12 Common Reasons For Yorkshire Terrier Shaking & What to Do

Is your Yorkshire terrier shaking and you don’t know how to help them? As if their cute little bodies aren’t overwhelming enough, sometimes Yorkies can give you such a hard time by shaking and shivering. According to their personality, you may think they are seeking attention. Yet, there is always a reason behind that, and you should know how to handle these situations.

1. Yorkie Feels Chilly

The main reason for Yorkies shaking could be the cold. Yorkshire Terriers do not have an undercoat. There is only a fine, silky, steel blue coat, and underneath it, there is no wool-alike, fluffy protection. This is a good thing because it is preventing shedding and Yorkie probably won’t cause any allergies. Yet, it can cause some troubles for your Yorkshire Terrier. The lack of undercoat means the Yorkie is often cold. 

Consider the fact that your Yorkie may be cold even when you aren’t, and it may need a sweater or a blanket. If it’s raining outside, if the Yorkie gets wet, and especially after a bath, get your dog to a warm towel to dry off, and afterward cover it with a blanket. Make sure there is a place in your home where your Yorkie can get warm.

Luckily for you, we have awesome sweaters, hoodies, coats and jackets so you don’t have to worry your yorkie getting cold.

What are the best picks for Yorkie hoodies to keep them snug?

Nike Dog Sweatshirt

Who doesn’t love Nike? If you want to support your dog’s outdoor adventures in chilly weather, then this is the pick for you. This Yorkie hoodie is made of premium cotton and it’s available in different colors and sizes. As we all know, these little squirrels are small in size, so they quickly lose body heat. Therefore, to make your pooch relaxed and comfortable when spending time in cold weather, choose the appropriate dog clothing.

Pawlenciaga Dog Hoodie

Crafted from the finest cotton, this hoodie oozes luxury and comfort, providing you with the perfect outfit for all occasions. Since it’s inspired by the world-famous fashion brand, we’re sure everyone will turn their heads when your pet walks down the street. This Yorkie hoodie will be of great help when you want to take your pooch out in cold weather. It’s features ribbed hem and cuffs and will make a dog snug and safe in crispy walks.

Adidog Hoodie

Adidog Hoodie is the best pick for those small runners who adore spending time chasing in their yard on cold autumn days. It’s made of a premium fabric which is padded with fleece for better insulation. Since it comes in so many colors, we bet you’ll have a difficult time choosing the right one for your pet.

2. Yorkie is Emotional

Sometimes it just gets too emotional for these little puppies… If you come home after a long day, the rush of feelings, love, and happiness can be so overwhelming, it makes the Yorkies shake. Generally speaking, happiness of any kind can cause shaking – if you have given your Yorkie its favorite food, or a new toy, etc. It depends on the personality of your dog, and of what does make it happy. There is not much you can do, except give the Yorkie love, attention, and a warm lap to rest of the rush of feelings.

In dangerous situations, the Yorkie will be afraid. Even if you are scared, or acting strange, dogs can feel it. Although these Terriers are really protective, competitive, and like to show off, there still are situations that are upsetting them. If they are attacked, or come to unknown situations, they can get scared. Firstly, you have to assess the situation. Is there really a danger? If not, try showing the Yorkie that everything is okay. 

Play together, put yourself in the situation that is scaring the Yorkie, show your energy and happiness. If you can’t identify the scary situation, try making Yorkies comfortable. Give them love and comfort. Occupy their attention with something they love, that is making them happy and playful. If there is a real problem, get your dog out of it. If the Yorkie is afraid of other dogs or people, try to socialize together.

3. Yorkie is Stressed

Although they are real Terriers in their soul, Yorkies can get so sensitive sometimes. If they are dealing with a stressful situation for too long, you may see them shaking. If they have played and ran too intensively, or had any too stressful physical activity, their bodies can start shaking, because the muscles are getting extremely activated and used. It’s a body’s way of protecting and defending itself. 

Also, if they missed you too much, they can be stressed, because they are alone, or even uncertain about you coming back. If they are waiting for too long to go outside, or to have their meal, it can also be very stressful and cause Yorkshire terrier shaking. Stress occurs when any need isn’t satisfied, because the body recognizes it as a danger, and tries to defend itself. You have to take care of your Yorkie and its needs and respect the schedule it is used to.

To help your Yorkie feel calm and occupied in case he/she spends time alone, try entertaining him/her with interactive Yorkie toys. Interactive dog toys will be of great help to keep a dog occupied from the owner’s absence. They also improve intelligence and learn a dog how to win rewards. Dog Carrot Snuffle Mat is one of our favorite picks of our customers.

One of the primary benefits of squeaky dog toys is that they help keep dogs occupied and entertained, especially when they are spending time alone. Dogs are social animals and may experience boredom or loneliness when left by themselves. Squeaky toys offer a source of amusement, preventing them from resorting to destructive behaviors out of boredom. The sound of the squeaker provides a sense of reassurance, making the dog feel less anxious and more secure. Squeaky Training Interactive Dog Toy comes in different shapes and colors, so your Yorkie will enjoy playing with them all day long.

4. Hypoglycemia

Yorkshire terrier shaking is one of the symptoms of Hypoglycemia. It actually means that your dog is having low blood sugar. If you notice a lack of energy, trembling, and appetite loss, this condition can be the case. It often occurs as a consequence of inappropriate nutrition. Your common sense will tell you to give your dog high-sugar food. That is the truth, but don’t make any health care decisions before consulting the vet. Take this condition seriously. It can affect your dog on many levels.

5. Yorkie is Poisoned or Feeling Nauseous 

Nausea occurs if your dog had long car rides, had inappropriate nutrition, or other medical reasons. If your Yorkie is throwing up, yes, it was feeling nausea. Take this into consideration if your Yorkshire Terrier is shaking. If you are suspecting a medical condition such as poisoning or others, consult your vet. Do not make any decisions by yourself until your vet gives you the assessment. A scenario with the highest probability is that the vet will prescribe a special diet for your dog. If your dog is avoiding food, it’s okay for the first 24-48 hours. Be careful, and don’t allow your dog to get dehydrated.

Unfortunately, Yorkies can’t be responsible while sniffing and choosing what to swallow when you aren’t watching. Sometimes, you can’t be in control, and if Yorkie eats something from the outside, or something with an expired date, etc, it can cause poisoning, throwing up, and shaking. Don’t waste your time, get your dog the appropriate medical help it needs.

6. Pain can be the reason for a Yorkshire Terrier Shaking

Some dogs don’t like showing pain. Firstly, their pain tolerance is unexpectedly high. In the attempt of being brave Terriers, Yorkies maybe will remain quiet, but their bodies will give them away. Shaking is one of the severe pain symptoms. When it comes to any health issue, your vet is your one and only solution. You can’t be sure what is causing the pain, and if your dog is in pain at all.

7. Yorkie has Aged

Your Yorkie is getting old, and, unfortunately, this brings difficulties for the Yorkie and for you. Your Yorkshire Terrier may shiver when it gets old. There are various reasons for that. Firstly, muscles may be weakened, which results in Yorkshire terrier shaking. On the other side, the Yorkie can be upset or afraid, feeling the changes, the pain, and the weakness. As always, give your Yorkie love and affection, and visit the vet as soon as possible.

Owners of senior Yorkies should pay special attention to their spots for sleeping. Therefore, make sure your pooch sleeps on a soft and comfortable bed that will ease pains in his/her muscles, joints, and hips. It’s important to note that some senior Yorkies can shake particularly if they suffer from cognitive decline or changes in their environment. A soft bed can act as a safe haven, offering a familiar and secure space where they can feel at ease and reduce anxiety levels.

Older dogs often have a harder time regulating their body temperature. Soft beds made from materials like memory foam can help insulate their bodies and retain warmth, ensuring they stay comfortable and cozy even in colder environments.

Furdi Luxury Bed is one of the best picks for seniors. It’s filled with pp cotton, features non-slip bottom, and the fabric is pleasant, breathable, and easy clean.

8. Yorkshire Terrier Shaking Due To Fatigue

When Yorkshire Terriers get tired, because of too extreme activities, not sleeping, not getting enough food, or because of any kind of exhausting effect, the natural response of their tiny bodies is shaking. As when it comes to being stressed, afraid, or cold, their bodies will defend themselves. Give your Yorkshire Terrier a warm place to hide, love, food, and make sure its needs are satisfied.

9. Yorkshire Terrier Shaking Due Excitement

You’ve probably witnessed a thousand times your dog running toward you when he/she sees you coming home. Some pooches can get very excited to see you carrying their meal, toy or even a harness. Therefore, if your pet is shaking during these activities, stay calm and wait for him/her to relax.

10. Your Dog is Your Mirror

Since dogs are social beings who can ”read” our emotions, it’s nothing unusual to spot your Yorkshire terrier shaking because he/she got worried about you. Dogs are amazing at observing and interpreting human behavior. They don’t need words to know how we feel – they read body language, facial expressions and tone of voice. Research has shown they can pick up on subtle changes in human emotions.

A slight change in posture, a raised voice or a frown can trigger a reaction in your dog. When you’re happy they wag their tails and bounce around. When you’re sad they become more subdued, lying quietly beside you or giving gentle nudges of comfort. Shaking in response to your emotions can happen because dogs are attuned to notice when something is “off” in your behavior. Yorkies being sensitive and affectionate dogs may be more prone to this emotional mirroring. When they sense you’re upset or stressed they may shake because it’s an instinctive way to show concern or try to calm the situation.

11. Yorkshire Terrier Shaking Due To Vaccination

Just like humans, Yorkies can react to vaccines. his soreness might lead to mild discomfort, and smaller breeds like Yorkshire terriers are more prone to exhibit this by shaking or trembling. Vaccines can sometimes cause a low-grade fever as the immune system works to process the vaccine. If your Yorkshire terrier is feeling slightly feverish or unwell, shaking may occur as a response to this discomfort.

12. Yorkshire Terrier Shaking Due To Illnesses

If your pooch takes medication due to suffering from certain illnesses, shaking and tremors can be the results. Dogs, especially smaller breeds like Yorkshire terriers, can be more sensitive to medications or may accidentally be given too high of a dosage. Even a slight variation in dosage could overwhelm their system and lead to tremors. Overdosing on certain medications can cause toxicity, which may present as shaking, lethargy, vomiting, or even more severe symptoms.

READ ALSO: Do Yorkies Love to Wear Clothes?

In a nutshell, before concluding what is happening to your Yorkshire Terrier, and why it is shaking, you should at least consult your vet by phone. On the other side, getting to know your dog and its needs will help you assess the situation and shaking causes. Establish good habits for your Yorkie, and respect them. Give it love and affection. If there aren’t any medical causes, that is the main thing you can do!