chihuahuas shiver or tremble when they are excited, experiencing stress, frightened, uncertain or cold. shivering is characteristic of the chihuahua breed.
smaller chihuahua puppies usually have a higher metabolism and so they expend body heat faster than bigger dogs. shivering also helps to generate body heat, which is also explains why people shiver when they are cold.
it’s important to remember that if you live in a cold or wet climate, you need to protect your chihuahua when you take them outside. dress them in a sweater or chihuahua clothes to make sure they stay warm and if possible, avoid taking them out in the rain.
it is also helpful to nurture your chihuahua when they are shivering out of fear or stress. a familiar and calm voice will help to put them at ease.
at the same time you don’t want to run to them every time they shiver, rather only when it seems appropriate because you want to avoid them becoming accustomed to tending to them every time they shiver.