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Why is my senior dog shaking and hiding, even without a thunderstorm?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 11 years and 11 months old | 72 lbs

My dog molly has been acting strange for a few days, she has been shaking randomly and hiding. All of which is very unusual. She is scared of thunderstorms but we haven’t had any of fireworks. She is still eating like a lab would. Just worried as she is getting older

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 12th, 2019

Shaking can be a sign of anxiety (as with thunderstorms) or could indicate pain and discomfort. I would recommend taking Molly in to be examined by your veterinarian. She likely has some degree of arthritis and this could be causing her discomfort. She may need to be started on a joint supplement and an anti inflammatory drug to help with pain. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

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