Dogs shivering, that subtle or sometimes dramatic tremor, can mean a multitude of things. It's not always just about being cold, although that's a common cause. Understanding why your dog shivers is crucial for ensuring their health and well-being. This comprehensive guide delves into the various reasons behind canine shivering, helping you decipher the signals your furry friend is sending.
Is My Dog Shivering Because They're Cold?
Yes, cold temperatures are a primary reason dogs shiver. Just like humans, dogs shiver (or tremble) to generate heat when their body temperature drops below its normal range (around 101-102.5°F). Smaller breeds, puppies, and senior dogs are particularly susceptible to the cold and will shiver more readily than larger, adult dogs. Providing adequate bedding, sweaters, or coats during cold weather can significantly reduce shivering related to temperature.
What Else Can Cause a Dog to Shiver?
While cold is a common culprit, shivering in dogs can also indicate underlying health concerns. It's essential to consider other possibilities if your dog is shivering excessively, or if the shivering is accompanied by other symptoms.
Is My Dog Shivering Because They Are Scared or Anxious?
Fear and anxiety are significant triggers for shivering in dogs. A stressful situation, loud noises, unfamiliar environments, or even separation anxiety can cause your dog to tremble. If your dog shivers during thunderstorms, fireworks, or when left alone, consider addressing the underlying anxiety through training, desensitization techniques, or perhaps even medication prescribed by a veterinarian.
Could Illness or Pain Be the Reason for My Dog's Shivering?
Shivering can be a symptom of various illnesses and painful conditions. Some examples include:
- Kidney disease: Kidney failure can lead to a drop in body temperature, resulting in shivering.
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): This is particularly common in small breeds and can cause tremors and weakness.
- Infections: Serious infections can cause fever initially, followed by shivering as the body fights the infection.
- Nausea and vomiting: These can cause shivering due to the stress on the body.
- Pain: Injury, arthritis, or other painful conditions can trigger shivering.
If your dog is shivering and showing other signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in urination or defecation, seek veterinary attention immediately.
My Dog is Shivering and Seems Nervous - What Should I Do?
If your dog is shivering due to fear or anxiety, providing a safe and comfortable environment is crucial. This includes creating a quiet space, offering comforting toys or blankets, and avoiding situations that trigger their anxiety. Positive reinforcement training and desensitization techniques can be helpful in managing anxiety-related shivering in the long term. In severe cases, consult a veterinarian or a certified professional dog trainer or behaviorist.
How Can I Tell if My Dog's Shivering is Due to Cold or Illness?
Differentiating between cold-related shivering and illness-related shivering can be challenging. However, consider these factors:
- Duration: Cold-related shivering typically subsides once the dog is warmed up. Illness-related shivering may persist.
- Accompanying symptoms: Cold-related shivering is usually isolated. Illness-related shivering is often accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, or changes in bowel movements.
- Environmental factors: Consider the temperature and your dog's clothing or bedding. Is it cold enough to warrant shivering?
- Breed and age: Smaller breeds and young/older dogs are more prone to cold-related shivering.
When in doubt, consult your veterinarian.
When Should I Take My Dog to the Vet Because of Shivering?
You should seek veterinary attention if your dog's shivering:
- Is persistent or severe
- Is accompanied by other symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in urination/defecation
- Seems unrelated to environmental temperature
- Doesn't improve after warming up or calming down
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to address underlying health issues and ensure your dog's well-being. Don't hesitate to contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog's shivering. Your veterinarian can perform a thorough examination and run any necessary tests to determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
