If you’ve found yourself wondering, "Why is my dog shaking?" you’re not alone. Shaking in dogs can be a normal response to excitement or cold weather, but in some cases, it may indicate a serious illness that needs attention. While occasional shivering might not be a cause for concern, persistent or unexplained shaking—especially when paired with other symptoms—shouldn’t be ignored.
Dogs shake for various reasons, ranging from anxiety to medical conditions like Canine Distemper or low blood sugar. Understanding the cause behind your dog’s trembling is key to ensuring their health and well-being. We’ll share the most common reasons dogs shake, what you can do to help, and when it’s time to see your vet immediately.
Do Some Dog Breeds Shake More Than Others?
Yes, certain breeds are naturally more prone to shaking than others. Smaller dogs tend to shiver more often because they have higher metabolisms and lose body heat faster than larger breeds. Chihuahuas, Miniature Pinschers, and Italian Greyhounds are well-known for their frequent trembling, even in mild temperatures.
Age also plays a role. Young dogs may shake more often due to excitement, nervous energy, or their inability to regulate body temperature efficiently. On the other hand, old age can bring conditions like arthritis or degenerative nerve disorders that cause tremors, especially in the hind legs.
Some medical conditions are also more common in certain breeds. Generalized Tremor Syndrome (GTS) is frequently seen in Maltese, West Highland White Terriers, and Poodles, while neurological disorders like Canine Distemper can cause infected dogs to develop tremors throughout their bodies. If your dog’s shaking is sudden, frequent, or accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to consider possible underlying causes.
Common Reasons Dogs Shake
Sometimes, shaking in dogs is completely normal. A shivering pup who stops trembling once they warm up or settle down likely isn’t experiencing anything serious. However, frequent or persistent shaking could signal an issue that needs your attention.
Cold Temperatures
If your dog is shaking, the first thing to consider is the temperature. Dogs shiver when they’re cold, just like humans do. This is especially common in short-haired and small breeds that don’t retain heat as well. Puppies and older dogs may also struggle with regulating their body temperature, making them more susceptible to shivering in cool weather.
Consider This Solution: To keep your pup warm, provide a cozy resting spot, such as an orthopedic dog bed and a blanket. Bully Beds are designed to offer extra warmth and support, making them ideal for dogs prone to shivering, especially those with joint pain from old age.
Excitement or Anxiety
Dogs often shake when they’re excited—like when you pick up the leash or grab their favorite treat. This type of trembling is harmless and usually stops once they calm down. However, anxiety-related shaking is different. Dogs experiencing separation anxiety, fear, or stress may tremble for extended periods, particularly in response to loud noises, unfamiliar environments, or vet visits.
Consider This Solution: If your dog shakes due to excitement, help them settle down with slow, gentle petting and a calm voice. For anxiety, consider calming dog chews or anxiety wraps.
Pain or Injury
Shaking can be a subtle sign of pain, especially if your dog has recently been active or suffered an injury. Dogs with arthritis or joint issues may develop tremors in their hind legs due to discomfort. Muscle injuries, sprains, or even unseen internal pain can also lead to trembling.
Consider This Solution: Watch for other signs of pain, such as limping, excessive licking of one area, or reluctance to get up from their dog bed. If shaking is persistent or your dog seems uncomfortable, visit your vet immediately for an evaluation.
Nausea or Digestive Issues
Dogs experiencing nausea may shake as their body’s response to feeling unwell. Motion sickness, low blood sugar, and digestive upset from eating something they shouldn’t have can all cause trembling. Other signs of nausea include drooling and reluctance to eat.
Consider This Solution: If your dog is shaking and seems nauseous, offer fresh water and a bland meal like boiled chicken and rice. Monitor their condition—if symptoms persist for more than 24 hours or are accompanied by vomiting and diarrhea, consult a vet.
Medical Conditions That May Cause Your Dog to Shake
If your dog’s shaking isn’t related to temperature, excitement, or minor discomfort, there may be an underlying medical condition that requires attention. Some health issues can cause muscle tremors, involuntary shaking, or full-body tremors. In some cases, this can be temporary, but in others, it may indicate a serious illness requiring immediate veterinary care.
One key thing to remember is that when they’re in pain, dogs often shake as a physical response to discomfort. If your pup seems restless, refuses to lie down, or is showing other signs of distress, shaking could be their way of coping. Below are some serious medical conditions that can cause tremors or full-body shaking in dogs.
Seizures or Neurological Disorders
Some neurological conditions can cause shaking in dogs, either in the form of muscle tremors or full-body seizures. Epilepsy, for example, is a chronic condition that causes recurring seizures, often without a clear trigger. Other neurological disorders, such as brain tumors, nerve damage, or degenerative diseases, can also lead to uncontrolled tremors and shaking.
During a seizure, affected dogs may experience more than just shaking. They could also show signs like:
-
Disorientation or confusion before and after an episode
-
Drooling or foaming at the mouth
-
Stiffened limbs or paddling movements
-
Temporary loss of consciousness
-
Involuntary urination or defecation
If your dog has a seizure, try to stay calm and ensure their safety by moving any nearby objects that could cause injury. Do not attempt to hold them still. After the seizure passes, comfort your dog and take note of how long it lasted. If seizures occur frequently or last longer than a few minutes, see your vet immediately.
Dogs with nerve disorders may also develop tremors in their hind legs or experience difficulty walking. If you notice uncoordinated movement, persistent twitching, or muscle weakness, your vet can perform neurological tests to determine the cause.
Poisoning or Toxicity
If your dog ingests something toxic, shaking can be one of the first symptoms. Toxins affect the nervous system, which can lead to involuntary tremors, weakness, and, in severe cases, seizures. Some of the most common toxins that can cause shaking include chocolate, grapes or raisins, certain house plants, household cleaners, or rodenticides.
Other signs of poisoning include:
-
Vomiting or diarrhea
-
Excessive drooling
-
Lethargy or weakness
-
Uncoordinated movements
-
Rapid heart rate
-
Seizures
If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic substance, do not wait for symptoms to worsen—call an emergency veterinarian immediately. Quick action can be life-saving, as many toxins spread rapidly through the body. Your vet may induce vomiting, administer activated charcoal, or provide IV fluids to help flush the toxins out.
Fever or Infection
Dogs can experience shaking and tremors when fighting off an infection or running a fever. When they’re in pain, dogs often shake as their body's response to discomfort, just like humans with chills when they have the flu. Infections can affect different parts of the body, leading to a range of symptoms.
Some of the most common infections that cause shaking include:
-
Canine Distemper: A serious illness caused by a viral infection that affects a dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Infected dogs may experience hind leg tremors, full-body shaking, fever, coughing, nasal discharge, and lethargy.
-
Ear Infection: A less severe but still concerning condition, ear infections can also cause dogs to shake, especially their heads. Bacterial or yeast infections inside the ear canal cause discomfort, leading to excessive head shaking and scratching.
-
Tick-Borne Diseases: Certain illnesses spread by ticks, such as Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, can cause shaking in dogs, along with fever, joint pain, and lethargy.
-
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) or Kidney Infections: Infections affecting the urinary system or kidneys can lead to shaking in dogs, especially if accompanied by pain during urination, excessive drinking, or accidents in the house.
What to Do If Your Dog is Shaking
If your dog is trembling, start by assessing the situation. Are they cold, excited, or nervous? If so, their shaking should stop once they warm up or calm down. If the shaking continues, happens frequently, or is paired with other signs like vomiting, lethargy, or difficulty walking, it’s time to take action.
When to See Your Vet Immediately
-
If your dog is shaking persistently and shows signs of pain.
-
If trembling is accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite.
-
If your dog suddenly develops tremors in the hind legs or body.
-
If they exhibit confusion, disorientation, or seizure-like behavior.
-
If you suspect poisoning or exposure to toxins.
Do You Notice Your Dog Trembling Often?
Occasional shivering is normal, but frequent or unexplained shaking should be taken seriously. Keeping an eye on your dog’s behavior, providing warmth and comfort with a chew-proof dog bed, and acting quickly when needed can help protect your dog’s health.
