Trembling, Shaking and Shivering
in Dogs
Many dogs, mostly small breeds, tremble or shake for no apparent reasons. Most
vets, when pressed, can think of obscure diseases that can cause such trembles
but in most cases the dog tests healthy in every other area. Thus, no one has
really been able to explain why some dogs shake and shiver even when they are
warm and have no reason to be nervous.
If your dog shivers excessively or suddenly starts shaking it may be cause to
consult your veterinarian (as sudden onset can be a symptom of pain or a nervous
disorder) but if full body shivering or a foot or leg that trembles is something
you've noticed from puppyhood then your dog's shaking is probably nothing to worry
about. Although not explained, it has been noted that trembling legs occur more
often in terriers and white dogs.