If your dog is trembling right now, it might be hard to tell whether it’s a harmless reaction or a red-flag symptom. Dogs shake for emotional reasons (excitement, stress) and physical reasons (cold, pain, toxins, metabolic changes). Some instances of shaking are fine to wait and monitor; others need a vet—now.
This guide gets specific: what causes shaking, exactly how to triage it at home, safe temperature ranges, when to call a vet, and what to do in the moment.
My Dog is Shaking: When to Rush to The Vet
Shaking or trembling can be normal for a short period of time. Maybe your dog is cold or nervous, and the shakes will go away in a few minutes. There are a few things that warrant immediate attention, though:
Rush to The Vet If:
- Your dog's shaking is accompanied by other symptoms. Some concerning symptoms include:
- vomiting
- drooling
- panting
- weakness
- diarrhea
- confusion
- The shaking is intense, and doesn't seem normal. Shivering is one thing, but shaking hard is another.
- The shaking lasts more than a few minutes and doesn't have a clear cause (shivering from cold, for example)
- The shaking has recurred more than once in 24 hours
- You suspect your dog has eaten something toxic
These things are all a cause for concern, and you should rush to the veterinarian. Shaking can indicate serious issues in some cases and medical attention is required.
5 Reasons Your Dog Might Be Shaking
There are plenty normal reasons that your dog could be shaking. If they aren't vigorously shaking, and their shaking isn't accompanied by the symptoms above, scan the article below to get a better idea of where that unusual shaking is coming from.
1. Excitement Shaking: What’s Happening in the Nervous System
“Happy shakes” are real. When dogs get excited—when you grab the leash, open the door, or they hear your car pull in—their sympathetic nervous system kicks in. This system releases adrenaline (epinephrine) and norepinephrine, hormones that boost alertness and heart rate. Those same chemicals also amplify tiny muscle contractions that normally happen below the surface, which is why your dog may visibly tremble when thrilled or overstimulated.
- Adrenaline surge: Raises heart rate and muscle activity, temporarily increasing tremor amplitude.
- Motor neuron activation: When excited, a dog’s nervous system fires more rapidly—sometimes faster than the muscles can relax—causing brief shaking.
- Energy release: Trembling helps the body burn off excess energy created by that adrenaline spike.
What it looks like: A full-body shiver that stops within a few minutes once the excitement event passes. There’s no stiffness, weakness, or confusion afterward—just a return to normal behavior.
2. Feeling Cold: Temperature Ranges and Safe Planning
Cold-triggered shivering is one of the most common and harmless causes of shaking—especially for short-coated, lean, or small dogs. But there’s a fine line between normal shivering and early hypothermia. Use the chart below as a practical guide for outdoor time and safety:
| Air Temp (°F) | Risk Level | Guidance |
|---|---|---|
| 50°F and above | Low | Safe for most dogs. Keep an eye on thin-coated breeds if it’s windy or wet. |
| 40–49°F | Moderate | Short-haired or senior dogs may need a sweater or jacket for longer walks. |
| 32–39°F | Moderate to High | Use a jacket and limit time outdoors to 20–30 minutes max, especially if windy or damp. |
| 20–31°F | High | Only brief potty breaks for small or senior dogs. Always use warm gear. |
| Below 20°F | Very High | Risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Stick to minimal outside time. |
Dogs begin to experience hypothermia when body temperature drops below 99°F. Early signs include shivering, stiffness, or reluctance to move. If your dog is still shivering indoors after drying off and warming up for a few minutes, call your vet—especially if they seem tired, confused, or cold to the touch.
Plan ahead: Dress your dog in an insulated, dry coat for outdoor time. Avoid wet, windy areas. Swap one long walk for two shorter ones, and keep a towel handy to dry paws and bellies when you come inside.
3. Stress and Anxiety: What’s Normal, and What’s Not
Stress-related shaking doesn’t happen to every dog, but it’s far from rare. Some dogs tremble only during extreme events—fireworks, thunderstorms, or vet visits. Others shake with smaller triggers like car rides, loud home repairs, or new environments. Each dog’s stress threshold is different.
What to Do While Your Dog Is Shaking
- Move them away from the trigger. Go to a quiet room. Shut windows, lower lights, and play white noise or soft background sound to dampen outside noise.
- Offer a calming task. Give a lick mat, frozen treat, or chew—these repetitive, soothing actions help release tension.
- Use gentle pressure. If you have a snug vest or wrap, put it on once they’re still—never force it during panic.
- Stay calm and nearby. Use a low voice; avoid hovering or trying to “hug it out.” Let them approach you.
- Document what happened. Write down the time, trigger, and duration. If this happens more than once a month, show your notes and a short video to your vet or trainer.
In severe or frequent cases, talk to your vet about behavioral therapy or short-term medication options. These can make stressful events more manageable for both you and your dog.
4. Nausea or Digestive Upset
Dogs often shake when nauseous—especially if they’ve eaten something unusual or have motion sickness. Common causes include spoiled food, sudden diet changes, car rides, or medication side effects. You’ll usually see other signs too: drooling, lip-smacking, swallowing, or attempts to hide.
If shaking and nausea last more than an hour, or if vomiting starts, call your vet. Trembling from stomach discomfort should ease once the nausea does—if it doesn’t, something deeper may be going on.
5. Medical Causes That Can Look Like “Just Shaking”
- Poisoning or toxin exposure: Chocolate, xylitol, nicotine, antifreeze, or certain plants can all cause tremors, drooling, and vomiting. Call your vet or the ASPCA Poison Control line (888-426-4435) immediately.
- Seizures: If shaking includes rhythmic jerks, loss of balance, paddling, or drooling, it could be a seizure. Anything lasting longer than three minutes, or more than one episode in 24 hours, is an emergency.
- Low blood sugar: Toy breeds and puppies are especially prone. Symptoms include shaking, weakness, or collapse. You can rub a small amount of honey on their tongue in a pinch.
Conclusion
Dogs shake for many reasons — from excitement and cold to stress, pain, or illness. Most of the time, shaking that stops quickly and isn’t paired with other symptoms isn’t cause for alarm. But if your dog’s trembling is intense, lasts longer than a few minutes, or comes with vomiting, weakness, or confusion, it’s safest to call your vet.
Trust your instincts. You know your dog’s normal behavior better than anyone. When shaking seems unusual or persistent, a quick check with your veterinarian can rule out serious issues and keep your dog comfortable, safe, and healthy.
