Does your Maltese seem to be trembling, shaking, or quivering?
If so, you may be wondering why your Maltese is exhibiting this behavior.
Read on to learn the 10 most common reasons why Maltese dogs shake and what preventive measures you can take to help keep your Maltese calm and relaxed.
Why Is My Maltese Shaking
As a pet owner, you may have noticed that your Maltese occasionally shakes or trembles for no apparent reason.
While it’s normal for dogs to shake when they are wet or cold, shaking can also be a sign of an underlying health problem.
Some of the most common reasons for a Maltese to shake include anxiety, pain, or illness.
Anxiety can trigger shaking, especially in social or unfamiliar environments.
Pain may cause your Maltese to shake, particularly if they are experiencing joint pain or back problems.
Additionally, some health conditions, such as hypoglycemia, liver shunts, or kidney disease, could be the root cause of your Maltese’s shaking.
It’s always best to consult with your veterinarian to identify the underlying cause of your pet’s shaking and get the right treatment.
Read on to learn the most common reasons why Maltese dogs shake and what preventive measures you can take to help keep your Maltese calm and relaxed:
1. Anxiousness and Anxiety
Maltese dogs are known for their tendency to shake when they become anxious or nervous.
This is a common behavior among all breeds of dog, but it can be particularly pronounced in the Maltese breed due to their small size and delicate nature.
When these dogs feel overwhelmed by anxiety, they may start shaking as a way of expressing how scared and uneasy they feel.
It’s important that owners recognize this behavior so that they can provide comfort and reassurance during times of distress.
2. Due to Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar
Maltese dogs are known to shake and tremble, which can be concerning for owners.
The reason why they do this is often due to hypoglycemia or low blood sugar.
This condition occurs when the dog’s body does not produce enough glucose in their bloodstream, causing them to become weak and shaky.
If you suspect that your Maltese may have hypoglycemia, it is important to take him to a veterinarian immediately as untreated cases of hypoglycemia can lead to serious health problems such as seizures or even death.
3. Cold or Chilly Environment
Maltese dogs are known for their tendency to shake when they’re in a cold or chilly environment.
This is because the breed has very little body fat and does not have an undercoat, which helps keep them warm.
As such, when exposed to colder temperatures, these dogs will start shaking as a way of conserving heat and keeping themselves warm.
It’s important to make sure that your Maltese dog stays comfortable by providing it with plenty of warmth during colder months so that it doesn’t feel the need to shiver excessively.
4. Sign of Nerves and Excitement
Maltese dogs are known for their tendency to shake, which is often a sign of nerves and excitement.
This shaking can be caused by fear or anticipation when the dog meets new people or experiences something unfamiliar.
It’s important to remember that this behavior isn’t necessarily bad; it just means your Maltese needs some extra reassurance from you in order to feel safe and secure.
With patience and positive reinforcement, you can help your Maltese learn how to cope with his anxiety and enjoy life without feeling overwhelmed.
5. Pain or Discomfort
Maltese dogs are known for their shaking, which can be caused by pain or discomfort.
This is usually due to a medical condition such as arthritis, joint problems, or an infection.
It’s important to take your Maltese to the vet if you notice any signs of shaking so that they can diagnose and treat the underlying issue.
In some cases, it may just be a sign of excitement or fear but in other cases it could indicate something more serious like pain or illness.
Keeping an eye on your pet’s behavior will help you determine whether there might be cause for concern and when it’s time to visit the vet.
6. Due to Old Age
Maltese dogs are known to shake, particularly when they get older.
This shaking is usually due to old age and can be caused by a variety of factors such as arthritis or other joint problems.
It’s important for owners of these breeds to keep an eye on their pet’s health and make sure that any medical issues are addressed quickly in order to ensure the best quality of life for their dog.
Additionally, providing your Maltese with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation will help them stay healthy into their golden years.
7. Ear Infections
Maltese dogs are known for their shaking, which is often caused by ear infections.
Ear infections can be painful and cause the dog to shake its head in an attempt to relieve the discomfort.
If left untreated, these infections can lead to more serious health issues such as hearing loss or even deafness.
It’s important that owners of Maltese dogs keep a close eye on their pet’s ears and seek medical attention if they suspect any kind of infection.
Regular cleaning with a veterinarian-approved solution will help prevent future problems from occurring.
8. Poisoned
Maltese dogs are known to shake for a variety of reasons, but one of the most common is because they have been poisoned.
This can be caused by ingesting something toxic or even just coming into contact with a poisonous substance.
If you notice your Maltese shaking, it’s important to take them to the vet as soon as possible so that they can get checked out and treated if necessary.
9. Seizures
Maltese dogs are known to shake for a variety of reasons, but one of the most common is seizures.
Seizures can be caused by many different factors including genetics, environmental toxins or infections.
If your Maltese dog begins shaking suddenly and uncontrollably it could indicate that they are having a seizure and should be taken to the vet immediately.
It’s important to note that not all cases of shaking in Maltese dogs are due to seizures.
However, if you notice any other symptoms such as loss of consciousness or difficulty breathing then it may be indicative of an underlying medical condition which needs further investigation from a veterinarian.
10. Hypothermia
Maltese dogs are known to shake and shiver, even when they’re not cold.
This is because the breed has a low body fat percentage which makes them prone to hypothermia.
To keep warm, these little pups will often curl up into tight balls or shake their bodies in order to generate heat.
It’s important for owners of Maltese dogs to make sure that their pup stays warm during colder temperatures as this can help prevent any potential health issues related to hypothermia.
Understanding Maltese Dog Behavior
Understanding Maltese dog behavior is an essential aspect of being a responsible pet owner.
These small, adorable dogs may seem easy to handle, but their behavior can be unpredictable if not properly managed.
Maltese dogs are known to be intelligent, energetic, and affectionate towards their owners.
They thrive on attention and require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.
However, they can also be territorial, stubborn, and prone to barking excessively if not trained properly.
It is important to establish clear boundaries and consistent training for a Maltese dog to ensure they behave appropriately in various situations.
By understanding their behavior, you can create a strong bond with your Maltese dog and enjoy a fulfilling relationship with them.
Taking Care Of A Shaking Maltese
Taking care of a shaking Maltese can be challenging, but there are some steps you can take to help your Maltese feel more comfortable.
First, make sure that the environment is calm and quiet; loud noises or sudden movements may cause further anxiety for your Maltese.
Second, provide plenty of exercise opportunities so they have an outlet for their energy.
Third, give them lots of love and attention when they’re feeling anxious.
Fourth, create a safe space where they can retreat if needed.
Fifth, talk to your vet about any medical issues that could be causing the shaking such as hypoglycemia or thyroid problems.
Sixth, use calming aids like pheromone diffusers or treats with natural calming ingredients in them to reduce stress levels in dogs who shake due to fear-based triggers.
Seventh, practice desensitization exercises by exposing your pet gradually to whatever it is that causes him distress until he becomes accustomed and no longer reacts negatively towards it.
Eighth, consider using CBD oil which has been found helpful in reducing anxiety symptoms in pets with trembling episodes caused by stressors such as thunderstorms or fireworks displays.
Ninth, try massage therapy techniques on areas around the neck and shoulders which helps relax tense muscles associated with shivering behavior.
Lastly, always keep up regular visits with your veterinarian since certain diseases like epilepsy might require special medications for proper management .
Preventive Measures You Can Take To Help Keep Your Maltese Dog Calm And Relaxed
Keeping your Maltese dog calm and relaxed is important for their health and wellbeing.
Here are 14 preventive measures you can take to help keep them feeling safe, secure, and content:
- Provide plenty of exercise.
- Make sure they have a comfortable place to rest.
- Give them lots of love and attention.
- Offer toys that promote mental stimulation.
- Avoid loud noises or sudden movements around the dog.
- Create a routine schedule with regular meals times and walks.
- Allow them time alone in their crate if needed.
- Reward good behavior with treats or praise.
- Speak calmly when interacting with the dog.
- Take breaks from training sessions if necessary.
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
- Understanding the dog’s temperament and needs
- Building a strong bond with the dog
- Regular vet check-ups
By following these tips, you will be able to ensure your Maltese stays happy and relaxed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a variety of reasons why your Maltese dog may be shaking.
It could be due to fear or anxiety, pain or discomfort, cold temperatures, excitement and joy, old age or health problems.
If you notice that your Maltese is shaking more than usual it’s important to take them for a check-up with the vet as soon as possible so they can diagnose any underlying issues and provide appropriate treatment if necessary.
