From tail wagging to barking, dogs display all kinds of behaviours. One you might notice is your dog shaking their whole body. Shaking is considered normal canine behaviour. Dogs shake—intentionally or not—to communicate their feelings. These feelings can range from positive, such as excitement to more serious, such as a medical concern.
Dogs shake for many reasons, ranging from health disorders and infection to pain and excitement, confirms Dr Lauren Witter, senior veterinarian at Small Door Veterinary.
That said, some breeds are known to shake more than others by nature. “Terriers are notorious shakers when they’re excited, and it’s pretty common in those breeds,” explains Emily Birch, a clinical animal behaviourist.
Below, let’s look at factors that cause dogs to shake and what can be done at the vet and at home to help your pup.
What Causes Dogs to Shake?
Shaking and trembling in dogs occur due to various factors. It’s important to distinguish between different types of dog shaking, from voluntary or involuntary to reactive and passive.
- Neurological disorders. Conditions such as epilepsy and peripheral nerve disorders are associated with shaking and tremors.
- Metabolic imbalances. “Fluctuations in electrolytes or blood sugar levels can disrupt nerve function, leading to tremors or shaking in dogs,” Dr Witter explains.
- Pain. Unable to easily vocalise discomfort, canines can shake to show they’re in pain. Chemical changes in the body caused by pain can also lead to shaking.
- Allergies. “Allergic reactions can trigger histamine release,” Dr Witter shares. To alleviate the irritation, dogs might shake or itch.
- Infections. Dr Witter says infections (bacterial, fungal, or viral) cause fever and discomfort; dogs will shake to regulate their body temperature and fight the infection.
- Medication side effects. All drugs come with side effects, and some can lead to symptoms such as shaking—especially if too much is given.
- Old age. Dogs can experience muscle loss and age-related disorders as they get older, such as canine cognitive dysfunction, which can lead to bouts of shaking and panting.
- Poison/toxin exposure. Ingestion of certain chemicals, or even foods such as chocolate and caffeine, can lead to toxicity in dogs. Toxicity affects the nervous system, causing tremors and shaking.
- Cold weather. There’s a good chance your body shakes when you get cold; dogs also shake when they feel chilly. Shivering is the body’s way of trying to warm up naturally. Old dogs and dogs with thin coats are especially likely to shake in cold weather.
- Anxiety or fear. Shaking and panting can be a way for your dog to communicate they’re anxious or stressed. This is especially true if it’s not hot and your dog isn’t exercising.
- Excitement. You’ve returned home, and your dog couldn’t be happier! When your dog has too much energy, shaking and panting can be a way for them to release it. You’ll see relaxed ears and a wagging tail.
- Destress. Dogs shake after playing or engaging with a new, unknown stimuli. They can shake stress off almost literally.
When To See A Vet
Unusual behaviours—especially if they’re happening more than usual or at a higher severity—are scary to see. So, should you be worried if your dog is shaking? It depends. “Not all cases of shaking are serious; some may be benign,” Dr Witter explains.
Determining when to talk to your vet might be tricky, particularly if your dog is shaking a lot but acting normally. However, Dr Witter reveals several signs that warrant a visit to a professional:
- sudden, persistent, or prolonged shaking
- other concerning symptoms, such as lethargy, vomiting, or behaviour changes
- pain or distress during shaking
- recurrent shaking that interferes with a dog’s normal activities
Overall, Birch assures pet parents that vets have the tools and expertise to help you get to the bottom of your dog’s shaking.
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How to Help Dog Shaking At Home
Treating your dog’s shaking depends on the cause. If the shaking is due to a medical concern, speak to your vet about medications that might help reduce this symptom. Always speak to a professional before giving your dog any drug or supplement.
If your dog’s cold, there are many ways to help them stay nice and warm. For example, dog jackets or boots are perfect if you’re heading out on a walk. When they’re back inside, make sure cosy heated dog beds and snuggly blankets are readily available.
Lastly, if your dog is trembling due to anxiety or stress, Birch says the best thing you can do is support your dog. Some ways you can do this include:
- giving your dog calming treats or their favourite food
- providing a hiding space
- trying calming pheromones or supplements
- training for separation anxiety or stress
Is My Dog Shaking or Having a Seizure?
If your dog is shaking violently or excessively, it could be a sign they’re having a seizure. So how can you tell? Dr Witter says the key is to look at what the shaking involves and additional symptoms.
“Seizures are characterised by uncontrolled, rhythmic movements, often involving the entire body,” she explains. “Dogs may exhibit altered consciousness, drooling, or loss of bladder/bowel control during a seizure.”
If you think your dog’s having a seizure, follow these five crucial steps:
- Stay calm, as this will avoid stressing the dog further
- Clear the area of any potential hazards that they could hurt themselves on while shaking
- Do not attempt to restrain the dog or put anything in their mouth
- Time the seizure. If it lasts longer than five minutes or occurs in clusters, go to the emergency vet
- Once the seizure subsides, move the dog into a quiet, darkened room to recover.
Dr Witter adds that speaking to your vet is essential after your dog’s seizure (or extreme shaking). Vets can provide an accurate diagnosis and tailored advice based on their behaviour.
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