Why do puppies shake after eating gruel

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated November 18, 2024

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Why Do Puppies Shake? (When Eating, Sleeping, & More)

If youre a puppy parent, youve likely lost count of the times youve seen your puppy shake for seemingly no reason and got concerned. Wonder why this happens? This post will explore all the possible reasons behind your lovely furry friends shaking.

So, why do puppies shake anyway? There are many reasons why puppies shake. It may be out of excitement, fear, attention, discomfort, or illness, among many others. In most cases, the shaking isnt a cause for alarm. But when sickness or pain is involved, you shouldnt take the shakes lightly.

Want to know all the potential reasons why puppies shake? Keep scrolling to find out. Ill also tell you more about the illness-related shaking so youd know when to see a vet visit.

Understanding puppy shaking: 10 possible reasons why your puppy shakes

As a puppy owner, youll agree that certain habits we observe from our young canine companions leave us worried and confused like shaking every now and then.

They do it while sleeping, eating, when you lift them.. basically in the least expected circumstances, making you question why the shaking happens in the first place.

Almost every puppy parent has a puppy-shaking story. Its common in puppies, and not every shake means somethings wrong with your cherished furry pal.

Most times, the shaking is pretty harmless. Lets explore some of the common reasons why puppies shake:

Its purely out of excitement

Have you noticed your furry friend shakes during mealtime? Whenever you carry them after coming home from work? When youre about to take them for a walk? Or while playing?

That, my friend, is an excitement shake.

Sometimes, a puppy may be filled with so much joy and eagerness. They simply cant contain it.

They might shake as they scarf down their favorite meal, participate in an activity they love, or when you their human best friend pick them up.

As long as the shaking lasts briefly and they act like their usual self a few moments later, you have nothing to panic over.

But if the shaking comes with other unwanted behaviors like excitement urination, its a good idea to consult a behaviorist to get things under control.

Theyre afraid or anxious

Some puppies shake when overcome by fear or anxious thoughts.

Your puppys fear comes in many forms. Maybe the sound of fireworks or your vacuum scares them like crazy. Or being picked up by a guest theyve never met makes them anxious.

If your puppy seems to tremble when a visitor holds them, socialization training can greatly help. They will become more confident around a touchy guest.

On the other hand, sound training will help them get used to noises that normally freak them out and make them shake.

If your puppy is in fear, their shake may happen simultaneously with fear-like behaviors such as licking their lips non-stop, pacing, or avoiding eye contact.

And if youre furry friend isnt yet comfortable being held up by anyone including you they might shake in fear (and display the fear-like behaviors).

In this case, heres how you can fix the situation:

Start by making them sit on your lap regularly so they can get used to your gentle hands. Then slowly transition to placing them on your chest while whispering soft praises.
When they seem calm on your chest, you can proceed with gently lifting them a few inches higher and offering them praises or a treat.

Over time, you will notice they no longer shake out of fear whenever you lift them. Instead, they may shake out of excitement.

Theyre having an exciting dream (or nightmares)

Experts say that our four-legged friends dream when sleeping.

If your puppy makes a quick shake while snoozing, its likely that the fierce dog next door is chasing them in their sleep. Or that theyre enjoying chasing butterflies in their dream.

Besides the shaking, expect to hear soft whines or leg movements here and there if theyre having a horrifying dream.

Its a body response to chilly weather

Puppies shiver when theres chilly weather.

Our young canine pals tend to lose body heat quicker than full-grown dogs because of their small bodies. So when its cold, your puppy cant control the shaking since thats their bodys automatic response to the chilly weather.

The shivers are simply muscles contracting and relaxing rapidly to make your puppys body warm up.

And since the shaking alone cant meet all your puppys warmth needs, the whole body trembling will persist until you do something to keep them warm Like letting them wear a dog sweater.

The attention-seeking shakes

Sometimes, your puppy may shake so that youd notice them.

Shaking can become their go-to ticket to winning your attention if they realize you often walk up to them whenever they start to tremble.

Even minor reactions like staring at your puppy as they shake can make them believe that shaking is what they need to do to grab your attention.

This type of shaking lasts briefly. Your puppy should still look okay after their shaking stunt.

To shake off the bugs

If your little canine pal feels itchy because of insect bites or external parasites like fleas, they might shake vigorously to get rid of these nasty little bloodsuckers.

Apart from the frequent shakes, your puppy will also exhibit some telltale signs of insect bites and parasite infection constantly scratching or biting their body, red pimples, and so on.

Its advisable to speak to your vet if your puppys shaking suggests theyre dealing with parasites or a sting.

Trying to dry up (and get dirt off)

After enjoying some time in the pool or after a bath, its common for puppies to vigorously shake off the excess water from their body.

Maybe a towel doesnt get the job done well enough, so your puppy resorts to what they know best shake-when-wet.

This may also happen if theyve been rolling in dirt and want to remove particles trapped in their coat.

They have discomfort in the ears

If theres something stuck in your puppys ears like a bit of water after spending time in the pool you will notice your dog shaking their head more than usual. They will also shake their head regularly if they feel some sort of pain in their ears.

You should speak to your vet if the head-shaking persists for days.

Its part of their morning routine

Puppies love to shake after waking up, maybe so theyd start their day on the right note. Think of these morning shakes as your puppys version of morning stretch.

They suffer from an illness

As I said a while ago, not all puppy-shaking episodes are harmless. Shaking is often one of the major symptoms of certain conditions affecting puppies.

Theres one genetic condition known as shaking puppy syndrome (yes, you read that right) that leads to persistent body shakes, among other symptoms.

Other health problems that can make puppies tremble a lot include:

Neurological conditions such as cerebellar hypoplasia
Hypoglycemia when a puppy has abnormally low blood sugar levels in the blood
Canine distemper a contagious (and deadly) viral illness that often attacks unvaccinated puppies
Poisoning

The surest way to know whether an illness is behind your puppys frequent body tremors is to observe their behavior after shaking. Talk to your vet immediately you spot symptoms like :

Difficulty walking (and losing balance)
Irregular breathing
Nasal discharge
Lethargy
Appetite loss
Coughing
Diarrhea
Vomiting

Also, if your puppys shaking has been mild for a while and then suddenly becomes repetitive (and in great intensity), make sure to see the vet so they can determine the underlying problem.

Physical Reasons for Puppies Shaking After Eating

Low Blood Sugar

One potential physical reason for puppies shaking after eating is low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia. Puppies have small stomachs and fast metabolisms, which can lead to a drop in blood sugar levels if they havent eaten for a while. Shaking may occur as a result of the bodys attempt to regulate blood sugar levels. To remedy this, it is important to feed puppies small, frequent meals to prevent blood sugar from dropping too low. Additionally, supplementing their diet with glucose or honey can help provide an extra energy boost and stabilize blood sugar levels.

Digestive Discomfort

Another physical factor that may cause puppies to shake after eating is digestive discomfort. Nausea, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation can all contribute to shaking episodes. Puppies, like humans, can experience stomachaches and indigestion due to eating too quickly, consuming rich or fatty foods, or having an imbalance in their diet. To alleviate these symptoms, it is crucial to provide puppies with a balanced diet that is appropriate for their age and breed. Avoiding foods that may trigger digestive issues and opting for smaller, more frequent meals can also help prevent discomfort and shaking.

Stomach Distension

Stomach distension, particularly a condition called gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), can cause puppies to shake after eating. GDV occurs when the stomach twists and becomes distended with gas or fluid, leading to a life-threatening emergency. Symptoms of GDV include unsuccessful attempts to vomit, restlessness, panting, and a bloated belly. If you suspect that your puppy is experiencing GDV, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary assistance. Preventing GDV involves feeding smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding vigorous physical activity immediately before and after meals.

Food Allergies

Food allergies can also contribute to puppies shaking after eating. Common food allergens for dogs include beef, chicken, dairy products, wheat, and soy. When puppies consume these allergens, they may experience symptoms such as itching, vomiting, diarrhea, and, in some cases, shaking. Identifying and eliminating the specific allergens from the puppys diet can help alleviate these symptoms and prevent future episodes of shaking. Consulting with a veterinarian and conducting an elimination diet can aid in identifying the specific allergens causing the adverse reaction. Providing a balanced, allergen-free diet is essential for a puppys overall health and well-being.

Heat Regulation

Heat can play a role in puppies shaking after eating, particularly in warm environments. Dogs regulate their body temperature primarily through panting and can be susceptible to heat stress or heatstroke. Shaking after a meal could be a sign that the puppy is attempting to cool down. It is vital to ensure that puppies have access to a cool, shaded area and plenty of fresh water to prevent overheating. In extreme cases, cooling mats or pads can be used to help regulate body temperature and provide relief from excess heat.

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Behavioral Reasons for Puppies Shaking After Eating

Excitement or Anticipation

One of the behavioral reasons puppies may shake after eating is excitement or anticipation. Puppies may become overwhelmed with excitement while awaiting their meal, and the shaking may be a result of increased heart rate and adrenaline. Tail wagging, jumping, and other signs of anticipation can accompany this shaking behavior. To manage this excitement, it is important to practice positive reinforcement training techniques, which help redirect their energy and maintain a calm demeanor. Establishing a consistent feeding routine can also help reduce excessive anticipation and the associated shaking.

Anxiety or Fear

Puppies can experience anxiety or fear, which may manifest as shaking after eating. Loud noises, unfamiliar surroundings, or previous negative experiences can trigger anxiety or fear responses in puppies. Shaking can be a physical manifestation of these emotions. Creating a safe and secure environment for your puppy, providing reassurance and comfort, and gradually exposing them to new experiences can help reduce anxiety and minimize shaking episodes. If the anxiety persists, consulting with a professional dog trainer or a veterinarian may be beneficial in developing a tailored behavior modification plan.

Submission

Shaking after eating can also be a sign of submission in puppies. Submission is a natural instinct derived from their pack-living ancestors. Puppies may shake when they feel intimidated or overpowered, especially if there are other dogs or dominant individuals present during mealtime. This behavior is the puppys way of communicating their non-threatening intentions and avoiding potential conflict. Providing a calm and harmonious feeding environment, separating puppies during mealtime if necessary, and establishing clear boundaries and leadership can help alleviate submissive shaking.

Overstimulation

Puppies are naturally curious and easily overstimulated by their surroundings. Excessive stimulation, such as meeting new people or animals, playing vigorously, or engaging in high-energy activities, can lead to shaking after eating. The puppys body may struggle to process and regulate the influx of sensory information which can result in shaking. Ensuring that puppies have appropriate rest periods, gradually introducing new stimuli, and avoiding overly stimulating environments immediately after meals can help prevent shaking caused by overstimulation.

Happiness

Shaking after eating can also be attributed to excessive happiness or joyfulness in puppies. Puppies may become so overwhelmed with joy and happiness that their bodies display shaking as an energetic release. This behavior is often accompanied by vocalizations, jumping, and overall exuberance. Engaging in regular exercise, providing mental stimulation through interactive toys or puzzle feeders, and encouraging safe play can help channel the puppys energy and reduce the intensity of shaking caused by excessive happiness.

Physical Symptoms and Remedies for Low Blood Sugar

Lethargy and Weakness

When puppies experience low blood sugar, they may exhibit symptoms such as lethargy and weakness. They may appear tired, lack energy, and have difficulty engaging in normal activities. Feeding small, frequent meals can help maintain stable blood sugar levels and provide the necessary energy to combat lethargy and weakness. It is also important to ensure that the puppy stays hydrated and has access to fresh water at all times.

Drooling and Excessive Thirst

Drooling and excessive thirst are additional physical symptoms that can accompany low blood sugar in puppies. The bodys attempt to regulate blood sugar levels may result in increased saliva production and increased thirst. Providing ample water and dividing meals into smaller, more frequent portions can help alleviate these symptoms.

Trembling or Shaking

One of the most noticeable physical symptoms of low blood sugar in puppies is trembling or shaking. This shaking may occur after eating or during periods of prolonged fasting. Feeding puppies small, frequent meals can help stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce the occurrence of shaking. Additionally, supplementing the puppys diet with a small amount of glucose or honey can provide immediate relief from low blood sugar and alleviate shaking episodes.

Feeding Small, Frequent Meals

To combat low blood sugar and its associated symptoms, it is crucial to feed puppies small, frequent meals throughout the day. This approach helps maintain a steady supply of glucose to the bloodstream and prevents drastic drops in blood sugar levels. Opting for high-quality puppy food specifically formulated to meet their nutritional needs can provide the required balance of nutrients for sustained energy.

Supplementing with Glucose or Honey

Supplementing a puppys diet with glucose or honey can help provide an extra boost of energy and stabilize blood sugar levels. When low blood sugar symptoms, such as shaking, arise, a small amount of glucose or honey can be administered orally to rapidly raise blood sugar levels. It is important to consult with a veterinarian regarding the appropriate dosage and method of administering these supplements to ensure the puppys safety and well-being.

Digestive Discomfort and Its Effects on Shaking

Nausea and Vomiting

Digestive discomfort in puppies can manifest as nausea and vomiting. Puppies may experience an upset stomach due to factors such as eating too quickly, consuming spoiled or inappropriate food, or having a sensitive digestive system. Nausea and vomiting can contribute to shaking episodes following a meal. To alleviate these symptoms, it is important to feed puppies a balanced diet that suits their age and breed. Avoiding rich or fatty foods and introducing new foods gradually can help minimize the risk of digestive discomfort and subsequent shaking.

Bloating and Gas

Bloating and gas are common digestive issues that can cause puppies to shake after eating. Excessive air intake during mealtime or consuming certain food types can lead to bloating and gas build-up in their stomachs. This discomfort can result in shaking and restlessness. Feeding puppies smaller, more frequent meals and using slow-feed bowls can help prevent them from eating too quickly and minimize the risk of bloating and gas formation. Additionally, providing a diet consisting of easily digestible ingredients can aid in reducing digestive issues.

Diarrhea and Constipation

Digestive discomfort in puppies can also present as diarrhea or constipation. Both conditions can cause physical discomfort and subsequently lead to shaking after eating. Ensuring puppies have access to fresh water, maintaining a balanced diet, and gradually introducing new foods can help regulate their digestive system and minimize the occurrence of diarrhea or constipation. If these symptoms persist or worsen, consulting with a veterinarian is recommended to identify and address any underlying health concerns.

Avoiding Rich or Fatty Foods

To prevent digestive discomfort and subsequent shaking, it is important to avoid feeding puppies rich or fatty foods. These types of food can be more difficult for their young digestive systems to process, leading to an upset stomach and other related issues. Opting for a balanced and age-appropriate diet formulated for puppies can help provide the necessary nutrients without overwhelming their digestive system.

Feeding a Balanced Diet

Feeding a balanced diet is crucial for ensuring a puppys overall health and well-being. It can play a significant role in minimizing digestive discomfort and subsequent shaking after eating. Consulting with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate diet based on the puppys age, breed, and specific nutritional needs can help prevent digestive issues. A balanced diet that includes high-quality protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals can support healthy digestion and reduce the risk of shaking related to digestive discomfort.