My Dog is Shaking and Not Eating [9 Reasons]

My dog is shaking and not eating, why? Let’s find out together…

Hey there fellow dog owners and animal lovers! Do you ever notice your furry friend acting a bit strange?

Well, my dog has been shaking and not eating recently and it’s got me all worried. If you’re experiencing the same thing with your pooch, keep reading!

In this blog post, we’ll explore some possible reasons and solutions for this concerning behavior. Let’s dive in and help our fur babies feel their best!

My Dog is Shaking and Not Eating

There could be several reasons why your dog is shaking and not eating, which include cold, excitement, stress/anxiety, seeking attention, pain, illness, poisoning, kidney disease, injury, low blood glucose, imbalances in the salts in the blood, fitting, and endocrine disorders like Addison’s disease.

Not eating and trembling might be signs of serious problems, and you should consider taking your dog to the vet for a checkup and appropriate treatment. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

Causes of Shaking and Loss of Appetite in Dogs

The following are some of the most common causes of shaking and loss of appetite in dogs:

1. Medication Side Effects

Dogs that take certain drugs may experience negative effects including shaking and decreased appetite.

Consult your veterinarian if your dog is taking medication and has these symptoms to go over possible substitutes or dosage changes.

Without consulting a doctor, never change or stop a dog’s medicine since rapid adjustments can be harmful to their health.

To reduce side effects while still treating the underlying illness, your veterinarian may suggest switching to a different medicine or changing the dosage.

2. Poisoning or Toxicity

Toxic substances, such as specific foods, plants, chemicals, or pharmaceuticals intended for people, can cause dogs to shake and lose their appetite, among other serious symptoms.

It’s critical to get in touch with your veterinarian right away or call a pet poison hotline if you suspect poisoning. Quick action is required to avoid more issues.

Without medical advice, do not provide any home cures or induce vomiting because some medications can injure you more when you re-ingest them.

Depending on the exact poison consumed, your veterinarian may give advice on the best course of action and may suggest hospitalization, supportive care, or certain antidotes.

3. Neurological Disorders

Dogs who have certain neurological disorders, such as seizures, vestibular illness, or brain tumors, may shake or lose their appetite.

Professional diagnosis and treatment are necessary for certain ailments.

Your veterinarian could suggest seeking out additional testing from a veterinary neurologist, who can assess the neurological problem using specialized procedures like MRI or CT scans.

Medications to manage symptoms or control seizures, surgery, or palliative care to provide comfort and maintain quality of life are all possible forms of treatment.

4. Metabolic Imbalances

Dogs who shake or experience changes in appetite may also have electrolyte imbalances, blood sugar issues, or thyroid issues.

To identify these imbalances and create a suitable treatment plan, your veterinarian could suggest particular tests, such as blood testing or urinalysis.

Dietary changes may be part of a treatment plan to address particular nutritional excesses or deficiencies.

To control blood sugar, thyroid function, or electrolyte levels, a veterinarian may prescribe supplements or drugs.

Learn more about how to identify a dog that is cold at night.

5. Infections

Viral, bacterial, or fungal infections can affect dogs and result in shaking and loss of appetite.

Kennel cough, UTI infections, or skin infections are typical examples. It is crucial to get prompt veterinarian care if you suspect an infection.

The veterinarian will conduct a physical examination and can advise particular tests, like blood work or culture and sensitivity testing, to pinpoint the infection and identify the best course of action.

Depending on the nature and severity of the infection, treatment options may include drugs, antibiotics, or antifungal medicines.

6. Pain or Injury

In pain or after an accident, dogs may tremble and lose their appetite. Fractures, arthritis, muscle strains, and even small injuries can be uncomfortable.

If your dog displays any of these characteristics, it’s important to keep an eye on them and look for any indications of pain, such as limping, sensitivity to touch, or alterations in posture.

For a comprehensive examination, it’s crucial to speak with your veterinarian.

Your veterinarian may advise pain management techniques like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs), physical therapy, or complementary treatments like acupuncture, depending on the underlying reason.

Additionally, they could offer advice on how to speed up the healing process by rest, immobilization, or particular activities.

7. Dental Problems

Dogs may find eating painful due to mouth pain, gum disease, tooth decay, or oral tumors, which will reduce their appetite. In order to avoid these problems, routine dental care is crucial.

To eliminate tartar and take care of any dental issues, it is advised to arrange routine professional dental cleanings for your dog, which are typically carried out under anesthetic.

Regular dental checkups can help identify problems early. Additionally, setting a regimen for home dental care, such as cleaning teeth every day or giving out toys and chews that promote good oral hygiene, will help.

If your dog has dental pain, you can temporarily relieve it by giving them wet food or a prescription dental diet, or by softening their food.

8. Gastrointestinal Issues

Shaking and a decrease in appetite might be symptoms of digestive issues such as an upset stomach, gastritis, or intestinal parasites.

It is vital to speak with your veterinarian if you have any suspicions about a digestive problem.

Depending on your dog’s needs, they might suggest a customized diet that includes easily digested or prescribed food.

It may also be recommended to take antacids, anti-nausea meds, or deworming therapies to treat the specific condition.

In some circumstances, additional testing, such as fecal examinations or blood work, may be necessary to find and treat the underlying issue.

9. Stress or Anxiety

Like people, dogs can suffer stress and anxiety, which can show as trembling and a loss of appetite.

Routine changes, loud noises, separation anxiety, or traumatic experiences are examples of common triggers.

Establish a reliable schedule that gives your dog a sense of stability in order to aid them in coping.

It might also be advantageous to create a calming atmosphere using pheromone diffusers or calming music.

Positive reinforcement training methods and providing reassuring cues like a warm blanket or toy can assist reduce anxiety.

Additional support could come from natural treatments like herbal cures or calming medications. In extreme circumstances, it could be necessary to seek further advice from a qualified dog behaviorist or veterinarian.

Learn more about identifying a dog that is overheating.

How to help a dog that is shaking and not eating

Here are some common ways to help a dog that is shaking and not eating:

1. Consult a veterinarian: If your dog is shaking and not eating, the first thing you should do is consult a veterinarian. They can help diagnose the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.
2. Provide a comfortable and safe environment: Ensure that your dog’s environment is comfortable and safe. Dogs often shake when they are anxious or stressed, so provide them with a cozy and quiet place to rest.
3. Adjust their diet: If your dog is not eating, consider adjusting their diet. Dogs may be picky eaters, so try offering them different types of food, or smaller, more frequent meals.
4. Keep your dog hydrated: Make sure your dog has access to plenty of clean water. Dehydration can cause shaking, so it’s important to keep them hydrated.
5. Monitor their behavior: Keep an eye on your dog’s behavior and take note of any other symptoms. If your dog is also lethargic, drooling, or vomiting, it could indicate an underlying health issue.
6. Reduce stress: Try to reduce any stressors in your dog’s environment and provide a calm and quiet space for them to relax.
7. Try natural remedies: Natural remedies like CBD oil or herbal supplements can help calm anxious dogs, but it’s important to speak with your veterinarian before administering any new treatments.
8. Address any underlying anxiety: Shaking can often be a symptom of anxiety in dogs. Consider ways to reduce your dog’s anxiety, such as providing them with plenty of mental stimulation, crate training, or using calming aromatherapy oils.
9. Show your dog love and comfort: Dogs may shake when they are scared or anxious, so showing them love and comfort can help reduce their stress levels. Spend time playing with them, offer them belly rubs, or simply cuddle up with them on the couch.

Related Questions

Why is my dog shaking and not eating?

This could be a sign of illness or pain. There are several possible causes, such as fever, anxiety, poisoning, or gastrointestinal problems. It’s important to take your dog to the veterinarian for a checkup as soon as possible.

Should I try to force my dog to eat?

No. You should never force your dog to eat, especially if they are displaying other symptoms of illness or discomfort. Instead, you can offer them small amounts of their favorite food throughout the day and make sure they have plenty of water available.

Can I give my dog over-the-counter medication for their shaking and lack of appetite?

No, you should never give your dog over-the-counter medication without consulting with your veterinarian. Some medications can be dangerous or even fatal to dogs.

What can I do to make my dog feel better?

Provide your dog with a comfortable and quiet space to rest, away from loud noises or other stressors. Offer them plenty of fresh water and small amounts of their favorite food. Most importantly, take them to the vet to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.

When should I take my dog to the vet?

You should take your dog to the vet as soon as you notice any unusual symptoms, such as shaking and lack of appetite. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference in your dog’s recovery.

Can shaking and lack of appetite be a sign of a serious health problem in my dog?

Yes, shaking and lack of appetite can be a sign of a serious underlying health problem in dogs. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you take your dog to the vet for proper diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible.

Learn more about identifying a sick dog.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if your dog is shaking and not eating, it’s understandable to worry. But there are many potential causes for these symptoms, ranging from minor to serious.

The key is to pay attention to your dog’s behavior, monitor their symptoms, and seek veterinary help if necessary.

Remember, your furry friend depends on you for their well-being, so don’t hesitate to take action if something seems off.

With a little care and attention, you and your dog can overcome any obstacle together!