About the Author: Dr. Finlay Tayler (DVM), a Harvard veterinary graduate, brings his five years of diverse experience to MyPetDoggie. Passionate about all animals, and a proud dog owner, he balances full-time veterinary practice with contributing expert insights to our content. Dr. Tayler’s love for the outdoors, cycling, and love for dogs enrich his holistic perspective on dogs care.
Why do dog’s legs shake when scratched? There is no definite answer as to why dog’s legs shake when they are scratched. However, the most common explanation for this phenomenon stems from a dog’s limbic system which regulates bodily functions such as sleep and fear reactions by passing on messages through chemical messengers known as neurotransmitters.
You can also read: Fascinating Fact – How Many Dog Days Are in a Human Day?
These chemicals also affect how animals move their bodies in response to stimuli like scratching or head-butting objects; one of these effects is an involuntary body tremble that can be seen even without physical contact with another living creature.
If your dog is a friendly, domesticated creature with floppy ears and long legs that will let you do it- go ahead! Not only can this act give dogs some much-needed affection, but they are also sure to love the attention.
Keep on reading to find out more about this interesting experience.
You can also read: Canine Emotions – Do Dogs Get Sad When You Sell Their Puppies?
Why do dog’s legs shake when scratched, reason behind:
The reason that dogs shake their legs when they are being scratched is not easy to pinpoint – although there is some debate over the exact cause.
There are a variety of possible causes. Some dogs shake because they’re nervous or excited, while other canines might be ill and have tremors associated with some illnesses such as seizures or neurological disorders like dementia syndrome.
If your dog shakes more than usual when you scratch them it is worth talking to your veterinarian. It may be that there’s something wrong with the animal and a visit might help identify what exactly is going on.
