Idiopathic Generalised Tremor Syndrome

Idiopathic generalised tremor syndrome describes a pattern in which a dog develops rhythmic shaking or trembling that affects much of the body, without an identified underlying cause. The tremors tend to be most visible when the dog is awake and standing, and often lessen or disappear during sleep or rest. The condition most commonly appears in young to middle-aged dogs, and small white-coated breeds have historically been reported more frequently, though it can occur in dogs of any size or colour. Owners typically notice a fine or coarse shaking that may involve the head, body, and limbs. The dog remains conscious and alert, and the tremors themselves do not usually cause pain, though they can make movement less coordinated. The onset may be gradual or sudden, and in many cases the tremors fluctuate in severity over hours or days. This page explores the signals that may accompany this pattern of tremor, what is understood about the processes that may be involved, the investigations that help distinguish it from other causes of shaking, and the approaches that exist to manage the tremors when they affect a dog's comfort or function.