Why is my dog having a head tremor?
We’ve all seen our dogs act a little strange from time to time — maybe it’s a funny little shake or an odd twitch here and there.
Most of the time, these little quirks are harmless, like when they’re reacting to the wind or the cold. However, there are times when unusual behavior, like head tremors, could point to something that needs a little more attention.
Head tremors in dogs, or Idiopathic Head Tremors, is the scientific term for what we often see as head bobbing. It can happen for a number of reasons, including seizures, nervous system issues, or head injuries.
But when none of those things are happening, it’s called ‘idiopathic,’ which basically means the cause is still a bit of a mystery.
Head tremors have also been linked to a condition known as white dog shaker syndrome. This condition is thought to be related to tremors, and it often affects dogs that are in their prime years.
While the cause of head tremors remains a bit unclear, we do know that this condition is more common in certain breeds and typically shows up in younger to middle-aged dogs.
Some breeds are more prone to it than others. Examples include Boxers, Spaniels, Chow Chows, Samoyeds, Doberman Pinschers, Labrador Retrievers, Dalmatians, Pitbulls, and Bulldogs.
With this article we’ll delve into the causes of involuntary head movements in dogs and provide advice on what to do if you see this condition and how you can help prevent it happening again.
Tell-tale signs of idiopathic head tremors
You’ll spot idiopathic head tremors, or canine head bobbing, when you see your dog making involuntary side-to-side or up-and-down movements with their head. It’s often been compared to Parkinson’s disease in humans due to the uncontrollable nature of the shaking.
But it’s important to keep in mind that head tremors in dogs shouldn’t be confused with the typical head shake that happens when your dog has itchy ears or an ear infection.
That kind of shake is totally voluntary and usually a sign your dog’s trying to relieve discomfort.
Head tremors, on the other hand, happen without your dog’s control and don’t typically seem to cause pain.
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Symptoms of Idiopathic Head Tremors in Dogs
There are four main types of head tremors in dogs:
Cerebellar head tremors
Also known as ‘intention tremors’ these occur when there’s damage to the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for coordination. You might see this when your dog tries to do something like reaching for their food or water bowl. Toxin-related head tremors
These are caused when your dog ingests certain toxins. Some of the usual suspects include rat poison, slug or snail baits, compost, and common household medications like ibuprofen. Certain foods too, such as chocolate and caffeine, can trigger these tremors.Drug related head tremors
Some owners have reported seeing signs of involuntary head movements in their dogs after ingesting certain drugs like antidepressants, amphetamines, and anti-emetics.Idiopathic head tremors
These include any form of head tremors in which the cause is unknown.
Causes of idiopathic head tremors in dogs
While it’s true to say that the most common head tremors in dogs don’t have a known cause, other types do have certain causes. These include:
- Injury or trauma to the head
- Certain medications
- Extreme pain
- Renal (kidney) disorders
- Low blood sugar
- Low calcium level
- Toxicity from chemicals or plants
- Central nervous system (CNS) disease
- Swelling of the brain
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Diagnosis of idiopathic head tremors in dogs
Even though we may not know all the causes of head tremors in dogs, it’s definitely worth checking in with a vet. They can help figure out what’s going on and recommend any necessary treatments if needed.
Your vet will probably want to start by ruling out other potential causes. They'll ask about your dog’s medical history, any recent changes in their routine or environment, and any other symptoms they’ve been showing.
Once they’ve got a clear picture of your dog's situation, they can narrow down the diagnosis and decide the best course of action. This may be one or more of the following:
Comprehensive physical examination
This first step usually includes a complete assessment of your dog’s entire body. The vet will want to see your dog’s complete medical history and immunization records. Be sure to mention any medications they’ve been taking. This helps the vet to get a full understanding of your dog’s health.
Laboratory tests
Tests like a complete blood count, blood urea nitrogen, blood sugar levels, urinalysis, fecal examination, and electrolyte analysis may be done to check for underlying issues. These can reveal signs of infections, metabolic disorders, or imbalances that could be causing the tremors.
Scans
If your vet’s still stumped, or if they suspect something specific, they might recommend imaging tests such as X-rays of the head and spine, or more advanced scans like a CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound. These can help identify structural problems or brain issues contributing to the tremors.
Treatment of dogs’ head tremors
Now, let's talk about treatment. The good news is that once your vet has diagnosed the cause of the tremors, they can recommend a treatment plan that will address the root of the problem.
Medical treatment
If the tremors are linked to a treatable condition like a cerebellum disorder, your vet might prescribe anticonvulsants such as potassium bromide, diazepam, or phenobarbital to help manage the tremors. For immune-related causes, corticosteroids might be used to suppress the immune response.
If the tremors are due to toxins or medications your dog ingested, the vet will typically induce vomiting (with an emetic) to flush out the toxins. They might also give an antidote if there is one available.
IV fluids are often used to keep your dog hydrated and help clear toxins from their system. For brain and nervous system issues, drugs like mannitol may be used to reduce brain swelling.
Surgical treatment
In cases where there’s significant damage to the central nervous system or cerebellum, surgery might be required.If there’s pressure on the brain, the vet may need to perform a procedure to relieve that pressure. A shunt may be placed to help redirect fluid away from the brain if necessary.
Hospitalization
In more severe cases, where your dog may be struggling to breathe or needs more intensive care, the vet may recommend sending them to hospital.How long they will stay there will depend on the severity of the condition and how quickly your dog is able to stabilize.
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Recovery of head tremors in dogs
It’s totally natural to worry when you notice something new with your dog, especially when it involves their head shaking or bobbing. But, in most cases, what you’re seeing is likely just an idiopathic tremor. This means it's shaking for no known reason, and while it might look a bit strange, it’s usually harmless.
In fact, it’s often more worrying for us pet parents than it is for the dog, and your furry friend might not even be aware it’s happening!
That said, if the head tremors are linked to something more serious, like a neurological condition or require surgery, it’s important to get your dog checked out by a vet.
The prognosis can vary depending on the underlying cause, but the good news is that for idiopathic head tremors, the outlook is usually pretty positive. Most dogs with this condition can go on to live a happy, normal life with minimal issues.
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Head Tremors In Dogs Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
English Bulldog
Two Years
56 found this helpful
56 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Head Tremors
Yesterday she had her first head tremor episode 30 mins after that again we took her to emergency blood work and everything else came out fine. At 5am she got it again and after that she’s been getting them throughout the whole day . Seems to happen when she’s trying to take a nap or is trying to relax . Took her to her regular vet this morning studies came out good days maybe an mri should be next. How can I calm her tremors so she can sleep .. plz help . I have a video of her having a tremor just in case
May 6, 2021
Answered by Dr. Sara O. DVM
56 Recommendations
Hello, this could be small seizures. Your vet could prescribe medication to help keep her calm. I do think that an MRI may be needed to figure out exactly what is causing this. I would ask for a neurology consult for your dog.
May 6, 2021
Was this question and answer helpful?
Shorkie Tzu
Eight Months
59 found this helpful
59 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Bobbing Of The Head
My dogs head is bobbing back and forth
Dec. 13, 2020
Answered by Dr. Linda S. MVB MRCVS
59 Recommendations
This may or may not be a concern.
It would be important to rule out a partial seizure if it seems compulsive.
I would advise videoing the event so your vet can see, in case they don't do it during the check up.
Dec. 13, 2020
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Pomeranian
Five Months
52 found this helpful
52 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Rocking Side To Side
My dog was sitting down when his head started rocking back and forth I thought he was cold so I wrapped him up but when his head is up it happens
Sept. 28, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
52 Recommendations
Thank you for your question.
Some puppies do have a head tremor when they are young, and most grow out of it. If this continues, it would be best to have him seen by a veterinarian, and perhaps take a video of the behavior so that they can see it if he does not have the problem when they are looking at him.
Oct. 8, 2020
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Chiweenie
Three Months
8 found this helpful
8 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Head Shaking And Vomiting
My puppy just had the above symptoms and my 7 year old husky/lab has had the same symptoms in the past. They do not eat the same food. The 7 year old has had 2 sets of antibiotics. There is no known poison within their reach. What could cause these symptoms in both dogs at different times
Sept. 26, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
8 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. I apologize for the delay, this venue is not set up for urgent emails.
Puppies are very prone to parasites, infectious diseases, and intestinal infections. Different things can affect adult dogs. It would be best to have your pet seen by a veterinarian, as they can examine them, see what might be going on, and get treatment for them.
Oct. 15, 2020
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Chihuahua
Eight Months
12 found this helpful
12 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Tremor
My dog started having head tremors after taking trazodone. Is this an emergency?
Sept. 26, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
12 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. I apologize for the delay, this venue is not set up for urgent emails.
Trazadone can be sedating, and that may have been what was causing the tremors in your dog. If he is still having problems, It would be best to have your pet seen by a veterinarian, as they can examine them, see what might be going on, and get treatment for them.
Oct. 18, 2020
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Shih Tzu
Yo-yo
9 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Head Tremors
My dog just started having these “head tremors” today, but they keep happening repeatedly. Once I start petting him he stops. But once I stop it happens again. He’s always been healthy and I don’t know if I should be worried or not. His shakes move in a “no” direction.
Bulldog
Diesel
3 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Head Trembling
This is not the first time this happens to mu dog diesel. The first time we notcied it he hadnt eaten anything for a couple of days and we took him to the vet. The vet said he has appendicitis. He was on medication for 14 days and recovered. A couple of weeks later we noticed the head trembling again but he was eating fine and wasnt sad or anything. Today hes doing the head trembling again and im scared he might have appendicitis again but i really dont have the money to take him to the vet right now. He had chiken earlier today that i boiled because hes refusing to eat his dog food. Any advice? .
Cane Corso
Olive
11 Months
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Head Tremor Side To Side
Hi I need advice on whether or not you can leave dogs alone while they have a head tremor ? As both my husband and I work. It’s only just started so need to know everything I can
