Have you ever wondered why your dog shakes during a thrilling game of chase? Quivering is common behaviour for canines, and has both negative and positive connotations.
When pooches are cold, they may shiver in a bid to warm up. To ensure hypothermia doesn’t set in, especially if the weather is particularly brisk, make sure they are snugly wrapped up in a sweater or coat, and don’t forget the booties for added paw protection. Sickness or pain is another reason for your furry friend to tremble, so if he is behaving abnormally, then a trip to the veterinarian may be required.
Triggers such as car journeys and loud noises may cause dogs to shake, but training and even anti-anxiety formulations are at hand to help them deal with stressful situations. Finally, during old age, canines are more prone to tremors through muscle and joint degeneration; treatment may take the form of pain medication and supplements.
However, excitement also causes pooches to quake. This is their way of reducing excess energy, particularly when involved in play. Alternatively, your furry friend may be extremely intelligent and notice that you pay him extra attention when he jiggles, so it could well be cheeky manipulation in order to receive more snuggles! Lastly, dogs shake to eliminate wetness, which prevents hypothermia by removing 70% of the water on their body. This is great news for them, but not so great for the groomer, who ends up getting a bath as well! ❤
~ Tania Marie de Saram
Shake It Off
