Should I Be Worried If My Dog Is Shivering, Shaking, or Trembling?

Many dog owners believe that keeping their dogs bundled up in cozy hats and sweaters can keep them from shaking or trembling. However, this is far from the truth. This is because there are several factors other than cold temperatures that can result in your furry friend shivering. While dogs usually shiver for harmless reasons, sometimes the trembling can be a cry for help!

In order to understand the uneasy condition of your dog, it is important to understand what can cause a dog to shiver, shake, or tremble. Diagnosing the problem can help you come up with a more appropriate plan and keep your precious pooch happy and healthy at all times!

Causes of Dog Shaking, Shivering, or Trembling

Muscle Weakness or Injuries

Sometimes dogs exercise excessively or move their bodies the wrong way; this can cause their muscles to quiver. Quivering in dogs is a common symptom of weakness, injury, or pain. If you notice that touching an area is causing the muscle tremor to worsen, then try to massage or stretch it to relieve the pain. If the shaking or trembling started right after an intense exercise session or is limited to a specific area of your dog’s body, then it’s best to visit a vet immediately. A lot of dogs that shiver due to weakness or pain also seem stressed.

Chilly Temperatures

Dogs that have low-fat content in their bodies or thin coats, such as Dobermans or Greyhounds, can easily get cold. Hairless dogs like the American Hairless Terrier can get chilly even if there is a slight drop in the temperature. Dog owners also need to be cautious during rainfall and humid weather, as their pups can feel colder and become uncomfortable. If you have taken every measure to keep your dog warm but it still hasn’t stopped shaking, then take it to the vet to make sure that there isn’t any underlying medical issue that you need to worry about.

Medical Issues or Diseases

There is a wide range of serious diseases such as distemper, kidney diseases, neurological diseases, seizure disorders, and many more that can cause your dog to tremble and shake. It is important to keep track of any changes in the activity level, appetite, and behavior of your dog. While some dog diseases that cause shivering and shaking are manageable as well as treatable, others can be serious and even fatal.

Generalized Tremor Syndrome

Any pet enthusiasts that have been around small dogs such as Miniature Pinchers or Chihuahuas are well aware of the fact that these pups tend to shiver a lot. While experts haven’t been able to exactly nail down the reason for this, it is believed that since small dogs get more anxious and feel cold more often, they frequently shake or tremble.

If your dog has started trembling suddenly, then this new behavior might be a cause for concern. It is best to consult your vet about it. Trembling dogs are often diagnosed with Generalized Tremor Syndrome that can be easily treated with corticosteroids.

Anxiety, Excitement, or Fear

Strong emotions, such as anxiety or fear, can make dogs shake and tremble. If you notice your dog shaking under particular circumstances (like during walks, when meeting strangers, or when visiting the vet), there is a good chance that there is an underlying emotional cause for your dog’s tremble. Sometimes excess excitement can also trigger shaking.

Measures to Take When Your Dog Is Shaking, Trembling, or Shivering

The first step to take when you notice your dog trembling or shivering is analyzing its surroundings and the overall situation. If you believe that your pup has consumed any toxic substances, then it’s best to visit a healthcare professional immediately. If such is not the case, start by warming your dog and removing any stress-causing objects or people from the scenario. Potential stressors can include loud noises, a new environment, or even strangers.

When to Seek Medical Attention?

Once you have analyzed the overall situation and come to the conclusion that your dog is not shaking due to any environmental factors, it is best to then contact your vet. Seeking immediate medical attention is a must if your pup starts displaying some of the following additional symptoms alongside shaking:

• Panting
• Drooling
• Signs of distress
• Anxiety
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Diarrhea
• Limping

Moreover, if you identify any potentially toxic substance that your pet may have consumed or your dog continues to tremble for more than an hour, take it to the vet right away. The sooner your pup is examined, the higher the chances of it remaining safe and sound.

Preventing Dog Shaking, Trembling, or Shivering

Some steps that pet owners can take to prevent their dog from shivering include keeping it warm, at a healthy weight, up-to-date on vaccines, and away from any sort of toxic substances. It is also important to learn all about the dog breed you own so that you can take all necessary measures to care for your furry friend. Sometimes shivering and trembling are caused by underlying medical conditions that only a vet can diagnose.

Bottom Line

As mentioned earlier, while some of the causes of shaking in dogs are relatively harmless, prolonged trembling can be something to worry about. We hope that with all the information mentioned in our detailed guide, you are now well informed to help your pet best friend in need and keep it healthy and thriving!