Even dogs dressed in cute sweaters and caps can experience the chills and shakes. The cold weather is not just one thing that causes our furry companions to shake.
What Causes Dogs to Shiver?
Dogs often shiver due to harmless reasons. However, their shivering could also be an appeal for help. Here are the common reasons dogs shake and how you could assist.
1. Chilly
The most simple answer to “Why does my dog shake?” is that your dog is cold. It is an involuntary reaction to avoid hypothermia. Because of its lack of mass and its small size, Chihuahuas experience more shivering than larger breeds.
If your dog isn’t a fan of cold weather, you need to restrict the amount of exposure. A coat or dog sweater can help keep it warm. A dog bed next to an electric heater and warm blankets will be ideal for a cold night.
2. Anxiety, Stress, and Fear
Anxiety and anxiety are also strong emotions that can trigger the sensation of shivering. Although shivering isn’t necessarily detrimental in this situation, stress isn’t more beneficial for your pet than for you.
Reassure your pet and, if possible, eliminate the trigger. If your dog is shaking during thunderstorms, play with toys or mask the noises.
If you notice, the same thing causes dogs to shake, diverting their focus. Dogs can also be very sensitive, and they are very adept at mimicking your emotions of you in times of stress or anxiety.
If you remain at peace and avoid a stressful situation in your home, your dog will observe and discover that there’s no reason to be worried.
3. Excitement
If a dog is happy or happy, it could be shivering. There is no reason for this; however, a theory suggests it’s a visible sign of extreme emotion. Shivering like this isn’t hazardous; it will likely end once the person is calm.
Most of the time, you can avoid this kind of shaking. The dog could become exuberant and overly active if you do not manage the behavior. Encourage your dog to maintain a calm demeanor and keep it in check when acting out.
Most people want their pets to be spayed and neutered to avoid having unwanted puppies or kittens. If you are a new pet owner and cannot commit to having more pets, it is best to look for San Diego affordable spay and neuter clinic for this kind of procedure.
4. Attaining Attention
If you try to comfort your pet whenever it shivers, the dog might discover that shivering can be an effective method of gaining your attention. Certain dogs even shake when begging for food to win your attention.
According to Millan, the behavior is not always harmful. Enforcing it isn’t a good option. If your dog is shaking for no reason and you don’t have to worry about this. Ignoring the obvious pull on your heart is the best option.
5. Illness or Pain
It’s also a sign that your dog is in pain or has a sickness. Itching and muscle tremors are indications of serious ailments like distemper, hypoglycemia or Addison’s Disease, inflammation of the brain, and more minor disorders like digestion issues.
Shivering that is constant could indicate generalized tremor disorder, sometimes referred to as shaker syndrome, a stable condition that your vet can treat by administering medications.
Watch out for any other indications of injury or illness. Go to the vet San Diego if your dog is shivering and exhibits behavior that is not typical.
6. Old Age
Tremors are common in dogs as they get old because of weakening leg muscles. However, shivering can be a sign of joint pain or arthritis. If you notice your old dog shaking, you have to take your pet to the vet or you can check several websites like collegeanimalhospital.com to consult a professional if your pet needs surgery.
Seizures vs. Shaking
Normal shaking and shivering aren’t identical to a seizure that causes the muscles to tense, and the dog loses mobility and awareness of the surroundings. When you realize that your dog may be suffering from an attack of seizures and not being treated for it, take it to an emergency vet immediately.
In Conclusion
Shivering is a common cause of stress for dogs that are not very serious, but it is advisable to seek out a veterinarian when you are unsure, “Why is my dog shaking?” They can help you understand why your dog shivers and determine if anything serious happens. Even if there’s no reason to worry, getting an opinion from a veterinarian will provide you with peace of mind.
