Why is my dog shaking? This is one of the most searched questions on the web about our four-legged friends.
In this article, we are going to analyze the most common reasons behind this behavior. There are numerous causes, ranging from physical to emotional factors.
Things like fear, stress, your dog’s age, and even their breed can play a significant role in why they might be shaking. Let’s dive into the top 10 reasons you should be aware of.
1. Shaking off excess water
If your dog shakes after a bath or after being in the water, it is most likely because it wants to get the excess water off.
In this case, shaking is completely normal and good for the dog because it can help prevent hypothermia.
Shaking can remove up to 70% of the water from the fur, which is why you will find yourself soaking wet if you are in the splash zone.
2. Stress or fear
Dogs can also shake because of stress or fear. For example, it can happen at the vet or during fireworks.
Dog shaking may also be associated with signs such as whining, growling, panting, and they may pin their ears back and hide behind or under something.
Moreover, if your dogs seem anxious, it is a good idea to monitor possible triggers that make them feel this way. It can be other animals, an object, a sound, or something that scares them. Then, if possible, eliminate the triggers or consider getting help from a dog behaviorist.
3. Excitement
Another of the most common causes can be excitement. The dog may shake while playing with you, if you have just come home, or if they’re getting ready to go out for a walk.
Shaking from excitement helps them to reduce excess energy, and it’s often more frequent in young dogs who tend to have weaker self-control.
If your dogs do that, it’s usually a good idea to ignore them until they calm down.
4. Cold
Many people believe that dogs shiver exclusively from the cold.
It certainly can happen but it is not such a common thing. Generally, only small dogs or dogs that have a very short coat suffer from the cold.
If you live in a cold climate, it might be a good idea to cover it with a coat or a blanket, especially in winter.
5. Old age
Sometimes, the shaking is related to the dog’s old age.
It is not unusual for this to happen with advancing age, but sometimes excessive shaking could also be a sign of pain, particularly joint one.
In this case, take him to the vet as soon as possible, who will be able to suggest the best way to help him.
6. Muscle weakness
Similarly to the previous point, dogs may tremble because they have weak muscles.
It can happen especially to older dogs after a long walk or after running for a long time.
In most cases, rest will help solve the problem, but in more severe cases, your vet can refer you to appropriate treatments.
7. Chihuahua can shake more than other dogs
Chihuahuas are usually more prone to shivering and trembling.
There are many reasons for that but one of the main factors is their small size.
They usually weigh less than two pounds and are very small in stature, so they tend to feel the cold more than larger breeds.
In addition, Chihuahuas have a fast metabolism and are very energetic, so they burn energy faster and lose heat much more quickly. They are also a hyperactive breed, which is why they tend to easily shake more from excitement.
8. Illnesses
Unfortunately, the dogs can also shake because they’re sick.
In this case, symptoms are associated with vomiting, excessive salivation, lack of appetite, and drowsiness.
If you notice that something is wrong just take your dog to the vet for an examination.
9. Seeking attention
Dogs are often smarter than we think and, for some dogs, trembling is their way of seeking attention.
Some dogs may notice that when they do so you get close to them and cuddle them.
It is usually a harmless behavior, but please try not to encourage it. Instead, remember to cuddle and pet your dogs when they are not shaking.
10. Seizures
Finally, the most worrisome situation could be a seizure.
In this case, the dog may tremble, foam from the mouth, collapse, or even bite its tongue.
Seizures can be treated with the right medication, so be sure to seek medical advice as soon as possible.
