Why is my dog shaking?
Our furry companions are like family to us, and it’s natural to feel concerned when they display any unusual behaviour. One such behaviour that can be alarming is when your dog starts to shake or tremble. Watching your dog go through such an episode can be heart-wrenching, and many dog owners often wonder what’s causing their dog to shake.
Common Causes and What to Do.
While visible shaking can be a sign of a serious underlying health condition, there are also times when it happens for less severe reasons. In this blog post, we will take a deep dive into common reasons why your dog may be shaking and offer suggestions on what to do to help him/her.
1. Fear, Nervousness, and Anxiety
Loud noises, thunderstorms, or unfamiliar environments can make your dog anxious and shake. One of the most common reasons behind dog shaking is fear, nervousness, or anxiety. Dogs can experience these emotions due to various reasons, including loud noises, unfamiliar places, new people, or separation from their owners. You may notice your dog shaking or trembling during a thunderstorm or fireworks, or when you’re taking him/her to the vet.
What to do:
Create a safe and quiet space for them during stressful situations to help ease their fears. If your dog is shaking due to fear or anxiety, try to comfort him/her with a calm and reassuring tone. You can use calming music or noise-canceling headphones to reduce the sound of outside noises. A dog anxiety vest can also provide a sense of comfort and security. If you know that your dog suffers from separation anxiety, try to make leaving and coming back less of a big deal, so your dog knows you are coming back. And if you need extra assistance, consult your vet for anxiety management strategies.
2. Pain or Physical Distress
Persistent shaking, whining, or changes in behaviour may indicate that your dog is in pain or discomfort. Pain can cause dogs to shake or tremble, and it may also be a symptom of a broader health condition. Physical pain can happen due to health issues, muscular pain, joint pain, injury, internal problems, and other related reasons.
What to do:
Don’t wait – seek immediate veterinary care for a thorough examination and proper treatment. If your dog is in physical pain, it is critical to identify the cause of the discomfort. If the shaking persists and you think its related to an injury, seek care from a specialised veterinarian. In dealing with muscular pain, you can use a heat pack to ease the discomfort and also give your dog a comfortable surface to sleep on.
3. Generalised Tremor Syndrome or Other Health Issues
Some dogs suffer from Generalised Tremor Syndrome, which causes limb tremors and shaking episodes frequently. In addition, tremors can also happen as a side effect of other underlying health issues such as kidney/heart diseases, poisoning, and toxic ingestion.
What to do:
If you notice that your dog has persistent and frequent shaking episodes, contact your veterinarian right away. An in-depth physical examination and other related investigations may be required for a definitive diagnosis. By treating the underlying condition, you can help minimise or manage the shaking and help your dog to live a comfortable life.
4. Cold or Fever
Just like us, dogs can feel the cold too. Changes in temperature can cause dogs to shiver and shake. If your dog is cold, you may notice him/her curling up and attempting to get closer to heat sources (such as blankets or radiators). Fever can cause dogs to shake, even after they are covered in blankets and are near a heat source.
What to do:
Make sure your dog stays warm and cosy during colder seasons with a comfortable bed and blankets. If you notice that your dog is shaking due to the weather changes, wrap him/her in a warm blanket or jacket and provide indoor heating. If you suspect your dog has a fever, monitor his/her temperature, and contact your veterinarian. Follow any related treatment plans provided by your veterinarian, such as administering antibiotics and fever reducers.
Other reasons and solutions
5. Excitement Overload:
Is something exciting on the horizon? Dogs can shake with anticipation when looking forward to a walk, playtime, or treats. It’s usually temporary and nothing to worry about. Enjoy their wagging tail and happy demeanor!
Other reasons and solutions.
1. Excitement Overload:
Is something exciting on the horizon? Dogs can shake with anticipation when looking forward to a walk, playtime, or treats. It’s usually temporary and nothing to worry about. Enjoy their wagging tail and happy demeanor!
2. Feeling Nauseous:
Just like us, dogs can feel nauseous too. If your pup has an upset stomach, they may shake in response to discomfort. Keep an eye out for other signs of digestive issues, and consult your vet if symptoms persist.
3. Aging Gracefully:
It comes to us all. As our furry friends age, they may experience shaking due to muscle weakness or joint pain. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help manage age-related issues and ensure they receive the appropriate care.
4. Blood Sugar Woes:
Low blood sugar levels can cause shaking, especially in small breeds and puppies. Keep your dog’s blood sugar in check by feeding them a balanced diet and ensuring regular meals.
5. Epilepsy Battles:
If your dog experiences seizures characterised by shaking, twitching, and loss of consciousness, it could be epilepsy. Don’t delay – consult your vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
In conclusion, understanding why your dog is shaking or trembling is essential to help him/her feel better. The four common reasons for dog shaking include fear/anxiety, pain and physical distress, health issues, and exposure to temperature changes. By identifying the cause of your dog’s shaking and appropriately addressing it, you can help your furry friend to feel calm, comfortable, and happy again. Prioritise regular check-ups with your veterinarian, and keep an open dialogue with them about your dog’s health and behaviours.
Happy Hound, Happy Humans
