As dogs age, their health becomes more delicate, and symptoms like shivering and not eating can indicate serious underlying issues.
If your old dog is shivering and not eating, it’s essential to take this combination of symptoms seriously.
While aging naturally brings changes in energy levels and appetite, sudden or persistent symptoms usually suggest something more than old age alone.
We outline what could be causing your senior dog to shiver and refuse food, how to tell when it’s an emergency, and what steps to take to ensure their comfort and health.
Old Dog Shivering and Not Eating: Why It Happens
An old dog shivering and not eating is often showing signs of illness, pain, organ dysfunction, or emotional stress.
Common causes include chronic disease, arthritis, dental problems, gastrointestinal issues, infections, or side effects from medications.
Shivering may indicate discomfort, weakness, or temperature irregularities, while appetite loss usually signals nausea, pain, or systemic imbalance.
In senior dogs, these symptoms may progress faster and demand immediate attention.
Old Dog Shivering and Not Eating: Common Causes
1. Pain from Arthritis or Degenerative Joint Disease
Joint pain is very common in aging dogs.
Arthritis can become severe over time, making simple movements like lying down or getting up painful.
This physical discomfort can cause shivering.
Pain may also suppress appetite, especially if your dog struggles to reach their bowl or stay comfortable while eating.
Observe your dog’s movement—stiff walking, hesitation to climb stairs, or limping can point to joint pain.
2. Dental Problems
Older dogs frequently suffer from dental disease—infected gums, broken teeth, or abscesses can cause intense mouth pain.
If your dog is shivering and not eating, examine their mouth for redness, swelling, or foul odor.
Dental pain often leads to reluctance to eat dry food, drooling, or chewing on one side.
Related: Dog shivering and not eating (Causes and what to do)
3. Kidney or Liver Disease
Chronic kidney or liver failure is more common in senior dogs.
Both conditions can cause nausea, weakness, shivering, and appetite loss.
Vomiting and changes in urination often accompany these diseases.
Routine bloodwork in older dogs helps catch these conditions early, but symptoms can still appear suddenly.
4. Gastrointestinal Upset
Senior dogs are more sensitive to dietary changes and digestive issues.
Even a minor upset can result in nausea, diarrhea, and complete food refusal.
Shivering may indicate abdominal discomfort.
If your dog also has loose stool, vomiting, or bloating, gastrointestinal problems are likely.
Related: Dog shivering and not eating and diarrhea (Here’s why)
5. Hypothermia or Low Body Temperature
Older dogs have a harder time regulating body temperature.
If your old dog is shivering and has cold ears, paws, or gums, they may be too cold.
This is especially common in thin or short-haired breeds, or dogs that spend time in cool environments without adequate bedding.
Hypothermia can also reduce appetite and energy levels significantly.
6. Medication Side Effects
Senior dogs often take multiple medications for arthritis, heart disease, or other age-related conditions.
Some medications cause nausea, tremors, or fatigue.
If symptoms started after a dosage change or new prescription, this could be the trigger.
Discuss side effects with your vet—an adjustment might improve your dog’s quality of life.
7. Cognitive Dysfunction
Senior dogs can experience canine cognitive dysfunction (similar to dementia).
These dogs may become confused, anxious, and experience changes in eating behavior.
They might shiver due to stress or disorientation and avoid food without clear cause.
Other signs include pacing at night, barking randomly, or staring into corners.
When Should You Be Concerned?
While some changes are expected in older dogs, a sudden drop in appetite combined with shivering always deserves closer attention.
This combination can point to pain, illness, or emotional distress, and it’s more dangerous in seniors whose bodies are less resilient.
Call your vet immediately if:
Your senior dog hasn’t eaten for 24 hours
Shivering lasts more than a few hours
Vomiting or diarrhea is also present
They seem disoriented or unusually lethargic
There are signs of pain (whining, limping, hiding)
What to Do if Your Old Dog Is Shivering and Not Eating
1. Keep Them Warm and Comfortable
Older dogs are sensitive to temperature changes.
Move them to a warm room, provide soft bedding, and avoid cold floors.
Offer a blanket or heated pad (pet-safe) to help reduce shivering from cold.
Ensure they are not near drafts or A/C vents, especially overnight.
2. Offer Gentle, Warmed Food
Warm up bland, easy-to-digest meals like boiled chicken and rice or canned senior dog food.
The aroma of warm food can encourage eating, and soft textures are easier on sore teeth and gums.
Avoid force-feeding, but try hand-feeding small amounts if they seem willing.
3. Check for Pain and Discomfort
Feel for signs of swelling, stiffness, or abdominal tension. Watch how they move, eat, and rest.
If your dog resists touch, limps, or seems tense, they may be in pain.
Talk to your vet about safe pain management options for seniors.
4. Monitor Bathroom Habits
Note changes in urination or stool.
An increase or decrease in output can signal kidney issues, dehydration, or bowel problems.
Bloody diarrhea or very dark urine should be treated as an emergency.
5. Call Your Vet
If your old dog won’t eat and continues to tremble, don’t wait.
Your veterinarian may recommend blood tests, urinalysis, X-rays, or a dental exam.
Prompt treatment can relieve discomfort and prevent further decline.
For example, if a senior dog shivering and not eating but drinking water is later vomiting, that may suggest organ failure or toxin exposure.
Read more: Dog shivering not eating lethargic
When to Worry
Contact an emergency vet if your old dog:
Hasn’t eaten in 24–36 hours
Is trembling nonstop or having seizures
Shows signs of labored breathing or collapse
Has bloody stool, pale gums, or difficulty walking
Is acting disoriented or confused
Seniors can deteriorate faster than young dogs, so early intervention is critical.
Key Takeaway
Your old dog shivering and not eating is more than just a bad day—it’s a message that their body is struggling.
Whether it’s pain, illness, or emotional distress, you need to take action quickly, especially because older dogs can’t bounce back as easily.
Stay observant, provide warmth and comfort, and work with your vet to uncover the cause.
Supporting your senior dog with patience and proactive care can help them stay comfortable and enjoy their golden years.