If a dog suddenly starts trembling, it can be alarming for many dog owners. Uncontrolled shaking in dogs is not always a case for the vet.

In some situations, it may not be unusual for the dog to tremble. If it’s cold outside, he might be shivering, or if something exciting is happening, he’s probably just excited. However, if he trembles even at rest and without an apparent reason, it can be worrisome for the dog owner.

The trembling in dogs, also known as “tremor” in veterinary medicine, can be caused by emotions, physical reactions, or the dog’s health conditions. The dog guide advises all dog owners to stay calm and observe their dog first; otherwise, the dog may get even more agitated by their panic.

Most of the time, the dog’s trembling can be explained by the current situation, and appropriate measures can be taken.

When a dog trembles, it’s important to differentiate between harmless causes and cases where a veterinary examination of the animal is necessary.

Why is my dog trembling?

When a dog trembles, it can have various causes. The trembling does not always indicate an illness, pain, or other physical discomfort; it can also be an emotional reaction of the dog.

Psychological causes of trembling in dogs:

Physical causes of trembling in dogs:

How can I determine why my dog is trembling?

When a dog suddenly trembles, it’s important to consider the situation. The age and breed of the dog can also provide clues to the reason for the trembling.

When owners come home and greet the dog, he may tremble with joy, wag his tail, and jump on them. However, during emotional reactions such as joy and excitement, owners should generally remain calm and not adopt the animal’s mood, as the energy transfers to the dog.

If both the dog and the owner are euphoric, they intensify each other’s feelings, and the trembling increases. The dog also learns that trembling elicits a positive response from the owner and may do it again when needed.

Twitches and other movements during sleep are harmless. Dogs tremble in their sleep because they dream.

Muscle trembling after exercise or other activities is also not unusual in dogs. Breeds like Yorkshire Terriers, for example, compensate for tension through strong trembling. The animal then needs a break to recover from the exertion and regain strength.

During training, owners should always consider what the dog can really handle and not overexert him.

If an old dog trembles, it’s usually due to physical exertion, or it could be an indication of the onset of arthritis. The dog may already be affected by damage to the joint cartilage. A medical examination can be helpful in providing some relief to the animal.

Dog owners should check if the dog is too cold or overheated when he suddenly trembles during a walk or in the house. Small breeds like Chihuahuas, hairless dogs, and animals without an undercoat can easily get cold.

Also, note that temperatures that are comfortable for humans may be too cold or too warm for dogs.

If the dog pants and trembles during car rides, it’s likely because the dog doesn’t enjoy car rides and is afraid.

The “White Dog Shaker Syndrome,” affecting breeds with white fur such as West Highland White Terriers, Poodles, and Maltese, is not yet medically explained. Symptoms of this disease in dogs include trembling all over the body, rapid eye movements, and loss of orientation. This disease may need to be treated with medication throughout the dog’s life.

A sign of concerning trembling is when the dog trembles even at rest, and this occurs frequently or persistently. It could be a sign of poisoning or illness. In such cases, trembling will also be accompanied by other symptoms in the dog.

Other symptoms in dogs indicating poisoning and some diseases:

If there is suspicion of poisoning, dog owners should consult a vet as soon as possible.

Viral diseases like distemper and neurological diseases like epilepsy can also cause trembling in dogs. If owners cannot explain the dog’s trembling, they should have the animal examined by a vet.