Shaker syndrome in dogs is a condition that primarily affects small breeds and can be very concerning for owners.
When your dog is shaking or shivering more than normal, it can be tempting to dismiss this behavior as temperature-based or even attention-seeking, but it’s important to take these symptoms seriously.
Shaking is one of the ways dogs express their discomfort, often involuntarily, and can be a symptom of poisoning or neurological problems. That's why you should take your dog to the vet, especially if they start shaking suddenly. I spoke to vet Dr. Kelly Hood, who also represents Pet Portraits, to hear her expertise on shaker syndrome in dogs, and what pet parents should be looking out for.
What is shaker syndrome in dogs?
Shaker syndrome can be frightening for you and your pet to experience, but what exactly is going on?
“Shaker syndrome, also called steroid-responsive tremor syndrome or white dog shaker syndrome, is a condition that mainly affects small breed dogs,” says Dr. Hood. “It causes tremors in the whole body and are often worse when the dog is excited or trying to move. We’re unsure of what causes it but it seems to be an issue with the dog’s immune system and inflammation in the cerebellum (the part of the brain that controls movement).”
What are the symptoms of shaker syndrome in dogs?
There is some overlap between symptoms of shaker syndrome and your dog shaking for other reasons, but all should be checked out by a vet. If your dog is shaking out of fear, pain, or because they experience anxiety your vet should be able to help. So, what does shaker syndrome look like?
“The main sign is full body tremors, especially in the head, neck and legs. Dogs may also seem unsteady on their feet and have trouble walking normally,” says Dr. Hood. “In severe cases, the shaking can make it difficult for the dog to eat or drink.”
To learn about the other signs a dog is in pain, this guide can help you.
How do you treat shaker syndrome in dogs?
“Vets usually treat shaker syndrome with immunosuppressive medications like corticosteroids. This helps bring down the inflammation in the brain. Mild cases may get better on their own without much treatment. However, dogs with more severe tremors often need long-term medication to control the symptoms,” says Dr. Hood. “Owners need to work closely with their vets to find the right treatment plan for their dog.”
With the right treatment, your dog’s symptoms should be reduced and within two weeks they should resolve. Your vet is likely to then try tapering your dog off the immunosuppressant medication to see how they respond. If symptoms reoccur, they will work on a suitable long-term treatment plan.
What causes shaker syndrome in dogs?
Dr. Hood says: “We don’t fully understand what causes shaker syndrome, but it seems to be an autoimmune issue where the body attacks its own healthy brain tissue.
"Small breed dogs like Maltese, Poodles and West Highland Terriers are more prone to developing it. It’s very likely that there’s a genetic component, so unfortunately there’s not much owners can do to prevent it. I’d say your best bet is catching it early and getting the right treatment.”
If you have a breed that is more prone to shaker syndrome in dogs, talk to your vet about the symptoms you should look out for and any worries you have surrounding your dog’s welfare and health. They will be able to reassure you and provide an effective contingency plan if your dog does begin to develop symptoms.
How is shaker syndrome in dogs diagnosed?
“Diagnosing it involves ruling out other possible causes of tremors, like neurological problems or exposure to toxins,” says Dr. Hood. The vet will do a thorough exam, ask about the dog’s medical history, and may recommend tests like bloodwork or imaging. Sometimes your vet will even try a trial of steroid medication to see if that helps confirm the diagnosis.”
It is important to take your dog to the vet with sudden onset tremors, as this can be a symptom of something dangerous and fast-acting like the consumption of poison.
You might also want to read about anxiety in dogs.
Dr. Kelly Hood began her vet journey as a kennel assistant, eventually graduating from North Carolina State Veterinary College. Now practicing small animal general and urgent care in Hampton Roads, she's also an in-house expert at PetPortraits.com, sharing her vet advice.
