From Evolution to Communication: Why Dogs Shake Off Water

Published on November 15 by Julia

If you've ever watched a dog shake itself dry after getting wet, you may have wondered why they do it. This behavior, which seems almost instinctual, is both fascinating and functional. Dogs shaking off water isn't just a quirky habit—it’s a natural, physiological response with several important purposes. Here's why dogs shake when they get wet and how it helps them in their daily lives.

1. It’s an Evolutionary Survival Mechanism

The primary reason dogs shake when they’re wet is rooted in evolution. In the wild, a dog's coat serves as insulation and protection from the elements. Wet fur can weigh a dog down and lower its body temperature, especially in colder environments.

Shaking is an incredibly efficient way for dogs to get rid of water, and it helps them avoid hypothermia. It’s believed that dogs shake to rapidly remove moisture from their fur, preventing the chill that comes with wetness. Interestingly, dogs shake at speeds that allow them to expel about 70% of the water in their coats within a matter of seconds.

2. The Science Behind the Shake

When a dog shakes, it’s not just a casual wiggle. The process involves the dog’s muscles contracting rapidly and rhythmically. This rapid shaking generates enough force to dislodge water from the fur. Research shows that a dog’s shaking motion is remarkably efficient—this movement can expel the water from their fur in a fraction of the time it would take to air dry. A dog’s shaking has been found to occur at an incredible speed—up to 8 times per second! This makes it one of the fastest methods of drying off in the animal kingdom.

The shaking movement works in the following way:

• The dog’s head and neck initiate the shake.
• The motion causes the skin and hair follicles to stretch and contract.
• The body shakes in a coordinated manner, sending vibrations through the muscles, skin, and fur.
• Water droplets are ejected from the coat, reducing the dog’s wetness.

This rapid shaking can happen in a few seconds, leaving the dog much drier than it would be by simply waiting for the water to evaporate.

3. Maintaining Comfort and Temperature Regulation

Wet fur, especially when it's cold outside, can cause discomfort for dogs. Most dogs rely on their coat to regulate their body temperature. Whether they have short or long hair, their fur is designed to trap air close to the skin, which provides insulation and helps them stay warm.

When a dog gets wet, the water can compromise this insulation, making the dog feel cold and uncomfortable. Shaking helps reduce this feeling by expelling the water, allowing the dog to regain its body temperature regulation faster. This is especially important for breeds with thicker coats or those that live in colder climates.

4. It’s a Form of Communication

Dogs may also shake as a form of communication. While it’s not always the case, some dogs may shake after they’ve been exposed to a stressful or unpleasant situation, like getting a bath or coming back from a rainy walk. In these cases, the shaking could be a way of expressing mild anxiety, discomfort, or frustration. Some dogs even shake when they’re excited or after an intense play session, which could be a way of releasing pent-up energy.

In certain situations, shaking can serve as a self-soothing behavior. If a dog is feeling stressed, such as after a loud noise or a visit to the vet, it may shake to calm itself down. This can be thought of as a "reset" mechanism for the dog’s nervous system.

5. Dogs Shake for Other Reasons Too

While shaking off water is the most common reason dogs shake, it’s not the only one. Dogs also shake when they’re nervous, excited, or trying to get rid of something stuck to their fur, such as dirt or a bug. In these cases, the shaking might serve a different purpose:

• Shaking off stress: If a dog is feeling anxious or overwhelmed, it may shake as a way of releasing tension.
• Excitement or happiness: Some dogs shake or shiver when they are overly excited or when anticipating something enjoyable, such as going for a walk or getting a treat.
• Physical discomfort: Dogs may shake if they are in pain, such as from an injury or illness. In these cases, the shaking is often accompanied by other signs of distress, such as limping or whining.
• Post-bath shakes: Some dogs instinctively shake after a bath or a grooming session, even if the water isn’t particularly cold. It could be their way of relieving the tension from the bath and signaling that the uncomfortable experience is over.

6. Why Some Dogs Shake More Than Others

You might notice that some dogs shake more than others, even when they aren't wet. This can be attributed to factors such as:

• Breed: Certain breeds, such as terriers or greyhounds, are more prone to shaking than others. For example, smaller dogs or those with fine coats may feel colder faster and be more prone to shaking.
• Temperature Sensitivity: Dogs with shorter coats, fewer fat layers, or less body mass may be more sensitive to cold or wet conditions, prompting them to shake more often. Conversely, dogs with thick double coats, like Siberian Huskies or Saint Bernards, may shake less, as their fur provides better insulation.
• Health Issues: If a dog shakes more frequently than usual, or if the shaking is severe, it may indicate an underlying health problem, such as pain, fever, or a neurological disorder. If you notice persistent shaking in a dog that doesn’t seem to be related to getting wet or cold, it’s a good idea to consult a veterinarian.

Shaking off water is an instinctual and vital behavior for dogs, helping them dry off quickly, regulate their body temperature, and maintain comfort. This efficient action, powered by rapid muscle contractions, has evolved to ensure their survival in both wet and cold environments. While the primary purpose is to dry off and avoid the discomfort of wet fur, shaking can also serve as a form of communication and stress relief. So, the next time your dog shakes off after a bath or a rainy walk, you can appreciate the practicality and efficiency behind this fascinating behavior!