If your dog is trembling as if he has the chills—even when it’s warm—it can be alarming. This kind of fine, shivery shaking might resemble what humans do when cold, but in dogs, the causes are often far more complex than just temperature.
We outline the common causes of dog shaking like he has the chills, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Shaking Like He Has the Chills — Why It Happens
Dogs shake like they have the chills due to pain, nausea, anxiety, toxins, fever, or internal illness. The trembling may look like cold-related shivering, but often reflects a physical imbalance, distress, or discomfort that needs attention.
Common Causes of Dog Shaking Like He Has the Chills
Pain or Internal Discomfort
Dogs often shake when they’re in pain—whether from injury, dental problems, or internal illness.
The trembling can look like chill-based shivering, even when the dog is lying still.
If your dog also avoids movement, refuses food, or vocalizes, don’t ignore these signs.
Veterinary care can help identify and relieve the source of pain.
Nausea or Gastrointestinal Issues
Nausea in dogs often leads to trembling, drooling, licking lips, or hiding.
It can be caused by diet changes, eating something toxic, or illnesses like pancreatitis.
Dogs may also shake right before vomiting or experiencing diarrhea.
Offering bland food may help temporarily, but ongoing nausea needs medical evaluation.
Fever or Infection
A fever can cause full-body shivers, much like humans experience with chills.
Dogs with infections—whether respiratory, urinary, or systemic—may shake even in a warm environment.
Look for signs like lethargy, warm ears, loss of appetite, or labored breathing.
A thermometer reading over 103°F requires immediate veterinary attention.
Anxiety or Emotional Stress
Dogs may appear to shiver or tremble when emotionally overwhelmed.
Fear of thunderstorms, separation anxiety, or overstimulation can cause this reaction.
If the behavior is consistent in certain situations, it may be psychological rather than physical.
Calming products, training, and anxiety medications can help sensitive dogs.
Toxin Exposure or Illness
Exposure to certain toxins, such as xylitol, chocolate, rodenticides, or medications, can cause trembling that looks like chills.
Other symptoms may include vomiting, seizures, disorientation, or collapse.
This is a medical emergency. If you suspect poisoning, get to a vet immediately.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Shaking Like He Has the Chills
Check your dog’s temperature, comfort level, and environment.
Feel for warmth in the ears, look for signs of pain, and ensure he hasn’t ingested anything dangerous.
Stay calm and provide a quiet, cozy resting space.
Avoid using blankets if your dog is hot or feverish—focus on monitoring symptoms.
If shaking continues for more than an hour or is accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, or distress, contact your vet.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Call your veterinarian if your dog:
Shakes persistently with no environmental cause
Shows signs of pain, nausea, or fever
Becomes lethargic, disoriented, or unresponsive
Stops eating or drinking
May have ingested something toxic
Your vet can run diagnostics to determine if the cause is medical, emotional, or toxic—and provide appropriate treatment quickly.
Read more: Dog Shaking Like Cold (When it’s not about the weather)
Key Takeaway
If your dog is shaking like he has the chills—even in warm conditions—it could be a sign of pain, nausea, illness, or toxicity.
Don’t assume it’s minor or behavioral. Closely observe your dog and contact your vet if symptoms persist or worsen.
With the right care, most causes can be treated, and your dog can get back to feeling safe and steady again.