Why Is My Frenchie Throwing Up and Shaking (Here’s Why)

Frenchie Throwing Up and Shaking: Common Causes 

1. Gastrointestinal Upset

A very common cause of a French Bulldog throwing up and shaking is a simple GI upset.

Frenchies have sensitive stomachs and are prone to dietary indiscretions.

Possible triggers include:

• Eating something spoiled or non-edible

• Sudden change in diet

• Food allergies or sensitivities

Vomiting in this case may come with shaking due to discomfort, nausea, or abdominal cramping.

If your Frenchie has also been drooling, pacing, or licking their lips, these are further signs of nausea.

If it’s a one-time incident and your Frenchie recovers quickly, it may not be serious.

However, repeated vomiting or shaking episodes should be evaluated.

Related: Frenchie throwing up (Causes and Solutions)

2. Toxin Ingestion or Poisoning

If you’re wondering why is my Frenchie shaking and vomiting suddenly, poisoning should be considered—especially if the symptoms came on out of nowhere.

Common toxins that can lead to a French Bulldog throwing up and trembling include:

• Chocolate

• Grapes and raisins

• Xylitol (found in sugar-free gum)

• Human medications

• Household cleaners or plants

Ingestion of a toxin can cause immediate vomiting, followed by trembling, drooling, seizures, or collapse.

This is an emergency—get to the vet right away.

Additional symptoms to watch for:

• Diarrhea

• Excessive thirst or urination

• Disorientation

• Pale gums

3. Pain or Injury

Shaking often indicates that your dog is in pain. If your Frenchie is vomiting and shaking, it might be due to pain from:

• Spinal issues (common in brachycephalic breeds like Frenchies)

• Abdominal pain from bloating or pancreatitis

• Internal injuries

Vomiting can accompany pain if your dog is nauseous or stressed.

Shaking is a physiological response to pain or distress.

Frenchies, in particular, may not vocalize pain but show it through subtle symptoms like shaking and acting withdrawn.

If your dog is also reluctant to move, yelps when touched, or holds their body stiffly, see your vet as soon as possible.

4. Heatstroke

French Bulldogs are extremely sensitive to heat due to their flat faces. If your Frenchie is vomiting and shaking after being outdoors in warm weather, they may be suffering from heatstroke.

Signs of heatstroke in Frenchies include:

• Vomiting

• Shaking or muscle tremors

• Excessive panting

• Red or pale gums

• Weakness or collapse

Heatstroke can escalate fast and lead to organ failure.

French Bulldogs cannot regulate heat effectively, so always keep them cool and hydrated.

Immediate cooling (using a wet towel or fan) and emergency vet care are required if you suspect heatstroke.

5. Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)

Hypoglycemia is more common in young Frenchie puppies but can occur in adults too, especially if they have gone too long without eating.

Signs of low blood sugar in French Bulldogs include:

• Vomiting

• Trembling or shaking

• Weakness or lethargy

• Disorientation

• Seizures

Small breeds are prone to blood sugar fluctuations, and a Frenchie shaking and vomiting on an empty stomach could be having a hypoglycemic episode.

Offer a small amount of food or a sugar source like honey on the gums, and seek veterinary guidance immediately if symptoms persist.

Related: Frenchie throwing up white form(Causes and Solutions)

6. Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, and French Bulldogs are one of the breeds more prone to it. It is often triggered by eating fatty or rich foods.

Symptoms of pancreatitis in French Bulldogs include:

• Repeated vomiting

• Shaking or trembling

• Hunched posture (abdominal pain)

• Diarrhea

• Loss of appetite

• Fever

This condition is painful and potentially life-threatening. If you think your Frenchie is having a pancreatitis flare-up, vet care is essential.

7. Stress or Anxiety

French Bulldogs are sensitive and can show physical symptoms like vomiting and shaking due to stress or anxiety.

Common triggers include:

• Loud noises (thunder, fireworks)

• Separation anxiety

• Changes in routine

• New environment

Shaking due to anxiety is often accompanied by pacing, drooling, whining, and refusing food.

Vomiting from stress may occur in extreme cases due to gut-brain connection.

If your Frenchie is throwing up and shaking during stressful events, calming measures, desensitization, or even vet-prescribed medication may be needed.

Related: Frenchie throwing up and not eating (Here’s why)

8. Neurological Disorders or Seizures

Shaking and vomiting can also be symptoms of neurological problems. Seizures in dogs don’t always look like full convulsions.

They can involve:

• Trembling or twitching

• Vomiting

• Disorientation

• Unresponsiveness

• Temporary blindness

If your Frenchie experiences unexplained shaking and vomiting, especially if followed by strange behavior, a neurological exam is needed.

What to Do 

If you notice these symptoms, monitor your dog closely and ask yourself:

• How many times has your Frenchie vomited?

• Is the shaking mild or severe?

• Are there other symptoms (diarrhea, lethargy, bloating, pale gums)?

• Has your dog eaten anything unusual or toxic?

Steps to take:

1. Withhold food temporarily (but not water) to rest the stomach.

2. Keep your dog calm and in a quiet, cool place.

3. Avoid giving human medications, as some can be toxic to dogs.

4. Check for signs of dehydration, such as dry gums or skin tenting.

5. Call your vet if symptoms last more than a few hours, worsen, or if you suspect poisoning, pancreatitis, or heatstroke.

When to See a Vet Immediately

Seek urgent veterinary help if:

• Vomiting persists for more than 12 hours

• Your Frenchie is vomiting blood or bile

• Shaking becomes intense or is accompanied by collapse

• Your dog has a swollen or hard belly

• There are signs of poisoning or ingestion of a foreign object

French Bulldogs can deteriorate quickly due to their sensitive respiratory and digestive systems, so don’t wait too long if you’re unsure.

Key Takeaway

A French Bulldog throwing up and shaking is not something to ignore.

While it can be caused by mild digestive upset or stress, it can also signal more dangerous conditions like poisoning, heatstroke, pancreatitis, or neurological issues.

If your Frenchie shows these symptoms, assess the situation quickly and don’t hesitate to call your vet.

Prompt diagnosis and care can make all the difference in recovery.

By staying alert to your Frenchie’s behavior and getting timely help, you can ensure your furry friend stays healthy, happy, and safe.