Seeing a dog’s legs shake can be alarming, but if it only happens on occasion, it’s probably not a serious health concern. Regardless, if your dog has tremors, it is wise to arrange for wellness testing, which will reveal the underlying cause and whether treatment is necessary. Here, the friendly staff at Alexandria Pike Animal Hospital in Southgate, KY, shares a few common causes of shaking limbs so you have some idea what to expect. 

External Stimuli

External stimuli like low temperatures and stressful scenarios can cause dogs of any size to shiver. Shaking due to the cold is more common among leaner, short-haired breeds, while tremors due to fear can happen to virtually any dog. If your canine only shakes in the wintertime or just after a bath, it may be because of the cold. Likewise, pups who only shiver during thunderstorms or fireworks are probably just scared. 

Internal Issues

Sometimes, health conditions are the cause of tremors in dogs. Muscle, bone, joint, or nerve damage can result in shaking in the affected limb, especially when the dog puts weight on it. Degenerative diseases that are common with age like arthritis can also cause tremors in the legs. And in rare cases, shaking may be a side effect of some kind of infection or even malnutrition, like a calcium imbalance or electrolyte abnormality. If your vet suspects any of these causes, he or she may recommend wellness testing with blood work to make an accurate diagnosis. 

If your dog’s limbs shake from time to time, schedule wellness testing at Alexandria Pike Animal Hospital to determine the underlying cause. Based in Southgate, KY, this full-service pet hospital is proud to offer comprehensive care for all your furry friends. From vaccinations to pet dental care, they provide quality services that ensure cats and dogs thrive for years to come. Visit their website to learn more or call (859) 781-1800 to schedule wellness testing today.