8 Reasons Why Is My Dog Shaking and Breathing Heavy

Why is my dog shaking and breathing heavy? Let’s start by defining the phrase ‘Shake,’ and what I mean when I say it. I’m talking about dogs who shiver or tremble despite being in complete control of their bodies. In this article, I am going to talk about Why is my dog shaking and breathing heavy.

Your dog has full control of his body if he is making eye contact and responding to you while shaking; unlike dogs who lose control during a seizure.

Why is my dog shaking and breathing heavy

Your dog could be shaking for a variety of causes, some of which are simple to fix, or your dog’s shaking could suggest a medical problem. Later in this chapter, I’ll go over those potential medical complications. Knowing why your dog is shaking gives you more confidence in making an informed decision regarding his health.

Now, here are the top four most prevalent causes of dog shakes, as well as what you can do to assist and calm your dog during these tough times.

Your dog is shivering

It’s not uncommon, especially in short-coated breeds. When a dog feels cold, he shakes his body to generate heat by moving his muscles. It’s simple to give your dog some warmth to help him stop shivering. Provide a warm atmosphere for your dog, as well as a warm bed and blanket.

2. Your dog is frightened or anxious.

Shaking is a common side effect of adrenaline release. Adrenaline is released by the adrenal glands in dogs to assist them to cope with the scenario.

Any form of environmental change can cause dog anxiety or panic, including thunderstorms, fireworks, air travel, automobile rides, vet appointments, grooming parlors, meeting strangers, and loud noises.

Hold your dog close and tell him that there is nothing to be afraid of with love and care. He’ll soon feel protected and cherished, and his trembling will stop.

3. Your dog is Thrilled

Your dog is trembling in expectation of something happening, whether it’s dinner, chasing a squirrel, seeing you after a long day alone, or playing; whatever the cause, your dog is trembling in anticipation of something happening. There’s no need to be anxious; once the thrill has passed, your dog will stop shaking.

4. Learned Behavior

Your dog has learned that shaking gets him the desired response from you, whether it’s a display of affection and attention or a tasty treat. Ignore the shaking and instead treat your dog with affection and attention when he is not shaking to stop this dog habit.

Distribute your love, attention, and goodies out throughout the day and evening so your dog learns he doesn’t need to shake to get what he wants.

Now it’s time to discuss some of the other reasons why dogs tremble.

If your dog is shaking uncontrollably, figure out when it started, if there are any symptoms, and which sections of the body are affected. All of these are indicators that you may be dealing with a potentially serious health issue. Some dogs, for example, will shake if their blood sugar is severely low or just before a seizure.

Some of the reasons why dogs shake are scary in this part, but they will help you distinguish between healthy canine behavior and indicators of a serious sickness, as well as what to do if you suspect a medical condition.

1. Poisoning

Chocolate, poisonous plants, cigarettes, insecticides, tainted food, and other dangerous items ingested in large quantities can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and uncontrollable shaking in dogs. Get your dog to an emergency hospital right away if you suspect poisoning.

2. Distemper

Distemper is a virus that is commonly observed in puppies and dogs who have not been vaccinated before reaching adulthood. Fever, coughing, and nasal discharge are common symptoms, and they can also induce tremors and convulsions.

Puppies who have not been fully vaccinated are more likely to contract the illness. If you observe signs or suspect your dog has been exposed to distemper, contact your veterinarian right once.

3. Kidney Disease

Dogs can go for lengthy periods of time without showing any signs of illness. There is cause for concern if your dog suddenly starts drinking and urinating more regularly.

Other symptoms, like shaking, may appear like your dog’s condition worsens. Consult your veterinarian right away to discuss therapy and treatment alternatives, for answering why is my dog breathing heavy and shaking.

4. Addison’s disease

GGI difficulties, loss of energy and strength, and little or no appetite, as well as shaking, are all symptoms of this condition in dogs. Addison’s disease is frequently misdiagnosed, which can lead to more serious complications. Consult your veterinarian if your dog appears to be chronically unwell and malnourished.

5. White Dog Shaker Syndrome

It’s a dangerous sickness that affects little dogs like Maltese and West Highland White Terriers, causing them to shake and develop full-body tremors.

Because this Syndrome is not a response to specific stimuli, anxiety-related dog behaviors are ruled out. Consult your veterinarian right away if you feel your dog is shaking as a result of this syndrome.

6. Fever

When your dog is shaking from the cold even though he is in a warm setting, he may have a fever. In an attempt to elevate his body temperature, your dog is shaking. If feasible, use a rectal thermometer to take your dog’s temperature.

If your dog’s temperature rises above 104 degrees, take him to the clinic right away. A temperature of 104 degrees or above is considered a medical emergency.

7. Pain

Pain might be indicated by shakiness. Restlessness, changes in behavior, enlarged pupils, excessive sleeping, hiding, limping, excessive licking or biting, increased vocalization, in need of attention, poor coat, vacant look, glazed expression, and decreased appetite are all signs that your dog is in discomfort.

Discomfort symptoms in dogs are difficult to detect and vary depending on the origin of the pain. Because most dogs are very skilled at disguising pain, by the time you identify a problem, your dog is usually in a lot of pain.

If your dog is shaking and exhibiting any of the symptoms listed above, take him to the veterinarian right once.

8. Advanced Age

Aged dogs, unfortunately, are more susceptible to shaking and degradation. Standing and walking might be difficult for senior dogs due to weak muscles and a touch of arthritis. These symptoms cannot be reversed, but you can speak with your veterinarian about various therapies and treatments to help your dog feel better.

Take away

Dogs tremble for a variety of reasons. It’s critical to figure out why your dog is shaking, especially if there’s a health issue. The sooner a disease or condition is identified, the sooner it may be treated.

Adrenaline is released by the adrenal glands in nervous, anxious, or enthusiastic dogs to prepare their bodies to flee or deal with the circumstance that is creating the excitement.

If your dog continues to shake in a warm setting, he could be suffering from a fever or another illness unrelated to the cold. If you’re not sure, have your dog checked out by a veterinarian before concluding the shaking is normal dog behavior.

Take your dog to the vet if he shakes for no apparent reason. If your dog’s shaking isn’t consistent, it could be a sign of a behavioral issue. Do you have a dog with normal behavior, medical issues, or behavioral issues, like why is my dog shaking and breathing heavy while sleeping?

If your dog is acting normally, use these four suggestions to assist and comfort him. If you’re having trouble with your dog’s behavior, hire a professional trainer who specializes in positive, reward-based training. Consult your veterinarian right away if you feel you have a medical condition.

I hope you enjoyed this article on why is my dog shaking and breathing heavy, especially the part about why dogs shake, and that you learned something useful.

8 Reasons Why Is My Dog Shaking and Breathing Heavy