One day, a dog on my table started shaking. I froze. Should I be worried if my dog is shaking like that? It felt scary even for me as a groomer. But over time, I’ve learned that not all shaking is bad. Some dogs shake when they dream. Others shake their whole body after stress or fear. I’ve had pet parents ask, “What should I do if my dog is shaking and panting?” In this guide, I’ll share what I’ve seen, what’s normal, and when to worry. Let’s make sense of all the shaking together. Read the full article about Should i be worried if my dog is shaking. I hope you will know everything about your confusion.
Should I Be Worried If My Dog Is Shaking?
Most of the time, no—you don’t need to worry if your dog is shaking. Dogs shake for lots of normal reasons. They may feel cold, scared, or just excited.
As a groomer, I’ve seen dogs shake right after a bath. One little Pomeranian shivered every time I turned off the water. A quick dry and some sweet talk calmed her down.
But shaking can also mean pain or stress. I once groomed a lab who shook the whole time. Later, his owner found out he had sore hips. So, it’s not always just nerves.
Ask yourself: Is my dog acting weird all of a sudden? Is he panting, stiff, or hiding? If so, call your vet.
Still unsure? That’s okay. You know your dog best. This guide will help you learn what’s normal, what’s not, and what to do next.
Common Reasons Dogs Shake
Dogs shake for many reasons. Some are totally normal. Others may be a sign something’s wrong. Let’s look at both.
Normal Causes of Dog Shaking
Dogs often shake when they’re cold, excited, or dreaming. These are normal reasons.
Just like us, dogs shiver when they’re cold. Tiny breeds—like Chihuahuas and Yorkies—do this more often. They get chilly fast.
Excitement can cause it too. I once groomed a little Maltese who shook all over when her owner said, “Spa day!” Her tail wagged, her body wiggled—it was pure joy.
Shaking in sleep is common, too. Ever seen your dog twitch while resting? That’s just dream time. They might be chasing a ball or running in a dream park.
If your dog eats, plays, and acts fine, these shakes are nothing to worry about.
Concerning the Causes of Shaking
Shaking that comes with signs like limping, whining, or hiding could mean trouble.
Pain is a big cause. I once groomed an old Golden who shook the whole time. He was sweet but stiff. His owner later found he had arthritis. Dogs can’t speak, but they use their bodies to show hurt.
Fear and stress can also lead to shaking. Some dogs tremble at loud sounds. Others fear grooming if they had a bad past. I’ve had dogs cling to me during storms or after rough groomings. Their shake says, “I’m scared.”
Poison can cause sudden shaking too. If your dog shakes and also throws up, seems weak, or looks off—call your vet fast. Things like chocolate, xylitol, or grapes are dangerous even in small bites.
Older dogs may shake more due to changes in the brain. If your senior pup starts shaking more, a vet check is a smart move.
My Dog Is Shaking and Acting Weird All of a Sudden
When your dog starts shaking and acting strange, don’t ignore it. It could be something serious like poisoning or a seizure.
One time, I groomed a little Dachshund who looked wobbly. She shook, tilted her head, and stared off. I told her owner, “Call your vet now.” It was vestibular disease, not nerves.
Shaking and strange actions can also mean your dog ate something bad—like chocolate or grapes. If your dog is shaking, vomiting, or drooling, go to the vet fast.
Seizures don’t always look big. Some dogs freeze or shake just a bit. If your dog seems “out of it,” call your vet or groomer.
Trust your gut. If it feels wrong, it might be.
Here’s a quick tip: If shaking comes with weird actions, it’s time to act. Your dog depends on you to notice.
My Dog Keeps Shaking His Whole Body – Is It Normal?
Most of the time, yes. Dogs shake to reset. It’s like a deep breath for us. It helps them calm down or dry off.
But not always. I’ve seen dogs shake if they feel scared or tense. One big Shepherd I groomed shook every time I clipped his nails. He hated the sound. I tried a quiet clipper, and he stopped. Problem solved.
Still, watch for signs. If the shaking is new, long, or comes with whining or hiding, it could be a sign of pain or stress.
Here’s what to check:
How often? – Once in a while or a lot?
When? – After a bath, a nap, or out of the blue?
How long? – Just a few shakes or all day?
If it feels off, trust your gut. You know your dog best.
What Should I Do If My Dog Is Shaking?
Stay calm. Dogs shake for many reasons. Some are normal. Others need a closer look.
- Stay Calm and Observe
Watch your dog. Is it a quick shake or all the time? Dogs pick up on our energy. If you’re calm, they’ll feel better too.
- Check the Environment
Is it too cold? Too loud? I had a client whose dog shook every time the vacuum ran. She now grooms her dog in a quiet room, and the shaking stopped.
- Look for Other Signs
- Check for things like:
- Limping or stiffness
- Drooling or vomiting
- Panting or whining
- Hiding or acting scared
- Know When to Call the Vet
If your dog keeps shaking, call your vet. Sudden shakes with other signs—like drooling or acting “off”—need quick help.
- Keep a Quick Check List
Here’s a simple rule: If the shake is new, long, or comes with pain, call the vet. Trust your gut. You know your dog best.
How I Handle Shaking Dogs as a Groomer
Dogs shake for many reasons. They can feel scared, cold, or just a bit nervous. I see it all the time. Here’s how I help them:
- Stay Calm and Gentle
Dogs pick up on our energy. If I stay calm, they relax. I talk in a soft voice. I move slowly. This helps a lot.
- Use the Right Tools
I use quiet clippers and soft brushes. Loud sounds can make dogs shake more. For extra nervous dogs, I use calming sprays or diffusers. I once groomed a small terrier who shook at the sound of clippers. I switched to a quieter model, and he settled down.
- Build Trust Over Time
Some dogs need time. I had a senior poodle who shook every visit. I started with a gentle touch and treats. Now, he comes in tail wagging.
- Use Distraction and Play
Sometimes a little play helps. I toss a soft toy or offer a few treats. A happy dog forgets to shake.
- Give Them a Break
If a dog is too scared, I take a break. A minute of rest can calm them. I once had a beagle who shook in the bath. I learned to stop, give a head scratch, and let him breathe. It made a big difference.
- Prepare the Owner
I talk to owners too. I tell them to walk their dog before the groom. A tired dog is often a calm dog.
- Use the Right Products
I use shampoos with calming scents like lavender. Some dogs respond well to this. It’s like a spa day for them.
- Keep a Routine
Dogs like routine. If they know what to expect, they shake less. I groom the same way each time to build that comfort.
When to See the Vet: Red Flags You Shouldn’t Ignore
Most dog shaking isn’t a big deal. But sometimes, it means trouble. If you see these signs, call your vet:
Shaking and Vomiting – This can mean your dog ate something bad. Chocolate, xylitol, or grapes can cause this. Act fast.
Shaking and Diarrhea – This could mean a gut problem or an infection. It’s not just a mess. It’s a health risk.
Shaking and Weakness – If your dog seems tired or “off,” this isn’t normal. It could be pain or something more serious.
Shaking and Whining – Dogs whine when they hurt. If you see this, check for injury.
Shaking and Hiding – Dogs hide when scared or sick. If your dog shakes and hides, it’s a red flag.
Shaking with Drooling or Seizures – This can mean a toxin or a brain issue. Don’t wait. Call your vet now.
Call the Vet Now If You See These Signs:
- Shaking with drooling or foam
- Shaking after a fall
- Shaking that won’t stop
- Shaking with a bloated belly
- Shaking and acting “off” or confused
Trust your gut. If it feels wrong, it probably is. Your dog depends on you to act fast.
FAQs
What should I do if my dog is shaking and won’t stop?
Check if your dog is cold, scared, or stressed. If the shaking lasts or you see other signs, call your vet.
Can grooming cause my dog to shake afterward?
Yes, dogs can shake after grooming. It could be from stress, cold, or nerves. Give them a warm spot and comfort.
Is it normal for dogs to shake in their sleep?
Yes, dogs shake in their sleep when they dream. This is normal, but watch for other signs if it seems odd.
What’s the difference between shaking and seizures?
Shaking can come from cold, fear, or stress. Seizures are more intense and come with a loss of control. Call your vet if unsure.
How do I calm my dog when he’s shaking?
Stay calm. Speak softly. Offer a warm spot. If the shaking goes on, check for pain or other signs.
Conclusion
Most dog shaking is no big deal. It’s like when we shiver in the cold or get nervous. But sometimes, it means more. I’ve seen dogs shake from fear, cold, or just a bit of stress.
I had a small Pomeranian who shook every time I turned off the water. A warm towel and a soft voice calmed her down.
But I’ve also seen dogs shake from pain. One old Lab shook on my table, and it turned out his hips hurt.
If your dog shakes, watch for other signs. Is he limping, drooling, or hiding? If yes, call your vet.
Trust your gut. You know your dog best.
Thanks for reading. If you have a story to share or a question to ask, drop it in the comments. I’d love to hear from you.