When your dog is weak and not eating and shaking at the same time, it’s natural to be deeply concerned.
These symptoms can be alarming and indicate a wide range of underlying issues — some minor and temporary, others severe and requiring urgent veterinary care.
Understanding the potential causes behind this combination of symptoms is the first step in helping your dog recover safely and quickly.
We outline the most common reasons why your dog is weak and not eating and shaking, what signs to look for, and when to seek veterinary care.
Dog is Weak and Not Eating and Shaking: Why It Happens
When a dog is weak and not eating and shaking, it’s typically a sign that something serious is affecting their body.
These symptoms often occur together due to underlying illness, poisoning, pain, gastrointestinal issues, low blood sugar, stress or anxiety, side effects of medication, or chronic conditions like organ failure.
Each of these issues can disrupt your dog’s normal bodily functions, leading to appetite loss, tremors, and overall weakness.
Common Causes of Dog Is Weak and Not Eating and Shaking
1. Illness or infection
One of the most common causes when a dog is weak and not eating and shaking is illness or infection.
Dogs experiencing a systemic infection — such as a viral or bacterial illness — often lose their appetite and become lethargic.
Fever can cause chills and shaking.
Conditions like parvovirus, leptospirosis, distemper, and other infections may trigger these symptoms.
Infections may also cause vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration, worsening your dog’s weakness.
You might also notice labored breathing, nasal discharge, or coughing if the respiratory system is involved.
Related: Dog shaking and not eating (Causes and what to do)
2. Poisoning or ingestion of toxins
A dog that is weak and not eating and shaking might have ingested something toxic.
Poisoning can come from household cleaners, human medications, chocolate, grapes, xylitol (a sugar substitute), pesticides, and certain plants.
When poisoned, a dog’s body may react by trembling, vomiting, drooling, refusing food, or becoming lethargic.
Some toxins affect the nervous system, triggering muscle tremors or seizures.
Time is critical in such cases, and immediate veterinary attention is essential if poisoning is suspected.
3. Pain or injury
Pain is another potential cause of a dog being weak and not eating and shaking.
Internal injuries, arthritis flare-ups, or even dental pain can make a dog feel miserable and reluctant to eat.
Shaking may be a physical response to pain or discomfort.
For instance, if your dog strained a muscle, injured a paw, or has abdominal pain, they may become less active, stop eating, and tremble due to discomfort.
Sometimes, the pain is internal and not obvious to the eye, especially in the abdomen or spine.
4. Gastrointestinal issues
Digestive problems can lead to symptoms where your dog is weak and not eating and shaking.
Gastrointestinal upset due to food intolerance, bloating, pancreatitis, or gastritis can cause nausea and weakness.
When the digestive tract is inflamed or uncomfortable, your dog may avoid food and appear lethargic.
The discomfort may be so severe that it causes shaking or restlessness.
Some gastrointestinal conditions are dangerous, like bloat (gastric dilation volvulus), which requires emergency surgery.
Others like pancreatitis can be life-threatening if left untreated.
5. Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
Low blood sugar, especially in small breeds, puppies, or diabetic dogs, can lead to sudden weakness, trembling, and refusal to eat.
When glucose levels drop too low, the brain and body lack the energy to function properly.
Signs of hypoglycemia in dogs include disorientation, wobbling, trembling, seizures, and in severe cases, collapse.
If your dog is weak and not eating and shaking, especially if they’re small or a diabetic dog, low blood sugar could be the culprit.
6. Stress or anxiety
Stress and anxiety can also lead to situations where your dog is weak and not eating and shaking.
Changes in the environment, loud noises, separation from their owner, travel, or new pets can cause emotional distress.
An anxious dog may refuse food, tremble, pace, or try to hide.
Though emotional stress is often less dangerous than physical illness, chronic anxiety can impact a dog’s overall health and well-being.
Some dogs experience such severe anxiety that they become physically ill, including vomiting or diarrhea.
7. Side effects of medication
Certain medications can cause side effects that make your dog weak and not eating and shaking.
This is especially true if the dog is starting a new prescription or has taken a higher dose than recommended.
Common medications that may cause such reactions include painkillers, anti-inflammatories, or medications affecting the central nervous system.
Reactions can range from mild nausea to severe systemic effects.
Always consult your vet if you notice a reaction after starting a new medication.
8. Organ failure or chronic conditions
A dog that is weak and not eating and shaking may be suffering from chronic illness such as kidney failure, liver disease, or heart conditions.
These conditions develop gradually and often go unnoticed until more severe symptoms arise.
Loss of appetite, shaking from nausea or discomfort, and general weakness are classic signs.
You might also notice weight loss, increased drinking or urination, vomiting, or yellowing of the gums or eyes (jaundice).
Routine blood tests and diagnostics are essential for identifying chronic conditions early and managing them effectively.
Related:Dog shaking and not eating and vomiting (Here’s why)
What to Do If Your Dog Is Weak and Not Eating and Shaking
Seeing your dog in this condition can be distressing, but acting quickly and calmly is key. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Assess the situation calmly
Check for other signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, labored breathing, swelling, bleeding, or signs of pain.
Try to note how long the symptoms have lasted and whether your dog has ingested anything unusual.
2. Avoid offering food forcefully
If your dog is not eating, don’t try to force food.
This can worsen nausea or discomfort.
Instead, offer bland food like boiled chicken and rice in small amounts once they show signs of interest again.
3. Keep your dog warm and calm
Shaking may be due to chills or pain.
Provide a quiet, warm place where your dog can rest without stress or distractions.
Avoid handling them too much if they seem in pain.
4. Check their hydration
Gently lift the skin between your dog’s shoulder blades.
If it doesn’t return to normal quickly, your dog may be dehydrated.
Offer clean water, but don’t force it.
5. Contact your veterinarian immediately
Any time your dog is weak and not eating and shaking for more than a few hours, you should contact your vet.
If the symptoms are sudden, severe, or accompanied by vomiting, pale gums, or collapse, emergency care is essential.
6. Don’t delay if your dog is a puppy or senior
Puppies and older dogs are more vulnerable to dehydration and rapid deterioration.
What seems like mild weakness in a young adult dog could be life-threatening in a fragile puppy or senior dog.
Key Takeaway
When your dog is weak and not eating and shaking, it’s a sign that their body is under serious stress.
These symptoms often point to infection, poisoning, pain, or chronic illness, and should never be ignored.
While stress and anxiety may occasionally cause similar symptoms, it’s important to rule out medical emergencies first.
The sooner you act, the better your dog’s chances of recovery.
Always monitor their behavior closely and consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure.
Your dog depends on you to recognize the warning signs and get them the help they need.
By staying informed and responsive, you can make a significant difference in your dog’s health and well-being.