You Are Reading
What are the reasons for a dog to shiver?
A dog shivering may be caused by cold weather, anxiety or fear, calcium deficiency, old age, poisoning, illness, body pain, or other reasons. To determine the specific cause, the dog should be taken to a pet hospital for inspection. If the symptoms of shivering intensify, with frequent seizures, vomiting, and other abnormalities, it is necessary to bring the dog to the pet hospital in time for related checks and treatment to avoid missing the best treatment time.
- Cold weather
When the environmental temperature is low, the dog feels cold and shivers. In this case, the owner can move the dog to a warmer place or cover it with blankets to keep it warm and prevent catching a cold.
- Anxiety or fear
When a dog feels anxious or afraid, it may also shiver. This is particularly true for young dogs that have just been taken home, as they feel unsafe in unfamiliar surroundings and are constantly in a state of tension and fear, leading to shivering. It is recommended for owners to spend more time with their dogs or use treats and toys to divert their attention.
- Calcium deficiency
A dog with a calcium deficiency will also shake continuously in certain parts of its body, with a large amplitude. Therefore, owners should pay attention to supplementing their dog's calcium. The most direct method is to feed the dog calcium powder or tablets, which can effectively strengthen its bones.
- Old age
Older dogs often shake severely, especially in their hindquarters. This is caused by poor control of the autonomic nerves, which is similar to humans shaking their hands as they age.
- Poisoning
When a dog accidentally eats harmful substances, it may show symptoms of whole-body shivering, seizures, and frothing at the mouth. In severe cases, it may even lead to death, making it the most dangerous cause of shivering. Therefore, owners should seek medical attention immediately if their dog shows abnormal symptoms.
- Illness
A dog with chronic renal failure, neuromuscular diseases, trauma, or distemper will also shiver. Owners should take their dogs to the pet hospital for diagnosis and treatment.
- Body pain
In addition to these reasons, if a dog is injured and feels pain, its body will also shake. Severe pain may be accompanied by screaming, loss of appetite, and poor mental state. As dogs cannot express their pain verbally, it is essential for owners to pay attention to their physical condition daily. If any abnormalities are detected, seek medical attention promptly.