Have you ever asked yourself why your beloved dog is constantly shaking? While it may seem harmless, when the behavior becomes excessive, you need to address it. Some pups quiver due to emotions, such as extreme excitement or fear, but other times, dogs tremble when they’re in pain. Learn about the most common reasons your dog shakes, plus tips on alleviating the issue.

It’s Stressed or Excited

While our fur babies can’t express emotions in the same ways we do, that doesn’t mean they don’t experience these feelings. Shaking signifies a variety of emotions, ranging from fear and anxiety to overwhelming excitement.

So how does a dog parent know the difference between excited and stressed shakes? It comes down to canine body language. If your dog curls up in a tight ball, whimpers, puts its ears back, or tucks its tail between its legs while trembling, it’s likely scared or stressed. On the other hand, if your pooch gets the zoomies, its tail is wagging, and it shows all the other signs of joy, then the shaking most likely stems from excitement!

It’s Cold

Despite that natural coat, some canines still get cold quickly, even if they’re indoors. This is especially common in smaller breeds and those with shorter hair.

Additionally, trembling due to cold can be a symptom of hypothyroidism in dogs. Canines with this condition tend to feel cold faster. This is partially due to the out-of-balance hormones. Keep in mind that only a vet can diagnose this, as it often requires bloodwork and urinary tests.

It’s in Pain or Sick

Another common reason your dog may shake can occur if your pup is sick or in physical pain. Ingesting toxins such as chocolate, xylitol, or poisons can cause shaking alongside vomiting, excessive drool, and diarrhea. In serious cases, this can also cause seizures, which are not the same as shivering.

Before going to the emergency vet, ensure your dog isn’t cold or nervous. Evaluate the area around your dog to ensure it didn’t eat something it shouldn’t have. Also, watch for other signs that something’s wrong, such as vomiting. If your pooch doesn’t exhibit other indicators of pain or illness, comfort and monitor it. Contact your vet if the shaking worsens or other causes for concern arise.

It’s Elderly

As our dogs age, many things change. They often behave differently, may eat less, and some senior pups tremble. Age-related shaking can occur due to pain from arthritis. Rather than noticing its entire body shake, it may be specific to its front, back, or all four legs.

The best thing you can do is to give your dog the love and attention it deserves. Consider making at-home accommodations to lessen the pressure on its joints, like installing doggy ramps to get on the couch and providing daily doses of light exercise.

By understanding why your dog shakes, you can meet its needs and keep your furry friend happy and comfy.