Why Is My Shih Tzu Shaking While Sleeping?
Shih Tzus are adorable and affectionate companions, known for their playful personalities and luxurious coats. However, if you notice your Shih Tzu shaking or trembling while sleeping, it can be concerning. Is it normal, or should you be worried?
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the common reasons why Shih Tzus shake while sleeping, when it’s normal, when it could indicate a health issue, and what you can do to ensure your dog’s well-being.
Is It Normal for a Shih Tzu to Shake While Sleeping?
Occasional trembling or twitching during sleep is completely normal in Shih Tzus and most other dog breeds. It is often a sign that your dog is in a deep stage of sleep called REM sleep (Rapid Eye Movement), where they might dream or react to what they are imagining.
However, excessive or frequent shaking could indicate discomfort, health problems, or environmental factors. Understanding the root cause is essential to ensure your dog’s safety.
Common Reasons Why a Shih Tzu Shakes While Sleeping
1. Dreaming During REM Sleep
Like humans, dogs dream when they reach REM sleep. During this stage, your Shih Tzu’s body might twitch, shake, or make small movements.
- This is typically harmless and doesn’t require intervention.
- Signs of dreaming include soft whimpering, paddling paws, or slight jerks.
2. Feeling Cold
Shih Tzus have a long coat but a small body size, which makes them sensitive to temperature changes. If your dog shakes while sleeping, it could be trying to warm itself.
- Ensure the sleeping area is cozy and warm, especially in winter.
- A soft blanket or heated dog bed can prevent cold-induced trembling.
3. Anxiety or Stress
If your Shih Tzu is stressed or anxious, they might shake during both wakefulness and sleep. Common triggers include:
- Loud noises (thunderstorms, fireworks)
- Separation anxiety
- A recent change in the household
Dogs experiencing anxiety might also show signs like whining, pacing, or refusing to sleep in their usual spot.
4. Pain or Discomfort
Trembling during sleep could be a sign of pain due to conditions such as arthritis, injuries, or digestive discomfort.
- If your Shih Tzu whines, cries, or avoids movement upon waking, consult a vet.
- Dogs with joint pain may also have trouble lying down comfortably.
5. Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
Shih Tzu puppies, in particular, are prone to low blood sugar, which can cause trembling, weakness, or lethargy.
- Ensure puppies eat small, frequent meals.
- If shaking is accompanied by disorientation or fainting, seek veterinary care immediately.
6. Seizures or Neurological Issues
While it is infrequent, encouraging your child to shake or jerk frequently or violently while sleeping appears to be seizure activity or some type of neurological disorder. Unlike normal dream twitching or jerking, seizures will last longer, exhibit stiffness throughout the body, drooling, and/or unresponsiveness.
- If you suspect seizures, record the episode and consult your vet immediately.
7. Medical Conditions
Certain health issues like fever, infections, or toxins in the body can lead to involuntary shaking. If your dog’s shaking is new, persistent, or accompanied by symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, it’s best to get a professional diagnosis.
How to Tell if the Shaking is a Concern
Normal dream twitching is:
- Short-lasting (a few seconds)
- Mild, with small paw or ear movements
- Not accompanied by distress or crying
Concerning shaking may be:
- Prolonged or violent
- Paired with unusual behaviors like heavy panting, drooling, or confusion
- Occurring even when your dog is awake
How to Help Your Shih Tzu Sleep Peacefully
- Create a Comfortable Sleeping Space
- Provide a warm bed with soft blankets.
- Keep your dog away from drafts or cold floors.
- Maintain a Relaxing Bedtime Routine
- Take your dog for a short walk before bedtime.
- Use calming techniques like gentle petting or relaxing music.
- Ensure Proper Diet
- Feed your Shih Tzu a balanced diet to avoid low blood sugar or deficiencies.
- Offer small, frequent meals to puppies.
- Visit the Vet for Checkups
- Regular checkups help catch early signs of medical issues that could cause shaking.
Should I Wake My Shih Tzu When It Shakes in Sleep?
It’s generally not necessary to wake your dog when it shakes or twitches during sleep. Interrupting REM sleep can startle your dog and may cause stress. Only wake them if:
- The shaking is violent or prolonged.
- You suspect a seizure or medical emergency.
How to Monitor and Record Shaking Episodes
If you’re worried about your Shih Tzu’s nighttime trembling:
- Record videos of the shaking to show your vet.
- Note patterns – when it happens, for how long, and after what activities.
- Track if the shaking occurs during naps or only at night.
Preventive Care for Shih Tzus
To minimize nighttime trembling:
- Keep their coat clean and well-groomed to regulate body temperature.
- Provide a stress-free environment.
- Ensure they get enough exercise and mental stimulation during the day.
Final Thoughts
Twitching or shaking while sleeping is a common sleep activity in Shih Tzus but can also mean the dog is cold, experiencing stress, or may have an underlying health problem. Depending upon how often, and how the dog is shaking, you are able to tell if the behavior is harmless or if you need to contact a veterinarian.
Giving your Shih Tzu the right sleeping arrangements with warmth, proper nutrition, and scheduled vet visits will help your dog stay in a peaceful, restorative sleep.
10 FAQs About Shih Tzu Shaking While Sleeping
1. Is it normal for Shih Tzus to twitch while sleeping?
Yes, twitching or small movements during sleep are normal signs of dreaming in Shih Tzus.
2. Why does my Shih Tzu shake only at night?
It could be due to dreaming, cold temperatures, or nighttime anxiety. If it happens frequently, consult your vet.
3. Should I be worried if my Shih Tzu shakes in its sleep?
Occasional shaking is normal, but persistent or violent shaking may require medical attention.
4. How can I tell if my Shih Tzu is dreaming or having a seizure?
Dreaming is mild and short-lived, while seizures involve stiffening, drooling, or unresponsiveness.
5. Can low blood sugar cause shaking in Shih Tzu puppies?
Yes, hypoglycemia is common in small breeds like Shih Tzus and can cause trembling.
6. Do Shih Tzus get cold easily at night?
Yes, they have small bodies and can feel cold despite their long coat. A warm bed is recommended.
7. When should I take my Shih Tzu to the vet for shaking?
If shaking is frequent, paired with other symptoms, or occurs when the dog is awake, seek veterinary advice.
8. Does anxiety cause Shih Tzus to shake in their sleep?
Yes, stress or separation anxiety can cause shaking even during sleep.
9. Can diet affect my Shih Tzu’s nighttime shaking?
Yes, poor nutrition or long gaps between meals can lead to low blood sugar and trembling.
10. What can I do to stop my Shih Tzu from shaking at night?
Keep them warm, provide a stress-free environment, and ensure they are healthy with a balanced diet.
