Dog Shaking

shaking shivering trembling dog

Dog shaking can be a common occurrence, and while some instances are perfectly normal, others can be a sign of underlying health issues. Understanding the different reasons why your dog might be shaking is crucial for ensuring their well-being.

Normal Reasons for Shaking:

Temperature Regulation: Just like humans shiver when cold, dogs shake to generate heat. This is especially common in short-haired breeds or after being exposed to cold weather or water. Pay attention to the ambient temperature and your dog’s breed. If they’re shaking in a cool environment, providing a blanket or sweater can often resolve the issue.
Excitement or Anticipation: Dogs can get physically excited, leading to shaking or trembling. This might happen before a walk, when they see their favorite person, or when they anticipate a treat. This type of shaking is usually accompanied by other signs of excitement, like tail wagging, barking, and playful behavior.
Dreams: During sleep, dogs, like humans, experience REM sleep. It’s during this phase that they can twitch, paddle their paws, and even shake or whimper as they process their dreams.
“Wet Dog Shakes”: After a bath or swim, dogs will instinctively shake to remove excess water from their fur. This is a highly effective way for them to dry off.

Medical Reasons for Shaking:

Generalized Tremor Syndrome (GTS): Also known as “white shaker dog syndrome,” GTS typically affects small, white dog breeds like Maltese and West Highland White Terriers. The exact cause is unknown, but it’s thought to be an autoimmune condition. Symptoms include full-body tremors, usually starting between 6 months and 2 years of age.
Pain: Shaking can be a sign of pain. If your dog is shaking and displaying other signs of discomfort, such as limping, whimpering, or guarding a particular area, it’s important to consult a veterinarian.
Neurological Issues: Certain neurological conditions, such as seizures or brain tumors, can cause tremors or shaking. These conditions often present with other neurological signs, such as disorientation, loss of balance, or changes in behavior.
Kidney Disease: Advanced kidney disease can lead to a buildup of toxins in the bloodstream, which can affect the nervous system and cause shaking.
Poisoning: Ingestion of toxins or poisons can cause tremors and seizures. If you suspect your dog has ingested something toxic, seek immediate veterinary care.
Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar can cause weakness, shaking, and even seizures, particularly in puppies or diabetic dogs.
Anxiety and Fear: Just as humans can experience physical symptoms of anxiety, dogs can shake when they are scared or stressed. Loud noises, thunderstorms, vet visits, or separation anxiety can trigger shaking.

What to Do:

If your dog is shaking, observe their behavior and look for any accompanying symptoms. If the shaking is brief and related to a clear cause (e.g., cold weather, excitement), it’s likely not a cause for concern. However, if the shaking is persistent, unexplained, or accompanied by other symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, or changes in behavior, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian. A vet can perform a thorough examination, run diagnostic tests, and determine the underlying cause of the shaking, allowing for appropriate treatment.

Provide a calm and comfortable environment for your dog while waiting for veterinary attention. Avoid startling them or exacerbating their anxiety. Keep a record of the shaking episodes, including the time of day, duration, and any potential triggers, as this information can be helpful for your veterinarian.