Why Do Dogs Shake?

Posted by By Mukesh Pathak 11 Min Read

Introduction

Shaking in dogs is a behavior that can be both puzzling and concerning for pet owners. While some instances of shaking are entirely normal, others may indicate underlying health issues that require attention. Understanding the reasons behind why dogs shake is crucial for ensuring their well-being. This article explores the various causes of shaking in dogs, helping you determine whether your dog’s shaking is normal or a sign that something might be wrong.

1. Normal Reasons for Shaking in Dogs

  • Excitement or Happiness: Dogs often shake or tremble when they are excited or happy. This type of shaking is usually accompanied by a wagging tail and an enthusiastic demeanor. For example, a dog may shake with excitement when you return home or when anticipating a walk.
  • Cold Temperatures: Just like humans, dogs can shake when they are cold. This is a natural response to generate body heat. Small or short-haired breeds are more susceptible to cold and may shiver even when the temperature is mildly cool.
  • Water Shaking: Dogs instinctively shake off excess water after getting wet. This is an efficient way for them to dry their fur and maintain body temperature. The “wet shake” is a common behavior observed after baths or swimming.
  • Stretching or Shaking Off Stress: Sometimes, dogs shake after waking up or when they are trying to release tension or stress. This type of shake is often seen as part of a stretching routine, similar to how humans stretch after sitting for long periods.

2. Behavioral Reasons for Shaking

  • Anxiety and Fear: Shaking can be a sign of anxiety or fear in dogs. Loud noises like thunderstorms, fireworks, or unfamiliar environments can cause a dog to tremble. Some dogs have anxiety disorders and may shake frequently due to ongoing stress.
  • Separation Anxiety: Dogs who suffer from separation anxiety may shake when they are left alone. This type of shaking is often accompanied by other behaviors such as whining, barking, or destructive actions.
  • Submission or Nervousness: Some dogs shake when they feel submissive or nervous. This behavior is often seen in dogs that have been scolded or are in the presence of a dominant dog. The shaking is a sign of submission and a way to avoid conflict.

3. Medical Reasons for Shaking

  • Pain or Discomfort: Shaking can be a symptom of pain in dogs. If a dog is shaking and showing other signs such as whining, limping, or reluctance to move, it may be experiencing pain. This can be due to injury, arthritis, or other health conditions.
  • Nausea: Dogs may shake when they feel nauseous, which can be due to motion sickness, certain medications, or gastrointestinal issues. If the shaking is accompanied by drooling, vomiting, or loss of appetite, nausea could be the cause.
  • Poisoning or Toxicity: Ingestion of toxic substances, such as chocolate, xylitol, or certain plants, can cause shaking in dogs. This type of shaking is often severe and accompanied by symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or seizures. Immediate veterinary care is crucial in such cases.
  • Distemper: Canine distemper is a viral disease that can cause shaking, among other symptoms like fever, coughing, and discharge from the eyes and nose. Vaccination is key to preventing distemper, as it is a serious and often fatal illness.
  • Generalized Tremor Syndrome (GTS): Also known as “white shaker dog syndrome,” GTS is a condition that causes whole-body tremors in dogs. It is most commonly seen in small, white-coated breeds but can affect any dog. The cause of GTS is unknown, but it is treatable with corticosteroids.
  • Epilepsy and Seizures: Shaking can be a sign of epilepsy or seizures in dogs. Seizures can vary in severity, from mild shaking to full-body convulsions. If a dog experiences a seizure, it’s important to consult a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment options.

4. Environmental and Situational Causes

  • Allergies: Allergic reactions to food, medications, or environmental factors like pollen can cause shaking. This may be accompanied by itching, redness, or swelling. Identifying and avoiding allergens is key to managing allergy-related shaking.
  • Heat Stroke: Overheating can lead to heat stroke, a serious condition that causes shaking, panting, excessive drooling, and lethargy. Dogs are more prone to heat stroke in hot weather, especially if they are left in cars or exposed to the sun for long periods. Immediate cooling and veterinary care are necessary.
  • Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar levels, or hypoglycemia, can cause shaking in dogs, particularly in small breeds, puppies, or dogs with diabetes. Symptoms include lethargy, weakness, and confusion. Feeding the dog or providing a glucose solution can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
  • Infections: Certain infections, such as those affecting the ears or neurological system, can cause shaking. If a dog has an ear infection, it may shake its head frequently, scratch at the ears, and show signs of discomfort. Neurological infections can lead to more severe symptoms, including full-body tremors.

5. When to Be Concerned About Your Dog’s Shaking

  • Frequency and Intensity: Occasional shaking due to excitement or cold is normal, but frequent or intense shaking can indicate a problem. If your dog shakes without an obvious cause or if the shaking persists, it’s worth consulting a vet.
  • Accompanying Symptoms: Shaking that is accompanied by other symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or changes in behavior, should be addressed promptly. These could be signs of underlying health issues that require medical attention.
  • Changes in Behavior: If your dog suddenly starts shaking and also shows changes in behavior, such as aggression, fearfulness, or withdrawal, this could be a sign of pain or illness. Observing your dog’s overall behavior can help you decide if veterinary care is needed.

6. How to Help a Shaking Dog

  • Provide a Comfortable Environment: Ensure your dog is in a comfortable and safe environment. If your dog is shaking due to fear or anxiety, create a calm space with familiar items like toys and bedding. Use calming aids such as pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps if necessary.
  • Warmth and Comfort: If your dog is cold, provide warmth with blankets or a heated dog bed. Dressing small or short-haired dogs in sweaters or jackets can help keep them warm in cooler weather.
  • Seek Veterinary Care: If the shaking is frequent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms, consult a veterinarian. A thorough examination can help diagnose the cause of the shaking and determine the best course of treatment.
  • Monitor for Toxic Exposure: Be vigilant about what your dog has access to, both indoors and outdoors. Keep toxic substances, such as household cleaners, medications, and certain foods, out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion.
  • Manage Stress and Anxiety: Identify and reduce stressors in your dog’s environment. Gradual exposure to triggers, desensitization training, and, in some cases, medication prescribed by a vet can help manage anxiety-related shaking.

7. Preventive Measures to Reduce Shaking

  • Regular Vet Check-ups: Routine veterinary visits can help identify potential health issues before they become serious. Regular check-ups allow for early detection and treatment of conditions that may cause shaking.
  • Vaccinations: Keeping your dog up to date on vaccinations can prevent diseases like distemper that cause shaking. Follow your veterinarian’s vaccination schedule to protect your dog’s health.
  • Proper Nutrition: A balanced diet is essential for maintaining your dog’s overall health. Ensure your dog is getting the right nutrients to support its immune system and prevent conditions like hypoglycemia that can cause shaking.
  • Training and Socialization: Proper training and socialization can help reduce anxiety and fear-related shaking. Exposing your dog to different environments, people, and other animals in a controlled manner can build confidence and reduce anxiety.
  • Environmental Safety: Keep your home and yard free of hazards that could lead to poisoning or injury. Be aware of plants, foods, and chemicals that are toxic to dogs and ensure they are out of reach.

Conclusion

Shaking in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from normal behaviors to serious medical conditions. As a responsible pet owner, it is essential to observe your dog’s behavior and recognize when shaking is a harmless response or a sign that something is wrong. By understanding the reasons behind shaking, providing a comfortable environment, and seeking veterinary care when necessary, you can help ensure your dog’s health and well-being. Always consult with a veterinarian if you have concerns about your dog’s health or behavior.