Why Is My Dog Shaking? 8 Common Causes Explained by PetMed of Key West
Seeing your dog shake or tremble can be worrying. Sometimes, shaking is completely normal, but in other cases, it can be a sign that something is wrong. At PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic in Dubuque, IA, we help dog owners determine whether their pet’s shaking is harmless or needs urgent veterinary care.
Here are some of the most common reasons dogs shake — and when to call your vet.
1. Pain or Discomfort
Dogs often shake when they’re in pain. Causes can range from arthritis and injury to internal illness. Shaking may be accompanied by limping, reluctance to move, whining, or changes in appetite.
When to see your vet: If shaking is new, persistent, or paired with other symptoms.
2. Fear or Anxiety
Thunderstorms, fireworks, vet visits, or new environments can trigger shaking in anxious dogs. In these cases, the shaking often stops once the stressful event passes.
Tip: Calming supplements, safe spaces, or prescribed anxiety medication may help.
3. Cold or Shivering
Like humans, dogs shiver when they’re cold. Small breeds, puppies, and older dogs are more sensitive to low temperatures.
Tip: Provide a warm coat for outdoor walks and keep them cozy indoors during cold weather.
4. Excitement
Some dogs shake when they’re extremely excited — such as during playtime or when you come home. This is usually harmless and stops once they calm down.
5. Generalized Tremor Syndrome (Idiopathic Shaking)
Also called “little white shaker syndrome,” this condition causes full-body tremors without an identifiable cause. It’s most common in small-breed dogs like Maltese, West Highland White Terriers, and Bichon Frises.
Treatment: Often responds well to veterinary-prescribed medications if needed but usually doesn’t require medications at all.
6. Nausea or Motion Sickness
Shaking can be a symptom of nausea from eating something unusual, illness, or motion sickness in the car. You might also notice drooling, lip licking, or vomiting.
7. Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
Small breed puppies, toy breeds, and diabetic dogs can develop dangerously low blood sugar, which may cause shaking, weakness, or collapse. This is a medical emergency.
8. Poisoning or Illness
Ingestion of toxic substances — such as xylitol, chocolate, certain medications, or plants — can cause muscle tremors or seizures.
Emergency signs: Vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, difficulty walking, or collapse.
When to Call Your Veterinarian
You should seek veterinary care immediately if:
- Shaking is sudden and unexplained
- Your dog also has vomiting, diarrhea, or trouble walking
- They’ve eaten something potentially toxic
- They seem weak, disoriented, or in pain
Bottom line: Shaking in dogs can have many causes — some harmless, others serious. When in doubt, it’s always safest to contact your veterinarian for guidance.
📍 PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic
2262 Flint Hill Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003
📞 563-583-8387
🌐 dbqpetmed.com