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If you have a Beagle, even though they have a dense double coat, you might see them shivering and shaking from time to time. While it might not feel cold to you, does shivering mean that your Beagle is feeling chilly?
It might be entirely possible that your Beagle feels a little colder than most – but that’s not the only reason they might show this behavior. The following are a few other possible reasons to consider.
The 6 Reasons Your Beagle Might Be Shaking or Shivering
1. Your Beagle Is Cold
It could simply be that your dog is feeling chilled. Even though you might be perfectly toasty, your Beagle might have a more challenging time regulating its body temperature for various reasons.
Some dogs are naturally more sensitive to cold temperatures than others, and it doesn’t always have to have something to do with the room’s actual temperature.
Even at average temperatures where most dogs will be comfortable, your particular dog might shiver or shake a little over something as simple as a draft. Every dog is different, but also be careful about simply dismissing shivering unless you know they are totally healthy.
2. Your Beagle Might Have an Underlying Health Issue
Dogs can get respiratory infections and other illnesses just like people. They might have a cold, literally. If your dog is feeling a little under the weather, he might notice him shivering or shaking as their body temperature fluctuates.
If you feel your dog and think that its body temperature is higher than normal, it’s best to take their temperature and make a vet appointment while you’re at it. Some illnesses will pass independently without medical intervention, but others require antibiotics and other treatments. It’s best to stay diligent and on the case.
If you suspect your dog might be suffering from underlying health issues, you should contact your vet.
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3. Your Beagle Could Be in Pain
Shaking and shivering can be directly associated with pain. If your Beagle is experiencing pain in their body, you might notice shivering and shaking, along with other possible symptoms like whining and crying.
It’s essential to take note of when your Beagle is shivering and what other visual aids accompany this behavior to let you know if it might be related to pain. Even joint and bone pain can cause shivering and shaking, especially if your dog tries to apply any weight to the affected areas.
4. Your Beagle Might Have Anxiety
Is your Beagle a nervous Nelly? If so, it is prevalent for dogs who have any issue with anxiety, stress, or fear to shake. Like humans with anxiety, stress can cause physical symptoms.
Even though it might be easy to overlook or write off, it’s very important to manage anxiety in dogs. Untreated anxiety can lead to a number of other problems.
5. Your Beagle Might Be Showing Their Age
As your pet ages, it might be more common to see them shaking or shivering. Although no exact cause of this is known, tremors do appear to be more common in aging pets. However, even if your Beagle is a senior, if you notice this, it’s definitely worth mentioning to your vet so they can examine the issue.
6. Some Beagles Might Shake with Excitement
Beagles are very social, friendly little dogs to get excited by human contact. If you have a beagle, they might shake when they feel extreme happiness. If your Beagle typically doesn’t start shaking until they get sight of your face, there’s likely no cause for concern.
This type of shaking is one of pure joy and happiness. So anytime you see your big Beagle shaking with anticipation to see their favorite human being, shower them with love and affection.
Is It Common for Beagles to Shake?
When it comes to breed-specific shaking, this is not an expected Beagle-breed issue. Anytime your Beagle’s behavior changes for any reason, it’s really a good idea to check them out to make sure that it’s not something serious. Of course, we always recommend regular vet checkups.
Shivering or Shaking vs. Seizures: What’s the Difference?
You might be concerned if your dog is shaking that they are having seizures. Some types of seizures can present in this manner, so it can be difficult to tell the difference. Traditional “grand mal” seizures usually involve a loss or change in consciousness, falling over or loss of balance, and uncoordinated leg movements. However, in focal seizures, these symptoms are not always present.
If you do notice that your dog is experiencing these types of episodes, you must get them into their vet to find out the underlying cause and treat future seizures as they can be potentially dangerous.
In Conclusion
Shaking in Beagles can indicate many different things. If you’ve ruled out the more concerning ones, you always have the option of getting your cold Beagle a coat, turning up the heat, or getting them a heated dog bed.
Featured Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock
