Why do little dogs shake?

[Nekochan]

I was at a get-together at my in-laws’ house. They are fond of miniature Dachshunds and own one named Strudel (cute). While I was petting the tiny little beast, I noticed that it was trembling.

I’ve noticed the same thing in Chihuahuas. Why do these undersized dogs shake? Is it palsy? Parkinson’s? Are they cold? Nervous?

I don’t remember seeing the same thing in small fluffy dogs, though. Do all little dogs shake, or just the ones with very short hair? If so, that might support the explanation that they shake because they are cold.

Little dogs freak me out.

[Balance]

Well, catling, here’s a theory I found on About.com:

The Chihuahua tendency to shiver or tremble is not a health issue but takes place when the dog is excited or stressed. One explanation is the toy dogs have a higher metabolism and so dissipate body heat faster than larger dogs. Shivering helps to generate body heat – that’s why people shiver when we are cold. However, rapid dissipation of body heat is a distinct disadvantage in cool or cold climates…

It seems reasonable to me, but I’m no expert. I’m not fond of little dogs, either. I particularly dislike min-pins.

[dolphinboy]

I’ve often seen small short haired dogs with little sweaters around them which lends itself to the “they’re cold” theory. I think they shake for all of the reasons you mentioned. I don’t find little dogs attractive at all… and haven’t met anyone who does. It boggles the mind that someone would actually try and breed as small a dog as possible… I mean, what’s the point?

[Gunslinger]

My dachshund has been shivering whenever he’s nervous since he was a puppy.

[johnson]

I think it’s likely that small dogs shake because they’re terrified of being mistaken for furry cockroaches.

[dragonlady]

I own a mini-doxie and a yorkie, both very small dogs.
The doxie shakes when she is nervous and/or cold. The yorkie has to be cold, and it takes much lower temps to do it.
The vet told me to be careful about leaving either one outside, even in moderate temps, because they are too small to maintain their body heat very well. I guess they don’t have enough insulation. Thus the disgustingly cute doggie sweaters.