Why Chihuahuas Shake: Common Causes and Solutions

Chihuahua shaking and shivering

Have you noticed your Chihuahua shaking? Maybe he does it before going on car rides, or perhaps he shakes during the winter. While all dogs shake occasionally, this behavior is particularly common in Chihuahuas. They shake more frequently than larger dogs. Here are some of the most common reasons Chihuahuas shake and what, if anything, you should do about it.

Reasons Chihuahuas Shake

Illustration showing the reasons Chihuahuas shake and shiver

Chihuahuas may shake for any number of reasons. Some of these reasons are normal and don’t pose any need for concern. Others, however, may indicate a serious condition. Therefore, you should try to identify why your Chihuahua is shaking so that you can take the appropriate action.

#1) Cold

Cold Chihuahua outdoors during a winter storm

Chihuahuas may shake when they are cold. It’s an internal mechanism that allows our furry four-legged friends to regulate their body temperature.

The normal body temperature for Chihuahuas is between 99.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, which is slightly higher than that of a person’s normal body temperature. If a Chihuahua’s body temperature rises above 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, he may pant to cool off. If a Chihuahua’s body temperature drops below 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit, on the other hand, he may shake to warm up.

Chihuahuas get cold more easily than larger dogs. This is due primarily to their high ratio of body surface area to body volume. They have more skin relative to the size of their small bodies. When exposed to cold temperatures, heat will quickly escape their bodies through their skin.

Shaking allows Chihuahuas to raise their internal temperature through the consumption of energy. As they shake, some of their energy supplies will be converted to heat.

Some Chihuahuas only have a top coat, whereas others have a top coat and an undercoat. The presence of an undercoat will further protect Chihuahuas from cold temperatures, meaning they will be less likely to shake than single-coat Chihuahuas with only a top coat.

#2) Wet

Wet Chihuahua after getting a bath

Chihuahuas may shake when they are wet. Chihuahuas don’t want to walk around with a wet coat. It will weigh them down and increase their risk of hypothermia.

After getting a bath — or jumping in a pool or body of water — they may attempt to dry themselves by shaking. According to a study conducted by the Georgia Institute of Technology, dogs can shake themselves 70% dry in a matter of seconds. Researchers also discovered that smaller dogs, such as Chihuahuas, shake more rapidly than larger dogs.

Shaking will release excess water from the Chihuahua’s coat. Any remaining water will quickly evaporate so that the Chihuahua stays warm and comfortable.

#3) Hypoglycemia

Chihuahua shaking during a hypoglycemia episode

Hypoglycemia is a common reason Chihuahuas shake. Not to be confused with hyperglycemia, it’s a metabolic condition involving low blood sugar levels.

Chihuahuas use glucose for energy. The amount of glucose in a Chihuahua’s blood is represented by his blood sugar levels. The more glucose in the Chihuahua’s blood, the higher his blood sugar levels will be. Hypoglycemia is characterized by episodes during which the Chihuahua’s blood sugar levels fall below 60 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl) or 3.3 millimoles per liter (mmol/L).

Chihuahuas have naturally high metabolic rates, which places them at risk for hypoglycemia. They consume more energy relative to their body size than larger dogs. Additionally, Chihuahuas have less glycogen to use for “backup energy.” These genetic characteristics increase the risk of hypoglycemia in Chihuahuas.

If your Chihuahua experiences a hypoglycemia episode, he may shake. Along with weakness and loss of appetite, shaking is an early sign of low blood sugar. If left untreated, hypoglycemia can lead to seizures and even death.

#4) Pain

Chihuahua in pain and shaking

Pain can cause Chihuahuas to shake. Like all dogs, Chihuahuas are adept at hiding pain. They’ve developed this trait over thousands of years.

Pain is a sign of weakness in the wild. It shows would-be predators that a dog is an easy target. To discourage predators from attacking them, the canine ancestors of modern-day Chihuahuas would hide their pain.

Unless your Chihuahua is in severe pain, he probably won’t yelp. He may, however, exhibit other, more inconspicuous signs, such as shaking. Maybe your Chihuahua is suffering from a toothache or arthritis, or perhaps he recently pulled a muscle. Regardless, if he’s in pain, your Chihuahua may shake.

Other signs your Chihuahua is experiencing pain include:

  • Lack of appetite
  • Excessive self-grooming
  • Sensitivity to touch
  • Heavy panting
  • Pacing or circling
  • Changes in gait
  • Restlessness
  • Lethargy

#5) Excitement

Excited Chihuahua running and playing

Excitement can cause Chihuahuas to shake. It’s a natural response to their heightened emotional state. When excited, adrenaline and other neurotransmitters will surge through the Chihuahua’s body. The sudden surge of these chemicals can manifest in the form of physical reactions, such as barking or shaking.

It doesn’t take a lot to excite a Chihuahua. Saying the word “treat,” for instance, is often enough to instill a sense of excitement. After your Chihuahua has learned this magic word, he will associate it with a tasty treat. Your Chihuahua may then shake until you’ve given him a treat.

Jingling your car keys may instill a similar sense of excitement. Most Chihuahuas love going on car rides. When they see and hear your car keys jingling, your Chihuahua may become excited knowing that he will be able to take a road trip. Not all Chihuahuas behave the same when excited, but many of them will shake in response to their weighted emotional state.

#6) Stress

Stressed Chihuahua watching fireworks and shaking

You may notice your Chihuahua shaking if he’s stressed. Stress is a survival mechanism that’s attributed to their fight-or-flight response. Just like we become stressed when exposed to a potential threat, so do Chihuahuas. The perceived threat triggers the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol, that activate the Chihuahua’s survival instinct.

As levels of stress hormones increase, the Chihuahua will become energized and alert, which can help him survive the perceived threat. The Chihuahua will essentially prepare to either fight or flee from the threat, and he may shake until making this critical decision.

Common stressors that can cause Chihuahuas to shake include:

  • Thunderstorms
  • Fireworks
  • Changes in daily routine
  • Prolonged periods of confinement
  • Veterinarian visits
  • Separation from owner
  • Social interaction with unfamiliar people and animals
  • Lack of exercise
  • Punishment-based training
  • Grooming (nail trimming, ear cleaning, bathing, etc.)

#7) Illness

Chihuahua shaking due to an illness

Illness is another common reason Chihuahuas shake. While they are considered generally healthy compared to other breeds, Chihuahuas can still succumb to a variety of diseases and medical conditions, some of which may result in shaking.

Infections can cause Chihuahuas to shake. Fever is a symptom of many viral and bacterial infections. As the invading pathogen spreads, the Chihuahua’s immune system will fight it with heat (among other things). The Chihuahua may then shake while his body temperature remains elevated.

Gastrointestinal distress can cause Chihuahuas to shake. Chihuahuas can experience an upset stomach that leaves them feeling nauseous or otherwise “under the weather. Some of them may eat grass to try and alleviate their upset stomach. Other Chihuahuas may simply shake until their stomach issues have subsided.

While not as common as infections and gastrointestinal distress, generalized tremor syndrome (GTS) can result in shaking. Also known as white shaker syndrome, it’s a nervous system disorder that involves full-body tremors. Chihuahuas with GTS will experience episodes in which their entire body shakes. Small dogs, especially those with a white coat, are more likely to experience GTS than larger dogs.

#8) Old Age

Senior Chihuahua shaking due to old age

Senior Chihuahuas are more likely to shake than their younger counterparts. Chihuahuas have one of the longest lifespans in the canine kingdom, with many of them surpassing the two-decade mark. As they enter their golden years, though, they may exhibit new behaviors, such as shaking.

Age-related shaking is often attributed to muscle atrophy. All dogs, as well as humans, will lose some of their muscle mass as they grow older. Their bodies can’t maintain the same amount of muscle mass, so they burn it off. With less muscle mass, senior Chihuahuas may shake.

Senior Chihuahuas may shake due to osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that involves the degradation of protective joint tissues. Chihuahuas have soft, protective cartilage within their joints. Over time, this cartilage may wear down, resulting in painful bone-on-bone contact.

Is It Normal for Chihuahuas to Shake?

Chihuahua sitting next to a text bubble saying "It's normal for Chihuahuas to shake when they are cold, wet or excited"

Nearly all dogs will shake, and Chihuahuas are no exception. But their small size makes Chihuahuas particularly prone to shaking.

It’s normal for Chihuahuas to shake when they are cold. As previously mentioned, they have a high ratio of body surface area to body volume, so they lose their body heat faster than larger dogs. Shaking allows Chihuahuas to raise their body temperature through the expenditure of energy.

It’s normal for Chihuahuas to shake when they are wet. A water-logged coat is uncomfortable, and it increases the risk of hypothermia. Unless you dry your Chihuahua with a towel or hair dryer, he may attempt to dry himself by shaking.

It’s normal for Chihuahuas to shake when they are excited. Chihuahuas are full of energy, and many of them will get excited at the simplest things. In addition to jumping and vocalizing, they may express their excitement by shaking.

Shaking attributed to other causes is typically abnormal. It’s not uncommon for Chihuahuas to shake when they are in pain, stressed, ill or old. Causes such as these, however, indicate a problem.

What to Do If Your Chihuahua Shaking

If your Chihuahua is shaking, you should try to determine the cause. He may be trying to tell you that he needs help. Ignoring his plea may cause additional pain and suffering for your pint-sized companion.

Abnormal shaking requires action on your behalf. If your Chihuahua is shaking because he’s in pain or sick, take him to the veterinarian immediately. The veterinarian can treat your Chihuahua and alleviate his pain or illness.

If your Chihuahua is shaking because he’s stressed, you can either remove the stressor or desensitize your Chihuahua to it. Stressors are things that cause stress. With the stressor removed, your Chihuahua should no longer shake. Of course, some stressors are beyond your control, in which case you should focus on desensitizing your Chihuahua to those stressors.

For age-related shaking, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. You can’t roll back the hands of time, but there are ways to help your senior Chihuahua so that he doesn’t shake as much. Your veterinarian may recommend lifestyle changes to strengthen your Chihuahua’s muscles, or your veterinarian may recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce joint inflammation.

If you aren’t sure why your Chihuahua is shaking — or if he doesn’t stop shaking — seek veterinary care.

Shaking vs Seizures: Understanding the Difference

Shaking vs seizures in Chihuahuas

Shaking and seizures aren’t the same. Seizures involve sudden and uncontrolled bursts of neurological activity. When a Chihuahua experiences a seizure, electrical activity will increase in his brain.

Symptoms can vary depending on the type of seizure. Focal seizures are isolated to one side of the brain, so they tend to have mild symptoms like dialed pupils and loss of vision and hearing. Generalized seizures, in comparison, involve increased electrical activity on both sides of the brain, which can lead to more severe and pronounced symptoms. During a generalized seizure, Chihuahuas may experience convulsions in which their muscles rapidly contract and relax.

Shaking and seizures differ in several ways. Chihuahuas maintain complete consciousness when shaking, whereas they may lose consciousness or become less aware of their surroundings during a generalized seizure.

Chihuahuas typically have some level of control over their muscles when shaking. Depending on the cause, they may not be able to fully stop shaking. Nonetheless, Chihuahuas can still walk and move their bodies when shaking. A generalized seizure may result in the loss of muscle control. If the Chihuahua experiences convulsions, he won’t be able to control his muscles.

In Conclusion

As an owner, you must distinguish between normal and abnormal shaking. Your Chihuahua may be shaking because he’s cold, wet or excited, all of which are normal. You don’t have to take any action if your Chihuahua’s shaking is attributed to any of these causes. But in cases of abnormal shaking, you should treat or resolve the underlying problem that’s causing this behavior.

Does your Chihuahua shake a lot? We’d love to hear about it in the comments section below!

Comments

    • Britney Williamson
    • September 29, 2020
    Reply

    My daughter just got a chi and she goes limp when on carpet couch bed or grass and shivers alot shes 4 months old wont walk on lease off lease we have to chase her she will run anything we need to do different

    • Jordyn Roop
    • June 29, 2020
    Reply

    My dog is shaking like crazy 😰😰

    • Deborah Culbertson
    • June 24, 2020
    Reply

    My daughter has a puppy that’s 7 weeks old, any tips?

    • Debbie
    • March 11, 2019
    Reply

    My chi dogs are 3 years old have always been afraid of dog collars and body collars scared beyond return of leashes they scream and stop while wearing them my female will bite what could be the problem I’ve had them since they were 7 weeks old they are brother and sister they used to couddle together now the larger female is terribly scared of her tiny male brother any advice they don’t play with toys very seldom very territorial and possessive help please

      • Lori
      • June 30, 2021
      Reply

      Hello I am a fairly new owner of a Chihuahua rescue dog and she was shaking really bad and right away I got her thunder shirt which is amazing she still shakes when we go outside some but overall she just feels so much better. I also I made my own little addition and inserted a ring in the back flap of it and I use that to clip her retractable leash to and it just worked out beautifully.

    • Denise
    • February 23, 2019
    Reply

    My chiwawa won’t stop marking his territory around the house so we lock him in my room…how do we get him to stop? And he won’t eat his dog food…only water…what do I do about that to???

      • Tom
      • December 17, 2021
      Reply

      Very common for a male chihuhaua to want to mark there territory! We had to put diapers on ours for years! We would buy elastic band diapers and put a maxi pad inside..

    • Timothy Gautney
    • December 24, 2018
    Reply

    My llittle Baby is 16 years old now. She shakes because she is cold sometimes and I have an electric heating pad that I place on our bed’s matteress and turn it down to it’s lowest setting for her, we only do this when my wife or I are home with her. She gets on it and sleeps soundly for hours. We also only give her a small piece of boiled chicken that my wife or I heat very slightly (about 3-4 sec.) in our microwave for a treat! She is a very spoiled dog yes, but we cherish every day that we get to spend with her because we know that we may not get to have many more!

      • Matthew Lappe'
      • September 7, 2020
      Reply

      16? I didn’t think the breed could last 10 the most..What’s the secret? Mine is 4 and I’d love to have him til 16!

        • Cheryl G Kreger
        • April 22, 2021
        Reply

        How sweet sounds very cared for. One thing, I would try and make sure she has extra water since the heat pat can remove some of the little ones fluids.

    • Fonna
    • September 6, 2018
    Reply

    My chichi has become somewhat aggressive. She can be laying down but awake looking at you and when you try to pet she starts growling and if you get closer she will bite you for no reason. This just started. I’m not sure what to do. I wonder if something is hurting her. i have also noticed when we try to move her from a certain spot. Is this normal. Bad behavior? Spoiled? how can she be trained to not bite.

      • Emma
      • September 30, 2018
      Reply

      It can become normal behavior for small dogs who think they are boss. Dogs will test people and push boundaries at certain stages of their development as they grow to adults. If you let them get away will it it can become a permanent problem. If you can rule out any medical reasons for aggression e.g if dog is in pain, then it sounds like territorial or guarding issue, especially if your dog is doing it when their on your bed or other furniture. If you keep backing away or are frightened of being bitten then the aggression could escalate, don’t back down if you want to move your dog move them they will jump on any weakness you show. You could wear thick gardening gloves to protect your hands. Consult a dog trainer if your struggling or if you think it’s more a fear issue.

      • Tanya Gilchrist
      • March 28, 2019
      Reply

      It almost sounds like she may be hurt. And where you begin to touch her is where it hurts. If it continues. maybe get her checked out, just in case it isn’t anything too serious. Good luck hun!

    • Hailey
    • June 28, 2018
    Reply

    When I take my chihuahua on a walk he gets so excited we’re he will start wheezing really bad. He will keep wheezing till the end of our walk. What can I do to help him not wheezing?, I’m really worried. I hope my sweetheart is ok. 😰

      • mari
      • November 15, 2018
      Reply

      I googled this because my chi does this as well when she’s excited. I found ”reverse coughing”. It said to do something to make them swallow ( i give her a treat ) or gently massage the throat where you can actually feel a lump.

    • Ginger
    • June 28, 2018
    Reply

    When my chihuahua sees a shadow or a reflection of someone he barks or shake. I try to calm him down but he will shake for like an hour. What can I do to help my baby boy?

    • nana
    • June 17, 2018
    Reply

    My Chihuahua is sooooo lazy! he always wants to cuddle! But, for some reason, every time anybody comes up to him, then he starts to shiver! I don’t know why!

      • John
      • September 29, 2018
      Reply

      I can take a pretty good guess. Your chihuahua probably weighs about 5 lbs. An average human weighs about 150 lbs. That is 30 times the size of your dog. Now let’s switch places. I don’t know about you but if a strange chihuahua weighing 4500 lbs walked up to me I would be trembling too.

    • Gary
    • March 3, 2018
    Reply

    My neighbor found six chi/terrier puppies in a ditch while irrigating which was dropped off by some cruel person.Wanting a small dog was always on my bucket list but because I live on a ranch was not practical.When I was called and asked if I wanted one of the dogs found in the ditch I decided to take a look at them.When the wife of the man that found them came by my place to show me when she opened the back of her vehicle there was three puppies left.One was shaking like crazy, one barking like crazy and one was tucked in the corner looking straight at me with the cutest eyes so I picked him. Since I had a small dog on my bucket for so long I decided to name him Bucket.I’ve had the dog now for four years, he’s been one of the best things that has happen in my life.Everyday now for four years he brought a smile to my face or laughter and I mean every day truth.He can’t wait to greet me when I get home.He wants to be near me at all times.
    I really feel so blessed to have Bucket.I even try to get back home earlier because I know he is there waiting for me.

      • Gary
      • March 3, 2018
      Reply

      Sorry about my poor English. By the way, my little guy shakes often but he ok.

        • Jim
        • May 9, 2020
        Reply

        Gary;
        Your English is fine! It’s only natural to want to speak a 2nd language “perfectly”. I speak German as a 2nd language, learned overseas while in the US military. On a perfection scale of 1-10, my German is, on a good day, maybe a 3. On those rare occasions when I am able to interact with a native speaker, I find myself apologizing profusely for what I perceive as my poor German. Almost without exception the person reassures me that my German is “very good”. I’m still skeptical. So don’t sell yourself short. The fact that you’re making an effort is a compliment to ALL native English speakers.

    • Thor
    • February 9, 2018
    Reply

    My Chihuahua is peeing on plastic bags and sheets and on walls. How can i fix it

      • JCat
      • August 11, 2018
      Reply

      #1 Spay or neuter. About 80% of dogs that are spayed or neutered will cease marking activities afterward.

      #2 Establish yourself as leader. Leaders can be loved and respected, so taking steps to ensure that your Chihuahua understands that you are in charge of the house is not a bad thing at all.

      Not only can this fix marking, but it can also bring about many other positive changes such as listening better to commands, heeling beside you when walking, adherence to training for barking issues, and much more.

        • Essie
        • April 19, 2019
        Reply

        I have 2 male chihuahuas. One is 10yrs old and the other is 7yrs old. I’ve tried EVERYTHING that I have read in books and on the internet I even got them fixed. They still hike on everything in my house! With 2 males it’s horrible because the older male will do it then the younger one will go behind him to pee over the older one’s spot! They will use it outside and turn around and come in and use it again!

      • Joyce Ozment
      • May 13, 2020
      Reply

      I have chihuahua ratterrier mix
      4 yrs old. She is a rescue. I have had her 3 days. She is sweet layed back. Only barked 1 time. Eats good. Came from a hoarding situation of 30 dogs. She sleeps alot. Doesn’t seem to have walked on lease. Have been using potty pads. She is getting use to lease. Learning to go outside. But I am concerned she sleeps so much. Doesn’t seem to know what toys are. Do y have any advise for me

    • judy
    • January 9, 2018
    Reply

    my little one shakes hard..(not cold chiver) just shakes from head to toe..especially if he is sleeping with me and getting out of the covers or out of his kennel. I know he is spoiled..wants to be held all the time..

      • Penny pike
      • January 14, 2018
      Reply

      My chance does the same thing but I take care of whatever he needs.

      • Anonymous
      • February 11, 2018
      Reply

      Same with my dog… I don’t know why though

      • Linda
      • April 6, 2018
      Reply

      My Chihuahua Babey Is just that she plays with our pit bull which is 65 lbs She is very gentle with her But sometimes they both get carried away and Kutie the put may step on babey paw she will ajakw if she is also hurt

      • Bree gary
      • May 30, 2018
      Reply

      My dog only shakes after eating and while she is sleeping I don’t know why?

      • Allie
      • July 6, 2018
      Reply

      My Lily had never had this problem until this past week. Nothing new for her to eat and no new dog. She is under 2 huge thick throws with my arm wrapped around her and still shaking. she has been acting crazy all day jumping around and shaking but she wouldn’t stay under her blanket until I put my arm around her

    • Susan Seaton
    • September 16, 2017
    Reply

    My chihuahuas is scared to ride. She hits the floor board and stays there till we stop. Someone help to help her cause i dont no what to do. And i hate to see her this way.

      • Rae
      • November 21, 2017
      Reply

      Try crating her in the car. Just get a soft crate and put it on the floorboard, it may help to calm her anxiety.

    • skyler
    • August 19, 2017
    Reply

    one of my other dogs jumped onto my chihuahua and he has been acting so weird such as going under beds, moving around a lot, wheezing, and trembling we don’t know what’s wrong with him.

      • LibertyDrew
      • February 27, 2018
      Reply

      You should get your little guy checked out ASAP I don’t want to alarm you but there could be something seriously wrong with your little buddy. It’s possible the injury collapsed it’s tracheal. Chi’s already have a genetic issue with this. It’s recommended that you use a harness instead of a leash collar so that they don’t collapse their tracheal. Another dog jumping on them certainly could have done something harmful.
      If the tracheal is fine is possible that the poor guys lung is collapsed, their back could be thrown out which could effect their breathing , or your chi could possibly have mild brain damage such as a concussion or a brain bruise. hopefully he just got the wind knocked out of him.
      You must be absolutely devastated. I know of some dog jumped on my little girl I would freak. Chis are so very fragile and can easily be very seriously injured. We had to put our Dachshund down because he through out his back and became paralyzed. I cried for weeks. I still feel sick even talking about it he was the sweetest little boy. So smart and a huge personality. I would give anything to have him back. He was only r years old. He did not get the injury from any sort of trauma
      Simply turned around quickly while he was in between the couch and the coffee table. The vet said it was mostly due to irresponsible breeding practices . Some of these back yard breeders don’t care how their puppies grow up as long as they look cute as puppies. I KNEW something was wrong when the breeders wouldn’t bring out the parents to let me see. I alsmost didn’t get him because I didn’t feel comfortable. However his sweet hound dog eyes and super long body made my heart melt instantly. He had the biggest floppiest little ears and when I looked at them closer I decided that there was NO WAY I was leaving that witches home with out the little sweet heart. The inside of My poor poor babys ears were just COVERED in ear mites. I took him straight to the vet for some much needed medicine and he just looked at me like I was his gaurdian angel. I swear he said thanks with his eyes. Oh I loved him. I almost wanted to go back a give that lady a piece of my mind. If I knew what was to come I would have. Today I stay away. I don’t have her info nor do I want it. I don’t trust myself or what I might do to her. I hope to God I Never see her again. I pray I’m wrong and that those parent are just find. That it was just my little sweetheart who was just unlucky…but doubt it. I wish their was a way to report suck things. I tried at the time but was told that since I didn’t see any of the other dogs nothing could be done. That my gut was not enough for the authories to do a welfare check on dogs.
      Please get your dog checked out and I hope that it’s ok. I wouldn’t want anyone to have to go through what I have. I hate losing a dog. To me they are true members of the family. Losing a 4yr old was almost like losing a child. I know losing a child would be more difficult I don’t mean to offend anyone but I do feel that strong about the love of my animals. I wish all of you many many years of happiness.

    • Katie
    • July 27, 2017
    Reply

    My mom’s dog is 11.5 lb Chihuahua who constantly shakes for no apparent reason Hes been to the vet and there is nothing wrong! He also loves to eat my cats poop

      • Denise Walters
      • September 25, 2021
      Reply

      My chipin does the same thing! Did you find any answers?

    • Nancy
    • July 5, 2017
    Reply

    I have a Chihuahua and i don’t know whats wrong with her yesterday she was doing good but this morning all she want’s to do lay in the bed i really worry about her

      • Janice
      • December 2, 2019
      Reply

      Maybe pancreatitis from eating too much fat.

    • Joe
    • May 27, 2017
    Reply

    You kinda forgot something, it’s talking, when I ask my Chi, Turbo if he wants to get food or water, (he knows the command to go to food bowl)he shivers for some weird reason, can someone help?

      • David Johnson
      • June 28, 2017
      Reply

      Just point out the food to your dog.

      • Lexi
      • June 28, 2017
      Reply

      That sounds like excitement. He’s anticipating the food and water!

      • Roomy
      • March 17, 2018
      Reply

      Your chihuahua will be excited to eat it’s food because it’s probably been waiting for a while.

      • Bree gary
      • May 30, 2018
      Reply

      He’s probably exited or Anxious

    • Victoria
    • March 6, 2017
    Reply

    One thing I didn’t see mentioned was pain! My little guy broke his toenail and was in pain. He wouldn’t stop shivering and refusing food so I took him to the vet. They had to remove his toe nail. 🙁

    • Terra
    • December 16, 2016
    Reply

    An inexpensive and quick addition to a chihuahua’s sweaters and jackets is to take an old pair of long johns, thermals, (whatever you call them ) or long underwear and cut them the bottom of the leg up high enough to make a good length to cover the belly really well and cut small holes toward the front for leg holes. The tummy and chest regions were a little big so I sewed it up a bit for a more snug fit. You can also put Velcro on or in a pinch use safety pins to tighten it up. I also used both legs for added warmth putting them on in layers here where temps are below zero. Nothing wrong with thermals I say, even on a little chihuahua lol.

    • Bogus Fogus
    • November 28, 2016
    Reply

    My dog hates other people. He only goes to them if he feels harmed my someone near. He is a chihuahua, 6 pounds, shakes all the time. Message me if you want him! Jk. Never will I ever get rid of my honest to goodness beat friend ❤️🐶

    • Kim
    • November 13, 2016
    Reply

    My Chihuahua mix shakes when there is a fly in the house.

      • Avery
      • March 12, 2017
      Reply

      Well Kim, your chihuahua might be scared of tiny bugs mine does too!

    • Adrena
    • July 28, 2016
    Reply

    MY CHIHUAHUA princes RECENTLY GAVE BIRTH 4 days ago and has one pup peaches and they sleep in a kennel on a blanket and my chihuahua princess (mom) is always shaking but is always hot and I’m not sure why because she pays attention to the pup and feeds her but she never used to shake during pregnancy or any time before that so I need someone to help me figure out what’s going on

      • Rose
      • September 28, 2019
      Reply

      Maybe her sugar is low. Try giving her like half a teaspoon of peanut butter. Mine was shaking but can’t afford to take him to the vet. I looked it up and that was one of the things it said that it might be low sugar so I gave him a little bit of peanut butter and he stopped shaking.

      • Janice MacLeod
      • December 2, 2019
      Reply

      She’s a new mommy. I’m an OB nurse ( for 38 yrs now). I’ve seen new mom’s shake uncontrollably after giving birth…hormones and fear of the unknown…

      Janice
      J

    • will
    • May 15, 2016
    Reply

    My chihuahua had a shaking that turned into a seizure boy that was scary

    • Melanie Frishkorn
    • April 24, 2016
    Reply

    I read somewhere, I can’t remember when or where but, the shivering is a survival instinct. Being so small and vulnerable they have learned that humans will, feel sorry for them and hold them, protect them. Pretty cute tactic if you ask me.

      • bob lee
      • August 20, 2018
      Reply

      that is what I’m afraid of is Koniko is trying to get me to pity her and pick her up onto my chair and to make me go even slower then I walk with a bunch of herniated discs in my back she will lift her leg that was sore and do the pity me thing

    • Tina
    • April 24, 2016
    Reply

    My chihuahua is 3 years old and he shakes when he knows im getting ready to leave the house for any reason and he will also cry and when he thinks its time for me to come home he will watch the door… I love him to pieces

    • Kathy
    • April 20, 2016
    Reply

    My chi has a really bad skin rash on his back and itches like crazy sometimes scratching so hard it’s raw and his hair falls out. He has been on 2 different meds to control it but it’s not working anymore. Does anyone else have this problem

      • Koulouraki
      • March 29, 2017
      Reply

      My dog had the same issue. We switched foods and he was fine. He had allergies. Initially we did fresh pets food. Helped so much! Good luck.

      • Tinaraye
      • June 16, 2017
      Reply

      My baby had the same issue one summer I used tea tree oil straight down his back for about 6 weeks

      • Andrea
      • August 2, 2017
      Reply

      Try taking your chi off of grain and poultry…foods

    • Jennifer Lynn Schillig
    • March 20, 2016
    Reply

    Reminds me of a Warner Brothers cartoon that showed us various dog breeds. The narrator explained that the Chihuahua wasn’t shivering because he was cold–he was just nervous. The Chihuahua replied (in Mel Blanc’s Speedy Gonzalez voice), “I don’t care what you say, Senor…I am freezing!”

    • Phyllis
    • December 16, 2015
    Reply

    I have a chiweenie named Jaxson and he shakes sometimes. He if fully housebroken, but will shake when my full blooded daschund, Kallie, leave messes in the house. When he shakes I go looking for presents to clean up.

    • Anna
    • November 6, 2015
    Reply

    My dog sneezes alot and she shivers alot too. I think she’s sick, should I take her to the vet? Also she’s like 5 months old and she is a chihuahua.

      • Michelle Murphy
      • April 7, 2018
      Reply

      Yes she definitely has issues. She may be allergic to food, meds.
      Like glee and tick pills or could be a reaction to a cleaning product your using. Take her to the Vet.

    • Gino
    • October 18, 2015
    Reply

    we just got a rescue she is 5 smart and crazy fun she shivers off and on randomly think shes just adjusting she pays like nuts and she knows shes safe here so it might be its colder then shes use too we have some nice sweaters and jackets for her whats the normal temp they seem comfortable in ??

    • Jenni
    • October 1, 2015
    Reply

    My son’s Chi goes to a person with a rather concerned look on his face, if the person coughs or sneezes, he then shivers for about five minutes or so, while he’s being stroked and reassured. He came from the RSPCA when he was six (he’s now ten) I have a feeling that, possibly his previous owner (who died) had a cough.

    • Juliana Morimba
    • June 14, 2015
    Reply

    Roxy my chi loves games very much and is
    used to sleeping on my bed. She’s cute through she shivers a lot and abruptly.Sometimes i feel she shivers too much and gives me a scare.

    • S Dance
    • April 18, 2015
    Reply

    My Chi, Lily shivers for all kinds of reasons. Needing to go to the bathroom (outside), wanting a treat, getting a treat, afraid during a thunderstorm, going for a car ride, she can even tell the sound of my daughter ‘s car (it’s not loud, humans can’t hear it from inside), recognizing where we’re going in the car, too cold, excited, and a dozen other reasons. Thank goodness all of these issues don’t happen every day or she’d shiver all the time. Mostly it’s needing to go out, being chilly, or about to get a treat. Surprisingly enough she never does it while I clip her nails and I know she doesn’t particularity like that.

    • amanda
    • February 23, 2015
    Reply

    i have a chihuaha and he doesnt want to get out of hi bed and everytime he sees me he goes up to me and and cuddles up but i can feel him shaking he also has jis tail down.This has been happening for a couple of days.do i need to take him to a vet?

      • Jenn
      • October 8, 2017
      Reply

      Yes. Take him to the vet. My chi did that when she started to get sick. Its the “feeling sorry for myself” look. Could be an upset tummy or pain. Theycan’t speak but they do tell us a lot with body language. I hope your chi is ok

    • Shari Woodson
    • January 9, 2015
    Reply

    The Chihuahua shiver is perfectly normal, as is the wheezing to which you refer.
    As for the former, it’s mainly due to excess energy this breed is known for.
    The wheezing is a similar sort of involuntary response to excess stimuli. If these traits bother you, keeping the dog away from excess excitement is your best bet.

    • Leslie
    • January 1, 2015
    Reply

    What are the symptoms for hypoglycemia. I’m afraid my chi might have this please help. Thanks

      • Frieda
      • May 7, 2018
      Reply

      I have a chorkie Rescue. Some days he refuses to eat & that is when he shakes worst. I tried to get a finger full of honey into his mouth with no luck. Then I tried putting a small spoonful of vanilla ice cream down & he licks it gone. His shaking stops & soon he goes to his bowl & eats his food. I’m convinced he has hypoglycemia.

      • Shay
      • March 24, 2019
      Reply

      Chi are knows for hypoglycemia. I love my vet here in Indianapolis Indiana. I have a 3 1/2 month female Chi and my vet advised me to give her a some syrup in a syringe after she plays hard to prevent to prevents this

    • Cindy
    • December 23, 2014
    Reply

    I just got my pup. And she is shaking alot. My room is like hot & cold . (mild) we just got her. I dont have anything for her. Only a box, 3 small thin blankets for now. Im scared she might die or somthing PLEASEE HELP.

      • Nevaeh
      • December 14, 2016
      Reply

      If she is a newborn you need her to comfrey the chihuahua and get her used to ur home just a little of advice of mine.

      • Barbara Mcintosh
      • January 6, 2018
      Reply

      My chihuahua poops at least six times a day is this normal. It is not diarrhea. My ex once told me, which I never forgot that little dogs are little popping machines. This was before I got my chi. I found this to me very true anyone else experience this?

    • Ariel
    • September 1, 2014
    Reply

    HELP MY DOG WILL NOT STOP SHAKING

      • Brenda
      • November 17, 2014
      Reply

      Hey Angelica,

      My Chi also does that wheezing when she gets excited. I just hold her or try to comfort her and it goes away. I don’t worry about it, because the wheezing doesn’t last that long and goes away with comfort. I guess this is just part of their nature…? Just wanted to say you are not alone. 🙂 Best wishes!!! Happy holidays!!!

        • Chloe
        • September 15, 2015
        Reply

        It helps to wrap your chihuahua in a blanket or a small pillow case even cause it makes them feel more secure and it keeps them worm whenever I put my chi in a blanket he stops shaking and just falls asleep

      • Lmcttmab
      • May 25, 2017
      Reply

      I put a heating pad on my couch, then my pups bed on top of it then her blanket on top of that. I turn on the heating pad (ONLY when im home & ONLY on the lowest setting) my Chi (BeanBean) will get into her bed when she starts to shiver. She loves it

    • Angelica
    • June 18, 2014
    Reply

    My chihuahua rarely shakes but what a I am worried about is her wheezing. I can tell that she has spring allergies by the way that she sneezes and scratches in the Spring. Yet, she also makes this kind of snort/sniffle when she gets overwhelmed or eats to quickly. I don’t really see this as a health problem (because it has gone on for a while). She has a clear and healthy backstory so I don’t understand why my Chi’ tends to do this so often. We try and calm her down when she is in the wheezing process, it sort of helps(sometimes) Don’t get me wrong, this doesn’t occur very often, but when it does, I can’t help but feel worried for my poor companion. Please respond if you can relate or have knowledge prior to my situation! Thank you! – Angelica Illingworth 6/17/14

      • Kelsey
      • June 22, 2015
      Reply

      My chihuahua wheezes a lot when she’s excited; usually when we’re anout to go on a car ride. I looked it up and someone said to gently massage their throat in a clockwise motion. I do it every time she has a wheezing attack now and I think it does seem to help a lot.

      • Nora
      • July 20, 2015
      Reply

      Hey there my dog gets he’s wheezing attacks and in spring they get really bad I think he suffers pollen allergy to rapeseed as these pollen are particularly aggressive. It gets so bad I can barely go for a walk with him… Now as I moved location where there is no pollen of rapeseed he barely has wheezing attacks. X

      • Lmcttmab
      • May 25, 2017
      Reply

      Both my Chi’s do this same snort/wheezing thing. I’ve been told by plenty it’s an ” inverted sneeze “, but i KNOW thats NOT what it is. Then i read somewhere about a “trachea collapse” & im pretty sure thats what it is…………you should look it up & see if your dog sounds the same.

        • Gary
        • November 14, 2017
        Reply

        My little Chi Tinkerbell does this, it’s like a wheezing and choking causing her real problems breathing, how I deal with it is by cupping my hand over her nose and mouth, while doing this I praise her and it calms het right down with breathing returning to Norma, works a treat, it’s basically the same as having a human breath into a paper bag when they have problems such as panick attacks

        • Joy Morris
        • October 21, 2019
        Reply

        My chi that I owned up until 4 weeks ago when she passed away was 2.5 lbs and had the collapsing of the trachea for years. The main thing with that is the cough I noticed. She also had what was called hydrocephalus (swelling and pressure on the brain). She was not supposed to have made it past 1 year of age but she did make it to 14 years old with me. The main thing I had to look out for with her was blood sugar issues, the health problems she already had and of course her knee issues due to a vet dropping her and lying to me.
        If I can give you guys any advice, keep an eye on your chi. They usually try to alert you to what is going on with them. If you go to a vet that doesn’t have the right equipment to diagnose your chi but then diagnoses it with a heart problem, MAKE SURE to go to another vet for a second opinion. That’s how my baby died. A vet misdiagnosed her and the meds they gave was what was called an immunosuppressant which dropped her body’s ability to fight off even small sicknesses. In the end it led to her developing pneumonia and passing away in my arms after looking up and smiling at me. I hope this helps someone who may be going through similar situations. Thanks.

  1. Reply

    I have a puppy her name is Brinkley she shakes a lot and how should I stop it please help me

      • Jade
      • January 16, 2016
      Reply

      My brindle long haired chihuahua shacks and shivers too but I think it’s natural for chihuahuas to shiver

  2. Reply

    Sammy is a chi that was abused as a baby ,so i have to give him extra love,assurance,which i love but this is my first dog and I’m also looking up on him,i think he’s suffering from dry skin he has white flakes and shakes alot,could it be the shampoo I’m useing?I’m not sure and also he’s developed a small scab on his tail bone,I’ve been checking it clean it with peroxidet,nothing came out but a little blood,last night i applied iodine,to the touch it doesn’t hurt him,i believe he’s has dry skin
    what do i do for this?please help , open to suggesting,thank you fro sammy n sandi,otherwise he’s happiest in my lap or arms.
    🙂

      • Lissy
      • November 2, 2014
      Reply

      My chi’s also have problems with dry skin and occasionally fleas, to treat both I bathe the dogs using dawn dishsoap 2-3 times in the tub always using the bath hose and then dry them off real good and I use baby oil and massage it in their coats real good, the oil smothers the fleas and soothes their dry skin

    • Kristie
    • January 6, 2014
    Reply

    My Chi will shake until she starts panting. Is this dangerous to her?

    • Nancy Bergen
    • December 25, 2013
    Reply

    My Cherie bites I think cause he’s teething. Also, he likes to pee on my bed. This has become a problem.

      • Karen
      • August 6, 2014
      Reply

      If you taught him to sleep with you on your bed instead of sleeping on his own, he probably thinks it is now his domain

        • Tani
        • December 7, 2017
        Reply

        I thought dogs prefer not to eliminate in their sleeping space?

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