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Think one tiny tick can’t harm your dog? Think again. Ticks may be small, but the threats they carry are anything but. As a veterinarian, I’ve witnessed how quickly a single tick bite can turn a healthy dog into an emergency case. Time matters, and knowing what to do could save your dog’s life. The good news? With the right steps, you can protect your dog and avoid the risks before they start.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to find and remove ticks safely, spot the early warning signs of tick-borne diseases, and take proven steps to keep your dog safe year-round. So, let’s dive in because your dog’s health could depend on it.
Why Ticks On Dogs Are Dangerous
Ticks aren’t just unpleasant. They’re a serious threat to your dog’s health. These tiny parasites latch onto your dog’s skin to feed on blood, but the real danger happens inside the tick. Many ticks carry bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can transmit deadly diseases to your dog in just a few hours.
Left untreated, these infections can cause joint pain, organ damage, paralysis, and even death. One of the biggest threats? You often don’t notice the symptoms right away. Tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis can lie low for weeks or even months before your dog shows signs of being sick. This makes early tick removal and prevention absolutely critical.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ticks carry many bacterial and parasitic diseases. Some of these take one or two days to transfer to your pet, while others can occur within a matter of hours. The diseases most commonly seen in dogs include:
- Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi. It is spread by the deer tick, also known as the black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis), mainly in the Northeast, mid-Atlantic, and Midwest.
- Ehrlichiosis is caused by the bacterium Ehrlichia canis, spread by the brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus), American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis), and deer tick. The disease is most commonly seen in the Southwest and the Gulf Coast.
- Canine anaplasmosis is caused by two different types of bacteria: Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Anaplasma platys. It is most commonly found in California, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and the Northeast and is spread by deer ticks.
- Rocky Mountain spotted fever is caused by a bacterium called Rickettsia rickettsii, which is seen in the Southeast and South Central U.S. but has been reported in multiple locations. The American dog tick and brown dog tick are responsible for spreading this disease.
- Canine babesiosis is caused by a protozoan parasite that ticks can carry and transmit. This protozoan attacks the red blood cells in the body, causing anemia.
- Canine bartonellosis is a disease caused by the bacterium Bartonella spp. Although unproven, it is believed that ticks transmit this disease.
The worst part? Your dog doesn’t need to spend hours in deep woods to get infected. Ticks can lurk in your backyard, parks, trails, and even in urban areas.
Understanding The Tick Life Cycle & Why It Matters
To beat ticks, you need to know how they live and when your dog is most at risk. Ticks go through four life stages: egg, larva, nymph, and adult. Each stage, except the egg, needs a blood meal to survive and move to the next phase. That means every time a tick feeds, there’s a new chance for disease transmission, and your dog is an easy target.
Here’s how it works:
- Eggs. Ticks lay thousands of eggs in the environment, especially in tall grasses and wooded areas.
- Larvae (“seed ticks”) These tiny, six-legged ticks latch onto small animals, such as mice. They’re often too small for you to spot easily.
- Nymphs. Still small but now eight-legged, nymphs are especially dangerous because they often go unnoticed while feeding. Most tick-borne diseases are transmitted at this stage.
- Adults. Larger and easier to spot, adult ticks prefer bigger hosts like deer and, of course, your dog.
Why does this matter for your dog? Because nymphs are active during the spring and summer, exactly when your dog is outside more often. And adult ticks? They stay active well into the cooler fall months. Tick risk isn’t just a “summer thing.” It’s a year-round problem in many areas.
Understanding the tick life cycle enables you to time your prevention strategies effectively and gives you a better chance of protecting your dog throughout the year.
4 Common Ticks You May Find On Your Dog
Not all ticks are created equal, and knowing which ones you’re dealing with can make a big difference.
There is a large variety of different tick species found in the US. Different tick species carry different diseases and are found in various regions. Recognizing the usual suspects can help you stay ahead of the risks and provide your vet with important clues if your dog ever becomes ill after a bite.
The majority of tick-borne diseases are spread by four main tick groups: black-legged ticks (including the deer tick), American dog ticks, brown dog ticks, and lone star ticks.
1. Blacklegged/Deer Tick
- Size: Tiny, about the size of a sesame seed (even smaller as nymphs!)
- Color: Reddish body with dark legs
- Found: Northeastern, Mid-Atlantic, and Upper Midwest U.S.
- Risks: Lyme disease, anaplasmosis
These ticks are responsible for the majority of Lyme disease cases.
2. American Dog Tick
- Size: Medium and visible to the naked eye
- Color: Brown body with white or gray markings
- Found: Across the U.S., especially east of the Rockies
- Risks: Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, tularemia
This tick often bites dogs and humans.
3. Brown Dog Tick
- Size: Medium
- Color: Reddish-brown all over
- Found: Worldwide, prefers warm climates and can survive indoors
- Risks: Ehrlichiosis, babesiosis
Important: Brown dog ticks can infest homes if not properly controlled, so be vigilant in inspecting bedding, furniture, and carpets.
4. Lone Star Tick
- Size: Medium
- Color: Brown with a single white spot (on females)
- Found: Southeastern and Eastern U.S.
- Risks: Ehrlichiosis, tularemia, STARI (Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness)
Lone Star ticks are aggressive and actively seek out hosts; they’re not just passive hitchhikers.
What Are Symptoms Of Common Tick-Borne Disease In Dogs?
A single tick bite can expose your dog to dangerous and sometimes deadly diseases. Knowing the most common tick-borne illnesses helps you act fast if your dog starts showing symptoms.
The symptoms of this tick-borne disease vary depending on the type of bacteria or parasite your dog has been infected with. Here’s what every dog owner needs to watch for:
- Fever
- Lameness or stiffness (which could be intermittent)
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Pale (or yellowed) gums
- Lethargy
- Inappetence
- Bleeding issues
- Breathing difficulties
- Neurological issues
Bottom line: Ticks don’t just cause itchy bites; they can unleash a domino effect of serious health problems. If your dog shows any of these symptoms, be sure to take them to a veterinarian as soon as possible. The more promptly treatment is started, the better the outcome is.
How To Check Your Dog For Ticks
Ticks can be sneaky. They love to hide in places that are easy to miss during a casual glance. That’s why regular, hands-on tick checks are essential, especially after walks in grassy areas, wooded trails, or even your own backyard.
Here’s exactly how to do it:
Step-by-Step: How To Check Your Dog For Ticks
- Start at the Head and Work Down. Gently run your fingers through your dog’s fur, feeling for small bumps. Ticks can feel like tiny peas or scabs.
- Focus on Hidden Spots. Pay extra attention to around and inside the ears, under the collar, between the toes, under the legs (armpits), around and under the tail, and around the eyelids.
- Use a Comb for Thick Coats. For dogs with longer fur, use a fine-toothed comb to part the hair, allowing you to see down to the skin.
- Look and Feel. Ticks are sometimes easier to feel than to see, especially in darker coats.
The faster you find and remove a tick, the lower the risk of disease transmission. So make tick checks a daily habit if your dog spends a lot of time outdoors.
Helpful tip: Knowing what ticks look like at different stages (larvae, nymphs, and adults) helps you spot them faster.
Step-by-Step Guide: How To Safely Remove A Tick From Your Dog
Found a tick? Don’t panic, but act quickly and carefully. Removing a tick the right way is crucial. If you yank it out improperly, you could leave parts of the tick embedded in your dog’s skin. This increases the risk of infection or disease transmission. If you squeeze or pull at the tick, you could distress it. This causes the tick to regurgitate blood and saliva back into your dog, along with potentially harmful bacteria.
It is essential to do this safely to limit any risk to your dog.
What You’ll Need
- A tick-removal tool or fine-point tweezers
- Gloves (to avoid direct contact)
- Dog-safe antiseptic (like chlorhexidine)
- A small container (to save the tick if your vet wants to test it)
- Soap and water
Step-by-Step: How To Remove A Tick
Stay calm and put on gloves. Always protect yourself because ticks can carry diseases that affect humans, too. Here’s how to remove a tick:
- Part your dog’s fur to expose the tick. You could wet the fur with a little warm water to help keep it out of the way.
- Use a tick removal tool that slides gently underneath the tick. Twist the tick remover carefully while supporting the tick’s body in the hook so the tick lets go. Pull upward with steady, even pressure, and don’t jerk or squeeze.
- Put the tick in a secure container, preferably with some alcohol in it. Save it for the vet or dispose of it in the garbage if your vet doesn’t need it. Label and date it. If you let the tick go, it could wander off into your home or garden and lay eggs.
- Clean the area with a dog-safe antiseptic solution. Use antiseptic on the bite site and around it.
- Check your pet carefully for any more ticks, particularly their tummy, legs, feet, ears, and face.
- Wash your hands with warm, soapy water.
- Monitor your pet for signs of ill health for 2 to 3 weeks. Seek help if there are any problems. If you notice swelling, redness, limping, lethargy, or fever, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Watch this short video showing how simple it is to remove a tick with a tick removal tool.
Never try to suffocate the tick with petroleum jelly, burn it off, or squeeze it, as these methods also increase the risk of bacteria being transmitted to your dog.
We’re happy to help: If you are still unsure about how to remove a tick, take your dog to your local veterinarian, where a vet technician can assist you.
When You Should Take Your Dog To The Vet After A Tick Bite
Not every tick bite is an emergency, but some are serious enough to need a vet right away. Ticks don’t always transmit disease, but when they do, early treatment can make all the difference. Knowing when to call your veterinarian can help you catch dangerous infections before they escalate.
Call your vet immediately if:
- The tick was attached for more than 24–36 hours
- You weren’t able to remove the entire tick (especially the head)
- The bite area becomes red, swollen, or infected-looking
- Your dog starts showing symptoms like limping or stiffness, lethargy or low energy, fever, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, nosebleeds, or unexplained bruising
- You live in or recently visited a tick-heavy or high-risk region
- Your dog is very young, old, pregnant, or immunocompromised
Vets are able to remove ticks safely, and show you the technique for future reference.
What Your Vet Might Do
If your vet has concerns about your dog following their examination, they may recommend some lab work, usually blood tests. The treatment depends on the underlying disease but could involve extended courses of antibiotics. Some animals may need hospitalization for intravenous fluids and monitoring if they are very unwell. Sadly, however, treatment is not always successful.
Bottom line: If anything feels “off” after a tick bite, don’t wait it out. A quick vet visit could prevent something far worse.
Should I Be Worried If I Find A Tick On My Dog?
Finding a tick on your dog is alarming, but don’t let panic take over. Yes, ticks are dangerous. But the good news? Not every tick carries disease, and catching it early significantly lowers your dog’s risk of infection.
The key is to act fast, stay calm, and follow the right steps. You should be aware of the diseases and the signs to look out for, but it is not necessarily the case that your dog becomes unwell. Just ensure you take your dog to the vet as soon as possible if they do show signs of ill health. As the earlier the problem is diagnosed, the more successful the treatment is.
6 Proven Methods To Prevent Ticks On Dogs
Wondering, “How do I prevent my dog from getting ticks?” What is the best way to protect your dog from tick-borne diseases? Stop the bites before they happen. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but combining a few proven prevention methods will dramatically reduce your dog’s risk. Here’s what works (and what doesn’t):
1. Prescription Tick Preventatives
These are your first line of defense. Oral and topical medications are highly effective at killing ticks before they can transmit disease. Many work for fleas, too.
There are a variety of products that repel ticks or kill them if they attach to your pet. Topical spot-on style treatments, tablets, and collars exist to help prevent tick problems from happening in the first place. Frontline is a popular choice among U.S. pet owners.
Speak to your veterinarian for more information on what might be most suitable for your pet. Don’t rely on over-the-counter products without consulting your vet. Some are less effective or can cause reactions.
We have a guide on the best flea and tick prevention for dogs and the best flea and tick subscriptions to ensure you’re pup is covered.
2. Tick Collars
Modern flea and tick collars release slow-acting pesticides that repel and kill ticks for up to 8 months. These are a great addition for dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors. Just make sure the collar fits snugly and doesn’t irritate your dog’s skin.
3. Natural Prevention Remedies
Some owners prefer chemical-free tick remedies. While natural sprays and essential oils can help, they’re less reliable than vet-recommended products. Remember, some essential oils can be toxic to dogs. Always use safe, vet-approved natural sprays, looking for EPA-registered labels.
4. Environmental Control
Ticks live in your dog’s environment, too, not just on their body. Here’s how to tick-proof your home and yard:
- Keep wildlife (deer, rodents) away from your property
- Mow grass short and remove leaf litter regularly
- Create a gravel barrier between wooded areas and play zones
- Use pet-safe yard sprays if needed
Your backyard could be crawling with hidden dangers, but a few simple changes can make it much safer for your dog. Ticks thrive in shady, moist, and overgrown areas. Keep bushes and tree limbs trimmed back to let in more sunlight. Ticks hate dry, sunny environments. The more sunlight you allow, the fewer ticks you’ll have.
By creating a dog-friendly yard and less tick-friendly environment, you can dramatically reduce your dog’s risk of exposure without relying solely on medications.
5. Year-Round Protection
Don’t stop prevention just because it’s winter. Adult ticks can survive in chilly weather and latch on during mild spells. Prevention should be a 12-month commitment, not a seasonal one.
Bottom line: The most effective tick prevention plan is one that is consistent, layered, and tailored to your dog’s lifestyle. Always consult your veterinarian to develop the safest strategy.
6. Consider Changing Walking Routes
Consider avoiding walks in areas where ticks are commonly found, such as woodlands and grasslands, especially those that are frequented by livestock, including sheep, cattle, or deer. If this is not possible, it is especially important to check your pet for ticks regularly as part of their daily grooming routine. The sooner they are removed, the less likely they are to transmit disease.
Look after yourself, too. Be aware that people can get ticks as well as pets. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants to cover exposed skin is helpful, as is the use of insect repellents.
Consider A Preventive Care Plan
Many pet insurance companies offer wellness care plans that help you cover preventative items like annual vet check-ups and flea and tick preventative medications. Pets Best is one of the companies that offer this add-on plan in addition to pet health insurance to cover unexpected medical needs like accidents, allergies, and cancer.
5 Dangerous Myths About Removing Ticks From Dogs
When it comes to ticks, bad advice can do real harm, fast. Unfortunately, many outdated or potentially hazardous home remedies are still in circulation. Let’s debunk the most common myths and ensure you know the safe, vet-approved way to protect your dog.
Myth #1: You Should Burn The Tick Off
Truth: Never use a match, lighter, or any kind of heat to try to make a tick detach. Burning a tick can cause it to burrow deeper or regurgitate its contents into your dog, increasing the risk of disease.
Safe method: Use a tick removal tool and pull it out steadily.
Myth #2: Smothering The Tick With Vaseline Or Oil Works
Truth: Coating the tick in petroleum jelly, nail polish, or essential oils doesn’t kill it quickly. It often causes the tick to panic and release more infectious material into your dog.
Safe method: Physical removal is always better than trying to “suffocate” a tick.
Myth #3: If You Remove The Body, The Head Will Naturally Fall Out
Truth: Leaving the tick’s mouthparts embedded can lead to infection, swelling, and abscesses.
Safe method: It’s best to try to remove the whole tick cleanly the first time. If part stays behind, call your vet for advice.
Myth #4: You Don’t Need To Worry About Ticks In The Winter
Truth: Adult ticks can survive and stay active even in colder months, especially in warmer climates or during mild winters.
Safe method: Year-round prevention is key, not just during spring and summer.
Myth #5: Indoor Dogs Aren’t At Risk
Truth: Even dogs who rarely leave the house can pick up ticks from people, other pets, or short trips outside. Ticks can hitch a ride on your clothes, shoes, or gear and find their way onto your dog.
Safe method: Every dog should be checked and protected, no matter their lifestyle.
Bottom line: When it comes to tick removal and prevention, stick with proven, vet-approved methods. Your dog’s life could depend on it.
Final Thoughts About Ticks From A Veterinarian
Ticks are blood-sucking parasites that attach to animals to feed. If your dog has one, ensure you remove it carefully and promptly to minimize the risk of bacteria spreading to your pet. All dogs need tick preventatives. But if you walk in an area with high tick levels, it’s especially important to use preventative anti-tick treatments for your dog. Speak to your veterinarian if your dog shows any signs of ill health following a tick bite.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ticks On Dogs
Do you have questions about ticks and your dog? You’re not alone. Here are answers to the most common concerns pet owners have. If you don’t see yours, ask us in the comments, and we’ll find the answer for you.
How To Get Rid Of A Tick On A Dog?
It is best to use a proper tick removal tool to safely remove a tick from your pet. Carefully keep the tick for identification purposes, and wash your hands afterward. Never attempt to suffocate or burn ticks, as this can cause them to release infectious diseases into your pet.
Where Do Ticks Hide On Dogs?
Ticks tend to attach to the areas of the body that brush against foliage. This includes your dog’s tummy, ears, face, legs, and paws. Ticks can hide in between toes, skin folds, and the creases between your dog’s legs and their body, so make sure you check your pet thoroughly.
Can A Dog Get Sick From A Tick That Was Attached Only A Few Hours?
It’s possible but less likely. Many tick-borne diseases require ticks to be attached for 12 to 48 hours to transmit bacteria. Prompt removal is critical. The sooner you remove the tick, the safer your dog will be.
How Soon After A Tick Bite Do Symptoms Appear In Dogs?
Symptoms can start anywhere from a few days to several weeks after a tick bite. That’s why it’s essential to monitor your dog closely for signs like limping, fever, or lethargy even long after you’ve removed the tick.
Does Apple Cider Vinegar Kill Ticks On Dogs?
Apple cider vinegar is not recommended for use on ticks. While they might find it unpleasant, you also risk distressing the tick, causing it to release more bacteria or protozoan parasites into your dog. Stick to using a tick hook and veterinary-recommended preventative tick treatments instead.
Should I Save The Tick After Removing It?
Yes! Place the tick in a sealed plastic bag or small container with rubbing alcohol. Label it with the date.
This helps your veterinarian identify the tick species, which can guide testing or treatment if your dog shows symptoms later.
What Do You Do If Your Dog Has Lyme Disease?
If your dog is exhibiting symptoms of Lyme disease, such as lameness, fever, and swollen lymph nodes, you should consult your veterinarian. They examine your dog and run some tests to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment typically involves antibiotics and pain relief, along with hospitalization in some instances.
Do I Still Need Tick Prevention If I Use The Lyme Vaccine?
Yes. The Lyme vaccine only protects against one disease (Lyme disease), not all the other dangerous infections ticks can carry. Ticks can carry many other serious diseases besides Lyme disease, including ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis, which the vaccine does not protect against. Even if your dog gets the Lyme vaccine, they still need monthly tick prevention medications.
Protecting Your Dog Beyond Tick Prevention
Keeping your dog safe from ticks is just one part of ensuring a long, healthy, and happy life. Regular worming is also essential. Internal parasites can cause serious health problems if left unchecked, so staying on a consistent schedule is crucial. Annual veterinary check-ups are one of the most effective ways to detect issues early, update essential vaccinations, and maintain your dog’s optimal health. Feeding your dog a balanced, high-quality diet supports their immune system, energy levels, and overall well-being every single day.
Have you ever found a tick on your dog? We’d love to hear about your pup’s stories and tick recovery journey. So, please share your experience (and any tips you have!) in the comments below!
Why Trust Canine Journal
Rebecca MacMillan VetMed MRCVS is a companion animal veterinarian and surgeon with a passion for client education. Since graduating from England’s Royal Veterinary College in 2009, she has worked in small animal practice in both clinical and leadership roles. Based in the Southwest of England, Rebecca regularly manages a range of cases, including seasonal concerns like tick bites. She has a strong interest in medicine and enjoys helping pet owners feel confident in caring for their animals. Outside of work, she spends time with her family and her lively flat-coated retriever, George.
