Head Tremors in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

If you've ever seen a dog with head tremors, you know how scary it can be. While some head tremors in dogs are idiopathic, others can be a sign of a more serious condition like encephalitis or toxin exposure. That's why it's important for dog owners to know the potential causes and when to take their pet to the vet. Head tremors in dogs are involuntary shaking or bobbling movements of the head that can be caused by a variety of things, including injury, poisoning, seizures, metabolic disorders, or neurological problems. While idiopathic or breed-specific head tremors can be harmless, other types of head tremors are a cause for concern and require a trip to the vet.

In this article, we'll look at the latest studies from veterinary neurology experts and animal health organizations to cover the many potential causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of head tremors in dogs. This way, dog owners can know what to look for, when to take their pet to the vet, and how to best care for their dog.

Breeds That Are More Predisposed to Idiopathic Head Tremors

There are certain dog breeds that are more predisposed to idiopathic head tremors. According to a retrospective study published by the National Institutes of Health, the breeds most commonly affected include Bulldogs, Boxers, Labrador Retrievers, and Doberman Pinschers, which made up 65% of the 291 cases that were looked at. Mixed breeds were the next most common at 17%.

While the exact cause is unknown, genetics specific to certain breeds may be responsible for the higher prevalence in these breeds. Wikipedia lists Spanish Hounds, Chow Chows, Samoyeds, Dalmatians, Pit Bulls, and Bulldogs as those that are most at risk, which could indicate a hereditary link.

In terms of when idiopathic head tremors first appear, the NIH study showed that 88% of dogs had their first episode before 4 years of age and 70% had their first episode before they were 12 months old. While there are certain breeds that are more predisposed to idiopathic head tremors, it's important to note that any breed of dog can potentially experience them, including mixed breeds, as shown by the 17% of cases in the study.

Possible Causes and Triggers of Head Tremors

The cause of idiopathic head tremors in dogs is not yet known, but there are several potential contributing factors that have been identified. According to the VetNeuroCare blog, the most likely causes are either a movement disorder that originates in the basal ganglia or an abnormality in the stretch mechanism and proprioceptive pathway of the head. Genetics are also believed to play a role, as idiopathic head tremors tend to be more common in certain breeds.

In addition to potential neurological and genetic causes, WagWalking explains that other potential causes of head tremors in dogs include head injury or trauma, certain medications, extreme pain, renal disorders, hypoglycemia, hypocalcemia, toxicity, and central nervous system diseases. These medical issues can cause symptomatic head tremors, which are different from idiopathic head tremors.

There are also certain triggers that may cause head tremors to occur, such as stress, excitement, or specific situations. However, as the NIH study points out, the etiology and pathophysiology of idiopathic episodic head tremors remains unknown. It's important to get a proper veterinary diagnosis to rule out other potential causes before assuming that the tremors are the result of an idiopathic condition.

How Are Head Tremors Diagnosed and Differentiated?

Diagnosing idiopathic head tremors in dogs requires a comprehensive veterinary evaluation and the elimination of other potential causes. According to Southeast Veterinary Neurology, the diagnostic process typically involves a physical exam, a review of the dog's medical history, and a battery of tests to determine the underlying cause.

Veterinarians will often start with a neurological exam to evaluate the dog's reflexes, coordination, and overall nervous system health. They may also recommend imaging studies, such as MRI or CT scans, to look for any brain or spinal cord abnormalities that could be causing the tremors. Everett Vets explains that other tests, including blood tests or ear exams, may be used to rule out infections, allergies, or foreign bodies as the cause of the head shaking.

While it can be difficult to differentiate idiopathic head tremors from other neurological issues, such as seizures, idiopathic tremors are generally described by St. Louis Vets as rhythmic, involuntary movements that occur at rest and don't appear to bother the dog. In contrast, seizures are often associated with full-body shaking and a loss of consciousness. Veterinary neurologists may be called in for more complicated or persistent cases to offer a more specialized diagnosis and treatment plan.

Pet owners should contact their veterinarian right away if their dog's head tremors are intense, frequent, or if they're accompanied by other symptoms, such as lethargy, confusion, or a lack of appetite. The sooner the dog is diagnosed and treated, the better the chances of a positive outcome for dogs with head tremors.

How Idiopathic Head Tremors Are Treated

Treatment for idiopathic head tremors in dogs typically involves a mix of traditional and alternative methods. Unfortunately, the Melbourne Bulldog Clinic says there is no cure for the condition, and many of the treatments that have been reported have not been shown to help.

In some cases, vets may prescribe anti-inflammatory or anti-seizure drugs to help manage severe or frequent tremors, although VCA Animal Hospitals says that prednisone is the main treatment for the related "shaker syndrome." It's important to note that these drugs can have side effects, so dogs who are taking them will need to be monitored closely by their vet.

If you're interested in a more holistic treatment, White Oak Vet says that herbs like gastrodia, ginger, and Chinese skullcap root can help manage tremors by supporting the nervous and digestive systems. There are also products that contain these herbs, such as Kan Essentials Subdue Internal Wind, that may be helpful.

In addition to medications, the Melbourne Bulldog Clinic says that using distractions like treats or toys can help break the cycle of a tremor and stop an episode. It may also be helpful to make environmental changes and use relaxation techniques to reduce stress, which is thought to be a potential trigger.

Although idiopathic head tremors can be scary, the condition is generally considered to be very manageable. The Melbourne Bulldog Clinic says that in around two-thirds of cases, the tremors will become less severe or even go away completely over time, and they won't lead to any other neurological problems. However, it's still important to work with a vet to manage the condition.

Getting Veterinary Help

Pet owners should make sure to see a licensed veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan for head tremors in dogs. According to The Martha's Vineyard Times, vets will usually conduct a comprehensive physical exam, take a look at the dog's medical records, and perform a series of tests to determine the cause of the head tremors.

Veterinary care is necessary if a dog's head tremors don't go away, get worse, or are accompanied by other symptoms like tiredness, confusion, or a lack of interest in food. Per Relievet, while home remedies can help in the short term, they're not a replacement for professional care, especially if the tremors are a sign of a more serious issue.

In more complicated or severe situations, pet owners may want to see a veterinary neurologist for a more detailed diagnosis and treatment plan. According to Yumwoof Natural Pet Food, pet owners should make sure to stay in close contact with their vets and listen to their advice when it comes to watching over and treating their dog's head tremors since diagnosing and treating them on their own can be dangerous.

Conclusion: How to Help Dogs With Head Tremors

There are many potential causes of head tremors in dogs, ranging from neurological problems to exposure to toxins. While idiopathic head tremors are most common in Bulldogs, Boxers, and Labrador Retrievers, any dog can develop this condition.

It's important to get your dog to the vet as soon as possible if they have head tremors, as it's important to determine the cause of the tremors. Vets can diagnose the cause of head tremors using a combination of physical exams, medical history, and diagnostic tests to rule out other neurological disorders.

If your dog is diagnosed with idiopathic head tremors, your vet may recommend a combination of traditional and alternative treatments, including medication, natural treatments, and changes to your dog's environment. It's also important to stay in touch with your vet and make sure that they're aware of any changes in your dog's condition, as the prognosis for idiopathic head tremors is good, and many dogs will improve or recover from the condition over time.

By learning about the causes, symptoms, and treatments for head tremors in dogs, pet parents can be better prepared to help their dogs through this condition and ensure that they're happy and healthy.