Seeing your dog shake or tremble for no clear reason can be a little unsettling, especially when they’re otherwise acting perfectly normal. They’re still eating, playing, wagging their tail—but they’re also visibly shaking.

The good news? In many cases, shaking isn’t something to panic about. But it can still be a sign of something that deserves your attention.

Let’s explore the most common reasons why a dog might shake while appearing otherwise healthy, and how to know when it’s time to call your vet.

Normal Causes of Dog Shaking (With No Other Symptoms)

1. Excitement or Anticipation

Some dogs shake when they’re excited. You might notice it when you pick up the leash, prepare their food, or walk in the door. This kind of shaking is short-lived and nothing to worry about.

2. Cold or Chilly Environment

Like us, dogs shiver when they’re cold. Smaller breeds (like Chihuahuas), puppies, and dogs with short fur are especially sensitive to temperature changes. If your dog starts shaking in a cool room or during a walk on a chilly day, they might just need a sweater or a cozy blanket.

3. Dreaming During Sleep

Is your dog shaking while napping or sleeping? It could just be part of a vivid dream. Light twitching or shaking is normal during the REM stage of sleep and doesn’t require any action.

4. Drying Off After a Bath or Rain

Dogs often do a full-body shake to help dry off. This can linger a bit even after they’re mostly dry. It’s normal and instinctual.

Medical or Behavioral Reasons That Deserve Attention

1. Stress or Anxiety

Dogs may shake during thunderstorms, fireworks, car rides, or vet visits. Even if they seem “fine” otherwise, shaking can be their way of expressing discomfort. Look for other signs like panting, yawning, lip licking, or hiding.

2. Nausea or Upset Stomach

Sometimes dogs shake when they’re feeling nauseous, which could be caused by eating something odd, motion sickness, or even anxiety. If the shaking comes with lip-smacking or drooling, nausea might be the cause.

3. Pain or Discomfort (Hidden)

Not all pain is obvious. A dog might shake due to arthritis, joint pain, or an internal issue even if they’re eating and walking normally. Older dogs, especially, may try to hide pain. Subtle signs like stiffness, licking a specific area, or slowing down later in the day can offer more clues.

4. Toxin Ingestion

Shaking can sometimes be an early sign that your dog has ingested something toxic—like chocolate, xylitol, certain plants, or human medication. If you suspect this might be the case, seek vet care immediately, even if your dog still seems alert.

5. Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

Small-breed dogs, puppies, or diabetic dogs are at risk of low blood sugar, which can cause shaking, especially when they’re hungry or haven’t eaten in a while.

6. Generalized Tremor Syndrome (GTS)

Also known as “white shaker dog syndrome,” this is a condition that causes full-body tremors in dogs—often in small, white-coated breeds, though others can be affected. Dogs with GTS are otherwise healthy and active. It can usually be treated with corticosteroids.

When to Call the Vet

While occasional shaking may not be a big deal, here’s when you should contact your vet:

The shaking is new, sudden, or frequent

Your dog is also vomiting, drooling, or having diarrhea

Your dog seems disoriented, weak, or unusually tired

There’s any chance they may have eaten something toxic

The shaking lasts more than a few hours

Your dog is a senior and hasn’t shaken before

It’s always better to rule out anything serious early on.

How You Can Help at Home

Keep them warm: If they’re cold, wrap them in a blanket or move them to a warmer space.

Reduce stress: Use calming sprays, soft music, or safe spaces like crates or corners during stressful events.

Track patterns: Make note of when the shaking happens and what else is going on. This can help your vet identify a cause.

Stick to routines: Consistency helps reduce anxiety in many dogs.

Final Thoughts

If your dog is shaking but otherwise acting normal, there may not be any cause for alarm. Dogs shake for all kinds of reasons, from excitement to anxiety to simply feeling chilly.

Still, it’s smart to pay attention and track any changes. If the shaking becomes frequent or is paired with other symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact your vet. Being proactive can make all the difference in keeping your dog safe and healthy