When your dog starts shaking after taking prednisone, it can be alarming — especially if they seem restless, weak, or uncoordinated.
Prednisone is a powerful corticosteroid used to treat inflammation, allergies, and immune-related diseases, but it can have side effects that sometimes make your dog act differently.
We outline the common causes of shaking after prednisone in dogs, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
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Dog Shaking After Prednisone — Why It Happens
Dogs may shake after prednisone due to temporary side effects, dosage sensitivity, or underlying conditions that the medication may be influencing.
Prednisone can alter electrolyte balance, raise blood pressure, and affect muscle function — all of which can trigger trembling.
Some dogs shake from anxiety, pain, or steroid-induced restlessness, while others react to underlying illness that prednisone may temporarily mask.
Dog Shaking After Prednisone: Common Causes
1. Medication Side Effects
Prednisone works by mimicking cortisol — the body’s natural stress hormone. When this hormone balance is disrupted, it can cause muscle tremors, panting, and agitation.
Many dogs on prednisone experience short-term side effects such as increased thirst, hunger, and restlessness. In sensitive dogs, these changes can lead to visible shaking or trembling as their system adjusts.
Shaking caused by side effects usually appears within the first few doses and may lessen as the body adapts. However, if it worsens or persists, it’s important to call your vet.
Read more: Dog Shaking and Prednisone (When to worry and what to do)
2. Electrolyte Imbalance
Corticosteroids can shift potassium, sodium, and calcium levels in the blood — minerals that play a vital role in nerve and muscle control.
Low potassium (hypokalemia) or high sodium can cause muscle weakness and trembling. If your dog also seems lethargic, has a poor appetite, or seems unsteady, these may be signs of an imbalance.
Your vet may recommend blood tests to monitor electrolytes, especially during long-term prednisone use or if your dog is on other medications.
3. Anxiety and Restlessness
Prednisone can stimulate the nervous system and raise stress hormones, leaving some dogs feeling uneasy or jittery.
This can look like shaking, pacing, whining, or difficulty settling down. Dogs that are normally calm may suddenly appear anxious or “on edge.”
Providing a quiet, dimly lit space and sticking to a routine can help ease this restlessness. Gentle reassurance and calm environments often make a big difference.
4. Blood Sugar Changes
Prednisone can temporarily raise blood sugar, which may affect energy levels and muscle control — particularly in diabetic or pre-diabetic dogs.
Fluctuating blood sugar can cause trembling, weakness, and excessive thirst. If your dog has diabetes or you notice changes in appetite, weight, or urination, speak to your vet promptly about adjusting treatment.
5. Hidden Illness or Infection
Sometimes, shaking after prednisone isn’t from the drug itself — but from an underlying disease that’s being masked or affected by it.
Because prednisone suppresses the immune system, it can make hidden infections or illnesses harder to detect. A dog might seem better at first, then start trembling as the underlying issue resurfaces.
If your dog’s shaking is accompanied by fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or weakness, your vet may need to reassess the diagnosis and perform additional tests.
6. Overdose or Rapid Withdrawal
Prednisone must be carefully dosed and tapered under veterinary supervision. Too much can cause toxicity, while stopping suddenly can shock the adrenal system.
Signs of steroid overdose include shaking, vomiting, diarrhea, panting, and behavioral changes. On the other hand, abrupt withdrawal can cause tremors, weakness, and even collapse.
Always follow your vet’s tapering schedule precisely and never adjust prednisone on your own.
Prednisone Shaking in Older Dogs
Older dogs are especially vulnerable to prednisone side effects. Their slower metabolism means the drug stays in their system longer, and pre-existing conditions like arthritis, kidney issues, or heart disease can amplify its impact.
Shaking in senior dogs after prednisone may also stem from:
Muscle weakness from aging or reduced mobility.
Increased sensitivity to dosage or prolonged steroid use.
Compounded side effects from multiple medications.
Because seniors are more likely to have concurrent health problems, even mild shaking should be checked by a vet. Adjusting dosage or switching to a gentler anti-inflammatory may resolve symptoms quickly and safely.
Read more: Dog Diarrhea Prednisone (What side effects you should know)
What to Do If Your Dog Is Shaking After Prednisone
If your dog is shaking but otherwise alert and eating, the shaking may be a mild, temporary reaction. Keep them comfortable and monitor closely for other symptoms.
Make sure they have access to fresh water — prednisone increases thirst and urination. A quiet environment can help reduce restlessness or anxiety.
You can also note the timing of the shaking. If it occurs soon after dosing, ask your vet whether splitting or slightly adjusting the dose time might help.
Do not stop prednisone suddenly, as this can cause adrenal crisis. Always consult your veterinarian before making any changes.
If shaking is accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, excessive panting, or lethargy, seek veterinary advice immediately. These could indicate an overdose, electrolyte imbalance, or an underlying illness.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Call your vet if your dog’s shaking:
Persists beyond 24–48 hours after dosing.
Occurs alongside vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite.
Includes labored breathing, severe restlessness, or collapse.
Involves twitching, weakness, or signs of pain.
Your vet may perform a physical exam, blood tests, or adjust your dog’s medication schedule. If prednisone must be discontinued, a gradual tapering plan will be created to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
Never attempt to switch medications or stop treatment without professional guidance — doing so could put your dog’s health at serious risk.
Read more: Dog Diarrhea and Prednisone (Is it normal?)
Key Takeaway
Shaking after prednisone in dogs can range from a mild side effect to a sign of something more serious. While some trembling may resolve as your dog’s body adjusts, persistent or severe shaking should never be ignored.
Monitor your dog’s behavior closely, keep a record of symptoms, and reach out to your veterinarian if anything seems unusual. With careful observation and veterinary guidance, most dogs recover comfortably and continue their treatment safely.
Your calm attention and timely action can make all the difference in helping your dog feel steady and secure again.