Even dogs dressed in adorable sweaters and caps can feel cold and shake. It’s not only cold weather that can cause our pets to shake.
What Causes Dogs to Shiver?
Dogs are known to shiver for innocent reasons. However, their shivering can also signal the need for help. What causes a dog to shake? What is the ideal moment to intervene? Here are the top causes of dog shaking and what you can do to help ease the problem.
1. Chilly
Why does your dog shake? Because it is cold. Chihuahuas shiver more than larger breeds due to their size.
Limiting their exposure time is ideal if your dog doesn’t enjoy frigid temperatures. A coat or a dog sweater will help ensure they are warm. A pet bed near an electrical heater and warm blankets will be the perfect solution for cold nights.
2. Anxiety, Stress, and Fear
Fear, stress, and anxiety are strong emotions that can create the sensation of shaking. While the shivering and tension aren’t strictly dangerous in this situation, they aren’t better for your dog than for you.
Be sure to reassure your pet and try to remove the stressor. If your dog shakes during storms, play with soft toys or mask the noise.
If you notice that something similar to this causes your dog’s body to shake, you can try shifting their attention. Dogs can also be extremely delicate, and they are very adept at imitating your mood during situations of anxiety or stress.
If you’re relaxed and clear of stressful situations within your home, your pet will observe and recognize that there is no reason to worry.
3. Excitement
If a dog is content or enthusiastic, it may be shaking. It’s unclear what causes it, but one theory indicates extreme emotion. The shivering isn’t dangerous, but it is likely to stop when your dog calms to its normal levels.
In general, it is acceptable to avoid this type of shaking. Dogs can be excited and hyperactive if they fail to manage their behavior. You can reward your dog for a straightforward attitude and ensure it is in control when it’s a bit out.
If you are a new pet owner who cannot commit to having more pets, it is best to seek a reputable professional that will spay your pet. You can check here for more info about this kind of procedure.
4. Attaining Attention
If you’re quick to calm your pet when it begins to shake, your pet may find that shivering could be a successful method of getting your interest. Certain dogs might even shake when they ask for food to get your attention.
According to Millan, this behavior isn’t necessarily harmful, but the idea of encouraging it isn’t the best choice. If your dog doesn’t experience any other reason to shiver and you’re not worried about it, then abstaining from the obvious tug at your chest is probably the most effective choice.
5. Illness or Pain
Shivering could indicate that your pet is in discomfort or suffering from a condition. Shivering and muscle tremors can signify serious illnesses such as hypoglycemia, distemper, and Addison’s Disease. They could also be signs of brain inflammation and smaller disorders such as digestion.
A constant shivering pattern may indicate generalized tremor, sometimes called shaker syndrome. It’s a chronic illness that your doctor can treat with medications.
Check for any indications of illness or injury. Visit a veterinarian San Diego immediately if your dog is shaking and displays behaviors that are not normal.
6. Old Age
The common occurrence of tremors in dogs is as they age due to weakening muscles in the legs. However, shivering could be an indication of arthritis or joint pain.
If you notice your dog shaking, you should immediately take your pet to an orthopedic veterinarian San Diego.
Seizures vs. Shaking
Normal shaking and shivering don’t have the same characteristics as seizures that cause muscles to become seized, and the dog’s mobility decreases and awareness of its surrounding. Your dog should be sent to an emergency veterinarian immediately if you think they are having seizures.
Finally
Shivering is a usual source of stress for dogs and is not a serious issue. However, we advised you to speak to your vet if you’re unsure, “Why is my dog shaking?” They can help you comprehend why your dog is shivering and determine the cause of the problem. Even if there’s nothing to be concerned about, seeking advice from a vet will give you peace of mind.
