Common Dog Shaking Symptoms
It isn't uncommon to witness dog shaking symptoms as there can be many different causes. The question is, just what is the cause? Is it something normal, abnormal, or a symptom of something quite severe?
Natural With Some Breeds - If you've been around a dog for quite some time, you'll eventually get used to seeing some dog shaking symptoms from time to time, and most often will be able to pinpoint the cause. Some dogs are more high strung than others, and the more highly strung breeds are more apt to exhibit shaking symptoms from time to time. There is usually nothing wrong with such shaking as it is usually a symptom of nervousness or stress. Some breeds seem to handle stress better than others, although it isn't always the breed but the way the dog has been handled and cared for that may be behind the shaking. Some of the smaller, especially the toy breeds, seem to have a greater propensity for shaking, which is for the most part harmless.
Fear And Stress - Not only stress, but uncertainty and fear can bring on stress and can cause dog shaking symptoms. Gunfire, firecrackers, or other sudden loud noises can sometimes trigger severe and long-lasting shaking episodes. While the shaking itself may not be harmful, the stress or fear causing it can have a detrimental effect on the animal. Another example of shaking resulting from fear, stress, or both, is when a dog has been scolded, especially if the animal is aware of what its transgression was. In such a case even a soft-spoken reprimand or a stern look can cause some dogs to shake violently. In fact it's probably fair to say that many of the same things that will cause a human to shake can cause a dog to shake as well, and usually more so.
If the shaking is confined to the body, especially the hind quarters, it's most likely due to fear or stress. If the dog is shaking its head, the most likely cause has something to do with the ears, possibly ear mites or an infection in one of the outer ears. Itchy ears, which prompt head shaking are sometimes caused by food allergies. Then there is what is often the most common cause. The dog is wet, cold, or both.
When To See The Vet - Obviously, any time your dog experiences a shaking episode you'll want to know the cause. Most of the time can probably pinpoint that cause. Sometimes the cause remains a mystery, but if the shaking ceases in a short time and doesn't return it's usually nothing serious. If the shaking persists or goes away but returns at fairly frequent intervals, or seems to be getting worse, it's time to see a veterinarian, as the possibility that something serious is wrong begins to become evident..
Diseases And Disorders - There are a number of diseases and disorders that can reveal themselves in the form of dog shaking symptoms, often accompanied by other symptoms as well. Kidney failure or a metabolic failure can result in a generally weakened condition in which shaking may play a role. Some spinal problems, including tumors, can cause uncontrolled shaking or tremors, as can one of several neuromuscular diseases. A neuromuscular disease is often evidenced by a shaking in the pelvis or hindquarters. Toxins, especially phosphates found in most fertilizers can cause neuromuscular disorders and resulting shaking. Initial treatment when the cause is uncertain usually involves taking a complete blood count, urinalysis, and a biochemical profile in an attempt to narrow possibilities down to the actual cause.