Dogs Shivering Like Having Chills

Okay，so you’ve seen it—your furry pal, looking all adorable and pathetic at the same time, shaking like a leaf in a windstorm. Yes, dogs shiver and tremble, and sometimes it looks just like they’ve caught a bad case of the chills. Now, while it might seem like they’re feeling a bit under the weather and ready for a warm blanket and some chicken soup, the reasons behind their tremors can be a whole lot more diverse. Let’s dig into what could be going on behind that quivering facade and explore how to help our buddies feel better.

Why My Dog Looks Like a Tiny Earthquake?

First things first, the most common cause of shivering is pretty straightforward: they’re cold. Yep, just like us humans, when the temperature drops, dogs will start to shake to generate body heat. Think of it like their internal heater kicking into overdrive. This is particularly true for smaller breeds, those with short fur, and older pooches who might not regulate their body temperature as efficiently. You might notice this especially after a bath, on a brisk walk, or even if the air conditioning is cranked up a little too high.

But hold on, it’s not just about the temperature, though. Sometimes their shivers have absolutely nothing to do with the thermostat. Fear and anxiety can also be big culprits. A trip to the vet, loud thunderstorms, fireworks, or even being left alone can trigger a stress response that manifests as trembling. It’s their way of saying, “Whoa, this is NOT cool.” If you notice that the shaking is accompanied by other signs of stress, like tucked tail, panting, or hiding, it’s a good indication that anxiety could be the reason. The poor babies!

And here’s a curveball: Excitement. Yes, you read that right! Your dog might be so thrilled to see you come home, or get ready for a walk, that they start to tremble with pure joy. It’s like their bodies can barely contain all that energy. So next time you see them shivering and spinning, take a good look at the situation- is it fear or fun?

Another sneaky reason? Medical reasons. Things like nausea, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), and certain illnesses like kidney disease can lead to shaking and shivering. If you notice other unusual symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, or change in appetite alongside the tremors, it’s always best to pay a visit to the vet. Better safe than sorry, as they say.

When is Shaking More Than Just a Shiver?

Now, we know that shivering can be pretty normal, but there’s a point when it should cause a raised eyebrow. It’s important to know the difference between a quick tremor due to a chill or excitement, and something that could be more concerning.

For instance, if the shaking is prolonged, intense, and doesn’t seem to be related to external factors like temperature or being startled, it’s time to take a closer look. If your dog seems weak, has difficulty standing, or their shaking is accompanied by drooling or disorientation, don’t delay, get them checked by a vet right away. This could be an indication of a serious underlying health problem that needs to be addressed as soon as possible.

Also, consider if the tremors seem rhythmic and repetitive, almost like a muscle twitching. While this might look like just shaking it could potentially indicate a neurological issue, which is again best left for a medical professional to decide. Pay close attention to your dog’s behaviour as a whole, if something seems off to you then that’s your sign to take some action.

One other aspect to be mindful about is age. Puppies that are still developing their ability to regulate body temperature, might be prone to shivering. Older dogs, on the other hand, might have tremors due to muscle weakness or other age-related ailments. It’s just about being aware of your dog’s unique situation and knowing when to seek help.

Keeping Your Furry Friend Comfortable

Alright, so what can you do to help your shivering buddy? Here are a few tips:

For cold-related shivers, providing a warm and cozy environment is key. That means a soft bed, a blanket, and perhaps even a cute little doggy sweater, especially for those chilly nights. If they’re shivering after a bath, be sure to towel-dry them thoroughly and keep them in a warm spot until they’re completely dry. I even like to preheat my towel before wrapping them, they absolutely love it!

If anxiety is the issue, try to figure out what’s triggering it. If it’s something predictable, like thunderstorms, create a safe space where your dog can feel secure and provide them with calming distractions, like their favorite toys or a soothing sound machine. Desensitization and counter-conditioning, which can be done with the help of a dog trainer, can also really help your anxious pet to manage those big triggers.

When it comes to excitement, well, that’s just part of the package of having an adorable dog! Try to keep the excitement levels a bit more manageable with routine and consistency, this might be difficult sometimes since seeing our pups is always exciting but try to implement a calmer routine so they don’t over-react.

And of course, if you suspect a medical issue, please go see a vet as soon as you can. They are best equipped to diagnose any underlying issues, recommend the proper medication and treatment plan. Remember, the sooner you catch something, the better the outcome.

Ultimately, your dog is your best pal, and understanding what’s behind those shivers is a part of taking care of them. Being observant, proactive, and quick to seek help when needed is essential to ensuring that your furry friends are always happy, healthy, and comfortable. After all, they give us the best kind of love, and they deserve the same in return. Keep your dogs safe, warm and always loved!