Have an Emergency?It can feel unsettling to see your dog trembling, especially when you’re not sure what’s causing it. Some dogs shiver in response to excitement or a sudden change in temperature. Others shake due to stress, discomfort, or a medical issue. The question, “Why is my dog shaking?” often leads to more questions than answers. Understanding the potential reasons behind the behavior can help you decide whether it’s time for a vet visit—or if your dog is simply reacting to something temporary. If you’re in the Dallas area and concerned about your dog’s shaking, Rutherford Veterinary Hospital is here to support your pet’s needs.
Normal Reasons Dogs Might Shake
Not every case of shaking signals an emergency. Some dogs simply have quirky habits or reactive personalities that cause them to tremble more frequently than others.
- Specific to Breed: Certain breeds, such as Chihuahuas and Miniature Pinschers, tend to shake due to their small size and fast metabolism. However, shaking isn’t limited to small dogs—any dog can exhibit this behavior.
- Reactive Personality: Shaking caused by excitement, anticipation, or mild anxiety is fairly common. For example, if your dog shivers when you grab the leash or pull out a favorite toy, it could be due to excitement. Some dogs also shake when they’re unsure of new environments, such as visiting a new park or meeting unfamiliar dogs. These moments typically pass quickly and don’t require intervention.
- Reaction to Temperature: Changes in temperature can also trigger shivering. Dogs with thin coats or low body fat may shake during cooler months, even indoors. If your dog stops shaking after being warmed up or calmed down, it’s usually not something to worry about. Still, it’s helpful to keep a close eye on how often the shaking occurs and under what conditions.
When Shaking Might Be Related to Anxiety or Stress
If your dog shakes frequently in certain settings, emotional stress may be the underlying cause. Dogs often show physical signs of anxiety, and trembling is one of the most visible symptoms.
Environmental Triggers
Thunderstorms, fireworks, loud noises, and unfamiliar surroundings can all lead to visible shivering. Dogs might also shake during vet visits or car rides due to anticipation or fear.
Separation Anxiety or Trauma
Dogs with a history of neglect or abandonment may shake when left alone or introduced to new people. Shaking accompanied by hiding, panting, or avoidance may indicate a deeper behavioral concern.
If your dog’s behavior is interfering with everyday life, it’s a good idea to reach out to your veterinarian for support. Rutherford Veterinary Hospital can help assess whether your dog’s shaking may be rooted in emotional or behavioral issues.
Health Conditions That May Cause Shaking
Sometimes, the question “Why is my dog shaking?” leads to a more serious discovery. Shaking may signal a medical problem that requires professional evaluation. While trembling alone doesn’t confirm a diagnosis, it’s one sign your vet will consider when evaluating your dog’s health.
Pain or Discomfort
Shaking may occur in dogs dealing with pain, injury, or inflammation. For example, joint pain, internal discomfort, or a sore back may cause your dog to tremble while standing or lying down.
Digestive Problems
Gastrointestinal issues, such as vomiting or diarrhea, may also be accompanied by shaking. If your dog refuses to eat, shows signs of discomfort, or suddenly becomes lethargic, don’t wait to reach out for help.
Neurological Issues
Dogs experiencing seizures or tremor syndromes may shake uncontrollably. These conditions are less common but require prompt veterinary attention. Your vet may perform diagnostic tests to determine the cause and offer a treatment plan tailored to your dog’s condition.
Toxic Ingestion: A Medical Emergency
One of the more urgent reasons dogs may begin shaking involves toxic exposure. If your dog ingests a harmful substance, shaking is often one of the first signs that something is wrong. Some common toxins include chocolate, xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and some peanut butters), grapes, raisins, and certain types of human medications.
What to Watch for in a Toxic Reaction
In addition to shaking, you might notice symptoms like drooling, vomiting, rapid heart rate, or seizures. These signs can progress quickly, and time is critical in these situations. If you suspect your dog has consumed something toxic, contact Rutherford Veterinary Hospital immediately at (214) 826-4166. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your dog’s outcome.
Cold or Fever: Physical Triggers Behind the Shakes
Dogs can shiver when their body temperature is outside the normal range.
Cooler Temperature
Just like people, dogs get cold—especially if they’re outside in low temperatures without proper protection. Shaking from cold tends to resolve once the dog is warmed up and brought indoors.
Fever or Infection
However, a dog may also shake due to a fever. A rise in body temperature may result from an infection, inflammation, or other illness. Shaking caused by fever might be accompanied by fatigue, loss of appetite, or changes in behavior. While a physical thermometer reading is the most accurate way to confirm a fever, any combination of symptoms warrants a call to your vet.
If you notice shaking that doesn’t go away after a warm-up or rest period, or if your dog appears unusually tired or sick, it’s time to reach out for help. The veterinary team at Rutherford Veterinary Hospital can assess whether a fever or underlying illness might be the cause.
Pain-Related Shaking: A Subtle Yet Important Signal
Dogs don’t always express pain in obvious ways. Instead of whining or limping, your dog might simply tremble or seem hesitant to move. Pain-related shaking is often seen in older dogs dealing with joint issues or arthritis, but it can happen at any age.
Other Signs That May Point to Pain
Keep an eye out for behavioral changes like reluctance to go upstairs, stiffness after resting, or licking at a specific spot on the body. These subtle shifts, when combined with shaking, may indicate discomfort that needs medical attention. Dogs in pain benefit from veterinary support—not only to identify the source but also to improve their quality of life. If you’re unsure whether your dog is shaking from pain or another issue, scheduling an appointment with your vet is a smart next step.
Is It a Breed Trait or Something More?
Some breeds shake more than others. Small dogs, especially toy breeds, are known for their frequent trembling. In many cases, the shaking is harmless and simply part of their genetic makeup. However, breed-related tendencies should never prevent you from taking note of sudden changes.
If your dog has never shaken before but suddenly begins to tremble regularly, it’s worth investigating. Even in breeds that typically shake, a shift in pattern or intensity might point to a new issue. It’s always better to ask questions than to assume it’s normal. A quick call to Rutherford Veterinary Hospital can help clarify what’s going on and whether a visit is recommended.
When to Contact Rutherford Veterinary Hospital
If your dog’s shaking doesn’t stop, worsens, or appears alongside other symptoms—such as vomiting, disorientation, limping, or behavioral changes—it’s time to contact your vet. Trembling that interferes with daily life or causes distress isn’t something to ignore. Rutherford Veterinary Hospital provides thorough evaluations and gentle care to determine the reason behind your dog’s shaking. From diagnostic testing to advanced care, our team supports you every step of the way. Call (214) 826-4166 to schedule an appointment.