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Why does my old Yorkie's head shake when he's falling asleep?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Male | unneutered | 9.2 lbs

My dog occassionally trembles his head when he's relaxing and about to fall asleep. He doesn't twitch or tremor when he's awake and active. It started a week ago and it lasts three seconds or less. I have a video, but can't attach it on here. He's recently had bloodwork in late October and its was normal except for a tiny elevation in ALT test. I've been giving him Milk Thistle and daily supplements. He's a geriatric Yorkshire Terrier.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 5th, 2018

Hello, sorry to hear about S. Depending on your location, this may be associated with cold weather. Toy breed dogs whom are geriatric can lose body temperature rapidly. Alternatively, if he has progressive elevation of his ALT and other liver values, pets can develop hepatic encephalopathy and will begin to show neurologic signs such as twitching, lethargy, or even seizures. However, progressive elevation of liver values can also and often causes other clinical signs such as vomiting, anorexia, and lethargy. If you note any of these signs, or are concerned that S may be having hepatic encephalopathy, then he should be seen by your veterinarian tomorrow. Otherwise, make sure S is warm during the cold weather. Hope this helps and best of luck.

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