Shaking in dogs can be caused by many things. Just like humans, dogs can have many reasons to tremble. They are sensitive creatures and require care and love. If you caught your dog shaking and wondered, “Why is my dog trembling and shaking?” then do not worry. We have you covered. Continue reading to find out every reason your dog could be shaking. Let’s begin!
Why Do Dogs Shake
There can be many reasons that cause dogs to shake. Some of them can be concerning, while others are not. Some of the reasons are mentioned below:
1. Environmental Factors
Your dog might be shaking as a result of its immediate surroundings. It might be too cold, or perhaps they got wet. There can be many reasons. Sometimes, insects and lice can also affect your dog’s behavior, causing them to shake.
2. Psychological Issues
Because of some psychological issues, such as stress, fear, nervousness, or anxiety, your dogs might start to tremble. It is a common behavior that is also found in humans. In such a scenario, there is nothing to worry about. All you have to do is find the reason for the comfort in your dog and get rid of it. It can be anything, such as a sudden loud noise or a new person in the house. Try to relax your dog by patting it and offering some treats to eat.
Other psychological issues include depression, sadness, etc. Your dog might start panting, shaking, and show restlessness. You can consult your vet and ask for some antidepressant medication in such a case.
3. Excitement And Happiness
You must have noticed how your dog starts jumping and running when you return home after a long day. Because of this, they might start shaking as well, but dont worry. This is just an expression of their happiness and excitement and will go away on its own.
4. Medical And Health-Related Reasons
Shaking and trembling can also be caused by various health problems, some of them being:
- Seizure Disorder: Seizure and canine epilepsy are a pretty common cause of shaking or trembling in dogs. Canine epilepsy can be caused by brain tumours, low blood sugar, or any other unknown cause.
- Muscle Weakness: Fatigue and old age can cause muscle weakness resulting in your dogs shaking uncontrollably, especially around the legs. In such a condition you should visit the vet and get some professional help.
- Poisoning Or Toxicity: Eating harmful substances like chocolate, xylitol, or certain plants can cause dogs to shake or tremble.
- Generalized Tremor Syndrome (GTS): Also known as “Shaker Syndrome,” this condition causes involuntary shaking in dogs, especially those belonging to a small breed like chihuahuas.
- Nausea: Sickness is often accompanied by nausea and it can cause your dogs to shake or tremble.
- Addison’s Disease: Dogs suffering from Addison’s disease are often observed shaking, along with vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
- Distemper: This viral infection can cause tremors and shaking in your dog. Other symptoms such as fever, coughing, and lethargy can also be observed in dogs suffering from distemper.
What To Do If Your Dog Is Shaking
It’s common to worry when you realize that your dog is shaking, the best thing you can do is to remain calm and take a look at the situation. Here’s how you can help:
- Keep Them Warm: If your dog is shivering then perhaps it is just cold sometimes you might find yourself shivering while wearing shorts in the cold. Put a nice blanket on them or around them and ensure they are well settled.
- Check For Pain Or Injury: Gently feel around for any signs of discomfort, like swelling or a sensitive spot. Dogs may shake when they’re hurting.
- Comfort Them If They Are Anxious: Dogs frequently tremble when they are worried or anxious. Try gentle reassurance with words or a favorite toy to calm their nerves.
- Look For Signs Of Illness: Trembling can at times be associated with disease or illness. Look for post-accident signs such as vomiting, lack of energy or eating little food.
- Visit The Vet If Unsure: If the shaking continues or if you see other signs that do not please you, then you should go back to your veterinarian.
Shaking vs. Seizures in Dogs
While shaking and seizures may be two different things, here are a few pointers to understand them better. Usually, shaking constitutes a voluntary motor act, elicited mostly due to cold, fear, anxiety, and even pain, while the dog remains conscious and alert during it. Seizures, on the other hand, are involuntary motor acts and much more dramatic, with uncontrolled movements. With a seizure, a dog may go unconscious, for example, fall on its side, and have muscle twitching along with drooling, or even paddling motions. Post-ictally, after the seizure, dogs may be disoriented or confused for a brief period. If you are not sure whether your dog is shaking or having a seizure, you should see your vet.
Conclusion
When you see your dogs shaking dont panic. We know how worrisome it can be but if you lose your calm who will look after your dog? Follow all the tips and guidelines provided above and contact your vet if you find the condition worsening. We hope this article answered your question “Why is my dog shaking”. Stay safe and keep petting!
