When your dog is shaking, behaving unusually, and refusing to eat, it can be deeply concerning. These symptoms often signal more than just a passing discomfort and may indicate illness.
We outline the common reasons why your dog is shaking, acting weird and not eating, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
My Dog is Shaking and Acting Weird and Not Eating — Why It Happens
Dogs may shake and act strangely while also not eating due to pain, fear, digestive issues, toxin exposure, or neurological problems. Anxiety and stress are also common causes, especially if your dog has recently experienced a change in routine or environment.
Gastrointestinal distress, infections, or systemic illnesses like kidney disease can also lead to a combination of odd behavior, tremors, and appetite loss. If symptoms persist, professional evaluation is vital to rule out serious underlying conditions.
Dog Shaking, Acting Weird and Not Eating: Common Causes
Pain or Injury
Pain can cause shaking, behavioral changes, and appetite loss in dogs.
Whether it’s from arthritis, a muscle strain, or an internal injury, pain is often expressed through trembling and reclusive or odd behavior.
You may notice your dog avoiding stairs, limping, or reacting when touched.
Dogs in pain might also hide or become unusually clingy, and the discomfort can make eating undesirable.
Anxiety or Stress
Shaking and unusual behavior are classic signs of anxiety.
Dogs may become withdrawn, vocal, or even destructive when under emotional stress.
Changes like moving house, loud noises (like fireworks), or a new pet in the home can trigger intense reactions.
Stress often disrupts appetite, making dogs avoid food even when they are hungry.
Read more: Dog Shaking and Not Eating (Here’s what going on)
Gastrointestinal Upset
Digestive problems can cause nausea, shaking, and appetite changes.
Vomiting, diarrhea, gas, or bloating often accompany GI issues, and the discomfort can cause behavioral shifts.
Your dog may act unsettled, retch, lick their lips, or eat grass in an attempt to self-soothe.
A painful abdomen or nausea can also make them reluctant to eat.
Toxin Exposure
Ingesting something toxic can result in shaking, bizarre behavior, and refusal to eat.
This could include human medications, certain plants, xylitol, chocolate, or other common household hazards.
Tremors, vomiting, uncoordinated movements, and lethargy can all be signs of poisoning.
This is an emergency and requires immediate veterinary care.
Neurological Issues
Problems with the brain or nervous system can lead to abnormal behavior and tremors.
Conditions like seizures, vestibular disease, or even brain tumors can present with shaking, head tilting, loss of balance, or changes in personality.
Appetite may decline due to disorientation or nausea linked to neurological dysfunction.
These symptoms require urgent evaluation.
Fever or Infection
An elevated temperature or systemic infection can cause trembling, lethargy, and food refusal.
Infections might be viral, bacterial, or tick-borne, and can manifest with additional signs like eye discharge, coughing, or limping.
Your dog may seem “off,” preferring to lie down, shake slightly, and ignore food.
If fever is present, prompt veterinary treatment is essential.
What to Do If Your Dog is Shaking and Acting Weird and Not Eating
If your dog is displaying these symptoms but is otherwise alert, try offering bland food like boiled chicken and rice.
Ensure they are warm, hydrated, and have access to a calm environment free from loud noises or stressors.
Monitor for additional signs like vomiting, diarrhea, or limping that might clarify the cause.
Check their gums—they should be pink and moist, not pale or sticky.
Keep them rested and avoid walks or play until they’re feeling better.
However, don’t delay a vet visit if they show no interest in food for more than 24 hours, especially with ongoing tremors or odd behavior.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
If your dog is shaking and acting abnormally and hasn’t eaten for more than a day, it’s time to call your vet.
Seek immediate care if any of the following occur:
Shaking intensifies or becomes constant
Vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling begins
Weakness or collapse
Gums are pale or gray
Disorientation, seizures, or circling
Signs of pain like yelping or flinching
These symptoms can indicate a serious or life-threatening issue requiring prompt treatment.
Read more: Dog Rash and Not Eating (Why it’s happening and how to help)
Key Takeaway
If your dog is shaking, behaving oddly, and not eating, take it seriously.
Pain, toxins, stress, or internal illness could be to blame.
Create a calm environment, monitor closely, and don’t hesitate to contact your vet if the symptoms persist or worsen.
Early intervention is the best way to ensure your dog returns to feeling healthy and safe.