You’ve managed the bath – shampoo, rinse, towel dry – but you know what’s coming next: the full-body shake that covers the bathroom in water and hair. Classic. 

But what about those shakes and shivers when your dog is completely dry? Sometimes, it’s pure excitement – like when you reach for the leash. Other times, it could signal something more: pain, anxiety, or even a health concern like an ear infection. Knowing what’s behind the shake can help you spot what’s normal and when it’s time to consult your vet. 

9 common causes of shaking in dogs 

1. Cold temperatures

Like us, dogs shiver when they’re cold. Shivering is how your dog's body warms up through small muscle movements. You may hear your dog’s teeth chattering too.  

Small or lean dogs, or pups with a single coat, like Hungarian Vizslas, can feel the cold more easily than other breeds. A cosy jumper in the day, pyjamas at night, and a warm winter coat can provide an extra layer of insulation when there’s a chill in the air.  

2. A wet or damp coat 

Dogs always seem to choose the perfect moment to shake excess water from their coat – usually when you’re nice and dry!  
 
But why do dogs shake when they’re wet? 
 
Air trapped between your dog’s skin and coat acts like a layer of insulation. When they’re wet, water displaces the air, making dogs lose heat quickly. A full body shake gets rid of up to 70% of the water in just a few seconds, making it quicker and more energy efficient to dry off and stay warm.  

3. Stress or anxiety 

If a dog is afraid or anxious, a surge of adrenaline prepares them for a fight or flight response, causing their body to tremble. Dogs will often show other signs of anxiety like lip-licking, yawning, panting, and drooling too. A full body shake also releases the tension in their body.  

If your dog trembles in fear, it could be a reaction to thunder, anticipated travel sickness, separation, or even an unexpected change to routine. Try to minimise sudden changes to their routine and prepare them for big life events in advance, like moving house. If it’s an environmental stressor, remove the trigger or guide them to a calmer space where they can feel safe.  

🐶 Read more: Top 5 types of dog anxiety and how to treat them naturally 

4. Excitement 

On the opposite end of the scale to fear and anxiety, is excitement. Some dogs experience intense emotions and may need to release energy through shaking or trembling.  

Dogs can pick up on your mood too: your excitement can heighten their emotions. Try to remain calm and even-tempered and encourage settled behaviour in your pup so they don’t get overwhelmed. 

5. Sleeping and waking 

Have you ever noticed your dog move when they’re asleep like they’re running after a ball or a rabbit? Dogs often act out what they dream, so it’s common to see your dog’s face and body twitch.  

After a nap or long sleep, your dog may shake and stretch to wake themselves up and get their blood pumping, ready to bounce into a new day.  

6. Ear infections 

If your dog shakes their head a lot and scratches or rubs their ears, they may have an irritating ear infection. Check their ears for redness and dirt, and give them a gentle wipe using a clean, damp cloth. A pungent smell and dark brown discharge in your dog’s ears mean it’s time for a vet visit. These are signs of ear mites that need your vet’s attention. 

🐶 Read more: Why does my dog get ear infections?

7. Age-related shaking 

Like us, dogs can experience a decline in mobility as they age; joints lose flexibility and may develop arthritis, while muscles can weaken or lose mass. Trembling or shivering can be a sign of a joint condition that makes moving difficult and painful.  

Feeding your dog a diet rich in Omega-3, like Lyka, can support their joint health whether it’s a pre-existing issue or part of your pro-active approach to healthcare. 

🐶 Read more: How to care for your senior dog

8. Pain 

Trembling, shaking or muscle tremors may be a sign of pain. You may also notice a change in your pup’s demeanour, mobility, or appetite, and they may lick the painful area repeatedly. If you think your dog is in pain, make an appointment to speak to your vet.  

9. Attention-seeking behaviour 

You may have spent years training your dog to be well behaved, but chances are they’ve trained you too! Our pups are clever creatures that can learn how attract our attention, for some dogs that may include shaking or trembling. If they’re in good health, don’t have any other symptoms, and the shaking miraculously stops when they get what they want (affection or treats) it may be an act. Monitor them closely and consult your vet if you’re not sure.  

Other causes of shaking in dogs 

Most causes of shaking, shivering, and trembling are normal, but it can also be a sign of an underlying health condition too.  

• Hypoglycaemia: low blood-glucose levels can cause dogs to shake. 

• Toxins: xylitol, chocolate, pest bait, or toxic plants are poisonous to dogs and can lead to body tremors. 

• Canine distemper: a highly contagious virus that can trigger trembling or shaking in unvaccinated dogs. If your puppy is shaking and they’ve not been fully vaccinated, speak to your vet straight away.  

• Idiopathic head tremors: some neurological disorders can cause repetitive, involuntary tremors, as if your pup is gently nodding ‘yes’ or shaking their head ‘no’. Idiopathic means there’s no known cause. 

• Seizures: characterised by violent shaking, muscle spasms, and collapsing, seizures are serious and require urgent veterinary attention. Like us, dogs can experience neurological disorders, like epilepsy, requiring long-term treatment. 

If your dog is shaking and acting weird all of a sudden, make an appointment with your veterinarian to investigate the matter further. It's always better to have a confirmed diagnosis. 

Is it time to shake-up your dog’s diet? 

Ready to take your dog’s health to the next level? With Lyka, every meal is crafted to give your pup real, whole food packed with nutrients they need to thrive. From vibrant, fresh veggies to nutrient-rich proteins, and superfood ingredients, Lyka meals are all about supporting a healthier, happier life for your dog. Make the switch to a diet that fuels their healthspan and lifespan – because great health begins with what’s in the bowl. 

🐶 Read more: The life changing benefits of real food for dogs