Why Is My Dog Shivering?
When you look at a shivering dog, you may assume they are cold. However, colder temperatures are not the only things that cause dogs to shiver. Sometimes shivering can be harmless, but it may also be a cry for help. Below are some common reasons why your four-legged friend is shivering and some things you can do to help.
- Cold – Shivering in cold environments is a response method to get the blood pumping to raise body temperature and prevent hypothermia. Smaller dog breeds, such as the chihuahua, are more prone to shivering due to their lack of body mass and insulation. Limit your dog’s exposure to the cold to help them stay warm and ease shivers. If you are walking your dog in a cold environment, consider pet clothing to help keep them warm.
- Excitement – Did you know that some dogs shiver when they are happy or excited? Honestly, there is no danger in shivering from excitement; it will most likely stop once your dog calms down.
- Seeking Attention – Dogs are intelligent and sometimes do whatever it takes to get your attention. If you rush to comfort your dog when shaking, they may have learned that shivering is a way to get your attention. If there is no other reason your dog may be shivering, it is best to ignore this behavior.
- Stress, Fear, or Anxiety – Intense emotions can cause shivers. You can reassure your dog that all will be okay and remove the source of stress. In certain situations, you may be able to ignore the stressor in your house, allowing your dog to pick up on it and learn that there is nothing to be nervous about.
- Pain or Illness – Shivering may indicate that your dog is in pain or suffering from an illness. In addition, constant shivering could be a sign of generalized tremor syndrome, also known as shaker syndrome. It would be best if you looked for signs of sickness or injury. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog’s shivering is accompanied by abnormal behavior or seems out of character.
Please note that normal shivering and shaking are much different from a seizure, during which the muscles seize up, and a dog loses mobility and awareness of their surroundings. Most causes of shivering are harmless, but you should still reach out to your vet if you have any concerns. You will gain peace of mind once you get a vet’s assessment.
