Dog Trembles When Lying Down: Quick Answer
If your dog trembles when lying down, it can sometimes be harmless, such as when they are cold, dreaming, or settling after exercise. However, trembling can also point to discomfort, joint pain, muscle weakness, or even an underlying medical condition like arthritis, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), or low blood sugar in smaller breeds. The key difference is whether the shaking happens often, comes with other symptoms like whining, limping, or panting, or seems to cause distress. In those cases, it is not just normal behaviour — it is a sign you should contact your vet for a proper check-up.
What does it mean if my dog trembles when lying down?
When a dog trembles while lying down, it can mean very different things depending on the context. In many cases, the shaking is harmless — your dog may be cooling down after exercise, feeling a bit chilly, or simply releasing tension from stress. Some dogs also twitch or shiver lightly when they drift into sleep, and owners sometimes mistake this for a problem.
But trembling can also signal that something is not right. Pain from joints, muscles or the spine often shows up more clearly when a dog is resting, and conditions such as arthritis or intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) may cause shaking when pressure builds in a lying position. Illnesses that affect blood sugar, nerves, or general strength can also make a dog shake unexpectedly.
The key is to notice whether the trembling is occasional and mild, or whether it is frequent, intense, or linked with other warning signs like whining, stiffness, or reluctance to move.
Why does my dog tremble when lying down?
There are several reasons why a dog may tremble when lying down, ranging from simple and harmless to more serious:
- Feeling cold or chilled – small or short-haired dogs can shiver when their body temperature drops.
- Stress, anxiety, or fear – shaking is a common response to loud noises, separation, or general worry.
- Pain from joints, spine, or muscles – arthritis, back problems, or sore muscles can make resting uncomfortable.
- Neurological issues – conditions such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) or mild seizures can show up as trembling when a dog lies down.
- Hypoglycaemia in small breeds – low blood sugar sometimes causes shivering, especially in toy breeds and puppies.
- Old age and weakness – senior dogs may shake more often because their muscles are not as strong.
- Poisoning or serious illness – though less common, toxins or underlying diseases can trigger sudden trembling and need urgent attention.
Noticing when and how often the trembling happens, and whether it comes with other changes like whining, stiffness, or loss of appetite, helps distinguish between harmless causes and those that require a vet check.
Is it normal for dogs to shake when lying down?
It can be completely normal for a dog to tremble when lying down in certain situations. After a long walk or play, their muscles may twitch as they relax. Small or short-haired breeds often shiver when they feel cold, and many dogs twitch in their sleep while dreaming. These are not usually signs of illness.
However, shaking is not normal if it happens regularly, looks intense, or is paired with other symptoms such as whining, stiffness, limping, or reluctance to get up. Persistent trembling while lying down can be a sign of pain, arthritis, back problems, or another medical condition that should not be ignored. If you notice these patterns, it is best to book a veterinary check-up.
Dog trembles when lying down but not standing — should I worry?
If your dog only trembles when lying down but appears fine when standing or moving, it often points to discomfort linked to rest. When a dog lies down, more weight shifts onto the joints, spine, and muscles. If there is pain from arthritis, hip issues, or back problems, the shaking may appear in this position but not when the dog is upright.
In some cases, trembling while lying down can also be related to weakness or pressure on nerves that is not as noticeable when standing. While it does not always mean a serious problem, repeated shaking in this specific posture is a sign that your dog may be experiencing pain or stiffness. If it happens regularly, it is best to let a vet examine your dog to rule out joint or spinal conditions.
Dog trembles when lying down at night – is it normal?
Many owners notice their dog trembling more at night when lying down. In some cases, this is nothing to worry about. Night-time can be colder, especially for short-haired or small dogs, and shivering may simply be their way of staying warm. Anxiety is another common factor, as some dogs feel less secure in the dark or when left alone.
However, night-time trembling can also be linked to health problems. Neurological conditions, such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), may cause shaking to appear more when a dog is resting. Older dogs may also tremble more at night because their muscles are weaker and joint pain becomes sharper in still positions.
If the trembling happens often at night or is paired with whining, restlessness, or stiffness, it is best to have your vet check for underlying issues.
What symptoms to look for if my dog trembles when lying down
Trembling on its own is not always a sign of illness, but when it happens together with other changes it becomes more concerning. Pay attention if your dog shows any of the following alongside shaking when lying down:
- Whining or whimpering – a sign your dog may be in pain.
- Limping or stiffness – could point to arthritis, hip, or back problems.
- Refusal to get up or difficulty standing – often linked to joint or neurological issues.
- Loss of appetite – may signal discomfort or a wider health problem.
- Disorientation or confusion – can appear with neurological conditions or in older dogs.
- Panting or restlessness – may suggest pain, stress, or internal discomfort.
If trembling is frequent and happens with any of these symptoms, it is unlikely to be harmless and should be checked by a vet.
When should I take my dog to the vet if they tremble when lying down?
Occasional trembling can be harmless, but there are clear signs that mean it is time to see a vet. Book an appointment if you notice any of the following:
- The trembling happens regularly or gets worse over time.
- Your dog shows signs of pain, such as whining, yelping, or restlessness.
- Shaking comes with limping, stiffness, or trouble getting up.
- There is a loss of appetite, weight loss, or refusal to play.
- Your dog seems confused, disoriented, or unusually tired.
These signs often point to pain, joint problems, or a medical condition that needs attention. If in doubt, always see your vet — it is better to rule out serious issues early.
For owners in the UK, you can seek help at trusted practices such as Medivet UK, which provides nationwide veterinary care.
What will the vet check if my dog trembles when lying down?
When you bring your dog to the vet because they tremble while lying down, the vet will start with a full physical examination. They will check posture, joints, spine, and muscles to see if pain appears when your dog rests. They may also listen to the heart and lungs to rule out other causes of weakness.
Blood tests are often used to check for infections, organ problems, or low blood sugar, especially in small breeds. If a neurological problem is suspected, the vet may carry out simple reflex and coordination tests.
In cases where joint or back issues are likely, imaging such as X-rays or even MRI scans can help identify arthritis, slipped discs, or intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). These steps give a clear picture of what is happening and guide the right treatment.
What can I do at home to help my dog if they tremble when lying down?
There are a few simple things you can do at home to make your dog more comfortable if they tremble while lying down:
- Keep them warm – provide blankets or a draught-free spot, especially for small or short-coated breeds.
- Offer a supportive bed – a soft, orthopaedic-style bed can reduce pressure on joints and spine.
- Reduce stress – keep a calm environment and give your dog reassurance during anxious moments.
- Check their diet – balanced nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight help take strain off the body.
- Consider supplements – joint-supporting options such as glucosamine or omega-3s can be useful, but always speak to your vet first.
These measures can improve comfort, but they are not a replacement for professional veterinary care. If trembling continues or worsens, your vet should always be your first point of contact.
For dogs with mobility issues caused by back or leg problems, supportive equipment can make a big difference. At Furria, a store dedicated to senior and disabled dogs, we provide practical solutions such as the Small Dog Wheelchair. It is available from £109 with fast UK delivery, designed to help dogs stay active and comfortable even when mobility becomes difficult.
FAQ: Dog trembles when lying down
Why is my dog shaking when lying down but not moving?
This often points to discomfort that shows up when pressure is on the joints, spine, or muscles. It can also be linked to anxiety or weakness. If it happens often, let your vet check for arthritis, hip issues, or back problems.
Why does my dog tremble when lying down after a walk?
After exercise, muscles may twitch as they relax, which can be normal. But trembling after activity can also point to joint pain, fatigue, or early signs of injury. If it is regular or your dog seems stiff, it is worth investigating.
Dog trembles when lying down and pants — is this pain?
Yes, panting with trembling is usually a red flag for pain, overheating, or stress. It may also signal problems with the heart or lungs. Persistent panting with shaking should always be checked by a vet.
Is it normal for my dog to tremble in sleep when lying down?
Mild twitching during sleep is often just dreaming and is normal. Strong, frequent shaking or movements that look like seizures, however, need veterinary advice.
Why does my old dog tremble when lying down?
Older dogs are more likely to shake because of muscle weakness, arthritis, or nerve problems. Trembling at rest can be part of ageing, but it should not be ignored, especially if your dog seems uncomfortable.
Dog trembles when lying down and refuses to eat — what does it mean?
Loss of appetite with trembling usually points to illness or pain. This is not normal and should be treated as a sign that your dog needs veterinary care.
Final Thoughts
If your dog trembles when lying down, it can sometimes be harmless — a response to cold, dreaming, or simple tiredness. But frequent or intense shaking, especially when paired with pain, stiffness, or other changes, usually points to an underlying problem. The safest step is always to let a vet check your dog so that conditions like arthritis, back problems, or neurological issues are caught early. Prompt attention not only relieves discomfort but also helps your dog stay active and enjoy life for longer.
