When your dog is both panting and shivering, it often signals that something more serious is going on than simple overheating or excitement. These symptoms combined may point to underlying pain, anxiety, or medical issues that require prompt attention.
We outline the common causes of dog panting and shivering, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
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Dog Panting and Shivering — Why It Happens
Dogs pant and shiver when they’re in pain, scared, feeling unwell, or suffering from a systemic issue like fever, poisoning, or neurological imbalance. While each symptom can occur independently, their combination is usually a sign that your dog is physically or emotionally distressed.
Common Causes of Dog Panting and Shivering
Pain or Injury
Pain from an injury, dental issue, or internal discomfort often causes panting as the body tries to cope with the stress. Shivering accompanies it when the pain is sharp, ongoing, or intense.
Your dog may pace, lick a painful area, resist touch, or avoid normal activities like jumping or eating.
Common examples include arthritis flare-ups, slipped discs, or abdominal pain.
Pain management, rest, and veterinary diagnosis are essential for proper treatment.
Fever or Infection
Fever is the body’s response to infection—and can cause both panting and shivering as the temperature rises.
You might notice lethargy, loss of appetite, warm ears or paws, and glazed eyes.
Infections can stem from wounds, dental abscesses, tick-borne diseases, or internal illnesses.
A vet visit can confirm the presence of fever and guide treatment using antibiotics or other medications.
Read more: Dog Panting and Shaking at Night (What it means)
Anxiety or Panic Attacks
Dogs that are extremely anxious may pant and tremble uncontrollably. Thunderstorms, fireworks, car rides, or separation can all be powerful triggers.
You may also see pacing, hiding, lip licking, yawning, or clingy behavior.
Chronic anxiety can worsen over time, so early intervention is best.
Calming supplements, behavior training, pheromone diffusers, or anti-anxiety medications can help restore peace of mind.
Toxin Exposure or Poisoning
Ingesting toxic substances such as chocolate, xylitol, household cleaners, or certain plants can lead to panting and shivering—along with drooling, vomiting, seizures, or collapse.
Panting occurs as the body struggles to compensate, while shivering may reflect nervous system involvement.
Immediate veterinary intervention is essential, and inducing vomiting should only be done if directed by a vet.
Neurological Disorders
Conditions like seizures, tremors, or canine distemper may present with shivering, panting, and abnormal behavior such as twitching, confusion, or stumbling.
These signs may come on suddenly and vary in severity.
Neurological issues require specialized care, often including imaging, medication, and long-term monitoring.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Panting and Shivering
Start by moving your dog to a quiet, cool area and remove any obvious stressors.
Check for injury, swelling, wounds, or anything unusual in their posture or movement.
Take note of the duration and intensity of the symptoms, and whether other signs (vomiting, weakness, diarrhea) are present.
Avoid giving human medications, and keep your dog calm and supported while you monitor their condition.
Call your veterinarian if you’re unsure or if symptoms persist more than 30 minutes.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Seek veterinary help right away if your dog:
Shivers and pants continuously for more than 30–60 minutes
Is lethargic or unresponsive
Has a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea
Shows signs of poisoning (drooling, seizures, collapsing)
Can’t get comfortable, eat, or walk normally
Prompt diagnosis can lead to quicker recovery and prevent complications.
Read more: Dog Panting and Not Eating (Here’s why)
Key Takeaway
When your dog is panting and shivering, it’s rarely something to brush off.
These signs can mean pain, fever, poisoning, or deep anxiety—and early action is the best way to help your dog recover.
Stay calm, observe closely, and reach out to your vet when in doubt.