Unlike humans, dogs highly depend on body language. Vizslas use their posture, facial expressions, and other body languages to communicate like any other dog. Deciphering these body languages is very vital on the part of the owner.
Unfortunately, most owners get so clueless on this body language, and shaking is one of the potentially confusing behaviors of Vizslas. Here are 7 reasons why your Vizsla might be shaking.
Shaking Versus Seizures
Knowing the difference between the two is crucial. It is to know if your pet is shivering or may be suffering from some severe medical conditions.
Normal shivering is making the blood pump to the different parts of the body, slightly warming the body up. Seizures are which the muscles seize up and lose mobility and awareness of their surroundings.
Even though shivering is sometimes harmless, it is best to consult your veterinarian about why your dog is shaking for no reason.
Your Vizsla is Cold
The most simple answer as to why your Vizsla might be shaking is they felt cold. Did you know that if a person shivers, it is making the body warm? Same thing with our pets. Shivering is an involuntary response to get the blood pumping throughout the body. It is also our way to prevent hypothermia.
Smaller dog breeds shiver more than large breeds. It is because they are a bit smaller and also lack mass and insulation.
Your Vizsla is Excited
Some dogs shake when they are happy or excited. It is said that it is somehow a manifestation of their strong emotions or excitement. This kind of shivering has no danger: it will most likely stop when they calm down.
Ear Problems
All dog breeds can get ear infections, and Vizsla is no exception. If your dog got out of a bath or has been swimming lately and is shaking its head. They are probably suffering from an ear infection.
Dogs with irritated or infected ears often shake their head to provide temporary relief. But this can lead to something way more serious. For example, a dog can get an ear hematoma when the blood traps in the flaps of their ears.
Stress: Shake it Off!
Other intense emotions can make the dog shake. Shivering is one of the main symptoms of stress in dogs. Any dog breeds often shake to relieve the stress. Even for dogs, stress and psychological conditions aren’t a good thing.
Seeking For Attention
When your dog learns that if they make some weird noise or start shivering, although it is nothing serious, you will quickly aid them.
It will do it many times to get your attention.
Pain or Illness
Shivering is also a sign of underlying medical conditions. Shivering can be a symptom of serious conditions like distemper, hypoglycemia, Addison’s disease, inflammatory brain disease, and generalized tremor syndrome.
Old Age
Shivering can be a sign of weakening legs to old dogs. It is also a sign of arthritis and joint pain.
What To Do If Your Vizsla Keep Shaking?
- If your dog is no friend with the cold weather, consider limiting their exposure to it. Maybe buying something to make them warm and to ease the shivering like blankets, sweaters, coats, or a dog bed near a heating vent or pad.
- If your dog shivers when they are excited, this is normal. But if their excitement turns into hyperactivity, you should consider giving your dog something to relax. Don’t tolerate this kind of behavior.
- After bathing or swimming with your dog, you should dry their ears to avoid ear infections.
- When they are shivering because of stress, anxiety, and fear, reassure your dog. Try to remove the things that give stress or fear to your Vizsla. Try to help them calm down in some situations.
- Even shaking to get your attention isn’t harmful. Reinforcing it isn’t a good idea. It would help if you did not tolerate this behavior. They might use it or become their mannerism if you tolerate or reinforce it.
- If the shivering continues, you should consult your local veterinarian. It will reveal what causes the shaking of your Vizsla.
The Bottom Line
Dogs can shake for various reasons, such as excitement, pain, cold, or even old age. If the shaking happens regularly, get your dog to a veterinarian. It is to ensure there’s nothing serious happening. Your veterinarian can explain what causes your Vizsla to shake or shiver and the best advice on what to do.
