Why Is My Dog Shaking? Causes, When to Worry & What to Do

If your dog has suddenly started shaking or trembling, it’s natural to feel concerned. In many cases, shaking is harmless. Your dog may simply be cold, excited, or nervous. But sometimes, shaking can be a sign of pain, illness, or something more serious.

Here are some reasons why dogs may shake. Understanding the cause could help you decide whether your dog just needs comfort or veterinary attention.

Why do dogs shake?

Shaking is a common behaviour in dogs and can happen for both physical and emotional reasons. Some dogs naturally tremble more than others, especially smaller breeds and short-haired dogs.

Occasional shaking that quickly stops is usually nothing to worry about. However, persistent or sudden trembling, especially alongside other symptoms, may need further attention.

Common reasons dogs shake

1. They’re cold

One of the most common reasons dogs shake is because they’re cold. Shivering helps generate heat and regulate body temperature.

Small dogs, puppies, older dogs, and hairless breeds are especially sensitive to colder temperatures.

Signs your dog may be cold include:

• Curling up tightly
• Seeking warm places
• Shivering after being outside or wet

If your dog is cold, dry them off, move them somewhere warm, and provide blankets or a cosy bed.

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2. Excitement, anxiety, or stress

Some dogs shake when they’re excited, especially before walks, mealtimes, or greeting people they love. This type of trembling is usually short-lived and harmless.

Dogs may also shake when anxious or frightened. Common triggers include:

• Fireworks
• Thunderstorms
• Vet visits
• Car journeys
• Loud noises

An anxious dog may also pant, hide, pace, or tuck their tail between their legs.

3. Pain or discomfort

Shaking can sometimes be a sign that your dog is in pain. Older dogs in particular can be prone to shaking caused by joint pain or weakness, which is one of the most commonly diagnosed conditions in senior dogs. Dogs often hide discomfort well, so trembling can be one of the first noticeable symptoms if they are in pain.

Pain-related shaking can happen with:

• Arthritis
• Injuries
• Dental pain
• Back or neck problems
• Tummy pain

Research shows that around 200,000 dogs in the UK are diagnosed with osteoarthritis each year, with the risk rising notably from around the age of 10-11.

If you notice your dog’s shaking is accompanied by limping, crying out, reduced activity levels or reluctance to move or go on walks, we recommend talking to your vet as soon as you can.

Nausea or stomach upset

Dogs sometimes tremble when they feel sick. Nausea may be caused by motion sickness, digestive upset, infections, or eating something unusual.

Other signs of nausea include:

• Excessive drooling
• Lip licking
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite

Mild stomach upset can sometimes pass on its own, but we suggest contacting your vet if they have persistent vomiting or lethargy, as this could signal something more serious.

Ear infections

If your dog is mainly shaking their head rather than their whole body, an ear problem could be the cause. Dogs with floppy ears are often more prone to infections because moisture can become trapped more easily. Particularly during spring and summer, dogs can also be at risk of foreign bodies, such as grass seeds in their ears. 

Ear infections or foreign bodies are common and can be painful or irritating. Signs include:

• Head shaking
• Scratching at the ears
• Redness or discharge
• A bad smell from the ears
• Being off colour
• Yelping when ears touched

If you see your dog shaking their head repetitively, or if they look uncomfortable, please do get in touch. As it could indicate there is a foreign body, or an infection, which would require an examination.

Poisoning or toxins

Sudden severe shaking or tremors can sometimes be caused by poisoning. Dogs can accidentally ingest toxic substances such as chocolate, grapes and raisins, xylitol, cleaning products, or certain plants.

Symptoms of poisoning may include:

• Tremors
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Drooling
• Seizures

If you think your dog has eaten something toxic, contact a vet or the Animal Poisons Line immediately.

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Why do older dogs shake?

Shaking is fairly common in older dogs and may be linked to arthritis, muscle weakness, pain, or other age-related health conditions. Senior dogs may also struggle more with staying warm.

If your older dog has started shaking more frequently than usual, we advise arranging a veterinary check-up to rule out any underlying problems.

When should I worry about my dog shaking?

Occasional mild trembling isn’t always serious, but we recommend speaking to a vet if your dog’s shaking:

• Starts suddenly
• Continues for a long time
• Happens repeatedly
• Seems severe or uncontrollable
• Happens with vomiting or diarrhoea
• Is linked to weakness or collapse
• Occurs after possible toxin exposure

You know your dog best. If they seem unwell or they’re not acting like themselves, it’s always a good idea to seek professional advice.

What should I do if my dog is shaking?

Start by checking for obvious causes such as if they’re cold, excited, or stressed. Keep your dog warm, comfortable, and calm while monitoring them closely. Give them fresh water and encourage them to rest in their usual sleeping spots, and reduce loud noises if you can. Do not give your dog human medication unless advised by a vet.

If you are not sure whether the shaking is normal, please contact your vet for advice.

Final thoughts

Dogs shake for many different reasons, and not all of them are serious. In many cases, trembling is linked to cold weather, excitement, or temporary anxiety.

However, persistent or unusual shaking can sometimes indicate pain, illness, or poisoning. Paying attention to your dog’s behaviour and seeking veterinary advice if you are unsure.

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FAQs

Why is my dog shaking but acting normal?

If your dog seems happy and well in themselves, shaking is often nothing to worry about. Occasional trembling that quickly stops usually has a harmless cause, such as:

• Feeling cold: shivering helps regulate body temperature
• Excitement before walks, meals, or seeing someone they love
• Mild anxiety in unfamiliar situations

This kind of shaking tends to be short-lived and settles on its own.

Can anxiety or stress make dogs shake?

Anxiety and stress are common reasons dogs tremble. This type of shaking is usually short-lived and eases once the trigger passes. Typical triggers include:

• Fireworks or thunderstorms
• Vet visits
• Car journeys
• Loud or unfamiliar noises
• New environments or unfamiliar people

You may also notice panting, pacing, hiding, or a tucked tail alongside the trembling.

Should I worry if my dog suddenly starts shaking?

Occasional mild trembling isn't usually serious, but new or unusual shaking is worth a closer look. Please speak to a vet if your dog's shaking:

• Continues for a long time or keeps returning
• Happens without an obvious trigger
• Is paired with low energy, a reduced appetite, or a change in behaviour
• Just doesn't feel right for your dog

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When Is a Dog Shaking a Medical Emergency?

Some signs always need urgent attention. Contact a vet straight away if your dog's shaking is paired with:

• Severe or uncontrollable tremors
• Weakness, collapse, or trouble standing
• Vomiting, diarrhoea, or seizures
• Difficulty breathing
• Possible exposure to a toxin (chocolate, raisins, xylitol, plants, cleaning products)

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