It can be alarming to witness your loyal canine companion shaking in fear or excitement.
Tremors in dogs may also indicate a medical condition, so it’s important to know why your dog is shaking and what you can do about it.
In this article, we will discuss the normal and abnormal causes of trembling in dogs and how to best respond to each situation.
What is Dog Shaking?
Dog shaking is a common behavior in both wild and domestic dogs. It can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from excitement or fear to medical conditions.
To determine the cause for your dog’s shaking, it is important to consider the context in which it occurs. Common signs that accompany shaking include panting, lip licking, and dilated pupils.
In some cases, dog shaking can be a result of a medical condition or environmental stress, so it’s vital to assess the situation and take action accordingly.
If your dog is shaking due to fear or excitement, it’s important to ensure that their environment is calm and safe, otherwise the behavior may become worse over time.
Normal Causes of Dog Shaking
Cold or fear-induced shivering
Cold or fear-induced shivering is a common cause of shaking in dogs and is often characterized by trembling of the body, panting, and wide eyes.
This type of shaking is the result of a physiological response to feeling cold or scared.
In cases where cold or fear-induced shivering occurs, it’s important to provide your dog with a safe and calming environment to help them feel more comfortable.
Excitement or anticipation
Shaking can also be caused by excitement and anticipation. If your dog is eagerly awaiting the arrival of a ball or treat, they may shake due to the sheer joy they’re feeling.
This type of shaking is usually accompanied by wagging tails, excited gestures, and panting.
In these cases, it’s best to allow your dog to express their excitement and then redirect their focus to other activities.
Stretching or shaking off after sleep
It’s common for dogs to stretch their legs and shake off after waking up from a nap. This behavior is often seen in puppies, as they have not yet learned to control their movements and need to shake off excess energy.
In older dogs, the behavior may be an indication of a medical condition, such as joint pain or arthritis.
Medical Causes of Dog Shaking
Pain or discomfort
Pain or discomfort can also be a cause of shaking in dogs. Tremors may occur due to an injury, joint pain, or arthritis. In these cases, the tremors are often accompanied by signs of pain such as whimpering, licking at the affected area, and reluctance to move.
It’s important to take your dog to the vet if you notice any of these symptoms so they can be properly assessed and treated.
Illness or infection
Illness or infection can also be a cause of shaking in dogs. If your dog is unwell, they may experience tremors due to fever, toxins, or low blood sugar levels. Common symptoms that accompany illness-induced shaking include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite. If you suspect your dog is ill or infected, it’s important to take them to the vet as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Behavioral Causes of Dog Shaking
Anxiety or stress
Anxiety or stress can be another possible cause of shaking in dogs. Dogs may shake due to fear, anxiety, or stress when faced with unfamiliar situations or environments. This type of shaking is often accompanied by signs such as cowering, hiding, and avoidance behaviors.
To reduce anxiety in your dog it’s important to create a safe and secure environment for them and provide comfort through positive reinforcement and gentle handling.
Excitement or anticipation
Excitement or anticipation can also be a cause of shaking in dogs. If your dog is eagerly awaiting the arrival of a ball or treat, they may shake due to the sheer joy they’re feeling.
This type of shaking is usually accompanied by wagging tails, excited gestures, and panting.
In these cases, it’s best to allow your dog to express their excitement and then redirect their focus to other activities.
When to Seek Veterinary Advice
Persistence or worsening of shaking episodes
Persistence or worsening of shaking episodes should be taken seriously and may indicate an underlying medical condition.
If your dog’s shaking is occurring more frequently or becoming more intense, it’s important to take them to the vet for a full examination.
Your vet will be able to assess your dog, diagnose any potential medical issues, and provide treatment if necessary.
Associated symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea
Vomiting or diarrhea can also be associated symptoms with shaking in dogs. If your dog is experiencing tremors due to an illness or infection, they may also be accompanied by symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea.
This could indicate that the underlying cause of the shaking is a medical condition, and it’s important to take your dog to the vet for a full examination if you notice any of these symptoms.
Changes in appetite or behavior
Changes in appetite or behavior can also be a cause of shaking in dogs. If your dog’s eating habits have changed, they may be experiencing discomfort or pain due to an underlying medical condition.
Additionally, if your dog is displaying changes in their behavior such as hiding, cowering, or avoiding situations that used to bring them joy, this too could indicate a medical issue that is causing the tremors.
It’s important to take your dog to the vet if you notice any changes in their appetite or behavior so they can receive a full assessment and proper treatment.
Pre-existing health conditions or susceptibility
Pre-existing health conditions or susceptibility can also be a cause of shaking in dogs. Certain breeds may be predisposed to certain medical conditions that can cause trembling, such as epilepsy, hypoglycemia, and thyroid disorders.
Additionally, dogs that are older or have weakened immune systems may be more susceptible to illnesses and infections that can cause tremors. It’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s health and take them for regular check-ups to ensure they are in good health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, shaking in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors including illness or infection, anxiety or stress, excitement or anticipation, changes in appetite or behavior, and pre-existing health conditions or susceptibility.
It is important to take your dog to the vet if you notice any signs of shaking so they can receive a full examination and proper diagnosis. Additionally, creating a safe and secure environment for your dog and providing them with comfort through positive reinforcement and gentle handling can help reduce anxiety and stress.
