When your dog starts panting heavily and trembling during the night, it’s impossible not to feel alarmed. These symptoms can signal anything from pain and anxiety to a serious medical issue that demands urgent attention.
We outline the common causes of a dog panting excessively and shaking at night, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Panting Excessively and Shaking at Night — Why It Happens
Nighttime panting and shaking in dogs can stem from pain, fear, overheating, or underlying illness. Dogs may become restless and symptomatic at night due to reduced distractions, increased awareness of discomfort, or natural changes in body temperature.
Common causes include anxiety, fever, gastrointestinal upset, neurological issues, and even endocrine problems like Cushing’s disease.
Common Causes of Dog Panting Excessively and Shaking at Night
Anxiety or Nighttime Fear
Many dogs are prone to stress or anxiety, especially at night when the household quiets down.
Separation anxiety, noise phobias (such as distant thunderstorms or fireworks), and even fear of being alone can all trigger physical signs like panting and shaking.
Dogs experiencing anxiety may pace, cry, or try to hide.
Nighttime fears can intensify in older dogs with declining vision or hearing.
These symptoms are distressing to both pets and owners, and often occur more frequently at night when your dog feels more vulnerable.
Read more: Dog Panting Excessively (Here’s why)
Pain or Discomfort
Pain is a common but often overlooked cause of nighttime panting and shaking.
Joint pain from arthritis, dental pain, or abdominal discomfort may become more noticeable when your dog is lying down or trying to rest.
Dogs hide pain well during the day, but at night, when there are fewer distractions, discomfort becomes harder to ignore.
If pain is the root cause, your dog may also seem restless, have difficulty settling, or vocalize more than usual.
Fever or Infection
A fever or systemic infection can lead to shivering, heavy panting, and general malaise. Illnesses like pyometra, abscesses, or internal infections may manifest during the quiet hours of the night.
Your dog might feel warm to the touch, have a reduced appetite, or seem lethargic during the day.
But panting and shaking can increase at night as the fever spikes. These symptoms should never be ignored.
Gastrointestinal Upset
Dogs suffering from digestive problems may experience pain, nausea, or bloating — all of which can worsen at night.
Conditions like pancreatitis, gas buildup, or a partial obstruction can cause heavy panting and trembling due to abdominal discomfort.
Alongside panting and shaking, your dog may refuse food, vomit, or have diarrhea.
You may also notice them stretching repeatedly or trying to find a more comfortable position.
Cushing’s Disease (Hyperadrenocorticism)
Cushing’s disease causes an overproduction of cortisol, leading to a host of symptoms including excessive panting, muscle weakness, and trembling.
These signs may become more prominent at night.
Affected dogs often drink and urinate more, lose muscle mass, and have a pot-bellied appearance.
Because the disease affects hormone levels, symptoms like panting and shaking can be chronic and worsen during quieter hours.
Neurological Issues
Seizures or other neurological disorders can sometimes present subtly, especially at night.
Partial seizures or tremors may look like shaking or shivering. Panting can follow as a response to stress or seizure-related activity.
Other signs include disorientation, circling, difficulty walking, or staring into space. These symptoms may cluster at night or occur unpredictably, adding to your concern.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Panting Excessively and Shaking at Night
First, try to comfort your dog in a calm, dimly lit environment. Speak gently and avoid startling movements.
Sometimes, anxiety alone can be soothed with your presence and a familiar setting.
Make sure your dog is not too warm. Overheating can worsen panting and trembling.
Provide cool water and allow for ventilation. If your dog is wearing any clothing or a collar, remove it in case it’s adding discomfort.
Assess for other symptoms. Check your dog’s gums, body temperature (if you’re able), and watch for vomiting, diarrhea, limping, or bloating. If anything unusual appears, jot down the symptoms for your vet.
Offer a mild distraction such as soft music or a white noise machine to help reduce anxiety-driven episodes.
For dogs with chronic anxiety, calming treats or pheromone diffusers might help — but always consult your vet before trying medications or supplements.
If your dog is older or has a known medical condition, don’t assume the symptoms are normal aging. Any new or escalating behavior deserves attention.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
If your dog is panting and shaking uncontrollably for more than 30 minutes, call your vet.
Seek immediate veterinary care if your dog:
Shows signs of abdominal bloating or pain
Is disoriented, collapsing, or having difficulty walking
Has a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea
Cries out or seems to be in obvious pain
Has a known condition like Cushing’s or heart disease and worsens suddenly
Also contact your vet if the symptoms recur multiple nights in a row, even if they resolve temporarily. This could indicate an underlying chronic issue.
Read more: Dog Panting Excessively and Shaking While Sleeping (Here’s Why)
Key Takeaway
If your dog is panting excessively and shaking at night, don’t dismiss it as restlessness.
These symptoms can indicate anxiety, illness, or pain, and they often escalate during nighttime hours when your dog is most vulnerable.
Observe your dog closely, provide comfort, and seek veterinary advice when symptoms are persistent or severe.
Trust your instincts — you know your dog best, and your vigilance could make all the difference.
Help is available, and early intervention can ensure your dog gets the care they need to sleep soundly again.