If you’ve noticed your dog trembling or shaking, you might be wondering if it’s normal or a sign that something’s wrong. Tremors can be harmless in some cases, but they can also indicate underlying health issues that need attention. Understanding what causes dog tremors—and how they differ from other types of shaking—can help you know when to stay calm and when to call your vet.
This guide breaks down the most common causes of tremors in dogs, how to tell if they’re serious, and what to do if you notice your dog trembling for no clear reason.
- What Are Tremors in Dogs?
- Common Causes of Tremors in Dogs
- When to See the Vet
- Diagnosis and Treatment
- What You Can Do at Home
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Tremors
- 1. What causes tremors in dogs?
- 2. Are tremors the same as shivering?
- 3. What breeds are prone to White Shaker Syndrome?
- 4. Can anxiety cause tremors in dogs?
- 5. What toxins cause tremors in dogs?
- 6. How can I tell if tremors are serious?
- 7. Can low blood sugar cause shaking in dogs?
- 8. How do vets diagnose the cause of tremors?
- 9. What can I do at home if my dog has mild tremors?
- 10. Can tremors be treated?
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What Are Tremors in Dogs?
A tremor is an involuntary, rhythmic muscle movement. It’s different from shivering—which usually happens due to cold or excitement—because tremors can persist even when a dog is calm and warm. Tremors may affect the entire body or a specific area such as the head, legs, or back.
They occur when nerve signals misfire, causing muscles to contract repeatedly. Depending on the cause, tremors can appear at rest, during movement, or in certain positions.
Common Causes of Tremors in Dogs
1. Generalized Tremor Syndrome (White Shaker Syndrome)
This neurological condition, also called “White Shaker Dog Syndrome,” primarily affects small breeds like Maltese, Toy Poodles, and West Highland White Terriers. It’s believed to be immune-related, where the dog’s immune system targets its own nervous system. Dogs develop fine, continuous tremors that worsen with stress but don’t interfere with eating or walking.
Treatment: Corticosteroids such as prednisone often bring visible improvement within a week.
2. Muscle Weakness or Fatigue
After vigorous play or long walks, muscle fatigue can cause temporary tremors—similar to human muscle shaking after a workout. These tremors are mild and short-lived. If your dog’s muscles shake after minimal activity, it could signal pain or joint strain and should be checked by your vet.
3. Neurological Disorders
Tremors can stem from issues in the brain or spinal cord when nerve signaling is disrupted. Localized twitches (such as in one leg or the jaw) or generalized body tremors may occur. Possible causes include:
- Inflammatory brain disease (encephalitis, meningitis)
- Spinal cord injury
- Degenerative motor control diseases
Other symptoms might include imbalance, circling, or abnormal eye movements. Neurological exams or MRI imaging can help diagnose these cases.
4. Toxin Exposure
Certain toxins and foods—including chocolate, xylitol, nicotine, caffeine, antifreeze, or rodenticides—can trigger tremors or seizures. Tremors from toxins often appear suddenly alongside vomiting or drooling.
Action: If you suspect toxin ingestion, contact your vet or the ASPCA Poison Control Center immediately at 888-426-4435.
5. Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
Common in toy breeds, small puppies, and diabetic dogs, hypoglycemia can cause trembling, weakness, confusion, or collapse. If your dog is conscious, rub honey or corn syrup on their gums and seek veterinary care immediately.
6. Medication Side Effects or Metabolic Disease
Some medications and health conditions can cause tremors, including:
- Drugs that affect the nervous system
- Liver or kidney disease (toxin buildup affects the brain)
- Endocrine disorders such as Addison’s disease
7. Pain or Anxiety
Pain-related tremors often appear with stiffness, limping, or panting, while anxiety tremors occur during stressful events like thunderstorms or car rides. Both deserve attention—pain requires a vet visit, and anxiety may be managed through behavioral training or calming supplements.
When to See the Vet
Occasional mild tremors are often harmless, but call your vet if:
- Tremors last more than a few minutes or recur multiple times per day
- Your dog shows weakness, disorientation, or imbalance
- Only one side or limb is affected
- There’s vomiting, collapse, or possible toxin exposure
- Your dog is very young, elderly, or has an existing medical condition
Diagnosis and Treatment
Your vet will perform an exam, review medications, and may recommend bloodwork, urinalysis, or imaging. Treatment depends on cause—ranging from supportive care and detoxification to medication changes or immune therapy.
What You Can Do at Home
- Record a short video of the tremors to show your vet.
- Note when the tremors occur—during rest, activity, or excitement.
- Check for recent environmental or dietary changes.
- Keep your dog calm and comfortable while awaiting veterinary advice.
Final Thoughts
Tremors can stem from minor fatigue or serious neurological disease. The key is context—observe frequency, duration, and any additional symptoms. When in doubt, your vet can identify the cause and guide safe, effective care.
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian if you notice new or unexplained symptoms in your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Tremors
1. What causes tremors in dogs?
Tremors can result from neurological issues, toxin exposure, low blood sugar, pain, or simple fatigue. Determining the cause depends on duration, severity, and accompanying symptoms.
2. Are tremors the same as shivering?
No. Shivering is often a response to cold or excitement, while tremors are involuntary muscle movements that can persist even when your dog is relaxed or warm.
3. What breeds are prone to White Shaker Syndrome?
Small breeds such as Maltese, West Highland White Terriers, and Toy Poodles are most commonly affected by Generalized Tremor Syndrome.
4. Can anxiety cause tremors in dogs?
Yes. Fear or stress can activate the nervous system, leading to temporary trembling. Calm environments and calming chews may help soothe anxious dogs.
5. What toxins cause tremors in dogs?
Common toxins include chocolate, xylitol, nicotine, caffeine, antifreeze, and rodenticides. If ingestion is suspected, call a vet or the ASPCA Poison Control Center (888-426-4435).
6. How can I tell if tremors are serious?
Persistent tremors, those with vomiting or weakness, or one-sided tremors usually indicate a medical issue needing prompt veterinary evaluation.
7. Can low blood sugar cause shaking in dogs?
Yes. Small breeds, puppies, and diabetic dogs are vulnerable to hypoglycemia. Trembling may be one of the first signs.
8. How do vets diagnose the cause of tremors?
Veterinarians use physical exams, bloodwork, urinalysis, and sometimes imaging (like MRI) to determine the source of tremors.
9. What can I do at home if my dog has mild tremors?
Record a video, note triggers, and keep your dog comfortable. If symptoms persist or worsen, schedule a vet appointment.
10. Can tremors be treated?
Yes. Treatment depends on the cause—it may include medication changes, corticosteroids for immune-related tremors, detoxification, or managing anxiety and pain.
