DogGeneral

Trembling / shivering in dogs: what to do

Trembling can come from cold, pain, fear, toxins or neurological problems.

What are the common causes?

Poisoning (food / plant / chemical)

Chocolate, xylitol, rodenticide, antifreeze and more can be fatal; onset speed varies by toxin.

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)

A ruptured disc compresses the spinal cord — long-backed breeds are prone; sudden paralysis needs surgery within 24 hours.

Home care & observation tips

✓Identify the substance and keep the packaging/remains
✓Do not induce vomiting yourself (corrosives cause secondary injury)
✓Check our poison lookup tool
✓Contact an animal hospital or poison hotline immediately
✓Strict rest — no jumping or stairs
✓Carry flat and level with a harness (never by the collar)

When must you see a vet?

⚠Confirmed or suspected ingestion of any toxic substance
⚠Drooling, tremors, seizures or a wobbly gait
⚠Sudden hind weakness or paralysis
⚠Yelping when the back is touched, hunched trembling back

FAQ

Is trembling / shivering in dogs serious?

It depends on the combination of symptoms, how long it has lasted, and your pet's energy and appetite.Note that it can appear in problems that need prompt care, such as Poisoning (food / plant / chemical), Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). Enter the full symptom combination in our symptom checker for a more specific urgency assessment.

Can I monitor at home first? What should I watch?

If energy and appetite are normal with no other signs, 24-48 hours of monitoring is reasonable. Keep notes on frequency, duration, appetite, water intake, energy and what the stool/urine looks like — vets find this very useful.

What should I prepare before the clinic?

Note when the symptom started and how it changed; bring packaging or residue if ingestion is suspected; bring vaccination and deworming records; and if possible take a video (odd gait, cough sound) — clearer than describing.

Not sure how serious it is? Assess it with the symptom checker

Start symptom check →