If your dog is shaking while taking prednisone, it’s understandable to feel worried. Prednisone is a powerful steroid often prescribed to treat inflammation, allergies, or immune-related diseases — but it can also cause unexpected side effects like tremors or trembling.
We outline the common causes of shaking in dogs taking prednisone, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
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Dog Shaking on Prednisone — Why It Happens
Shaking or trembling in a dog taking prednisone can be caused by the drug’s effects on muscle metabolism, changes in blood sugar, or underlying conditions that the medication is influencing.
Prednisone alters hormone levels and body chemistry, which can make some dogs more restless, anxious, or physically shaky.
In some cases, the shaking stems from secondary problems like muscle weakness, electrolyte imbalance, or even withdrawal if the dosage is reduced too quickly.
Common Causes of Dog Shaking on Prednisone
1. Muscle Weakness and Steroid-Induced Tremors
Prednisone can cause muscle breakdown over time, especially with prolonged use or high doses. This process, known as steroid-induced myopathy, may lead to visible trembling, weakness in the legs, or a wobbly gait.
You might notice your dog’s back legs shaking when standing, or trembling after light activity. This is often due to muscle fatigue rather than pain, but it can make movement difficult.
Muscle tremors usually develop gradually during long-term treatment, but can improve once the prednisone dose is reduced or discontinued under veterinary supervision.
Read more: Dog Throwing Up on Prednisone (Why it happens and what to do)
2. Electrolyte Imbalance and Potassium Loss
Steroids like prednisone increase urination and can alter electrolyte levels — particularly lowering potassium. Low potassium (hypokalemia) can cause shaking, stiffness, and even mild twitching.
Dogs on prednisone may drink and pee excessively, which contributes to electrolyte shifts. If your dog is shaking and also seems weak or lethargic, it’s important to check bloodwork to rule out low potassium or other imbalances.
Feeding a balanced diet and ensuring your dog stays hydrated can help stabilize electrolytes, but your vet may also recommend supplements or blood monitoring.
3. Anxiety and Restlessness
Prednisone often increases energy and alertness in dogs, and some react with hyperactivity or nervousness. This can look like trembling, pacing, or panting — especially at night.
These side effects are more likely if prednisone is given in the evening, as steroids can interfere with normal sleep cycles.
If your dog’s shaking is paired with restlessness or wide-eyed alertness, it may be behavioral rather than medical. Giving the medication earlier in the day, after breakfast, can help reduce nighttime agitation.
4. Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)
Prednisone can affect blood sugar regulation by altering insulin sensitivity. While it typically raises blood sugar levels, in rare cases, it may contribute to fluctuations that make some dogs temporarily shaky or weak.
This is particularly concerning in diabetic dogs or small breeds with fast metabolisms. Shaking may appear along with drooling, confusion, or unsteadiness.
If your dog is diabetic or on other medications that influence glucose, your vet may need to adjust both the prednisone dose and insulin schedule.
5. Withdrawal or Rapid Dose Reduction
If prednisone is tapered too quickly or stopped suddenly, a dog’s adrenal glands may not produce enough cortisol to compensate. This can cause adrenal insufficiency, leading to trembling, weakness, vomiting, and lethargy.
Even a small dosing change can cause temporary discomfort while the body readjusts. Always follow your vet’s tapering plan exactly — stopping prednisone abruptly can be dangerous.
6. Underlying Condition or Secondary Illness
Sometimes, the shaking isn’t directly from prednisone but from the illness it’s treating or another condition developing alongside.
For example, dogs on prednisone for immune disease, arthritis, or allergies may also have hidden pain, fever, or infection that triggers tremors. Because prednisone suppresses the immune system, infections may worsen silently until shaking and fatigue appear.
If shaking is new or worsening despite stable medication, a vet exam is crucial to rule out other causes.
Read more: Dog Diarrhea Prednisone (Understanding steroid-related stomach upset)
What to Do If Your Dog Is Shaking on Prednisone
If your dog starts shaking, stay calm and observe their behavior closely. Check whether they are also panting heavily, pacing, or refusing food — these clues can help identify whether the cause is stress, muscle weakness, or something more serious.
Always give prednisone with food and water, ideally in the morning, to reduce stomach irritation and restlessness at night. Avoid double dosing if you’ve missed one — just resume as directed the next day.
Keep your dog in a quiet, comfortable space away from loud noises and heat. Stress and temperature changes can worsen trembling. Offer water and encourage rest.
If the shaking is mild and your dog otherwise seems fine, monitor for 24 hours. However, if shaking persists beyond a day or occurs alongside vomiting, diarrhea, or refusal to eat, call your vet.
Your vet might adjust the prednisone dosage, add a stomach protectant (like omeprazole or famotidine), or consider switching to a different corticosteroid. In chronic cases, they may also prescribe medications to support muscle health and electrolytes.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
You should contact your vet promptly if:
Your dog’s shaking worsens or continues for more than 24 hours
There are additional symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or weakness
Your dog collapses, seems disoriented, or can’t stand
The shaking occurs during dose reduction or after missing a dose
You notice pale gums, heavy panting, or signs of pain
In severe cases, blood tests may be needed to check cortisol levels, electrolytes, and liver function. Adjusting or tapering prednisone must always be done under veterinary supervision — never stop it abruptly, even if side effects appear.
Your vet may recommend supportive medications or an alternative anti-inflammatory if prednisone’s side effects become too disruptive.
Read more: Dog Acting Weird on Prednisone (Behavioral changes explained)
Key Takeaway
Shaking in a dog taking prednisone can stem from muscle fatigue, electrolyte imbalance, anxiety, or dosage issues. While mild trembling can be a temporary side effect, persistent or worsening shaking deserves a vet’s attention.
Always give prednisone with food, follow the prescribed tapering plan, and keep track of new symptoms.
With careful monitoring and veterinary guidance, most dogs tolerate prednisone safely — and any side effects can be managed before they become serious.