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My new puppy shakes while sleeping with eyes open. Is this normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Male | unneutered | 3 months and 12 days old

Hello I got a brand new puppy and I noticed him shaking with the eyes partial open when sleeping. Is this normal or should I be concern ?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on August 17th, 2017

If he is otherwise normal I'm not concerned. He may be stressed from moving to a new home or dreaming. If it was a seizure you would notice him going from normal to having muscle spasms, then getting back to normal in a few minutes. It's a good idea to video the behavior and write down when it occurs so you have a history to discuss with your veterinarian should it get worse. I like to write down the episodes on a calendar so I can go back and check the frequency. Willis may stop this as he becomes settled in your house and as he gets older. If he appears agitated, weak or ill please take him right in for an exam. You may want to double check with his breeder to see if any other pups or the parents are doing this. Cavaliers do get heart disease, but usually when they are old, and purebred dogs can get epilepsy but seizures often don't start until they are six months to a year old. Again I would just watch him to make sure there are no other symptoms. Enjoy your new puppy! I love Cavaliers, it's a fun, gentle and loving breed. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Willis.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Emily Luisana DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Cavaliers are my favorite!! I am sure he is very cute! As long as they are sleeping and not losing consciousness as a result of an 'episode', shaking, pawing or vocalizing while sleeping can be normal. I understand as it can be a little surprising if it has been a while since you have had a puppy! You can try gently waking him to ensure it is just dreaming. I would also consider video taping an episode to show your vet during a puppy appointment to ensure it looks normal to them as well. i hope this helps!

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