There are many reasons that a dog may shiver. Here is an overview of the causes of shivering in dogs.
Great acting is a true gift. A great actor can transport you and make you believe in anything they say or do. You may find that you have a great actor in your home right now. Your dog.
For many dogs, shivering is a sure fire way to get attention from the owner. Couple that with a pitiful look and cuddling and lap time is not far away. Many owners report that when their dog is outside and can be seen by the owner the dog will shiver if it wants to come in no matter what the actual temperature might be. Some dogs will shiver convincingly when they want to be picked up.
So how can you tell if a shivering dog is one that really needs something or is a great actor getting the desired response from their owner? A look at the causes of shivering can help you decide if you have a great actor or if your dog has a health issue that needs attention from your veterinarian.
If it is truly cold outside, dogs will shiver. Just like people, they use shivering to warm up. Remember, wind chill factors will affect dogs, just like it does people.
Poisoning can cause tremors and seizures. Symptoms can vary by poison and the amount ingested but poison should be on your list of possible reasons for a sudden onset of shivering in your dog. Consider it a medical emergency.
Seizure disorders can include seizures that mimic shivering. Seizure disorders can strike a dog at any age for a wide variety of reasons, some known, such as brain tumors and in other cases the cause of the seizures cannot be determined and they are called idiopathic seizures.
Old age and pain can cause shivering in a dog. As dogs get older tremors can affect their legs. Often, owners assume that is just a part of getting older for a dog. What they don't realize it that it may be a sign of pain.
Generalized Tremor Syndrome (GTS) also known as White Shaker Dog Syndrome can cause continual tremors. GTS was first recognized in small white dogs including the West Highland White Terrier and the Bichon Frise. However, GTS may affect any breed of dog. Right now the thinking is that GTS is an immune mediated problem as opposed to an inherited condition.
The onset of nausea can cause a dog to start trembling. There are diseases, such as distemper, that can cause trembling or shivering as well. Addison's disease can be another cause of trembling or shivering.
The sudden onset of shivering in a dog should send you immediately to your phone to give us a call. You will find that your dog is a wonderful actor or you may have seen the symptom of a medical issue that needs prompt treatment.