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Dogs shake their bodies for all kinds of reasons, including excitement, pain, old age and being cold. While shaking, shivering and trembling are all natural responses to how they are feeling, you should always contact your vet if your dog is behaving in a strange way.
Are you wondering why do dogs shake? From shivering and trembling in dogs to shaking legs, we speak to the vets about everything pet parents need to know. Keep reading for all of their advice:
1. Shivering and trembling in dogs
Many dogs shiver and tremble, but what exactly does it mean? Much like humans shivering is a natural response for dogs to try and warm up if they are cold or wet — and, in most cases, it is harmless.
“There are some more serious causes to be aware of,” PDSA Vet Claire Roberts tells Country Living. “Certain diseases, such as hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), can cause dogs to be cold — so if your dog is shivering a lot or generally unwell it’s best to visit your vet.”
Shivering could also be a sign that your dog is in pain, so do pay close attention to any symptoms that may arise. “Most of the time, serious causes of shivering will have lots of other symptoms as well. For example, dogs with a neurological (nervous system) issue may tremble but are also likely to have other symptoms like pain, general weakness or difficulty walking. “
2. Leg shaking
It can be easy to assume that your dog’s leg shaking may be due to them getting older, but it can be a sign of pain among other reasons.
Claire tells us: “If your dog’s legs are shaking, they may be painful, which could be caused by arthritis, especially in older dogs. If you think your dog might be in pain then it is always best to consult your vet.”
3. Head shaking
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Head shaking is normal dog behavior, often done to relieve discomfort, itchiness, irritation or remove excess water after swimming. If you notice your pup is doing it more regularly, then this could indicate there is a problem.
“Occasional head shaking is normal, but if your dog is shaking their head regularly it could be a sign of an ear issue, such as ear mites or an infection,” Claire adds. “This will require a visit to your vet to diagnose and treat. You can see more information on this at our Pet Health Hub.”
12 best dog shampoos for dry skin, shedding, odor and more
Groomer’s Performance Calming Dog Shampoo
£5.95
Does the sound of running water in the bathroom give your dog anxiety? This shampoo uses commonly used aromatherapy scents to help pets relax. It can be used on any breed for a soothing experience, and is enriched with relaxing lavender and mint for a clean, happy, fresh-smelling pet. It’s also a great product for older pets, to help soothe away those aches and pains.
Furminator DE shedding shampoo
£10.57
FURminator shampoo and conditioner offer ingredients that help reduce and control excessive shedding.
Using this omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, calendula extract and papaya leaf-infused shampoo once a month will leave your dogs coat looking and feeling as good as new.
Burt’s Bees Tearless 2 in 1 Shampoo and Conditioner for Puppies
£14.76
This product works as a shampoo and a conditioner to give you the best of both worlds without compromising on quality. The ultra-gentle, pH-balanced buttermilk and linseed oil formula will clean your dog and leave their coat feeling soft.
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic & Antiseborrheic Medicated Dog Shampoo
£14.73
The specially formulated shampoo is ideal for combatting issues that go deeper than just a bad hair day. This product will help relieve skin scaling caused by seborrhea and relieve mange and parasitic infections.
This medicated dog shampoo works fast to relieve symptoms including inflamed scalp, greasy or waxy skin, red skin rashes, bald spots, itch, and flaky skin associated with seborrhea, mange, and parasitic issues.
Animology Flea and Tick Shampoo For Dogs
£3.71
Are you looking to treat your dog for fleas without damaging his coat or skin? This dog shampoo has a gentle pH balanced formula, based on pro-vitamin B5 and tea tree oil, to ensure it is compatible with all skin types.
This tick remover shampoo also helps eliminate ticks and fleas from the thickest coats, while providing a soothing, calming effect on the irritated, bitten skin.
D.Dog Shampoo – Deodorizing
£19.50
Pamper your pet with the D.Dog Deodorizing Shampoo. The formula works to deeply cleanse hair of impurities, while fighting against unwanted odours.
A pre and probiotic DoggyBiome system offers protection for your dog’s skin and coat, working to minimize excess sebum and the risk of irritation. A natural Stop-Odor Plex helps to remove odors often caused by dirt, smoke and smog, leaving your dog feeling fresh and clean.
dog shampoo
Anicura Dog Shampoo only contains natural and naturally derived ingredients. It gently supports sensitive skin and nourishes the coat at the same time. The mild shampoo is especially suitable for dogs with sensitive skin, dry and itchy skin, or flaky and chapped skin.
Curly Coat Dog Shampoo
Curly Coat is a shampoo specifically designed for curly-coated dogs. Enriched with conditioners, oatmeal and shea butter, it helps to remove knots from your dog’s coat and improve overall appearance. It’s 100% vegan.
Dirty Dawg No Rinse Dog Shampoo
Dirty Dawg is a mild no-rinse dog shampoo spray that helps to effectively remove dirt and odor from your dog’s coat. Ideal for use as a ‘spot cleaner’, the spray is great for use on the go or for a quick clean between washes. Simply spray it on your dog’s coat and groom it through.
PRIDE & GROOM The Shedder Shampoo for pets
£25.00
Formulated with natural ingredients, this shampoo is designed to soothe your dog’s skin and clean their coat to ensure it remains soft and silky.
Cuddly Coat Cleansing Spritz
Give your dog’s coat a quick refresh with this no-rinse dog grooming spray. Formulated with chamomile flower extract and glycerin, this freshly-scented formula helps spot clean and deodorize pups on the go.
Baby Powder Dog Shampoo 5L
£24.99
Is your dog prone to jumping in puddles and rolling in the mud? Maybe it’s about time you invest in an industrial size bottle of shampoo.
This vegan-friendly product comes in a 5L bottle so you will be ready for bath-time at the drop of a hat. Plus, it’s PH balance makes it suitable for all breeds and coat types from Poodles and Cockapoos to Bulldogs and Labs. You can also use this shampoo on puppies over eight weeks.
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