Why Do Small Dogs Shake?

If you have a Bichon Frise, a Beagle, a Chihuahua, or any of the other small dog breeds, you may have often wondered, “Why do small dogs shake?” Most of the time when your pet shakes it is a perfectly natural reaction to something in its environment, and not a cause for worry. This behavior can reflect a physiological and emotional response to stimuli.

It is Getting Chilly

If there is a slight dip in the temperature, your dog is likely to notice it before you do. Small dogs shake when they are feeling cold. This is a natural physiological response to keep the body warmer by improving blood circulation.

Small dog breeds have a higher skin-to-body volume ratio. Simply put, they have more skin, as compared to bigger breeds, and lose body heat quicker. A light sweater or blanket would be useful in warming your pet, or you could hug it gently to stop the trembling.

They are Emotional

Little dogs shake when they are nervous or feel anxious. If you notice that your pet’s ears are pinned back and it is trembling, it is probably scared of something in its environment. It could be a guest, another animal, or the sound of fireworks that has upset your dog.

Petting your dog will help reassure it. You can also put a drop of lavender on in its bedding, as the scent is proven to soothe animals. Do not put more than a drop as your dog’s sense of smell is far more sensitive than a person’s.

Small dogs tremble in anticipation when they are excited. Your pet may shake with delight when it hears you at the door, or when it is ready to go out in the car or visit a dog friend. When riding in the car your pet should be in a carrier, or safely secured with a harness.

They are Hungry

Small dog breeds tend to have low blood sugar, and they must be fed on time. This is especially true for puppies that are less than three months old and are not able to effectively regulate blood sugar levels. If your dog is shaking, looks lethargic or weak, it requires food to help the blood sugar levels rise.

Nature’s Call

Little dogs often shake and look miserable when they need to go out to attend to nature’s calls. Such trembling may also be accompanied by whimpering and scratching the door.  If it is raining or snowing, it is likely that your pet does not want to get wet but needs to go out quite badly. You could get your dog a raincoat or use an umbrella to shield you both from the rain or snow.

A Cause for Worry

Small dogs shake when they are cold, excited, or nervous, or if they need to go out. You also need to pay attention to other symptoms and cues. When a dog avoids contact, is hunched over and trembling, and its eyes look glassy, it is most likely in pain and requires medical attention.

If a dog shows signs that suggest that it is disoriented or dizzy, or if it shows unusual eye movement, it may be indicative of a neurological condition. It is best to consult with a veterinarian without delay.

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