My Dog is Shaking, What Do I Do in Wilton Manors, FL?

The reasons for your dog’s shaking can be different from the reasons for another dog’s shaking. It is important to know why your dog is shaking so that you can take appropriate steps to help them calm down or warm up.

If your dog is shaking, there could be a number of reasons. This could be due to an illness, pain, or allergies. You should also check for any cuts or wounds on the body or head. If you do not see any injuries, your dog may be cold or experiencing an anxiety attack. In either case, you should take your dog to the vet to get checked out. Dogs can shake because they are cold and trying to stay warm.

If you are wondering why your dog might be shaking, keep reading this article to find out more about the signs, symptoms, causes, treatments, and advice for when your dog shakes.

Why Might a Dog Shake?

“Dog shakes” are when your pet’s head and neck shake uncontrollably for a few seconds to minutes. They can also happen with their whole body or just one side of their body. The cause of these shakes is unknown, but it could be due to something they ate, a nervous reaction to something they saw or heard, or because they’re in pain.

Some of the possible causes for a dog to shake are:

• Fever
• Anxiety
• Painful joints or muscles
• Dehydration
• Excessive exercise or play time in hot weather
• A reaction to medication or food

Here are some questions you may want to ask yourself when your dog starts shaking:

• Is this the first time my dog has been shaking?
• Does my dog have other symptoms?
• Has there been a change in our environment?
• Is my dog acting differently than usual?

What To Do if Your Dog is Shaking

Some dogs will shake after playing with other dogs or after being startled by an animal outside. If your pet has had one shake episode, there’s no need for action as it may not happen again. If it happens intermittently, there are some things you can try at home. If it happens multiple times on the same day, take them to a veterinarian or a veterinary emergency clinic to get checked out.

• Determine if your dog is cold or hot
• Check if your dog is injured or in pain
• If your dog is anxious, provide them with a safe space to calm down, such as a crate or bed
• Ensure that your pet has plenty of food and water
• Provide him with his favorite toy or treat
• Play with him in an enclosed space where he feels safe
• Give your dog a massage to help relax them
• Distract your dog with toys or treats
• Check if your dog has been exercised or needs exercise give your dog the appropriate amount of exercise for their breed and age
• Put on calming music specifically for dogs
• Have another dog present if possible to provide companionship

What to do if Your Dog is Having a Seizure

If a dog has a seizure, it will shake uncontrollably. The duration of the seizure can be anywhere from five seconds to one minute.

The shaking caused by seizures is also called “myoclonic jerking.” It is an involuntary muscle twitch that happens in the arms, legs, and face. Myoclonic jerks are usually just a side effect of the seizure and not what causes it. A dog’s shaking can last anywhere from five seconds to one minute.

What You Can Do

Your dog may be having a seizure if they are shaking and convulsing, drooling, being stiff or rigid and unresponsive. Keep your dog as still as possible and remove any objects around them (such as bowls of water and furniture) to reduce the risk of your dog hurting itself. Call your vet immediately to further receive help for your dog.

When to See a Vet About Your Dog Shaking

A dog’s shaking could be a symptom of a dog’s anxiety. It can also be caused by a medical condition. If your dog is shaking and drooling at the same time, this could be due to a medical condition like hypoglycemia or hyperthyroidism. If you are not sure what the cause of the shaking is, it’s best to take your pet to the vet for an exam.

Taking Your Dog to the Vet

Ask your vet if your dog’s shaking could be caused by a medical condition. If your dog is shaking due to a medical condition, ask your vet what treatment options are available. If your dog is not shaking due to a medical condition, try some of the following tips to stop the shaking:

• Give your dog a comforting hug or massage.
• Provide your dog with a safe space, such as a crate or bed, to relax in
• Play calming music for your dog
• Give your dog a toy or treat to distract it from the shaking

Conclusion

If you notice that your dog is shaking, it is important to figure out the cause of the shaking. It could be a sign of an underlying medical condition that needs to be addressed. If you suspect that your dog is cold, it’s best to bring them inside or cover them with a blanket. Make sure that they are not in any pain. If the dog is in pain, then you should take them to the vet. If they are not in pain and just shaking, then you should stay calm and try to keep them calm as well. Distract them with a toy, or some affection, or put them in a safe place until they calm down. Thanks for reading!

If you have any questions about your pet or anything in regards to your dog’s behavior, please schedule an appointment with us or call Arbor Pet Hospital at (954) 565-1896.