Yorkshire Terriers, also known as Yorkies, are beloved companion dogs famous for their small size, adorable appearance, and lively personality. Despite their charming demeanour, Yorkies sometimes exhibit worrying behaviour, such as shaking or trembling.
If you are a Yorkie owner, you might have noticed your furry friend shaking for no apparent reason and wondered whether this is a cause for concern. This blog post will explore why Yorkies shake, including medical and non-medical factors.
We will also provide tips on how to help a shaking Yorkie and when to seek veterinary care. Understanding why your Yorkie shakes can help you prepare the best care for your pet and ensure its well-being.
Medical Reasons for Shaking
Yorkies, like any other dog breed, can experience various health issues that may lead to shaking or tremors. Some of the unique medical reasons for shaking in Yorkies include:
Hypoglycemia: Yorkies are prone to hypoglycemia, which occurs when their blood sugar levels drop too low. Hypoglycemia can cause a range of symptoms, including shaking, lethargy, weakness, seizures, and even coma in severe cases.
This condition is especially common in young puppies and toy breeds like Yorkies, who have a high metabolism and require frequent meals to maintain their blood sugar levels.
Liver shunt: A liver shunt is a congenital abnormality that occurs when blood flow bypasses the liver, which can lead to a build-up of toxins in the bloodstream. Yorkies with a liver shunt may experience various symptoms, including shaking, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stunted growth. If left untreated, a liver shunt can be life-threatening.
Legg-Calve-Perthes disease: This condition affects the hip joint and can cause pain, lameness, and muscle atrophy in Yorkies. Dogs with Legg-Calve-Perthes disease may also experience shaking or tremors, particularly in the affected leg.
If you suspect your Yorkie may be shaking due to a medical condition, it is important to seek veterinary care promptly. Your veterinarian can diagnose the underlying issue and provide appropriate treatment to help your pet feel better.
Non-medical Reasons for Shaking
In addition to medical issues, Yorkies may also shake for non-medical reasons. Some of the most common non-medical reasons for shaking in Yorkies include:
Anxiety and fear: Yorkies are known to be loyal and affectionate pets. However, they can also be prone to Anxiety and fear, particularly if they have not been socialized properly. Suppose your Yorkie is shaking in response to loud noises, unfamiliar surroundings, or separation anxiety. In that case, you may need to work on training and socialization to help your pet feel more comfortable and secure.
Cold or discomfort: Yorkies have a small, delicate build that can get cold easily, particularly in chilly or drafty environments. If your Yorkie is shaking and seems to seek warmth or comfort, consider providing a cosy blanket or bed or adjusting the room temperature to a more comfortable level.
Excitement: Yorkies are energetic and playful dogs that enjoy interacting with their owners and pets. If your Yorkie shakes happily or excitedly, it may indicate that they anticipate playtime or a treat. While this type of shaking is generally harmless, it is important to ensure your Yorkie is not overexcited to the point of exhaustion or injury.
By understanding the non-medical reasons why your Yorkie may be shaking, you can provide a safe and comfortable environment for your pet and training and socialization to help them manage Anxiety or fear.
My Yorkie is Shaking And Won’t Eat.
If your Yorkie is shaking and refusing to eat, it may be experiencing some discomfort or illness. Here are some potential causes:
Pain or injury: Your Yorkie may be experiencing pain or discomfort from an injury or illness, which can cause them to shake and lose their appetite.
Digestive issues: Your Yorkie may be experiencing digestive problems such as an upset stomach or constipation, making them feel nauseous and uninterested in food.
Dental problems: Dental issues, such as tooth decay or gum disease, can cause pain and discomfort when eating, leading to loss of appetite and shaking.
Stress or anxiety: Stress and Anxiety can cause shaking and loss of appetite in Yorkies. Stressful events such as moving to a new home or changes in routine can trigger this response.
If your Yorkie’s symptoms persist or worsen, it’s best to seek veterinary care. The vet will perform a physical exam and may run tests to determine the underlying cause of the symptoms. They can then recommend a treatment plan to help your Yorkie recover.
How to Help a Shaking Yorkie
If your Yorkie is shaking, there are several things you can do to help your pet feel more comfortable and relaxed, depending on the underlying cause of the shaking:
Offer comfort: Providing comfort and reassurance can go a long way if your Yorkie is shaking due to Anxiety or fear. You can try cuddling your pet, speaking calmly and soothingly, or offering treats to distract them. Avoid scolding or punishing your Yorkie, as this can increase their Anxiety and worsen the shaking.
Provide warmth: If your Yorkie is shaking due to cold or discomfort, providing a warm and cosy environment can help. You can offer a soft blanket or bed or adjust the room temperature to a more comfortable level. Avoid exposing your Yorkie to cold or drafty areas, worsening the shaking.
Monitor food and water intake: If your Yorkie is shaking due to hypoglycemia, closely monitoring their food and water intake is important. You may need to offer small and frequent meals throughout the day and supplement with high-calorie foods or glucose gel as your veterinarian recommends.
Seek veterinary care: If your Yorkie is shaking persistently or seems to be in distress, it is veterinary care promptly. Your veterinarian can perform a thorough exam, run diagnostic tests, and provide appropriate treatment depending on the underlying cause of the shaking.
By providing comfort and warmth, monitoring food and water intake, and seeking veterinary care when necessary, you can help your Yorkie manage the shaking and maintain their overall health and well-being.
When to Contact a Vet About Yorkie Shivering
If you have a Yorkie that is shivering, it could be a sign of a medical issue, or it could simply be due to feeling cold. Here are some signs to look for that may indicate you should contact a vet:
Frequency and duration: If your Yorkie is shivering frequently and/or for extended periods, it may indicate an underlying medical issue.
Other symptoms: If your Yorkie is also experiencing other symptoms and signs, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or vomiting, it may be a sign of an underlying medical condition.
Temperature: If your Yorkie’s body temperature is below 100°F or above 103°F, it is important to contact a vet immediately.
History: If your Yorkie has a history of medical issues, it may be more important to contact a vet if they are shivering.
Environment: If your Yorkie is shivering in a warm environment, it may indicate an underlying medical issue.
If you are concerned about your Yorkie’s shivering, it is always best to contact a vet for advice. They can assess your dog’s symptoms and guide the best action.
conclusion
It is easier to determine why your Yorkie is shaking with a proper examination by a veterinarian. Shaking or shivering can be caused by various factors, including feeling cold, Anxiety or stress, pain, illness, or neurological conditions.
It’s crucial to watch for additional symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, or vomiting if your Yorkie is shaking. You should also check their body temperature and environment to ensure they are not too cold or hot.
If you are concerned about your Yorkie’s shaking or experiencing other symptoms. It is best to consult a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
