It can be alarming to see your dog shaking or trembling. Sometimes it’s completely normal—like when they’re excited or just a little chilly. But shaking can also be a sign of something more serious, from pain to poisoning. This guide breaks down the most common causes of dog shaking, when it may be nothing to worry about, and when it’s time to call the vet.
Common Causes of Dog Shaking
Excitement and Joy
Many dogs shake when they’re thrilled to see their pet parent, go for a walk, or meet a new friend. This type of trembling usually passes quickly and isn’t a cause for concern.
Cold Temperatures
Just like humans, dogs can shiver when they’re cold. Smaller breeds, short-haired dogs, and puppies are especially prone to this.1
Drying Off After Being Wet
Dogs sometimes shake vigorously after a bath, swim, or getting caught in the rain. This is their natural way of drying off.
Stress and Anxiety
Nervous situations like thunderstorms, fireworks, or trips to the vet can cause shaking. This kind of trembling often goes away once the stressful event ends.
Pain or Illness
Dogs may shake if they’re experiencing pain or discomfort. Shaking linked to illness can be accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy, limping, or changes in appetite.1
Poisoning or Toxin Exposure
Some substances—like chocolate, xylitol, or certain medications—can cause shaking. If poisoning is suspected, it’s an emergency and a vet should be contacted immediately.1
Neurological Issues and Seizures
While trembling is often mild, seizures are more intense and may involve collapsing, loss of consciousness, or uncontrolled movements.1 Knowing the difference is critical so pet parents can respond appropriately.
Shaking vs. Seizures: How to Tell the Difference
Shaking is typically voluntary or linked to a clear trigger, such as being cold or scared. Seizures, on the other hand, involve a sudden loss of control, with stiffening, paddling legs, or unresponsiveness. If you suspect your dog is having a seizure, contact your veterinarian right away.
When to See a Vet for Dog Shaking
While occasional shaking isn’t usually a big deal, it’s time to see a vet if:
Shaking is frequent, severe, or doesn’t stop.
It’s paired with vomiting, diarrhea, limping, or lethargy.
Your dog is unresponsive, collapses, or shows seizure-like symptoms.
You suspect toxin ingestion.
Quick action can make all the difference when shaking is tied to a medical emergency.
FAQs About Dog Shaking
Do dogs show pain by shaking? Yes, dogs sometimes tremble when they’re in pain. Look for other signs such as limping, whining, or avoiding movement.
Do dogs shake if they are sick? Shaking can be linked to illness, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, or lack of appetite. If you notice these signs, call your vet.
What triggers a dog to shake? Triggers include excitement, cold weather, stress, pain, illness, poisoning, and even neurological conditions. The context and severity of shaking help determine the cause.
What should I do if my dog is shaking? First, check for obvious reasons like excitement or being wet. If shaking continues, seems severe, or is paired with other concerning symptoms, seek veterinary help as soon as possible.
Key Takeaway
Dogs shake for many reasons—some harmless, others serious. Excitement, cold weather, and drying off are common and normal. But persistent shaking, or shaking paired with symptoms like vomiting, collapse, or confusion, should never be ignored. Pet parents who know when to worry can take quick action and ensure their dog gets the care they need.
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Creative manager by day, pet enthusiast all the time! After 19 years with my dog (hopefully he wins the award for oldest pet in the world), I enjoy spending my days brainstorming tail-wagging content, and sniffing out the latest trends in the pet world.
Villasenor, Yvonne. “Why Do Dogs Shake?” PetMD, 11 Mar. 2025, https://www.petmd.com/dog/behavior/why-do-dogs-shake.
