Do Dogs Shake with Upset Stomach? Unveiling the Truth Behind Canine Tremors
Yes, dogs can shake with an upset stomach. An upset stomach can indeed cause shaking in dogs, though it’s essential to differentiate this symptom from other potential causes of tremors.
Understanding Canine Digestive Distress
An upset stomach in dogs is a common ailment, often stemming from dietary indiscretions, infections, or underlying medical conditions. Recognizing the signs and understanding the potential causes are crucial for providing appropriate care. We’ll explore how digestive distress can manifest as shaking, what other symptoms to look for, and when to seek veterinary attention.
The Link Between Upset Stomach and Shaking
While shaking is not always directly caused by an upset stomach, it can be a secondary symptom. The discomfort and pain associated with gastrointestinal issues can trigger a stress response, leading to tremors. This is particularly true in smaller breeds or dogs already predisposed to anxiety. Furthermore, certain conditions that cause vomiting and diarrhea, such as infections or poisoning, can disrupt electrolyte balance, which can also contribute to shaking.
Other Symptoms Accompanying Shaking and Upset Stomach
It’s important to observe your dog for additional symptoms to get a clearer picture of what’s going on. Common signs that accompany an upset stomach include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Drooling excessively
- Whining or restlessness
- Abdominal pain or sensitivity
- Dehydration
If your dog is shaking and exhibiting several of these symptoms, it’s a strong indicator that the tremors could be related to their digestive discomfort.
Potential Causes of Upset Stomach in Dogs
Identifying the underlying cause of the upset stomach is essential for effective treatment. Some potential culprits include:
- Dietary Indiscretion: Eating something they shouldn’t have, like garbage, spoiled food, or table scraps.
- Food Allergies or Intolerances: Reacting negatively to certain ingredients in their food.
- Infections: Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can wreak havoc on the digestive system.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): A chronic inflammatory condition affecting the gastrointestinal tract.
- Toxins: Ingesting poisonous substances can cause severe gastrointestinal upset.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas.
- Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus – GDV): A life-threatening condition, especially in large breeds, where the stomach fills with gas and twists.
- Foreign Body Obstruction: An object lodged in the digestive tract.
Ruling Out Other Causes of Shaking
It is crucial to differentiate shaking from an upset stomach from other possible causes. Shaking in dogs can be caused by various factors unrelated to digestive issues:
- Cold: Shivering due to low temperature.
- Anxiety or Fear: Trembling due to stress or fear.
- Pain: Shaking as a response to localized pain.
- Neurological Conditions: Certain neurological disorders can cause tremors.
- Generalized Tremor Syndrome: A condition causing body-wide tremors, especially in young dogs.
- Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): Shaking in diabetic or toy breed dogs.
- Kidney Disease: Advanced kidney disease can cause tremors.
- Distemper: Causes twitching.
When to Seek Veterinary Care
If your dog is shaking and exhibiting signs of an upset stomach, it’s essential to monitor their condition closely. Seek veterinary attention immediately if you observe any of the following:
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours.
- Blood in vomit or stool.
- Severe abdominal pain or bloating.
- Extreme lethargy or weakness.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Seizures.
- Suspected ingestion of toxins.
- Unresponsiveness.
These symptoms could indicate a serious underlying condition that requires prompt medical intervention.
Home Care for Mild Upset Stomach
For mild cases of upset stomach without any alarming symptoms, you may be able to provide some home care. However, always consult with your veterinarian before administering any medication or significantly changing your dog’s diet.
- Withhold Food: Fasting for 12-24 hours can give the digestive system a chance to rest. Ensure fresh water is always available.
- Bland Diet: After fasting, introduce a bland diet such as boiled chicken and white rice in small, frequent meals.
- Probiotics: Probiotics can help restore balance to the gut flora.
- Monitor Hydration: Ensure your dog stays hydrated by offering small amounts of water frequently.
Prevention Tips
Preventing upset stomach in dogs involves several strategies:
- Feed a High-Quality Diet: Choose a food that is appropriate for your dog’s age, breed, and activity level.
- Avoid Table Scraps: Resist the urge to share human food, as it can be difficult for dogs to digest and may contain harmful ingredients.
- Prevent Garbage Access: Secure garbage cans to prevent your dog from scavenging.
- Supervise Outdoor Activity: Monitor your dog closely when they are outside to prevent them from eating inappropriate items.
- Regular Deworming: Keep your dog up-to-date on deworming medication to prevent parasitic infections.
Do dogs shake with upset stomach? – The Bottom Line
While shaking can be a symptom of an upset stomach, it’s crucial to consider other potential causes. If your dog is shaking and exhibiting signs of digestive distress, observe them carefully, provide appropriate home care for mild cases, and seek veterinary attention if necessary. Understanding the potential causes and knowing when to seek professional help can ensure your furry friend receives the best possible care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is shaking always a sign of something serious?
Not necessarily. Shaking can be a sign of various things, including being cold, excited, or slightly nervous. However, when shaking is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, it warrants closer attention and potential veterinary consultation.
Can anxiety cause shaking and upset stomach in dogs?
Yes, anxiety can certainly cause both shaking and upset stomach in dogs. Stress and anxiety can disrupt the digestive system, leading to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, while also triggering physical manifestations like shaking or trembling.
What should I do if my dog ate something poisonous and is shaking?
If you suspect your dog has ingested something poisonous, seek immediate veterinary care. Do not try to induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by a veterinarian or poison control center, as this can sometimes cause more harm.
How long does an upset stomach usually last in dogs?
A mild upset stomach in dogs typically resolves within 24-48 hours with supportive care such as fasting and a bland diet. However, if symptoms persist or worsen beyond this timeframe, veterinary attention is necessary to rule out more serious underlying issues.
Can food allergies cause shaking in dogs?
While less common, food allergies can contribute to shaking in some dogs. The inflammatory response triggered by an allergic reaction can sometimes manifest as tremors, alongside more typical symptoms like skin irritation, gastrointestinal upset, and ear infections.
Is it safe to give my dog human medication for an upset stomach?
Never give your dog human medication without consulting your veterinarian. Many human medications are toxic to dogs and can cause serious harm or even death.
What are the best probiotics for dogs with upset stomachs?
There are many canine-specific probiotics available. Look for products that contain a variety of beneficial bacteria strains, such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Enterococcus. Consult with your veterinarian for recommendations based on your dog’s individual needs.
Can dehydration cause shaking in dogs?
Yes, dehydration can definitely contribute to shaking in dogs. Dehydration disrupts electrolyte balance and can impair nerve and muscle function, leading to tremors and weakness. Ensuring your dog stays adequately hydrated is crucial, especially when they are experiencing vomiting or diarrhea.
What is hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE) in dogs?
Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE) is a severe condition characterized by sudden onset of bloody vomiting and diarrhea. It can cause significant dehydration and shock and requires immediate veterinary treatment. Shaking can be a symptom.
Are some dog breeds more prone to upset stomachs?
Yes, certain breeds are more prone to certain gastrointestinal issues. For example, large breeds are more susceptible to bloat (GDV), while some smaller breeds are prone to hypoglycemia. However, any dog can experience an upset stomach.
What kind of diagnostic tests might a vet perform for an upset stomach?
Your veterinarian may recommend various diagnostic tests, including blood tests, fecal exams, urine analysis, abdominal X-rays, and ultrasound, to determine the underlying cause of your dog’s upset stomach.
If do dogs shake with upset stomach?, at what point should I suspect food poisoning?
If your dog suddenly develops severe vomiting, diarrhea, shaking, lethargy, and abdominal pain after consuming a suspect food source (e.g., garbage, spoiled food), food poisoning should be strongly suspected. Seek veterinary care immediately, as food poisoning can be life-threatening.