Why Is My Dog Shaking? Causes, Solutions And How To Prevent Them

While body language can sometimes be a cause of concern for pet parents, dogs communicate in many different ways. Shaking or trembling is often one of the behaviors that leaves pet owners confused. If you’ve observed your dog shaking a lot, you may be concerned that it indicates distress, illness, or something else more benign. In this article, we explore the different reasons that dogs shake, from innocent causes to serious medical conditions, and what you can do to help your pups out.

Common Causes of Dog Shaking

1. Cold Weather and Sensitivity to Temperature

Dogs, like people, can shiver when cold. This is particularly seen in small breeds such as Chihuahuas, Dachshunds and Greyhounds that have thin coats and less body fat. If you see your dog shivering in the cold, it might be worth getting a sweater or jacket to help keep them warm on winter walks.

2. Excitement or Anxiety

Certain dogs tremble when they are excited or nervous. This is most often noted whenever you return home after a long day, and your pup rejoices at your arrival. Likewise, dogs may shake due to anxiety, such as when storms, fireworks, or car rides are involved. If your dog shakes frequently with stress, consider calming techniques like desensitization training, comfort items, or anxiety wraps.

3. Pain or Injury

Shaking can also indicate that your dog is in pain. If your dog has recently been injured, had surgery, or has an underlying condition like arthritis, they might tremor in response to pain. If you suspect it is pain-related, you’ll want to see your veterinarian to properly diagnose and treat it.

4. Diseases and Medical Conditions

Many health-related issues could cause dogs to shake. Here are the most common medical reasons:

Generalized Tremor Syndrome (GTS): Referred to as “white dog shaker syndrome,” this syndrome is primarily observed in small-breed dogs but can occur in any breed. It triggers tremors across the body and is typically managed with corticosteroids.
Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar levels—particularly common in small and toy breeds—can cause tremors. This has been an issue that can be avoided if you make sure you feed your dog regularly, and give him a balanced diet.
Seizures or Neurological Disorders: Shaking can be a sign of epilepsy or other neurological disorders that need attention from a veterinarian.
Kidney disease or toxin exposure: Some toxins (including chocolate, xylitol, and certain insecticides) lead to shaking, seizures, or muscle tremors. Get professional help right away if you suspect poison.

5. Fear and Phobias

Your dog may be afraid of specific situations, objects, or sounds and will shake from the fear. Common fears are loud sounds such as fireworks and thunderstorms, unfamiliar territories, or even specific individuals or animals. In these cases, gradual desensitization, training, and sometimes medication are necessary to manage your dog’s anxiety.

6. Nausea and Motion Sickness

If your dog does shake beforehand or while in the car, they may be suffering from motion sickness. Other symptoms can include drooling, whining or vomiting. Car sickness is typically treatable with anti-nausea medications or by making car rides more pleasant for your pet.

7. Aging, Dementia, and Cognitive Impairment

You might also notice tremors or shaking as dogs get older and may develop some conditions. Canine cognitive dysfunction (doggy dementia) may cause confusion, disorientation and trembling. Supplementing with mental exercise and veterinary care can go a long way to making your senior dog comfortable.

When to See a Veterinarian

Judge the difference between excitement and mild cold exposure shaking (which are usually okay) versus persisting or excessive shaking (which shouldn’t be left alone). It’s recommended to get a vet involved if:

Other symptoms have included vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite.
Your dog has eaten poison.
The shakes come suddenly, inexplicably.
Your dog appears to be very uncomfortable or in pain.
The trembling increases in severity over time or interferes with your dog’s ability to move normally.

How to Help a Shaking Dog

If your dog is shaking and you don’t know why, here’s what you can do:

Double Down On Your Environment: Make sure your pooch is cozy and warm, even in chilly weather.
Calm Their Anxiety: If your dog is shaking out of fear or being overly excited, provide comfort through gentle petting, calming music, or anxiety wraps such as the ThunderShirt.
Monitor Their Health: Watch for any other signs of illness or injury and note how often the shaking happens.
Keep a Balanced Diet: Be sure you feed your dog a healthy meal and proper hydration to avoid hypoglycemia.
See the Vet: If the shaking continues or appears related to an underlying health disorder, you should see your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Conclusion

There are many different causes of shaking in dogs – from harmless excitement to serious medical conditions. The first step to keeping your dog safe is understanding why he is shaking. But if you ever have concerns about your pet’s well-being, consulting with a veterinarian is a wise idea. With the right care when they do age, you can keep your furry friend happy and comfortable.

When you notice and correct potential problems early, you can give your dog the best possible quality of life.