Why Do Boston Terriers Shake: 10 Reasons & More

why do boston terriers shake
why do boston terriers shake

Boston terrier lovers always ask why do Boston terriers shake, and that is exactly what this post is all about so read through.

In this post, we will outline and discuss some of the common reasons why your Boston terrier may be shaking, we will also highlight some tips to help solve shaking in Boston terriers.

Before we continue, let me quickly point out that there are two major reasons why your Boston terrier may be shaking it’s either old age or a health condition, all other reasons are secondary.

Why Do Boston Terriers Shake

Shivering occurs in Boston Terriers for a variety of causes, including anticipation, stress, chilly conditions, and medical concerns.

While shaking can be a typical reaction to certain behavioral and environmental factors, trembling can be a warning indicator in other cases.

Some causes of shivering or shaking in your Boston terriers are beyond your control, such as the following:

1. Toxin Consumption

Some compounds are safe for humans but harmful for small dogs such as Boston terriers.

Nicotine is a toxic component in cigarettes, whereas xylitol is a sugar substitute found in many chewing gums. Both are dangerous to little dogs like Boston terriers.

In small dogs like Boston terriers, these chemicals or toxins can induce severe shaking and shivering.

A bee sting, a snake bite, acute food poisoning, or scorpion stings are all possibilities for your Boston terrier shaking or shivering.

This is a severe concern even if you don’t witness your Boston terrier come into touch with something hazardous, toxic substances.

Little dogs like Boston terrier respond swiftly to toxins due to their physical size and power. Therefore, try to keep your Boston terrier far away from toxic chemicals or small animals.

If you believe or notice that your Bosties has consumed anything potentially toxic or has been bitten by a small animal, please take him to the veterinarian.

Other signs of toxin consumption include the following:

  • Excessive drooling
  • Continues vomiting
  • Weakness
  • Disorientation
  • Continues diarrhea

2. Generalized tremor syndrome (GTS)

Generalized tremor syndrome affects Boston terriers, Shih Tzus, tiny pinschers, and Chihuahuas more than other small breeds.

This condition, sometimes known as shaker syndrome, is characterized by full-body tremors similar to those experienced by a dog when it is cold.

The signs and symptoms of generalized tremor syndrome differ from dog to dog, however, it most usually affects Boston terriers between the ages of 2 and 6.

Despite the fact that no one understands what causes widespread tremor syndrome, it is widely regarded to be safe most of the time and not too deadly.

Your veterinarian may prescribe corticosteroids, but shaking may be an unavoidable part of life for certain pets.

So always consult your veterinarian if your Boston terrier continues to shake for no apparent reason. 

3. Signs of old age

Boston terriers are one of the most long-lived dog breeds, with some reaching the age of 16 years. They have health issues as they get older.

Without the advice of your veterinarian, there’s little you can do to help Boston terriers that tremble or shiver as they become older.

This is because their joints are weak and ancient, and they can no longer support their bodies’ weight comfortably.

As Boston terriers get older, they’re more likely to have tremors in both their rear and front legs, making it difficult for them to move appropriately and causing trembling or shivering.

Always talk to your veterinarian as your Boston terrier grows past the age of 13 years old.

Here are some other signs of old age in Boston terriers:

  • There is a problem with vision.
  • Hearing loss is a serious issue.
  • Putting or losing on weight.
  • Depletion of energy.
  • Arthritis and joint concerns will become common.
  • Hair, muscle tone, tooth suppleness, and skin suppleness have all been gone.
  • The immune system will be compromised.
  • The mental abilities of the Boston terrier will be deteriorated.

4. Signs of seizures

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes dogs to tremble and pass out unconsciously temporarily.

Dogs of various sizes and breeds, as well as other animals, are impacted by seizures.

Seizures are unlikely to cause physical harm to the dog, although they can cause damage if the dog falls or knocks objects over and into itself.

If your Boston terrier begins to suffer seizures, contact your veterinarian straight once. This is something that seizure control medications can assist with.

Seizures in Boston terriers can also manifest as:

  • Loss of consciousness
  • Muscle twitching
  • Stiffening
  • Foam in mouth
  • Jerking
  • Tongue chewing
  • Collapsing

5. Signs of high fever

Fever is one of the most prevalent causes of shaking in Boston terriers; this high fever can be caused by a variety of factors.

A Boston terrier’s average body temperature is between 35 and 38 degrees Celsius, but if it rises over that, it might be an indication of a fever.

Tremors in Boston terriers have been observed as a result of high temperatures, which can be induced by a variety of factors, including:

  • Infections.
  • Inflammations.
  • Parasites on both the inside and outside of the body.
  • Heatstroke.
  • Immune response to a vaccination.
  • Poisoning.
  • Dry nose
  • Increased heartbeat
  • Increased respiratory rate

6. Signs of cold

The average body temperature of a Boston terrier is 35 to 38 degrees Celsius, which means that if the room or ambient temperature drops, your Boston terrier will suffer.

Despite their tight coats, Boston terriers can be cold; however, this is totally dependant on where you reside.

Your Boston terrier may begin to tremble if the temperature in the environment drops to a level that your Boston terrier cannot handle.

Consider the temperature of your surroundings if your Boston terrier is trembling.

Here are some pointers on how to cope with cold symptoms in Boston terriers:

  • It is not a good idea to let your Boston terrier out when the weather is too cold.
  • Never give your Boston terrier a chilly bath in the winter.
  • When the weather or your residence is too cold, please keep your pup’s room warm.
  • If the shaking persists after you’ve tried warming up the room, take your Boston terrier to the veterinarian.
  • A dog cold jacket is a wonderful purchase if you live in a cold environment.
  • A dog jacket, some exercise, or a change of environment might all help to warm up your dog.

7. Signs of distemper

Distemper is a virus that mostly affects pups and young dogs that have not yet had their full vaccinations.

The gastrointestinal, neurological, and respiratory systems are all affected by the distemper virus. Distemper’s indications and symptoms are typically lethal.

A veterinarian is required to treat distemper. If you believe your dog has canine distemper, make an appointment with your veterinarian as soon as possible.

The good news is that distemper is uncommon in Boston terriers since they are all vaccinated.

Shaking and shivering are common signs of distemper, as with other symptoms such as:

  • Nose discharge
  • Coughing
  • Fever
  • Lethargy
  • Vomiting
  • Eye discharge

8. Signs of chronic pains

Your elderly Boston terrier may be suffering from canine arthritis if he shakes or chills, especially in his hindquarters.

Many pains can cause Boston terriers to shiver or shake uncontrollably, so keep an eye on your dog if you see uncontrollable shaking.

Boston terriers can be in a lot of discomforts due to infections, traumas, and even dental issues.

Depending on the cause of your puppy’s pain, your veterinarian may recommend additional diagnostic testing and/or pain therapy.

9. Signs of excitement

Because Boston Terriers were designed to thrive on human connection, they are happy when a family member returns home.

This zeal is seen in the dog’s pores, resulting in trembling or shaking, which is not an indicator of anxiety or sickness.

As they prepare to eat their favorite food or play with their favorite toy, Boston terriers may tremble and shiver.

Some Boston terriers may tremble, howl, and even urinate with excitement when they return home late at night; however, this is unrelated to sickness.

While many of these behaviors are common in companion dogs such as Boston terriers, keeping your greetings cool and brief may help your Boston terrier relax.

10. Signs of Anxiety or stress

Small dogs, such as Boston Terriers, are prone to anxiety and separation anxiety.

When you have to leave them at home, they may become uneasy and shiver, or they may see other animals as dangers.

Dogs, like humans, have fears. Fireworks, thunder, and other loud noises cause some of them to shudder.

They generally flatten their ears and conceal their tails between their legs when they tremble for these reasons.

Boston Terriers shake when they are stressed, and between 50 percent of dogs hide or retreat when they are stressed.

Urinary accidents, shedding, clawing, licking, and drooling are all possibilities.

How to fix shaking in Boston terriers

The following are some typical methods for correcting and reducing the chances of shaking in Boston terriers:

  1. Determine the source of the tremors.
  2. Maintain your Boston terrier’s medical records.
  3. Reduce the amount of physical activity you give your Boston terrier as he gets older.
  4. Maintain a toxin-free environment for your Boston terrier.
  5. Keep your Boston terrier away from poisonous plants and herbs.
  6. Give your Boston terrier high-quality food and vitamins.
  7. If your Boston terrier is shivering, make sure he has enough of fresh air.
  8. Unless your veterinarian advises otherwise, avoid giving your Boston terrier over-the-counter medications.
  9. Avoid engaging in excessive outdoor activities or exercising in a hot atmosphere.
  10. As soon as possible, contact your veterinarian.
  11. Exercise with your Boston terrier daily at least 10 to 15 minutes.
  12. Provide warm bed and clothes for your Boston terrier.

Difference between Boston terrier Seizures vs Boston terrier Shaking

A seizure, in which the muscles cramp up and the dog loses both mobility and knowledge of their environment, is not the same as normal shivering and trembling.

While Boston terrier shaking may go away in a short while, seizures may not easily go away without the aid of a veterinarian.

If you fear your dog is experiencing a seizure and they aren’t being treated for a seizure disorder, take them to an emergency veterinarian right away.

While the majority of reasons for shivering in dogs are very innocuous, it’s always advisable to see your veterinarian if you’re unsure.

They can both explain why a dog shivers and determine whether something more dangerous is going on.

Even if there’s no need to be concerned, getting a vet’s opinion will give you peace of mind.

When to seek the help of a veterinarian

If you see your Boston Terrier trembling more than normal, and the shivering is accompanied by breathing problems, nasal discharge, vomiting, or lethargy, take them to the vet.

If home cures aren’t working, there’s a risk you’re dealing with a more severe problem.

Some chills are symptoms of underlying or new health concerns that need medical attention.

Make careful to pay attention to indicators and follow the vet’s recommendations for drugs or therapy.

Read more: 30 Boston Terrier Pros And Cons You Should Know.

More on Boston terriers and Shaking

You should be aware of the following types of shaking in Boston terriers:

Boston terriers shaking of hind legs

Patellar luxation or generalized tremor syndrome, which is frequent in tiny breeds like Boston terriers, miniature pinschers, and Chihuahuas, might be the cause of hind leg shaking in Boston terriers.

Remember that shaking doesn’t necessarily indicate a neck or spinal injury or a neurological problem in your dog; but, if you’re still worried, get medical help.

Worry, a cold, or age-related tremors are the most typical reasons.

Patellar luxation, often known as sliding or floating kneecaps, is a frequent condition that affects the back legs of many dogs, particularly tiny breeds such as Boston terriers.

Boston terrier shaking of head

Boston terriers might shake their heads due to ear infections, flea bites on the head skin, allergies, and head tremors as a consequence of a head injury.

Old age or other circumstances might lead Boston terriers to shake their heads.

Because of the way their ears look, Boston terriers are prone to ear infections, and ear infections are one of the most common reasons why their owners see their veterinarian each year.

Shaking of the head in your Boston terrier as it gets older might suggest an ear infection, ear mites, parasites, allergies, hematoma, toxins, or even balance issues.

Examine their ears to see if there is anything wrong, but the behavior continues. Make an appointment with your veterinarian.

Read more: 10 Boston Terrier Separation Anxiety Signs & Solutions.

Boston terriers vomiting and shaking

A toxic plant, onion ball, garlic ball, or poisoned material can all produce an upset stomach in a Boston terrier which leads to vomiting and shaking.

Vomiting and shaking in Boston terriers might be caused by a bloated stomach, pancreatitis, or renal illness.

Your Boston terriers’ trembling and vomiting are signs that something is wrong, and they should see a doctor as soon as possible.

Take account of how often they’re vomiting, as well as the volume and color of their vomit, and contact your veterinarian if it doesn’t stop after a few hours.

Boston terriers panting and shaking

Excessive panting and shivering in Boston terriers can be caused by a variety of things, including stress, more severe pain, discomfort, poisoning, renal illness, injury, allergic responses, toxins, bites, and stings.

Don’t ignore your Boston terrier’s trembling, especially if it isn’t due to excitement; whatever the cause, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.

I hope your question Why Do Boston Terriers Shake was answered to your understanding.

Read more: 10 Common Boston Terrier Sick Symptoms.

By Jackson Duke

I'm Jackson Duke the founder of allpetspot. I grew up with lots of pets with 15 years of experience living with pets. My love for pets made me start allpetspot, am here to share his experiences with pets.

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