Dogs shake or tremble for all kinds of reasons. Because the reasons for shaking are so varied, it’s important to look at the broader context of the shaking to determine the cause. In many cases shaking is not a medical issue, but sometimes it does indicate a need for immediate medical attention.
Let’s explore some of the reasons now,
1.Cold
If you notice your dog shivering, the solution may be as simple as buying him a sweater!
Yes, they have fur, but dogs can still get cold, especially in the winter. This is particularly true for dogs that don’t have undercoats. Breeds such as whippets, greyhounds, boxers and chihuahuas have thin coats and typically lack sufficient body fat to keep them warm in cold temperatures.
If you notice your dog trembling during cold snaps, invest in a warm sweater or jacket to keep him warm. You should also make sure he has a warm place to sleep. After all, laying down on a cold floor is sure to chill him to the bone! If your dog’s bed sits directly on a wood or tile floor, consider putting a rubber mat or some cardboard underneath it for additional insulation in colder months.
2.Nausea
Just like people, dogs can get nauseous from motion sickness, medication, eating too much, or eating the wrong thing, such as a toxic plant. They also can get nausea from kidney or liver disease, as well as other diseases. Shaking may be a sign that your dog is nauseous. Other signs include listlessness, lip smacking, swallowing or salivating more than usual, hiding, yawning, and vomiting.
3.Disease
Trembling is a common symptom in conditions such as kidney disease and distemper, among others. If your dog has suddenly developed a tremor, speak to your veterinarian, as it may be a symptom of a serious illness. And if this is the case, trembling is unlikely to be the only symptom. Try to pay attention to anything else about your dog’s behavior or physical condition that has changed recently.
4.Poisoning
Several toxins or poisons can cause tremors or shaking in dogs. Some of these are harmless to people but toxic to your pet. For instance, items that can be poisonous for dogs include: chocolate, cigarettes(which can cause nicotine poisoning), and xylitol, the sugar substitute found in many chewing gums. Snail baits containing metaldehyde can also cause severe muscle tremors and convulsions.
5.Fever
Just like humans, a dog with a fever may shiver. Dogs may experience fevers due to infections. They may also exhibit fever symptoms after a vaccination. Usually fevers are accompanied by other symptoms, which include vomiting, coughing, lethargy, warm ears and a warm nose. Until you know the underlying cause of the fever, it’s difficult to determine how serious your pup’s condition is. If you notice signs of fever in your dog, consult your veterinarian immediately.
6.Fear, Excitement, or Anxiety
Strong emotions can make dogs tremble or shake. If you notice that your dog’s trembling starts and stops in specific situations (like at the vet, when guests are visiting, or on walks), there’s a good chance that there’s an emotional reason for your dog’s shaking. Even if this is caused by excitement instead of fear, it’s a good idea to get help teaching your dog to feel relaxed.
