What to Do When Your Dog Is Shaking: Causes and Solutions

1. Understanding the Causes of Dog Shaking

It can be alarming when you notice your dog shaking, as it might be an indication of discomfort, fear, or an underlying medical condition. Understanding why your dog is shaking is crucial to providing the proper care and ensuring their well-being. While shaking can sometimes be a simple reaction to cold or excitement, it can also signal something more serious. In this article, we’ll explore the various causes of shaking in dogs and what you can do when your dog is shaking.

2. Common Reasons Why Dogs Shake

Shaking in dogs can happen for several reasons. Here are some of the most common causes:

2.1 Anxiety and Fear

Dogs can shake when they’re anxious or scared. Whether it’s from loud noises like thunderstorms, fireworks, or a trip to the vet, anxiety-induced shaking is common in dogs. Your dog may also shake when they’re in unfamiliar environments or around unfamiliar people or animals.

2.2 Cold Weather

Shaking can be a natural response to feeling cold. Smaller dogs, in particular, may feel the chill more than larger dogs, and their bodies may shake to generate heat. This is a normal physiological response to cold temperatures.

2.3 Medical Conditions

Shaking can also be a sign of various medical conditions, such as seizures, poisoning, or neurological issues. Conditions like Lyme disease, distemper, or hypothyroidism can also cause trembling in dogs. If the shaking seems persistent and is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to consult a veterinarian.

2.4 Excitement or Overstimulation

Sometimes dogs shake when they are overly excited or stimulated. Whether they are about to go on a walk, meet a new dog, or anticipate a fun event, the shaking may be a sign of an adrenaline rush. This is a normal response to positive stimulation.

3. When to Panic: Knowing When to Seek Help

While some shaking is harmless, there are certain situations in which you should seek veterinary help. If your dog’s shaking is accompanied by:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth
• Severe lethargy or difficulty walking
• Sudden or continuous shaking without a clear cause

These could be signs of a more serious condition that requires immediate veterinary attention. In such cases, it’s important to seek help right away to avoid any serious health issues.

4. How to Comfort Your Shaking Dog

If your dog is shaking due to anxiety, fear, or excitement, there are several things you can do to comfort them:

4.1 Provide a Safe and Quiet Space

Make sure your dog has a calm, safe space where they can relax. This might be their crate, a quiet room, or a cozy corner of the house. Keeping them away from stressful stimuli can help them calm down.

4.2 Use Calming Products

There are several products available that can help soothe your dog, such as calming sprays, aromatherapy diffusers, and anxiety wraps. These can provide comfort and help reduce stress in anxious dogs.

4.3 Gentle Reassurance

Comfort your dog with gentle petting, a soft voice, and reassurance. Sometimes, simply being there to calm them can make a big difference.

5. When to Consult a Veterinarian

If your dog’s shaking persists or is associated with other symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, or difficulty breathing, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian. A professional can help determine whether the cause is a medical issue, such as an illness, injury, or poisoning, and provide the appropriate treatment.

6. Products to Help Comfort Your Dog

If your dog is experiencing anxiety or stress-induced shaking, several products can help calm them down and reduce their trembling:

6.1 Anxiety Wraps

Anxiety wraps like the Thundershirt are designed to apply gentle pressure to your dog’s torso, which can have a calming effect. Many dogs find these wraps comforting during stressful situations.

6.2 Calming Treats

There are calming treats available that contain ingredients like CBD, melatonin, or valerian root. These treats can help soothe your dog and reduce shaking caused by stress or anxiety.

6.3 Essential Oils for Dogs

Some essential oils, like lavender and chamomile, are known for their calming properties. You can use a dog-safe diffuser to create a calming atmosphere for your pet.

For more information on these products, visit Hidden Brook Veterinary for recommendations and tips on calming your pet during stressful times.