When your dog is both shaking and shedding excessively, it can be easy to dismiss it as stress or seasonal change—but this combination of symptoms may signal deeper issues. From underlying health conditions to emotional distress, your dog could be trying to tell you something important.
We outline the common causes of dog shaking and shedding, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Shaking and Shedding — Why It Happens
Dogs may shake and shed excessively due to stress, skin problems, pain, allergies, or underlying illness. While shedding can be normal, sudden or intense fur loss paired with tremors often points to something beyond routine grooming cycles.
Common Causes of Dog Shaking and Shedding
Stress or Anxiety
Stress is a major driver of both shaking and increased shedding.
Events like car rides, vet visits, storms, or household changes can cause dogs to tremble and lose fur more rapidly.
Some dogs develop nervous habits like licking, pacing, or vocalizing alongside these symptoms.
Calming techniques, supplements, and behavioral training can help soothe your dog and reduce stress-induced shedding.
Skin Allergies or Irritations
Fleas, food sensitivities, or environmental allergens can lead to skin inflammation, itching, and shedding.
Shaking might occur from general discomfort or attempts to dislodge irritants, especially around the ears.
You may also notice redness, scabs, odor, or excessive licking.
Treating the source of irritation and supporting skin health often resolves both issues.
Related: Dog shaking and not eating (Causes and what to do)
Pain or Discomfort
Pain—especially from orthopedic conditions, dental problems, or internal disease—can cause dogs to tremble.
Shaking from pain is often accompanied by behavioral changes, such as hiding or reduced appetite.
Chronic stress from discomfort can also lead to fur thinning or poor coat condition.
Pain relief and targeted treatment can improve your dog’s comfort and restore coat health.
Hormonal Imbalances
Thyroid disease, Cushing’s disease, and other endocrine disorders commonly cause hair loss and skin changes.
Dogs may also become more lethargic, anxious, or shaky due to metabolic disruption.
Hair may fall out in patches or become thin and dry over time.
These conditions are treatable, but they require blood work and ongoing monitoring.
Read more: Dog Shaking and Choking (Could it be nerves—or something worse?)
Nutritional Deficiencies
Poor diet or absorption issues can impact coat quality and energy levels.
Dogs lacking essential fatty acids, vitamins, or protein may develop dull coats, patchy shedding, and muscle tremors.
You may also notice brittle nails, flaky skin, or slow wound healing.
A dietary upgrade and possible supplementation can support recovery.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Shaking and Shedding
Start by identifying when the symptoms occur—during stressful events, season changes, or all the time?
Brush your dog daily to remove loose fur and check for skin issues or external parasites.
Make sure your dog’s food is high-quality and appropriate for their age, breed, and health needs.
Create a calm home environment and consider calming tools like pheromone diffusers or anxiety wraps.
If symptoms persist or worsen, schedule a vet appointment to explore possible medical causes.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Visit your vet if your dog:
Sheds excessively for more than a few days
Has bald spots, inflamed skin, or constant itching
Shakes when resting or appears to be in pain
Shows changes in appetite, behavior, or weight
Has other signs like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy
Early diagnosis can reveal treatable causes and prevent further discomfort.
Read more: Dog Shedding Excessively (When normal shedding becomes a red flag)
Key Takeaway
Shaking and shedding together could mean your dog is dealing with more than a grooming issue—it may reflect discomfort, anxiety, or illness.
Pay close attention to when and how these symptoms appear, and don’t hesitate to involve your vet if anything seems off.
Supporting your dog’s physical and emotional well-being will help them feel and look their best.