Panting and shaking that continues all day in a dog can be alarming for any pet owner.
These symptoms can signal anything from temporary stress to serious health concerns that need urgent veterinary attention.
We outline the common causes of a dog panting and shaking all day, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Panting and Shaking All Day — Why It Happens
When a dog is panting and shaking all day, it often points to pain, illness, or extreme stress. It can be caused by conditions such as heatstroke, anxiety, poisoning, pain from injury, or systemic illnesses like heart disease.
These symptoms happen when your dog’s body is under physical or emotional strain, affecting breathing patterns and muscle control.
Common Causes of a Dog Panting and Shaking All Day
Heatstroke
When a dog overheats, panting is its main way of trying to cool down. Shaking can follow as the body begins to fail to regulate its temperature.
Dogs left in hot environments, exercised too hard in warm weather, or without access to shade and water are especially at risk.
Signs include excessive drooling, red gums, weakness, and collapse. This is a medical emergency because heatstroke can cause organ failure and death within hours.
Anxiety or Stress
Dogs experiencing prolonged anxiety may pant and shake all day, especially during triggering events like thunderstorms, fireworks, or separation from their owners.
The panting comes from adrenaline surges, while the shaking reflects muscle tension and nervous energy.
In long-term cases, anxiety can lead to other health issues, including digestive problems and behavioral changes.
Related: Dog panting excessively (Causes and What To Do)
Pain or Injury
If a dog is in pain, whether from arthritis, injury, or an internal problem, it may pant and shake as a response to discomfort.
Panting helps cope with pain, while shaking can indicate muscle strain or general distress.
Owners might notice limping, reluctance to move, or changes in posture alongside these symptoms.
Poisoning or Toxin Exposure
Certain toxins, from chocolate to household cleaners, can cause prolonged panting and shaking.
These substances disrupt a dog’s nervous system or metabolism, leading to tremors, rapid breathing, vomiting, or seizures.
Toxin exposure is always urgent — the faster treatment begins, the better the outcome.
Heart Disease
Heart problems reduce a dog’s ability to circulate oxygen efficiently, leading to panting and weakness.
Shaking may be related to low blood pressure or fatigue.
Other signs can include coughing, exercise intolerance, and sudden collapse.
Heart disease can progress quickly without treatment, so early intervention matters.
Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
Small breeds, puppies, and diabetic dogs are most prone to drops in blood sugar.
This can cause constant shaking, disorientation, weakness, and panting as the body tries to compensate.
Without rapid correction, hypoglycemia can lead to seizures or coma.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Panting and Shaking All Day
If your dog is otherwise alert and responsive, first ensure they are in a cool, quiet, and safe space.
Offer fresh water and limit any activity to prevent further strain.
Remove possible stress triggers, such as loud noises or other animals, and observe for any changes.
Check their body for injuries, swelling, or signs of pain.
If your dog has a known health condition, follow your vet’s care plan, but be ready to call if symptoms worsen.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Contact your vet immediately if your dog’s panting and shaking are accompanied by collapse, vomiting, pale or blue gums, or signs of distress.
Seek urgent help if heatstroke, poisoning, or a heart problem is suspected — waiting can be life-threatening.
If symptoms persist more than a few hours without improvement, even in the absence of obvious distress, a veterinary exam is still important.
Read more: Dog Panting and Shaking After Surgery (Here’s why)
Key Takeaway
Panting and shaking all day in a dog is not a symptom to ignore. It can range from stress to life-threatening conditions that need urgent care.
Monitor closely, provide a calm environment, and seek veterinary attention if there are any signs of worsening or underlying illness.
With timely action, you can address the root cause and keep your dog comfortable and safe.