Ticks in dogs are more than a seasonal nuisance, and they can pose real health risks. In Australia, ticks become particularly active during warmer months and thrive in bushy, coastal, or humid environments. That means pet owners need to be extra vigilant with their dogs that love playing outside.

Knowing how to identify a dog tick on dog, recognise early symptoms, and act quickly is essential. In this guide, you will discover how to spot the signs and remove ticks safely.

Let’s dive in!

What Are Dog Ticks and Why Are They Dangerous?

A tick on dog is a small, blood-feeding parasite that attaches to the skin and feeds on the host's blood. These ticks can transmit bacteria and toxins that lead to serious tick reaction in dogs, such as tick paralysis, anemia, or bacterial infections.

There are several species in Australia, but three types are especially concerning:

• Paralysis Tick (Ixodes holocyclus): Known to cause life-threatening paralysis if untreated. Found primarily along the eastern coast.
• Brown Dog Tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus): Common around kennels and homes; may spread diseases.
• Bush Tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis): Found in bushy or rural areas; causes skin irritation and stress.

Where Ticks Love to Hide on Dogs

Ticks prefer warm, moist areas and tend to hide in places where they go unnoticed. Check these common hotspots:

• Behind the ears
• Under the collar
• Between the toes
• Around the tail base
• Under the armpits
• Inside skin folds or eyelids

Clear Signs Your Dog Might Have a Tick

Spotting a tick can be tricky, especially with long-haired breeds. Here are some common dog tick symptoms to look out for:

Excessive Scratching or Licking

If your dog cannot stop scratching one spot or is constantly licking a particular area, it may be reacting to a tick bite. Ticks irritate the skin, causing dogs to try to soothe the discomfort.

Redness or Swelling

A tick bite often leads to visible redness or a small lump on the skin. The longer the tick stays attached, the more inflamed the area can become.

Lethargy

If your usually energetic dog suddenly seems tired or disinterested in activities, it could be a sign of a tick-borne illness. Toxins released by some ticks may weaken the body and affect overall energy levels.

Loss of Appetite

Refusing food or treats might be more than picky behaviour. Tick-related infections or toxins can cause nausea and discomfort, reducing hunger.

Wobbly Walking or Vomiting

These are severe warning signs of tick paralysis, especially from the paralysis tick. Neurological symptoms like loss of coordination or vomiting should be treated as emergencies.

How to Check Your Dog for Ticks

Performing regular tick checks is one of the best ways to protect your dog from tick-borne diseases. Here’s how you can do it thoroughly and efficiently:

• Prepare the Right Environment

Choose a quiet, well-lit area where you and your dog are comfortable. This ensures that you can focus on the task without distractions. Keep some treats nearby to reward your dog for their patience during the check.

• Gently Examine Your Dog’s Body

Start by running your hands over your dog’s entire body. Focus on their belly, back, underarms, and tail area, where ticks are most likely to hide. Pay special attention to areas where ticks are harder to spot, like their legs and feet.

• Check Hidden Areas Carefully

Ticks like to hide in discreet places, so check these areas thoroughly:

• Between the toes: Ticks can often latch on here, especially if your dog has been running through tall grass.
• Inside the ears: Ticks tend to hide in the folds of the ears, so be sure to check them closely.
• Under the collar: This area is often overlooked, but ticks may latch onto the skin beneath your dog’s collar.
• Near the groin or armpits: These warm, moist areas are a favourite for ticks to attach.

• Use a Fine-toothed Comb for Extra Precision

A fine-toothed comb can help you get closer to your dog’s skin and remove any ticks hiding in the fur. This tool is invaluable for long-haired dogs, where ticks may be harder to feel by hand.

• For Long-Haired Dogs

If your dog has long hair, be sure to part the fur in sections to expose the skin underneath. Focus on areas where ticks are most likely to attach, like the neck, ears, and under the tail. Taking extra time to part the fur ensures you don’t miss any hidden ticks.

How to Remove a Tick from Your Dog Safely

Removing a tick safely is crucial to prevent infection or leaving the head embedded. Simply follow these steps:

Step 1: Prepare Yourself and Your Dog

Wear gloves to avoid direct contact with the tick and its saliva, which can carry pathogens. Calm your dog and make sure they are in a comfortable position. Use treats to help keep them still during the process.

Step 2: Use the Right Tools

Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool. These are specifically designed to grab the tick firmly without crushing it. Grasp the tick as close to your dog’s skin as possible to ensure you are removing the tick, including its head, which can cause infection if left behind.

Step 3: Remove the Tick Slowly and Steadily

Pull upward slowly and steadily. Avoid twisting, jerking, or squeezing the tick, as this can cause the tick’s mouthparts to break off and remain embedded in your dog’s skin, which may lead to an infection.

Step 4: Do Not Use Harmful Methods

Avoid using petroleum jelly, alcohol, or heat to remove the tick. These methods can stress the tick, causing it to release more toxins into your dog’s bloodstream, increasing the risk of tick-borne diseases.

Step 5: Clean the Bite Site

Disinfect the bite area with an antiseptic to reduce the chance of infection. After removing the tick, gently clean around the site.

Step 6: Dispose of the Tick Properly

Dispose of the tick by placing it in a sealed container or immersing it in rubbing alcohol. This will prevent it from harming other pets or humans. Never flush the tick down the toilet, as it could still pose a risk to the environment.

Step 7: Monitor Your Dog’s Health

Watch for signs of infection or changes in your dog’s behaviour. If the bite site becomes red, swollen, or your dog shows signs of illness, contact your vet immediately. Keep an eye out for tick-borne symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, or difficulty walking.

Step 8: Save the Tick for Testing (Optional)

Save the tick in a sealed container if your vet wants to identify the species or test it for potential diseases. This can help determine the appropriate course of treatment for your dog.

Final Thoughts

Ticks are a real threat to your dog’s health, but the good news is that they are manageable. Regular checks, early detection, and proper removal techniques can make a significant difference. 

Knowing how to identify and treat a dog tick on dog reduces the risk of disease and discomfort. Therefore, always stay informed, use preventive tools, and partner with your vet to ensure your furry companion's tick-free life.