Dog Panting & Shaking: Causes, Treatment & When to Worry
If your normally healthy dog suddenly begins panting heavily and shaking, it can be alarming. These symptoms are broad indicators that something may be amiss, ranging from mild stress to serious medical problems. This guide explores the main causes of panting and shaking in dogs, what you can do, and when to seek veterinary assistance.
Understanding Panting and Shaking in Dogs
Panting and shaking may appear suddenly or develop gradually. Knowing when these signs started and if your dog has pre-existing health conditions can help identify the cause. Common reasons include anxiety, pain, overheating, and underlying illnesses.
If your dog has a diagnosed health issue, such as heart disease or diabetes, discuss with your vet what symptoms to expect and appropriate responses. Always observe changes closely and seek advice when uncertain.
1. Exercise and Heatstroke
After vigorous activity, dogs often pant to cool down, which might occasionally be accompanied by mild shaking. However, heavy panting combined with tremors could indicate heatstroke, especially on hot days without adequate breaks or water. Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate cooling and veterinary care.
Symptoms include drooling, weakness, rapid heart rate, collapse, and sometimes vomiting. Always provide shade and fresh water during exercise, and avoid high-energy activity in extreme heat. Learn more about heatstroke prevention and symptoms here.
2. Heart and Lung Conditions
Chronic or acute panting and shaking may signal heart problems such as an enlarged heart pressing on the lungs, impairing breathing and oxygen delivery. This can cause trembling and laboured breathing.
If your dog exhibits pale or blue gums, collapsed states, or worsening fatigue alongside panting and shaking, seek urgent veterinary attention. Early diagnosis and treatment of heart or lung disease can improve quality of life.
3. Fever and Infection
A fever caused by viral or bacterial infections can raise a dog’s core temperature, leading to panting and shivering as it tries to regulate temperature. Serious infections like canine distemper require prompt veterinary care.
Other signs include lethargy, lack of appetite, and vomiting. Any dog suspected of running a fever with panting and shaking should see a vet immediately.
4. Blood Sugar Imbalances
Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) can cause panting and shaking, notably in diabetic dogs but also in small, sensitive breeds. Italian Greyhounds and Chihuahuas are particularly prone.
Symptoms may include weakness and confusion. If you suspect low blood sugar, provide a small amount of honey or sugar water and contact your vet for evaluation.
5. Pain and Trauma
Severe pain from injury, internal illness, or trauma can result in panting and shaking. Dogs unable to express pain otherwise may manifest discomfort through these signs.
Check for limping, reluctance to move, or sensitivity when touched. If pain is suspected, a veterinary assessment is essential for diagnosis and management.
6. Fear and Anxiety
Stressful events like loud noises, fireworks, thunderstorms, or changes in environment can cause dogs to pant and shake. These responses are normal reactions to anxiety.
Supporting your dog with a calm environment, gentle reassurance, or calming aids such as anxiety wraps or pheromone diffusers can help.
7. Toxic Ingestion
Ingesting toxic substances such as chocolate, grapes, certain plants, or artificial sweeteners like xylitol can lead to panting and shaking, early signs of poisoning.
Early veterinary intervention improves outcomes, so take your dog immediately to the vet if you suspect toxin ingestion. Symptoms often worsen quickly and may include vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, or collapse.
8. Seizures and Neurologic Disorders
Some dogs shake and pant during or following seizure activity. Seizures are medical emergencies requiring urgent veterinary care to determine cause and treatment.
If your dog shows uncontrolled shaking, twitching, or altered consciousness, contact your vet or an emergency clinic immediately.
9. When to Seek Veterinary Help
You should contact your vet immediately if you notice:
- Sudden, severe, or persistent panting and shaking
- Signs of heatstroke such as excessive drooling, collapse, or weakness
- Difficulty breathing or blue gums
- Seizures or unresponsiveness
- Fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, or other signs of illness
- Suspected poisoning or toxin ingestion
- Signs of pain or injury
What To Do While Monitoring Your Dog
- Move to a cool, shaded, and calm area if overheating is suspected
- Provide fresh water but do not force drinking
- Avoid stressful or strenuous activity until assessed
- Observe for additional symptoms like vomiting or collapse
- Seek veterinary advice promptly when symptoms persist or worsen
Additional Help: How to Care for Sensitive Small Breeds
Smaller dogs like Italian Greyhounds and Chihuahuas require extra care to avoid hypoglycaemia and overheating during exercise. Regular feeding, hydration, and temperature monitoring are vital for their wellbeing.
Responsible Pet Ownership Note
Recognising symptoms early and seeking proper veterinary care is key to your dog’s health. Always use reputable breeders or adoption centres when finding a new dog and ensure your dog has regular health check-ups.
This article promotes awareness and responsible care to help you provide the best life possible for your canine companion.
