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I have had bigger dogs most of my life - GSDs, Belgian Malinois, etc - and have trained many dogs, humanely and without choke collars and harsh methods.

I now have a small dog, since I am in “senior living”, for that is all that is allowed.

Here is my theory on why some small dogs shake.

They are surrounded by legs, both human and furniture, and exist in a forest of huge obstacles, some moving, some stationary. They can’t see above constantly moving shoes and ankles, but they have the same brains as big dogs, so they see constant threats (to them) in their environment.

Also, since they do have the same brains as big dogs, they need the same confident “human” leadership, which they do not often get. They are coddled, picked up, carried, and seldom trained not to jump on people, obey, do a proper sit or down, or “be quiet”.

They then reach the ridiculous conclusion in their little doggie brains that they are the “pack leader”, with a humongeous human puppy to control, who constantly subjects them to very dangerous circumstances.

Seriously, wouldn’t you shake if you were in their paws?

Being the pack leader of a very small dog is a lot harder than being the same to a much bigger dog, generally speaking. Do not tolerate misbehavior in the wee one that you would not tolerate in a big guy. Expect them to know the rules of good behavior, and be kind but confident leaders. They will feel more protected, and thus more secure.

And, do not carry them around like babies, but do pick them up when someone wants to pet them, insisting that they be given proper respect. That means, offer the closed hand under the nose for a good sniff over. Never let anyone pat them on the head, which is a major threat to any dog.

Just my two cents. Take what makes sense to you in your particular situation, and feel free to ignore what doesn’t suit you.