If you notice your dog trembling or shaking slightly, you may think the worst: a life-threatening neurological condition. However, upon ruling out any other condition (and running extensive tests), your vet may explain that your dog has white shaker syndrome—sometimes shortened to shaker syndrome. This is a generally harmless condition that may cause your dog to tremble or shake slightly, usually in the absence of pain.
With a well-rounded veterinary treatment plan, there are many medications that can reduce these symptoms and help your dog live a normal life.
Shaker Syndrome Affects a Dog’s Nervous System
Shaker syndrome is an inherited condition that commonly affects small dogs, although it can affect any breed of any size. Symptoms include:
- A head tilt
- Unsteady walking
- An arched back
- Shivering in the absence of temperature changes
- Head and body tremors
- Paralysis
- Uncontrolled eye movements or twitching
- Seizures
- Delayed response to commands
Researchers are divided on the cause of this condition. Some believe that it results from inflammation of the spinal cord, while others believe that it affects the cerebellum, the part of the brain that regulates voluntary movements.
If you have an adult dog, you’re generally in the clear when it comes to shaker syndrome. This condition commonly manifests between the ages of six months to three years. The good news is that with a consistent veterinary regimen, these dogs can live healthy lives free of troubling symptoms.
Shaker Syndrome Commonly Affects Small Dogs
There’s a reason why shaker syndrome is sometimes called “white shaker syndrome”; its generally seen in small white dogs, which can include:
- West Highland White Terriers
- Maltese
- Poodles
- Shih Tzu
- Bichon Frise
Other small dog breeds that aren’t necessarily white (but can still suffer shaker syndrome) include Dachshunds and Boston Terriers. Samoyeds, which can tip the scales at 65 pounds, can also develop this condition.
Veterinarians Perform a “Diagnosis of Exclusion”
Many people are familiar with the concept of testing “positive” for a health condition, such as Covid or strep throat. Testing a dog for shaker syndrome is a bit different, as this isn’t a test that yields a “positive” or “negative” result. Instead, a veterinarian conducts extensive testing for other conditions before diagnosing a dog with shaker syndrome.
Here’s an example. You bring your trembling dog to the vet. Your veterinarian tests for canine distemper, as this can affect the brain’s usual function. The test comes back negative. So your veterinarian performs a blood test to check for infectious diseases. That comes back negative. Upon ruling out other viable diagnoses, your vet will decide whether your dog has shaker syndrome. An experienced vet with a keen eye may come to this conclusion without such testing.
Prompt diagnosis is key regardless of what health condition your dog has. The sooner your veterinarian can start treatment, the more improvement you could see.
Treatment Options for Shaker Syndrome Include Medication
Fun fact: many of the same medications used to treat neurological disorders in people can also be used to treat dogs. One such drug is prednisone, a steroid that’s used to suppress the immune system’s responses. VCA Animal Hospitals notes that many dogs see improvement within two weeks of starting the drug. Over time, the veterinarian will taper the dose to limit certain side effects, such as excessive urination, constant thirst, and increased appetite.
Dogs that don’t meet their goals with prednisone may benefit from benzodiazepines, drugs that make nerves less “excitable”. These are commonly prescribed to dogs with anxiety and seizure disorders. Even if you have these drugs in your medicine cabinet, do not give them to your dog. The dosages for humans are very different than the dosages for dogs, and you don’t want to risk giving too much.
How to Prevent Shaker Syndrome in Your Dog
Because researchers aren’t 100 percent sure what causes shaker syndrome, there’s no surefire way to avoid it in your dog. The only way to ensure that your dog doesn’t have this condition is to obtain your puppy from a reputable breeder. Experienced breeders will conduct genetic testing to ensure that puppies don’t have congenital conditions. They also would not breed two dogs already experiencing shaker syndrome.
There’s no instant gratification when it comes to getting a dog from a breeder who understands what they’re doing. Still, waiting a few extra months for a puppy could mean the difference between getting a healthy dog versus navigating lifelong health complications.
Other Reasons for Shaking in Dogs
If your dog shakes occasionally, this could be a response to their environment, not necessarily a neurological problem. Still, as a responsible dog owner, it’s important to understand what is causing this reaction and act accordingly. For example, some sighthounds, like Italian Greyhounds, aren’t insulated from cold temperatures. So, when it gets cold, they may shiver. This prompts many owners to get knit sweaters for their little skeleton dogs, helping them remain comfortable when the seasons change.
Other reasons for shaking in dogs include:
- Anxiety. Some dogs shake when they’re nervous. Removing them from a stressful environment or addressing the trigger could reduce their stress.
- Overstimulation. Ever seen a high-energy dog at an agility competition? These dogs literally tremble with excitement before running through mazes, weave poles, and tunnels. It’s no need for concern; they’re just happy to be there!
- A learned behavior. If you rush over to your dog every time they quiver, they may enjoy the attention. Don’t reward this. If you suspect that your dog has a problem, play it cool. They’ll feed off your energy!
Long story short: shaker syndrome isn’t a death sentence for dogs. There are many treatment options that successfully address this condition and help dogs live comfortably.
