Why Does My Maltese Shih Tzu Shake?

Your Maltese Shih Tzu may be shaking for a variety of reasons, ranging from benign to more serious health concerns. Understanding the common causes can help you determine if a vet visit is necessary.

Maltese Shih Tzus, being small companion breeds, can be particularly sensitive to their environment and emotions. Their delicate structure and keen intelligence mean their bodies and minds react distinctly to various stimuli.

Common Reasons Your Maltese Shih Tzu Might Be Shaking

Shaking, shivering, or trembling in dogs can be attributed to several factors. Here are some of the most frequent causes:

1. Cold

Small breeds like the Maltese Shih Tzu have less body fat and thinner coats compared to larger, double-coated dogs, making them more susceptible to cold.

• Signs: Shivering accompanied by a hunched posture, seeking warmth, or reluctance to go outside in chilly weather.
• Solution: Provide a warm, cozy bed, dog sweaters or coats for outdoor excursions, and ensure their living area is free from drafts.

2. Excitement or Overstimulation

Many dogs, especially energetic or highly emotional breeds, shake when they are extremely excited, such as when you come home, during playtime, or anticipating a treat.

• Signs: Shaking combined with wagging tail, panting, jumping, and overall joyful demeanor. This shaking is usually temporary and stops once the excitement subsides.
• Solution: Acknowledge their excitement calmly. Encourage quiet behavior before giving attention or treats to help them learn to manage their arousal levels.

3. Stress and Anxiety

Fear, anxiety, or stress can trigger trembling in dogs. Common stressors include loud noises (fireworks, thunderstorms), changes in routine, separation anxiety, or new environments.

• Signs: Shaking alongside other anxiety indicators like yawning, lip-licking, pacing, whining, excessive panting, drooling, or destructive behavior.
• Solution:
  • Identify the stressor and, if possible, remove or reduce exposure to it.
  • Create a safe, quiet space for them during stressful events.
  • Consider anxiety wraps, calming pheromone diffusers, or interactive toys to distract them.
  • For severe anxiety, consult your veterinarian or a certified professional dog trainer for behavior modification techniques or medication. Learn more about dog anxiety from reputable sources like the AKC.

4. Seeking Attention

Some dogs learn that shaking or trembling garners a reaction from their owners, even if it's negative attention. This can become a learned behavior, especially if it results in cuddles, treats, or playtime.

• Signs: Shaking that stops once they receive attention, often accompanied by eye contact or nudging.
• Solution: Avoid rewarding the shaking behavior. Instead, praise and reward them when they are calm. If they shake for attention, turn away until they stop, then offer attention.

5. Pain or Illness

Shaking can be a significant indicator of pain, discomfort, or an underlying medical condition. This is particularly concerning if the shaking is sudden, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms.

• Signs:
  • Pain: Shaking localized to a specific body part, lameness, reluctance to move, yelping when touched, changes in appetite or mood.
  • Illness: Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, weakness, or changes in thirst/urination.
  • Conditions like generalized tremor syndrome, kidney disease, neurological issues, or even ingesting toxins can cause shaking.
• Solution: If you suspect pain or illness, seek immediate veterinary attention. Only a vet can properly diagnose and treat medical causes of shaking. For more information on general dog health, consider resources like PetMD.

6. Old Age

As dogs age, they can develop tremors, particularly in their legs. This can be due to weakening muscles, joint pain (like arthritis), or neurological conditions common in senior dogs.

• Signs: Tremors primarily in the hind legs, difficulty standing or walking, stiffness, or decreased activity levels.
• Solution: While age-related tremors might not always be curable, a vet can help manage underlying pain with medication, supplements, or physical therapy to improve your dog's quality of life.

Normal Shaking vs. Seizures

It's crucial to differentiate between normal, non-alarming shaking and the involuntary movements of a seizure.

• Normal Shaking: Often a conscious reaction to a stimulus (cold, fear, excitement) and the dog is usually aware of their surroundings. You can often distract them or help them stop.
• Seizures: Are uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain. During a seizure, your dog typically loses consciousness or appears disoriented, may paddle their limbs, drool excessively, vocalize, or lose bladder/bowel control. They are unresponsive to your voice or touch. A post-ictal phase (recovery period) often follows, where the dog might be confused or temporarily blind.

If you suspect your Maltese Shih Tzu is having a seizure, consult your veterinarian immediately. You can find more information on seizures in dogs from veterinary sources like VCA Animal Hospitals.

When to Consult a Veterinarian

While some shaking is normal, it's always best to err on the side of caution. Consult your vet if:

• The shaking is sudden, severe, or persistent.
• It's accompanied by other concerning symptoms (lethargy, vomiting, limping, behavioral changes).
• Your dog appears to be in pain or distress.
• You cannot identify a clear, benign cause for the shaking.

Summary of Shaking Causes

By observing your Maltese Shih Tzu's behavior and recognizing accompanying symptoms, you can better understand why they are shaking and take appropriate steps to ensure their well-being.