My dog is trembling and won't eat: when to worry?

Velto answer

The combination of trembling and loss of appetite in a dog is a sign to be taken seriously: it most often indicates pain, a fever, intense stress, or poisoning. A brief episode in a dog that remains lively can be monitored for a few hours; if the signs last for more than 12 to 24 hours, worsen, or are accompanied by other symptoms, a veterinary consultation is necessary.

Pain: the first possibility to explore

A dog in pain will tremble, stand with a hunched back, pant without exertion, and refuse to eat. The pain may come from the abdomen (digestive issue, torsion), back, a joint, or a tooth. Observe its posture, the way it moves, and its reaction when you approach an area of its body.

Fever and infections

As with humans, a fever causes shivering and lethargy, and suppresses appetite. It accompanies many infections. A dog with a fever often has a hot, dry nose, burning hot ears, and will want to lie down. Only taking its temperature (or a vet) can confirm this.

Stress and fear

A thunderstorm, fireworks, moving house, or a visit to the vet: intense stress can make a dog tremble and lose its appetite for a few hours. The context provides the key: the trembling stops when the source of stress is gone and the dog feels reassured.

Poisoning: an emergency not to be overlooked

Ingesting a toxic food (chocolate, xylitol, grapes), a medicine, a plant, or a household product can lead to poisoning, causing symptoms like trembling, salivation, vomiting, and refusal to eat. If you suspect ingestion, contact a vet or a poison control centre immediately, without delay.

How to monitor your dog at home

Settle them in a quiet place, leave fresh water available, and note the time the signs appeared. Monitor their temperature, their gums (pale or yellow is an alert), their breathing, and their stools. Never force a dog to eat and do not give them any human medication, which can be toxic for them.

When should you see a vet?

Seek emergency veterinary care if the trembling is accompanied by repeated vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, a swollen and hard abdomen, pale gums, difficulty breathing, or seizures, or if your dog also refuses to drink. A puppy, an elderly dog, or an already ill dog must be seen without delay.

Frequently asked questions

My dog is trembling but eating normally, should I be concerned?

Isolated trembling, with no other signs, is often linked to cold, excitement, or stress. If it persists for several days or is accompanied by a change in behaviour, speak to your vet.

How long can a dog go without eating?

A healthy adult dog can safely skip a meal, but a refusal to eat that lasts longer than 24 hours — or 12 hours for a puppy — warrants veterinary advice, especially if they are not drinking either.

Can I give paracetamol to my trembling dog?

No, never. Paracetamol, ibuprofen, and aspirin are toxic to dogs and can seriously worsen their condition. Only a vet can prescribe a suitable treatment.

How do I take my dog's temperature?

Temperature should be taken rectally with a suitable thermometer and a little lubricant. A normal temperature is between 38°C and 39°C. Above 39.5°C or below 37.5°C, consult a vet.

Track how the symptoms evolve. Open their free connected health record on Velto-Care.com Ask Velto a question