Whippets are known for their athleticism, so it’s not uncommon for them to shake when they’re excited or during exercise. Also, they shake because they’re usually scared or nervous. Other possible causes include dietary problems such as a lack of fresh water, food allergies, and illnesses. If you notice your whippet shaking more often, take him to the veterinarian for an examination.
Reasons Why Whippet Could Be Shaking
Cold
Whippets are warm-blooded animals, and their fur helps them regulate their body temperature. When they shake, it is a way to dispel the excess water from their coats and coldness.
If your whippet is shaking excessively, an underlying health issue may need to be addressed. For example, in cases like this, a vet might recommend antibiotics or other medical treatment to get your dog back on its feet as soon as possible.
Anxiety
Whippets can experience anxiety in several ways – from excitement to fear. For example, if you notice your whippet shaking more often, it is essential to get them checked out by a veterinarian.
There are steps you can take to help reduce their anxiety – providing them with positive reinforcement and proper training/socialization. Finally, always remember that help is available, and don’t hesitate to contact a professional if needed!
Excitement
Whippets are naturally enthusiastic dogs that love being active and playing. When they’re excited, however, their movements might start shaking from the head down – this is normal!
Whippets shake their body a lot when they are excited or happy. This usually indicates that the whippet is content and not in any dangerous situation. It can happen at any time, during play, when greeting people, etcetera, a sign that the whippet may feel comfortable and content.
If you see your whippet shaking excessively or not responding to your commands, take it to the vet for an evaluation. For example, if symptoms persist or worsen after a vet visit, you might need to bring in a veterinarian expert on dog seizure disorders (epilepsy).
Warming and Building Muscles
Warming up and building muscles is a great way to start the day. Whippets shake their body vigorously to increase blood flow and prepare themselves for action. You can stop this shaking by providing your whippet with a warm bed, plenty of good food, or simply playing games together.
Stops While Walking
Whippets are a breed of dog that is known for its low energy levels and tendency to stop while walking. This behavior, called shivering, occurs as a way of conserving energy. It’s usually harmless and doesn’t mean the whippet is scared or aggressive! Occasionally, shivering may last for a few seconds or even minutes.
However, it will eventually cease once the whippet moves again. If you’re concerned about your pet’s welfare, you can try clapping your hands in front of their nose three times to startle them into motion. Note that you shouldn’t do this if they feel anxious or tense in any way – doing so could trigger an episode of shivering!
Underlying Health Issues
Whippets can be a lot of fun but can also be quite anxious and stressful. If you’re noticing that your whippet is shaking more often than usual, it’s essential to check it out. There could be underlying health issues causing this behavior – such as anxiety or epilepsy – so getting treated would undoubtedly help improve your whippet’s life considerably.
In addition to medication and behavioral therapy, exercise is also beneficial in reducing the likelihood of shaking occurring again in the future. Therefore, you must keep your whippet as comfortable and relaxed as possible to ensure these situations don’t arise!
Generalized Terror Syndrome
Some common causes of generalized terror syndrome in whippets include lack of socialization or isolation from the pack, change in family dynamics (such as a new pet being brought into the home), or unusual sights or sounds. If you notice your whippet is shaking and appears agitated, take them to a veterinarian immediately for an examination.
Seizures
If you notice that your whippet is shaking excessively, it is essential to take them to the vet for an examination and possible treatment. Seizures can occur for several reasons – most commonly due to excitement, fear, or playfulness.
If you notice that your whippet has been seizure-prone in the past, make sure to bring them in as soon as possible so they can be examined and treated if necessary.
By understanding what causes these conditions, veterinarians and owners can help prevent them from happening in the first place. For example, if you see your whippet shaking or having seizures, it’s essential to get them to a veterinarian as soon as possible for treatment!
Poisoning
Whippets are susceptible to poisoning as they have a high prey drive. Signs of poisoning include excessive shaking, difficulty breathing, and losing consciousness. If you see your whippet in this condition, seek medical help immediately!
The best way to prevent poisoning is by keeping your whippet away from poisonous plants and animals. Be particularly cautious around trees with fruit that falls to the ground, including apples, pears, citrus fruits, etc. A little knowledge about common poisonous plants will go a long way in helping keep your whippet healthy and safe!
Distemper
Distemper is a highly contagious and deadly virus that can cause severe shaking in dogs. It affects the brain and nervous system, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, tremors, and even death if not treated quickly.
In whippets specifically – whose loving nature leads them to love water more than any other breed of dog – distemper is particularly dangerous as it quickly passes from one dog to another through droplets released into the water. As soon as you suspect your pet may be ill with distemper, make an appointment with your vet immediately!
Nausea
Whippets are a breed of dog known to be afflicted with a condition called a vestibular syndrome. This syndrome causes them to shake uncontrollably, leading to severe nausea and vomiting.
In some cases, it may even cause death. There is currently no cure for this condition, only treatment options that aim to reduce the symptoms of whippet vestibular syndrome. Some common treatments include medication, physiotherapy, and surgery.
Preventing Shaking in Whippets
Whippets shake a lot because of their hunting instincts. This can be a problem for you and your dog, as shaking can cause physical injuries and lead to behavioral issues. To prevent shaking in your whippet, ensure they’re exercised regularly and fed a nutritious diet.
You can also use positive reinforcement – like giving treats – when training your dog not to shake. If shaking continues even after following these guidelines, speak to your vet about possible medication options. It’s essential to be proactive and deal with shaking as soon as it occurs, so you and your whippet can live a healthy and happy life.
