Why Do Dachshunds Shake? Causes of Trembling and What to Do

Are you wondering, “Why is my dachshund shaking?” It’s a question many owners ask, because this breed tends to shiver more often than others.

Whether it’s excitement, fear, cold, tiredness or a health problem, trembling can have very different causes.

In this article, we look at the possible causes and what to do to help your dachshund feel better.

What Causes Trembling in Dachshunds

Trembling in dachshunds can have several causes, from a simple shiver caused by cold to more serious health problems.

This little dog, with its long body and sometimes fragile muscles, is known to be sensitive to stress, cold and swings in energy, which is why it shakes more often than other breeds.

Understanding where the trembling comes from is essential to react properly and avoid making things worse.

Cold

Like people, dachshunds can shiver when they are cold or coming down with a minor bug. Their body shakes to generate heat and stabilize body temperature. This is especially common in smooth-haired dachshunds or on winter outings.

✔ If your dachshund shakes after a walk or while sleeping, cover him up and give him a nice warm environment.

Low Energy in Your Dachshund

The dachshund is an active breed, but his small size means he can tire quickly. A drop in energy or muscle tone, often linked to exercise or too much exertion, can cause temporary muscle tremors.

✔ If the trembling shows up after an intense play session, let him recover quietly and make sure he has water.

Fear and Stress

The dachshund is a sensitive and sometimes anxious dog. Faced with a stressful situation (loud noises, new people, car rides, being left alone), he may tremble as an emotional reaction.

✔ Stress-related trembling usually goes away once the dog is reassured and feels safe.

Poisoning in Your Dachshund

If your dachshund has swallowed something toxic (plants, chocolate, medication, insecticide, household cleaners…), his body may react with involuntary tremors. This is a warning sign to take very seriously.

✔ If you suspect poisoning, contact a veterinarian immediately.

Illness or a Virus

Some viruses and infections can trigger muscle tremors in dogs: fever, pain, inflammation or neurological disturbances. This symptom should be monitored, especially if it comes with other signs (vomiting, fatigue, diarrhea, loss of appetite).

✔ In this case, a vet visit is essential.

Excess Energy in Your Dachshund

Sometimes… he’s simply shaking because he’s excited! Dachshunds are lively, playful and highly reactive. When he’s overjoyed (a walk, a new toy, a visitor), his body can express that excitement as trembling.

✔ Nothing to worry about: it’s just his way of showing joy.

Why Dachshunds Shake: Idiopathic Head Tremors

Trembling Can Also Point to a Health Problem

Digestive Upset and Nausea

A dog with a tummy ache or nausea may start to shake involuntarily. Digestive problems (indigestion, food poisoning, stomach inflammation) can cause shivering, excessive drooling and restlessness.

✔ If the trembling comes with vomiting or diarrhea, a vet visit is a must.

Kidney or Metabolic Problems

Kidney disease can upset the electrolyte balance and cause muscle tremors or general weakness. In dachshunds, it can also come with excessive thirst, weight loss or fatigue.

✔ Only a veterinary blood test can confirm whether the symptoms come from the kidneys.

Neurological Problems or Seizures

Epilepsy or neurological abnormalities can show up as uncontrolled trembling, spasms, or even seizures. These episodes can be brief or more intense depending on the dog.

✔ If the trembling is sudden and keeps recurring, contact a vet quickly.

Muscle or Joint Pain

A dachshund may shake simply because he hurts: a strained muscle, inflammation, or muscle or joint pain can cause small involuntary shivers. This often happens after unusual exertion or an awkward movement.

✔ The trembling is then localized and usually comes with a protective posture.

Spinal Problems (Common in Dachshunds)

Because of his long body, the dachshund is particularly prone to back pain (herniated disc, fragile vertebrae, pinched nerve). This pain can lead to trembling, difficulty walking or refusing to jump.

✔ If you suspect a back problem, limit his movement and see a vet right away.

Muscle Loss or Physical Weakness

With age or a lack of activity, a dachshund can lose muscle, which makes his legs less stable and more shaky. This is common in senior or sedentary dogs.

✔ Gentle, regular activity helps maintain his muscle tone.

How Do I Get My Dachshund to Stop Shaking?

Reassure Him and Create a Calming Environment

If the trembling is linked to fear, anxiety or a stressful situation (noises, car rides, new people), your job is to make your dachshund feel safe. Talk to him softly, hold him close, or put him in a quiet space where he feels secure.

✔ Emotional trembling generally stops as soon as the environment feels reassuring again.

Protect Him from the Cold and Keep His Body Temperature Up

Dachshunds have little natural protection against the cold, especially the smooth-haired ones. A dog coat on outings, a warm blanket or a well-insulated bed may be enough to reduce cold-related trembling.

✔ It’s one of the most common causes in this breed.

Make Sure He Gets Regular Exercise

A dachshund who lacks stimulation or exercise can build up stress or pent-up energy, which leads to restlessness and trembling. Daily walks, play, and a level of physical activity suited to his build help him settle.

✔ Exercise also helps maintain his muscle mass and prevent weakness.

How Can I Help My Dachshund Who Is Shaking?

Work Out What Is Causing the Trembling

Before acting, look at the context: does the trembling start after a walk in the cold? When he’s stressed or alone? After physical effort? Or for no apparent reason? Understanding the situation lets you adjust your response: warm him up, reassure him, give him water, let him rest, and so on.

✔ The better you pinpoint what triggers the trembling, the more effectively you can act.

See a Vet If the Trembling Persists

If the trembling is sudden, intense, frequent, or comes with symptoms like vomiting, limping, back pain or loss of energy, you need to see a vet. Trembling can be a neurological, digestive, muscular or kidney warning sign.

✔ Professional care helps rule out risks and get an accurate diagnosis.