It’s natural to be concerned if you notice your dog shaking or trembling. While you might initially dismiss it as “just old age,” shaking in dogs can be a symptom of various underlying health issues, some of which require prompt veterinary attention. Understanding the potential causes of shaking can help you determine when it’s time to seek professional help for your furry friend.
Potential Reasons Behind Your Dog’s Shaking
Dog shaking, also known as tremors, can manifest in different ways and be triggered by a range of factors. Here are some common reasons why your dog might be shaking:
Arthritis and Joint Pain
Especially in older dogs, arthritis is a frequent culprit behind shaking, particularly in the legs. The pain and inflammation associated with arthritis can cause dogs to tremble as a response to discomfort. Fortunately, your veterinarian can effectively manage arthritis pain through various approaches, including joint supplements, pain medications, and other therapeutic treatments designed to improve your dog’s comfort and mobility.
Toxin Exposure and Poisoning
Several toxins and poisons, seemingly harmless to humans, can be extremely dangerous for dogs and induce tremors or shaking. Common household items can pose a threat, such as chocolate, which contains theobromine, toxic to dogs. Cigarettes, leading to nicotine poisoning, and xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in many sugar-free gums and candies, are also hazardous. Furthermore, snail baits containing metaldehyde are particularly dangerous, capable of causing severe muscle tremors and even seizures.
The symptoms of poisoning in dogs are diverse and can include not only tremors but also weakness, disorientation, lethargy, excessive drooling, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures. If you suspect your dog has ingested something potentially toxic, immediate action is crucial. Contact your veterinarian without delay, or reach out to the Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 for expert guidance.
Seizure Disorders and Epilepsy
Epilepsy, a neurological condition, is another potential cause of shaking in dogs. Seizures can present dramatically, with symptoms such as collapsing, involuntary jerking movements, muscle stiffness, twitching, loss of consciousness, drooling, lip smacking or chewing motions, tongue chewing, and foaming at the mouth. During a seizure, dogs may fall onto their side and exhibit paddling movements with their legs. Management of epilepsy typically involves medication to control seizures. Common anti-seizure drugs for dogs include levetiracetam (Keppra), phenobarbital, and potassium bromide.
Canine Distemper
Distemper, a viral disease, primarily affects puppies and adolescent dogs that haven’t completed their vaccinations. Tremors are a hallmark symptom of distemper in dogs. Other telltale signs include discharge from the eyes and nose, fever, and coughing. Treating distemper mainly focuses on supportive care to bolster your dog’s immune system as it combats the virus. Treatment strategies might include antibiotics to manage secondary bacterial infections, airway dilators to ease breathing, physical therapy, and intravenous fluids to combat dehydration.
Generalized Tremor Syndrome (GTS)
Generalized Tremor Syndrome (GTS), sometimes referred to as steroid-responsive tremor syndrome or white shaker dog syndrome, was initially observed in small, white dog breeds like Maltese and West Highland White Terriers. However, GTS can affect dogs of any breed, size, or coat color. The exact cause of GTS remains unknown.
When to See a Veterinarian
While some causes of shaking might be benign, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. If your dog starts shaking, especially if it’s a new or worsening symptom, consulting with your veterinarian is essential. They can accurately diagnose the underlying cause of your dog’s shaking and recommend the appropriate treatment plan to ensure your dog’s health and well-being. Don’t hesitate to seek professional veterinary advice to address your concerns about your dog’s shaking.
