Shaking and panting in dogs can be concerning signs, particularly when linked to kidney disease. Kidney disease affects the body’s ability to filter toxins, maintain fluid balance, and regulate electrolytes, often causing discomfort and stress that leads to visible symptoms.
We outline the common causes of shaking and panting in dogs with kidney disease, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Shaking and Panting and Kidney Disease — Why It Happens
When a dog is shaking and panting with kidney disease, it often means the body is struggling with toxin buildup, pain, or electrolyte imbalances caused by reduced kidney function. As the kidneys fail to filter waste effectively, nausea, dehydration, and discomfort set in — triggering trembling and rapid breathing as stress responses. The dog may also feel weak, cold, or anxious, all of which can make shaking and panting worse.
In advanced stages, toxin accumulation in the bloodstream can affect the nervous system, worsening tremors and breathing irregularities.
These symptoms signal serious progression of kidney disease and require immediate veterinary attention to manage pain, rehydrate, and stabilize organ function.
Dog Shaking and Panting and Kidney Disease: Common Causes
Reduced Kidney Function
Kidney disease impairs the organ’s ability to remove waste from the bloodstream.
This buildup of toxins can lead to nausea, weakness, and general malaise, which can trigger both shaking and panting as your dog tries to cope with discomfort.
Signs include increased thirst, frequent urination, decreased appetite, and lethargy. Early detection is key, as untreated kidney disease can progress to life-threatening complications.
Read more: Dog Panting and Kidney Failure (Why it happens)
Electrolyte Imbalance
Kidney disease disrupts the balance of essential electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and calcium.
These imbalances can affect muscle function and nervous system activity, resulting in tremors, shaking, and increased panting.
Watch for signs like weakness, disorientation, or irregular heart rate. Correcting electrolyte levels often requires veterinary guidance and monitoring to prevent further health issues.
Dehydration
Panting in dogs with kidney disease is often linked to dehydration. The kidneys’ reduced ability to retain water, combined with vomiting or diarrhea, can lead to fluid loss, prompting your dog to pant as a method of cooling and regulating internal temperature.
Symptoms include dry gums, sunken eyes, lethargy, and decreased urine output. Maintaining adequate hydration is essential, but severe cases may require subcutaneous or intravenous fluids administered by a veterinarian.
Uremia and Toxin Buildup
As kidney function declines, uremic toxins accumulate in the bloodstream. These toxins irritate the nervous system, muscles, and respiratory system, often causing shaking, panting, and discomfort.
Other signs include bad breath, vomiting, and mouth ulcers. Prompt treatment and dietary management can help reduce toxin levels and improve your dog’s quality of life.
Pain and Discomfort
Shaking and panting may also result from pain caused by kidney inflammation or secondary complications.
Kidney disease can lead to abdominal discomfort, urinary tract infections, and other painful conditions that trigger stress responses.
You may notice whining, restlessness, or difficulty lying down comfortably. Providing a calm environment and veterinary-approved pain management can help alleviate symptoms.
Anxiety and Stress
Chronic illness, such as kidney disease, can increase anxiety in dogs. Shaking and panting are common stress responses, especially if your dog feels unwell, nauseated, or fatigued.
Signs of stress include pacing, whining, drooling, or seeking constant attention. Reducing environmental stressors and providing reassurance can help mitigate anxiety-related panting and shaking.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Shaking and Panting With Kidney Disease
Ensure your dog has access to fresh water at all times. Encourage hydration gently, and consult your veterinarian if your dog refuses to drink, as fluid replacement may be necessary.
Provide a calm, comfortable resting area away from loud noises or high-traffic areas in your home. Limiting stress and physical exertion helps reduce panting and shaking episodes.
Monitor your dog’s diet carefully. Special veterinary kidney diets are designed to reduce toxin buildup and manage electrolyte balance, which can alleviate some symptoms associated with kidney disease.
Keep track of symptoms such as vomiting, changes in urination, or increased lethargy. Documenting these signs helps your veterinarian make informed decisions about treatment adjustments.
Follow veterinary guidance on medications or supplements. Dogs with kidney disease may require prescription treatments to manage electrolyte levels, blood pressure, or secondary infections.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Immediate veterinary attention is warranted if your dog shows:
Severe or persistent shaking and panting
Labored breathing or rapid heart rate
Vomiting, diarrhea, or refusal to eat or drink
Confusion, weakness, or collapse
Signs of dehydration or extreme lethargy
Early intervention can prevent progression of kidney disease and reduce the risk of life-threatening complications.
Read more: Dog Panting and Kennel Cough (Understanding warning signs)
Key Takeaway
Shaking and panting in dogs with kidney disease often signal discomfort, toxin buildup, or electrolyte imbalances.
Providing supportive care, maintaining hydration, following dietary recommendations, and seeking timely veterinary care are crucial for your dog’s health and well-being.
Recognizing these signs early and acting promptly can help improve your dog’s quality of life and prevent severe complications.