If your dog trembles as if he’s nervous—even when there’s no obvious reason—it could mean more than just a case of the jitters. Shaking that mimics nervous behavior can stem from anxiety, medical issues, or emotional hypersensitivity.
We outline the common causes of dog shaking like nervous, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Shaking Like Nervous — Why It Happens
Dogs may shake like they’re nervous due to fear, separation anxiety, phobias, chronic stress, or even underlying pain or illness. When trembling happens often or suddenly, it’s a sign that something needs closer investigation.
Dog Panting and Vibrating
If your dog is panting and appears to be vibrating or trembling, it’s often a sign that something deeper is going on. These symptoms together can point to pain, fear, fever, or a serious underlying medical issue—especially when they happen suddenly or persist.
We outline the common causes of dog panting and vibrating, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Panting and Vibrating — Why It Happens
Panting combined with vibrating or trembling is a strong sign that your dog is experiencing internal distress—either physical, emotional, or neurological. While dogs do pant to cool down, trembling or shaking usually indicates discomfort or imbalance that should not be ignored.
Common Causes of Dog Panting and Vibrating
Pain or Injury
Pain is one of the most common causes of trembling combined with panting.
This could be due to an acute injury like a sprain or strain, or something internal like abdominal pain or arthritis flare-ups.
Dogs in pain may struggle to settle, pant heavily, and show visible shivering or body trembling.
You might also notice restlessness, whining, or attempts to hide.
Pain relief and an accurate diagnosis from a veterinarian are key to helping your dog recover.
Anxiety or Fear
Emotional distress can cause dogs to pant and vibrate—especially during storms, fireworks, travel, or separation.
Dogs may tremble while also pacing, hiding, or clinging to you.
These episodes can range from mild unease to full-blown panic attacks.
Creating a safe space, using white noise, calming pheromones, or anxiety wraps can help soothe them.
For chronic anxiety, consult your vet about behavioral therapy or medication.
Fever or Infection
A rising body temperature from infection or inflammation can trigger panting and full-body trembling.
Fever may result from bacterial infections, viruses, or autoimmune conditions.
Dogs may also show lethargy, loss of appetite, warm ears, or a reluctance to move.
Your vet may recommend lab tests and medications to treat the underlying cause.
Neurological Disorders
Neurological conditions like seizures, nerve damage, or canine cognitive dysfunction can lead to trembling and abnormal panting.
Dogs may display disorientation, eye flicking, or trouble with balance.
In some cases, tremors are rhythmic and subtle, while in others they may be violent or uncontrollable.
These cases require prompt diagnosis through neurological exams or imaging.
Read more: Dog Panting and Shaking (Common causes)
Poisoning or Toxin Exposure
Trembling and panting are common signs of toxin ingestion.
Common sources include chocolate, xylitol, antifreeze, pesticides, or human medications.
Dogs may also drool, vomit, collapse, or have seizures.
If you suspect poisoning, treat it as a medical emergency and get to the vet immediately.
Time is critical with toxins—do not wait to see if symptoms improve.
Read more: Dog Shaking and Looking Around (What it means)
Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)
Especially common in small breeds, puppies, or diabetic dogs, hypoglycemia can cause trembling, panting, confusion, and weakness.
You may see staggering, disorientation, or sudden collapse.
Feeding a small, sugary snack (like honey on the gums) can help in the short term, but a vet visit is still crucial.
Ongoing hypoglycemia may signal metabolic or hormonal imbalances.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Panting and Vibrating
Stay calm—your dog can sense your energy.
Move your dog to a quiet, cool, and secure area where they can rest comfortably.
Take note of additional symptoms: Is your dog vomiting, limping, or acting confused?
Offer fresh water and avoid feeding unless advised by your vet.
Avoid giving human medications, and do not attempt to self-diagnose if symptoms are severe or sudden.
Document what happened just before symptoms started to help your vet assess the situation.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Get veterinary care if your dog:
Is trembling and panting continuously for more than 30 minutes
Shows other symptoms like vomiting, collapse, or disorientation
Has recently eaten something suspicious or toxic
Has a known medical condition like diabetes, heart disease, or epilepsy
Is unresponsive or visibly in pain
These symptoms can be early warnings of serious conditions that worsen quickly if left untreated.
Read more: Dog Panting and Shaking for No Reason (Should you worry?)
Key Takeaway
Panting and vibrating are not just signs of being scared or hot—they often signal pain, illness, or emotional distress.
By observing your dog closely and acting quickly, you can help uncover the root cause and ensure they receive the care they need.
Always trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is, and your vet can help guide the next steps to recovery.