pit bull shaking

Question
I have a 2.5 year old pit who is very friendly to everyone she meets. In the last month she has been going under the table and shaking for a few minutes. Last night it lasted for two hours. When I go near her it seems to make it worse. She has always done this when she hears firecrackes or a loud noise but now it apears to be for no reason.I am getting very concerned. Please help!
Thank You Lynn

Answer
Hi Lynn,

First I want to apologize for taking so long to get back to you.  My computer crashed and then I left for vacation.  I am back now and concerned about your dog and what she is experiencing.

Something has happened that has caused fear to take hold of her.  Do you have any idea as to what that could possibly be?  An event that could have triggered this?

Without having more information, I can only make some general recommendations, but I encourage you to find a skilled behavorist to make an accessment of your dog's condition.

You could start by slowly incorporating a turkey based food into your dog's diet.  There is a particular food that I highly recommend, Neura, which is 95% turkey. Turkey has Tryptophan in it which is very calming. You can also add some Yogurt to her food because calcium is also calming.

I would also suggest that you place 10 drops of Rescue Remedy in her water bowl and rub some on her gums (available in the health food store).

There is a product called an Anxiety Wrap.  It was originally invented to help dogs get through thunderstorms without anxiety.  It works and it just might help your dog!Do a search on Google and you will find it.

A repetitive basic training schedule will enhance your dog's confidence.  Work with her throughout the day on a consistent basis using basic commands, like sit, stay, down, etc.   Teach her the command, "look."  Use a treat and hold it between your eyes...tell her.."look" and slowly bring the treat to her nose and then back to your eyes.  When she connects with your eyes give her the treat and praise her.  Practice this until she will continue looking at you until you release her gaze with, "OK."  This will strengthen your bond with her.

I urge you to consider hiring a behavorist as soon as possible.  The longer you wait, the worse the situation may become.

The best of luck.  She sounds like a real sweetie-pie!

Shelley Davis
www.bednbiscuit.com