Why Does My Dog Shake?

Trembling can be a telltale sign your dog is feeling particularly cold or fearful, but it can also be an indicator that they are sick or in pain. Understanding some of the common behavioral, medical, and genetic reasons for shaking in dogs can help you better evaluate if there is a cause for concern and whether an emergency trip to the vet or a behavior consult is required.

Feeling Cold

Puppies, elderly, small, sick or underweight dogs, and those bred to live in hot regions are more sensitive to cold weather. So, a spitz-type breed, like a Siberian Husky, with its thick double coat, is much less likely to shiver when the temperatures drop when compared to a svelte, single-coated Greyhound.

You aren’t pandering to your pup if you invest in a practical coat, an extra blanket or two, and a cozier, draught-free spot in your home. Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia in dogs.  If you have to do shorter walks to limit their exposure, you can keep them mentally and physically stimulated with some puzzle games and other in-house enrichment.

Fear or Anxiety

Shaking can be a physiological response to fear, stress or anxiety. Some dogs are naturally more fearful than others, or particular stimuli can trigger an individual’s anxieties. Typically, other indicators that your dog is not feeling relaxed accompany the shivering. Excessive panting, pacing, whining, cowering, or drooling are common. Some dogs will try to hide, and others may display signs of aggression or…

Why Does My Dog Shake?. Retrieved July 14, 2021 from https://embarkvet.com/resources/blog/why-does-my-dog-shake/