Seeing your dog limp while also shaking can be distressing. These symptoms often suggest that your dog is in pain, whether due to an injury, inflammation, or a more serious underlying condition. Understanding what might be causing your dog’s discomfort is the first step toward getting them the help they need.
We outline the common causes of dog shaking and limping, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Shaking and Limping — Why It Happens
Dogs shake and limp when they are in pain, have suffered an injury, or are experiencing inflammation, nerve issues, or systemic illness. The limp typically signals discomfort or dysfunction in a limb, while the shaking often reflects the body’s stress response to pain or internal imbalance.
Common Causes of Dog Shaking and Limping
Soft Tissue Injury (Strain or Sprain)
Dogs are prone to minor injuries, especially after running, jumping, or rough play.
A strain or sprain can cause sudden limping and shaking due to pain or muscle fatigue.
Your dog may lick the injured area, hesitate to bear weight, or appear restless when lying down.
Most minor injuries improve with rest, but persistent limping or worsening symptoms need veterinary assessment.
Torn Ligament (e.g., ACL Tear)
A torn cranial cruciate ligament (CCL or ACL) in the knee is a common orthopedic issue, especially in active or large breed dogs.
This injury causes an abrupt limp, typically in the hind leg, and may be accompanied by trembling from pain.
Your dog may toe-touch, avoid full weight-bearing, or vocalize during movement.
Surgical repair is often necessary, followed by rest and rehabilitation.
Arthritis or Degenerative Joint Disease
In older dogs, chronic joint inflammation causes stiffness, limping, and episodes of shaking—especially in cold weather or after activity.
Arthritic dogs may struggle to rise, show reduced interest in walks, or become irritable when touched.
Pain relievers, joint supplements, and mobility aids can dramatically improve quality of life.
Read more: Dog Shaking and Can’t Walk (What to do when movement is impossible)
Fracture or Dislocation
A fracture or joint dislocation often results in severe limping and trembling due to pain.
You may see swelling, bruising, or abnormal limb positioning.
These injuries are emergencies and require immediate veterinary care for pain management, imaging, and possible surgery.
Do not attempt to reposition the limb at home.
Nerve Damage or Neurological Conditions
If your dog is limping without a visible injury and also trembling, nerve damage may be involved.
Spinal conditions like intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) can cause partial limb paralysis, dragging, or weakness.
Watch for signs like uncoordinated steps, knuckling of the paws, or reduced reflexes.
Neurological exams and advanced imaging (like MRI) may be needed to diagnose and treat.
Insect Bite or Foreign Body
Stepping on a thorn, glass, or insect sting can cause sudden limping and distress.
Dogs may hold the paw up, shake from the discomfort, or lick excessively at the area.
Check the paw for redness, swelling, bleeding, or lodged objects. If unsure or symptoms worsen, visit the vet promptly.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Shaking and Limping
Restrict your dog’s movement immediately. Avoid stairs, running, or jumping until the issue is diagnosed.
Examine the affected limb gently. Look for cuts, swelling, or signs of pain when touched—but don’t force any movement.
Apply a cold compress if there’s visible swelling and your dog tolerates it.
Offer a soft bed in a quiet area to reduce stress and discomfort.
Never give human medications—many are toxic to dogs. Instead, call your vet for guidance on safe pain relief.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Seek prompt veterinary care if your dog:
Refuses to bear weight or the limping worsens
Is shaking continuously or appears in significant distress
Has visible swelling, bleeding, or a misshapen limb
Is a senior dog with worsening mobility
Shows signs of neurological weakness or dragging limbs
A physical exam, x-rays, or joint evaluation may be needed to diagnose the issue and begin treatment.
Read more: Dog Shaking and Whining (Pain, fear, or something else?)
Key Takeaway
If your dog is shaking and limping, it’s often their way of signaling pain or discomfort.
Act early—limit activity, monitor symptoms closely, and contact your vet for diagnosis and treatment to help your dog recover and feel comfortable again.