My Dog Is Shaking: Common Causes and When to Worry

Shaking and trembling in dogs can range from entirely benign to a medical emergency. A dog shivering in cold weather or trembling with excitement is quite different from a dog shaking due to pain or a neurological problem. Knowing what to look for helps you act appropriately.

Is This an Emergency?

Go to a vet or emergency clinic immediately if your dog:

• Is having a full-body seizure: involuntary, rhythmic muscle contractions lasting more than two minutes, or multiple seizures within 24 hours
• Has collapsed and is shaking without regaining consciousness
• Is shaking alongside vomiting, diarrhoea, and suspected toxin ingestion
• Has pale or white gums alongside shaking

Call your vet the same day if:

• Shaking started suddenly and has not resolved after a few hours
• Shaking is accompanied by lethargy, loss of appetite, or vomiting
• Your dog appears painful or is reluctant to move
• An older dog has developed a new, persistent head tremor

Wait and monitor if:

• Your dog is shaking mildly after being cold, wet, or frightened, and settles quickly
• Shaking occurs during sleep as part of what appears to be dreaming

What Causes Shaking in Dogs?

Cold

The most straightforward cause. Small dogs, lean breeds, and dogs with short coats are particularly susceptible. Shivering from cold resolves once the dog is warmed up.

Anxiety and fear

Many dogs tremble during thunderstorms, fireworks, vet visits, or car journeys. Anxiety-related shaking is usually context-dependent and resolves when the stressor is removed.

Pain

Pain from any source, including dental pain, joint disease, or abdominal pain, can cause a dog to shiver or tremble. A dog shaking persistently without an obvious environmental cause should be examined for a source of pain.

Nausea

Dogs that feel nauseous often tremble, particularly in cars or after eating something that disagrees with them. This usually resolves alongside the nausea.

Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar)

Most common in puppies and toy breeds. Low blood sugar causes shaking, weakness, and disorientation. This is an emergency requiring prompt treatment.

Generalised tremor syndrome (shaker dog syndrome)

A neurological condition causing whole-body tremors, most commonly seen in small white-coated dogs such as the Maltese and West Highland White Terrier. Generally responds well to treatment.

Canine distemper

Viral distemper can cause neurological symptoms including tremors, particularly in unvaccinated dogs. This is a serious condition and another reason to keep vaccinations current.

Which Breeds Are More Prone to Shaking?

• Chihuahua, Maltese, Yorkshire Terrier: Small breeds with fast metabolisms are prone to shaking due to cold and hypoglycaemia
• West Highland White Terrier, Maltese: Higher incidence of generalised tremor syndrome
• English Springer Spaniel, Labrador Retriever: Genetic predisposition to certain neurological conditions that can cause tremors
• Miniature Schnauzer: Associated with a hereditary tremor condition

What Will the Vet Do?

Your vet will assess the character of the shaking, look for sources of pain, and check neurological reflexes. They may recommend:

• Blood tests including blood glucose, calcium levels, and organ function
• Neurological examination and possibly referral to a specialist
• Urine analysis
• X-rays or ultrasound if an internal cause is suspected

How to Help Your Dog at Home

• If your dog is shaking from cold, warm them gradually with a towel or blanket and bring them indoors
• If your dog appears anxious, remove them from the stressor and provide a calm, quiet space
• Do not restrain a dog that is having a seizure; protect them from injuring themselves on furniture but do not hold them down
• Time the duration of any seizure and contact your vet immediately after it ends