Common Causes of Dog Shaking: What You Need to Know

Section 1: Reasons for a Dog's Shaking

1. The Dog is Cold

Dogs tend to shiver when they feel the chill, as this physical response helps to stimulate muscle movement and generate heat to maintain their body temperature. For most dogs, the ideal temperature is around 20°C, though this can vary depending on the breed and individual. For instance, dogs born in cold regions, with thick fur and large ears, are more resistant to the cold, whereas those from warmer climates, with thinner fur and larger ears, are more prone to feeling the cold.

What can owners do to help their dogs avoid shivering due to the cold? It's important for owners to be aware of the indoor temperature, as dogs, being shorter than humans, have more contact with the ground and are more susceptible to cold. Therefore, owners should pay close attention to drafts in the home and close windows when necessary. Maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature is crucial. When taking your dog outside, dress them appropriately for the weather, ensuring they are protected from the cold, especially around their abdomen, which is more sensitive to the cold, particularly for shorthaired breeds. However, it's also important not to keep your dog in clothes for too long, as it can lead to dermatitis. Owners must be particularly vigilant about this.

Being cold is not a trivial matter for dogs. If they remain in a cold state for an extended period, their immune system can weaken, making them more susceptible to respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and rhinitis. If a dog cannot escape from the cold, their body temperature will drop, blood circulation will worsen, and their immune system will further decline, increasing the risk of respiratory diseases. Additionally, a decrease in the body's metabolic function can lead to serious consequences like diarrhea and cystitis.

2. Fear and Anxiety

Just like humans, dogs can experience fear and anxiety, which can cause them to tremble. For example, when a dog is brought to a vet's examination table, they may tremble, a reaction to the unfamiliar person, environment, and the upcoming procedure. In such situations, dogs need their owner's reassurance. Owners can comfort their pets by touching them and saying, "It's okay, don't be afraid," to help calm them down. It's crucial for owners not to show signs of anxiety themselves, as dogs are sensitive to their owners' emotions and can be influenced by them. Sometimes, owners must act as a role model for their dogs, offering encouragement and support during moments of fear and anxiety.

3. Aging

Older dogs may experience senile tremors, even if there are no abnormalities in their bones or nerves. Their hind legs may shake excessively due to insufficient control by the autonomic nervous system, much like how humans may shake their hands as they age. Elderly dogs may find it difficult to stand up from sitting or lying positions, and their daily movements can become less coordinated. While this condition cannot be cured, owners can make adjustments to the ground, such as using nonslip surfaces, to make it easier for them to get up.

Even in older dogs without tremors, muscle strength can significantly decrease with age. Owners should still be cautious about the wetness of the areas where their dogs sleep and rest to prevent injuries. In addition to the natural tremors caused by aging, dogs may also experience hormone imbalances, such as reduced thyroid function and adrenal cortex function. If other symptoms arise, it's best for owners to take their pets to the vet as soon as possible!

4. Certain Diseases

Shaking can be a symptom of various diseases, with more severe cases involving seizures. Dogs may shake due to temporary loss of control over signals from the brain, which can also lead to symptoms like drooling, incontinence, and even fainting.

The diseases that can cause shaking in dogs can generally be categorized into two types: brain diseases and nonbrain diseases. Brain diseases include epilepsy and tumors. Canine idiopathic epilepsy is the most common cause of seizures in dogs, typically occurring between six months and three years of age. This condition has no clear cause and cannot be cured completely. Dogs with frequent seizures may require antiepileptic medication, such as phenytoin.

Besides brain diseases, other conditions that can cause uncontrolled shaking in dogs include poisoning, hypoglycemia, liver disease, and uremia. Dogs with these diseases may experience additional symptoms, such as vomiting in cases of poisoning and increased urine and water intake in uremia patients.

Tip from Oxygen Pet Doctor: The symptom of shaking in dogs is quite noticeable and usually easy to detect. If you notice your furry friend shaking, it's a good idea to investigate the possible causes mentioned above. If you're unsure, it's best to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible!