their susceptibility to and the pathogenicity of these viruses. The dogs in this study exhibited weight loss and increased body temperatures and shed the viruses in their nasal secretions, feces, and urine. Pathologic changes were observed in the lungs of the dogs inoculated with SARS-CoV-2 or MERS-CoV. Additionally, clinical characteristics of SARS-CoV-2, such as increased lactate dehydrogenase levels, were identified in the current study.