Dogs are wonderful companions, always happy to see their owners and eager to please. However, sometimes they become a concern as they can exhibit various strange behaviors that worry owners, such as shaking or trembles.

While shaking can be a sign of illness or nervousness, it could also be a natural reaction based on the circumstances.

What Is Shaking?

Shaking is the back-and-forth motion of a dog’s body and head, sometimes accompanied by trembling or muscle spasms. A dog can shake his head or his entire body, and it can last a few seconds or several minutes.

The intensity of the shake may be mild or severe, depending on the cause.

Normal Causes of Shaking

Some situations may trigger a dog’s natural shaking response, which is not worrisome and usually harmless.

Excitement

Dogs often shake when they get excited or playful, and it is usually their way of showing happiness. For example, if your dog starts shaking its tail when you come home, it’s likely just happy to see you.

Cooling down

Dogs that are too hot may shake as a way to cool down. A quick shake allows air to circulate over their damp tongue and nose, increasing evaporation and providing a cooling sensation.

Changes in body position

When your dog stands up after lying down for a long time, it may shake to help stretch and loosen its muscles.

Stretching

If you see your dog shake its body after waking up or after a long nap, it is most likely just stretching its muscles.

Abnormal Causes of Shaking

Although shaking can be normal, it can also be an indication that something is not right with your pet.

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Anxiety and Stress

Dogs experiencing stress or anxiety may exhibit shaking as a common symptom. If you notice your dog shaking while you’re traveling, or when it hears a loud noise, it could be because of anxiety.

Illness

Dogs that are sick may shake as a symptom of the disease. If you notice shaking accompanied by lethargy, coughing, vomiting, or diarrhea, it’s time to visit a veterinarian.

Reaction to Medications

Your dog may shake if it has allergies or reacts negatively to a medication prescribed by your veterinarian. Be on the lookout for other symptoms like vomiting, loss of appetite, and behavioral changes.

When to Worry About Shaking in Dogs

You should worry if you notice any of these additional symptoms in addition to shaking:.

Aggressive Behavior

If your usually calm dog becomes aggressive after shaking, consult with your veterinarian as that could be a sign of an abnormality in your dog’s brainwaves.

Difficulty Standing and Walking

Shaking paired with stumbling, weakness, or difficulty standing up and lying down may be symptoms of serious damage to your dog’s spinal cord.

Fever

If your dog shakes and has a fever, take them to the vet right away, as it may be a sign of infections that require urgent treatment.

Seizures

Seizures are dangerous and can affect your dog’s overall health and wellbeing, sometimes even leading to death. If your dog shows any signs of seizures, take it to the vet immediately.

Conclusion

Shaking is a normal way for dogs to show excitement or to cool down. However, if your dog is shaking for no apparent reason or if it shakes continuously, there could be a problem.

If your dog exhibits any of the abnormal symptoms mentioned above, it is essential to take it to the vet as soon as possible.