It’s a common assumption to dismiss your dog’s shaking, especially in older age, as simply a part of growing old. However, tremors in dogs can indicate a range of underlying health issues, some of which require immediate veterinary attention. While age can contribute to weakness and instability, shaking is not always just a sign of getting older and could be a symptom of pain, illness, or other conditions. If you notice your dog trembling, it’s crucial to understand the potential causes and consult with your veterinarian to ensure their well-being.
One of the primary reasons behind shaking in dogs can be pain. Here are some common causes why your dog might be experiencing tremors:
Arthritis and Joint Pain
Arthritis is a frequent culprit, particularly in senior dogs, causing pain and inflammation in the joints that can manifest as trembling. The discomfort associated with arthritis can lead to muscle weakness and shaking, especially in the legs. Fortunately, veterinary medicine offers various treatments to manage arthritis pain and inflammation. These can include joint supplements, pain medications, and therapies like physical therapy or acupuncture to improve your dog’s comfort and mobility.
Toxin Exposure and Poisoning
Another serious cause of shaking in dogs is poisoning. Numerous substances, harmless to humans, can be toxic to our canine companions and induce tremors or shaking. Common household items that pose a threat to dogs include chocolate, which contains theobromine, and cigarettes, due to nicotine poisoning. Xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in many sugar-free gums and candies, is also highly toxic to dogs. Furthermore, snail baits containing metaldehyde can lead to severe muscle tremors and even convulsions.
Symptoms of poisoning in dogs are varied and can include not only tremors but also weakness, disorientation, depression, excessive drooling, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures. If you suspect your dog has ingested any potentially poisonous substance, immediate action is vital. Contact your veterinarian immediately or call the Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 for guidance.
Seizure Disorders Like Epilepsy
Epilepsy, a neurological disorder, is another condition that can cause shaking in dogs. Seizures associated with epilepsy can present with a range of symptoms, including collapsing, jerking movements, muscle stiffness, twitching, loss of consciousness, drooling, chomping or tongue chewing, and foaming at the mouth. During a seizure, dogs may fall on their side and exhibit paddling motions with their legs. Management of epilepsy typically involves medication to control seizures. Common anticonvulsant drugs for dogs include levetiracetam (Keppra), phenobarbital, and potassium bromide.
Canine Distemper
Distemper, a viral disease, is a significant concern, especially for puppies and adolescent dogs that have not completed their vaccinations. It’s a well-known cause of tremors in dogs. Besides shaking, other signs of distemper can include discharge from the eyes and nose, fever, and coughing.
Treatment for distemper primarily focuses on supportive care, allowing the dog’s immune system to combat the virus. This might involve antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections, bronchodilators to help with breathing, physical therapy, and fluid therapy to combat dehydration.
Generalized Tremor Syndrome (GTS)
Generalized Tremor Syndrome (GTS), sometimes referred to as steroid-responsive tremor syndrome or white shaker dog syndrome, is a condition characterized by tremors. While initially recognized in small, white dog breeds like Maltese and West Highland White Terriers, GTS can affect dogs of any breed, size, or color. The exact cause of GTS remains unknown.
In conclusion, while it’s easy to attribute shaking in dogs to old age, numerous underlying health issues can be responsible. From pain caused by arthritis to serious conditions like poisoning, seizure disorders, distemper, and GTS, tremors are a symptom that should not be ignored. If your dog is shaking, especially if it’s a new or worsening symptom, consulting with your veterinarian is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Prompt veterinary care can help identify the cause of the shaking and ensure your dog receives the necessary support to live a healthy and comfortable life.
