As a dog owner, I know how much of a concern ticks can be, especially for pet parents living in Australia where the warmer months make it easier for these parasites to thrive. The presence of different types of Australian ticks, including the paralysis tick, can lead to serious effects and even fatal outcomes if left overlooked. I once had to find a tick on my own dog, and it was a reminder that knowing how to identify and detect them is a necessary skill for anyone who wants to protect their pets. These tiny pests can carry and infect dogs and cats with diseases, and without the right attention, things can quickly get worse.
The bite of a tick is not always easy to notice, but when a dog gets one, the symptoms may include weakness, loss of appetite, or even signs of paralysis. In high-risk areas of the world, especially in certain regions of Australia, knowing how to identify ticks and using safe methods to prevent them is key. Even with fleas, heartworm prevention, and other treatments, ticks can still slip past if not given enough care. By staying ready and open to learn, pet parents can keep their animals from falling ill. If you’re reading this, it shows you’re already paying the right kind of attention to keep your pets spared from the deadly side of tick problems.
What Are Ticks?
When I first learned that ticks are an arachnid, much like spiders, it helped me understand why they have eight legs and why spotting them on my dog’s coat can be so tricky. These small, blood-sucking pests feed on the blood of mammal hosts, including dogs and even humans, and they can be found in different species such as the paralysis tick, bush tick, and brown dog tick. Some are hard bodied and appear reddish-brown or even black, and once they eat, they grow bigger, often changing color after feeding. From my own experience, the size of an attached tick can range from the tip of a pin to nearly a pencil eraser, which shows how fast they can swell.
Ticks usually live outdoors, hiding in grass, trees, shrubs, debris, and even leaf piles in common regions where pets roam. They don’t just cause irritating skin allergies or damage from constant scratching, but also bring the risk of diseases that can be transmitted to both pets and people. The first time I found one on my dog, I was surprised how well it clung on while feeding. These pests are a reminder that knowing how and where they live makes it easier to protect our pets before the problem becomes worse.
Symptoms of Ticks on Dogs
The symptoms of a tick bite on dogs can vary depending on the type and size of the tick and the level of infestation. I’ve seen cases where the site of the bite looks like a tiny crater or wound, often with the tick still attached near the head or neck. The skin around the area can become swollen, red, and cause strong itchiness, making the dog scratch or lick nonstop. In more heavy cases, you might notice pale gums, which point to anaemia from blood loss.
The most worrying cases are when paralysis ticks release neurotoxins that cause a sudden change in a dog’s voice, leading to a bark that sounds hoarse or even harsh. I once treated a dog that showed weakness in the hind legs, along with vomiting, regurgitation, and dilated pupils. These toxins can also trigger difficulty swallowing and even breathing. If your dog has been bitten, be concerned and contact a vet immediately. In some cases, rushing to an emergency clinic is the only safe choice to save their life.
1. Scratching and Licking
One of the most common symptoms of ticks on dogs is constant scratching or licking a place where the parasite has burrowed into the skin. In my experience, this restless behavior often appears in the earliest stages of an infestation, as the movement and feeding of the tick irritate the surrounding tissues, making the spot feel sore and itchy. I’ve seen dogs shake their head, chew their feet or legs, and even pull at their coat during grooming, all signs pointing to the likely presence of a tick. The best way to verify is to carefully check the area that’s being over-attended, because if a dog keeps showing this unusual routine, a tick may indeed be present.
2. Hard Bump on the Skin
A tick will gorge on blood until it grows bigger, and many owners first notice a strange bump under the hair that feels hard or looks swollen. Sometimes the skin around the abdomen or head shows tiny bumps, and the parasite may appear like a bluish-black ball that has burrowed in. When such ticks need to be removed, it’s important to avoid pulling roughly, as it can hurt your pet and risk the tick breaking in half, leaving parts inside the wound.
3. Lack of Appetite and Worry
When dogs are dealing with ticks, they may feel off balance in their daily rhythm, showing a slower pace or making a fuss over eating. I’ve noticed these subtle behaviors can raise real concern for any pet parent, as loss of appetite is often one of the early signs of something more serious. A dog may look uncomfortable, avoid resting, or appear in quiet distress, which should never be ignored. These symptoms can vary with the type of tick, from the brown dog tick causing irritation and skin issues to anaemia, to the dangerous paralysis tick releasing toxins that disturb coordination, leaving the hind legs weak or wobbly.
In my experience, when ticks are not removed promptly or treated with proper medications, the situation can worsen, and dogs may suffer paralysis, a change in voice or bark, vomiting, retching, coughing, even laboured breathing or rapid breathing. Sometimes they appear lethargic, and these are all warnings that demand immediate veterinary attention. If such symptoms are present, it is crucial that the pet is examined quickly so they can recover and feel better.
Serious Diseases That are Borne by Ticks
Ticks can spread serious diseases to both dogs and humans, and names like Lyme Disease, Bartonellosis, Anaplasmosis, and Ehrlichiosis are often conveyed by vets as a real risk. I’ve seen how different kinds of infections depend on the area or location, and some can leave a lasting impact on a pet’s health, even causing long term issues if untreated. During an infestation, exposure is higher in tall grass, brushy paths, or at a busy dog park, especially during peak times when ticks are most active. To lower the risk, I always remind owners that keeping pets groomed and yards maintained is part of avoiding danger, because every tick has the potential to convey something harmful to their overall well-being.
The Types of Ticks on Dogs
Every tick is different, and knowing the species that can infest dogs makes it easier to protect them. In Australia, some of the most dangerous include paralysis ticks, brown dog ticks, and bush ticks, each spread across different regions. On the east coast from Cape York down to Lakes Entrance in Victoria, the paralysis tick is feared for its deadly toxin that causes paralysis in both dogs and cats. Around Melbourne and other areas, brown dog ticks and bush ticks are more widely distributed, leading to problems like skin irritation, heavy infestations, anaemia, and even blood loss. These parasites don’t just harm pets by their bite but also transmit fatal infections.
I remember when the bacteria Ehrlichia canis was first identified in Australia in 2020, bringing a new disease threat spread by tick infestations. In some bush areas of the west coast, cases of babesiosis have also been reported, proving how dangerous a tick bite can be if not managed quickly. The safest approach is to remove ticks as soon as possible, because they can transmit illness faster than many owners realize, and their effects can be lasting if ignored
How do Dogs Get Ticks?
Ticks usually find dogs when they are outdoors, and I’ve often seen them quest by lifting their front legs while crawling on grass or shrubs as they wait for a host. These parasites are highly sensitive to heat and the carbon dioxide a dog exhales, which alerts them that a suitable pooch is nearby. During a simple walk or while playing outside, they can quickly grab onto the coat or fur, then attach themselves firmly to the skin and begin to feed.
Keep Your Dog Safe from Ticks
Ticks are among the most frustrating pests for dogs, and from my own experience it’s best to treat and avoid the presence of these parasites in areas where pets are prone to picking them up in large numbers, especially during peak season in certain regions. These tiny hosts can convey serious diseases, and once symptoms of an infestation appear, keeping a pet healthy and tick-free all year long becomes harder. That’s why I always share this information with owners and remind them to contact vets quickly, since ongoing health checks and advice from veterinarians about prevention options are important to ensure pets stay protected. Scheduling an appointment not only helps in treating current issues but also prevents future risks.
The Problems Ticks Cause in Dogs
Different types of ticks can affect dogs, and while some species only cause irritation when one attaches and leaves a bite, others are more deadly. I’ve seen how a paralysis tick can transmit highly harmful or even fatal diseases, turning a simple outdoor walk into a serious health risk for pets.
Can Humans Catch Ticks From Dogs?
From my own walks with my pets, I’ve learned that ticks don’t usually jump from dogs to humans just by simple contact, but there is still a chance of being bitten if you’re walking through tall grass or thick vegetation where they hide. While it’s uncommon for people to directly catch them from their pets, the risk is real because these tiny pests can crawl onto skin and their bites may trigger serious problems. In some cases, they may even cause paralysis or the development of rare conditions such as mammalian meat allergy, which I once read about when researching unusual tick reactions. Young children are more easily affected, making regular checks after outdoor play important, especially when pets return from areas where ticks thrive.
How to Find Ticks on Dogs
From my own experience, it is important to know how and where to check a dog for ticks, since they can be difficult to find without careful learning. Being extremely thorough every time is required, as I’ve often found them around the head, neck, or even hidden near the mouth and ears. I usually start by gently using my fingertips to move through the coat at the level of the skin, carefully feeling for tiny bumps. It helps to continue the search across the front legs, paws, and even in between and underneath the toes, since these spots are easy to miss. Don’t forget the chest, belly, back, and tail, as ticks often hide there too. A good demonstration or step-by-step video can make this process much easier and more known to new owners who want to keep their dogs safe.
What to Do if a Tick is Found
It is important to stay calm when you find a tick on your dog, even though the first instinct may be to panic, because adverse health effects can be caused by ticks if they are not handled properly. From my own searching experience with pets, I know it’s understandable to feel uneasy, but the key is to act quickly and remove the parasite as soon as possible to keep your dog comfortable and safe. When you know what steps to take, the process becomes less stressful, and you can prevent further problems before they grow serious.
How to Remove a Tick From a Dog
Many owners end up wondering what to do when they find a tick on their dog, and I’ve faced this myself during summer walks. The first thing you should know is that the best way to handle it is to remove the tick as soon as possible, because leaving it longer may harm your pet. As I’ve often mentioned to friends, ordinary methods are risky, so it’s always safer to use tweezers or specially-designed tick removal tools that hold firmly at the head. Once the tick is gently pulled out, the area must be cleaned, and you should make sure it is completely removed to prevent further issues. Knowing the exactly right method will help you act with confidence and protect your dog’s health.
Please see the instructions below for how to get a tick off your dog.
When you remove a tick, it’s important to use tweezers or specially-designed tick removal tools that can safely grab the parasite adjacent to your dog’s skin, right where the mouthparts are attached. Never twist or pluck the tick away without care, and avoid applying pressure that might squeeze the body, as this can push harmful bacteria into your dog. After removal, the tick should be stored in a sealed container for proper identification in case your veterinarian needs it later. Since it’s possible for dogs to develop signs or symptoms such as paralysis, always keep a close eye for a few days, and if you notice any concerns with their health, you should seek immediate veterinary attention as recommended.
How to Remove a Tick from a Dog with Vaseline
Using Vaseline to kill ticks on dogs is not recommended. It is important to remove ticks as soon as possible with tweezers or a specially-designed tick removal tool.
How to Remove a Tick from a Dog with Alcohol
Similar to the use of Vaseline, the use of alcohol to kill ticks on dogs is not recommended. It is important to remove ticks as soon as possible with tweezers or a specially-designed tick removal tool. Ticks can be placed in alcohol after removal to kill them.
How to Remove an Engorged Tick from a Dog
I once found a tick on my dog that had already become engorged after it had fed on blood, and its swollen body looked much larger than the usual tiny sizes I was used to checking for, which made me really concerned. From my experience, the best way to remove it is by using tweezers or a specially-designed tick removal tool that lets you grab the pest as close and adjacent to your dog’s skin as possible, right near the mouthparts. I always remind myself not to twist or pluck away too quickly, and with great care I avoid any move that might squeeze the body, because that can make the process worse and even harmful. When you take your time, the method feels similar each time, but following it properly makes sure your pet stays safe.
How to Prevent Ticks on Dogs
Ticks are potentially life-threatening parasites because they can cause serious diseases in dogs, including paralysis, if left untreated. One of the first steps I learn is to avoid areas where ticks are known to live outdoors, like tall bush or brown grass, and to completely limit contact when possible. Protecting your pet also means checking them daily, using proven treatment options such as NexGard or NexGard SPECTRA, which are monthly chew products that provide effective control and protection within hours and last a full month. These medications help prevent paralysis and other pre-existing conditions caused by ticks like brown or bush ticks.
It’s also important to perform daily searches when visiting known tick areas, searching for craters, scabby, circular skin lesions, or any marks where ticks may have previously attached. Taking the time to inspect your dog’s skin, along with using recommended products, control ticks, and prevent your pet from being exposed to dangerous ticks that cause paralysis, is the safest way to keep them healthy.
How to Prevent Ticks on Dogs Naturally
While NexGard and NexGard SPECTRA are proven, effective products for tick control in dogs, it’s also important to understand the lack of strong evidence supporting the safety and effectiveness of many natural remedies. If you are considering natural options to protect your pet from this parasite, it’s always best to speak with your vet to ensure the method is appropriate and safe. Asking questions about alternative approaches helps you make informed choices while keeping your dog protected.
Tick Paralysis Life Cycle
A diagnosis of paralysis in a dog is made when the pet develops typical symptoms after a tick has previously attached, often leaving a crater or lesion on the skin. It’s important to contact a vet as soon as possible if you notice signs of weakness or loss of coordination, because early detection can prevent potential severe outcomes. Many questions are commonly asked by owners, and a veterinarian can confirm the condition and provide answers about treatment and recovery for dogs affected by ticks.
What should I do if my dog has ticks?
- If you find ticks on your dog they should be removed as soon as possible and you should contact your veterinarian for advice.
How do puppies get ticks?
Puppies can pick up ticks just like older dogs, especially when they spend time outdoors. These tiny parasites crawl and carry out questing behaviour, waiting in grass or shrubs for a puppy or dog to pass by. While lying in brushes or playing on a walk, a tick may grab onto the front legs, crawl through the fur, and attach to the skin to feed. Being aware of this suitable environment and regularly checking your puppy helps prevent infestations.
Should I take my dog to the vet for a tick?
If you find a tick on your dog, it’s best to contact a veterinarian soon to get professional advice, especially if your pet has travelled or is living in a known tick region. The vet or clinic can consult on safe removal and check for signs of paralysis or other clinical issues that may develop after the tick is removed. It is recommended to observe your dog closely and seek expert help if any concerning signs are observed.
How do you remove a tick from a dog?
Use tweezers or a tick removal tool, like a tick hook, to remove the tick. Grab the tick adjacent to your pet’s skin (at the tick mouthparts), twist the tick, then pluck the tick away from the skin. Take care not to squeeze the tick’s body.
How big can ticks get on dogs?
- Before feeding, ticks are small and only a few millimeters in size. After attaching and feeding on a dog’s blood, fully engorged ticks can grow to more than 1 cm in size.
How can you tell if a tick head is still in the dog?
After tick removal, sometimes the mouthparts may be left in the skin, appearing as a small dark spot. It is advisable not to attempt to dig them out yourself, but instead speak with your vet or bring your dog to a clinic to be properly checked-over. Always ask the veterinarian for guidance to ensure the area heals safely and no infection develops.
How do I pull a tick from a dog?
- Use tweezers or a tick removal tool, like a tick hook, to remove the tick. Grab the tick adjacent to your pet’s skin (at the tick mouthparts), twist the tick, then pluck the tick away from the skin. Take care not to squeeze the tick’s body.
What do I do with my dog’s skin after removal?
After tick removal, it’s important to monitor the skin so it can properly heal. If your dog shows any signs that may develop into paralysis or other issues, immediately contact a veterinarian for professional advice. This is especially important if your pet has been in a known region where ticks live, even after the tick is removed.
How do you find ticks on black dogs?
When you check your dog for ticks, it’s recommended to use your fingers to feel the coat and skin carefully, paying attention to hidden or hard-to-reach areas like the collar, chin, between toes, paws, gum-line, lips, eyes, inside ears, belly, back, legs, genital region, and tail. Keeping the coat shorter in spring can help find ticks more easily, and always watch for any unusual colour or spot on the body.
How do you know if a dog has a tick?
Watch for signs that your dog may have a tick on the skin, such as a small, red bump or scab, inflamed areas, and excessive scratching or licking a specific area. You may also notice lethargy, pale gums, fever, or loss of appetite, especially if a disease was transmitted or there has been significant blood loss. Regular grooming and physical checks, particularly around the head, neck, ears, and between toes, are crucial for early detection.
What are three symptoms of a tick bite?
Symptoms of tick bites
- swelling.
- itchiness.
- blistering.
- bruising.
How does a dog act when he has a tick?
Many dogs will begin scratching at the place that the tick has burrowed into their skin. This is because of the tick’s movement and feeding can irritate the tissues around it.
How to remove ticks from a dog at home?
If a tick is found on your dog, you can safely remove it at home using fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upwards with a steady motion, avoiding twisting or jerking. Once removed, clean the bite area with antiseptic and wash your hands thoroughly.
When to worry about a tick bite?
After a tick bite, it’s important to monitor the site for redness, swelling, pain, or pus. If your dog or you develop flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, or muscle aches, medical attention is needed. Rashes, especially a bull’s-eye pattern, or other signs of tick-borne illness like joint pain or facial paralysis, should prompt a visit to a doctor immediately to remove the tick and prevent further complications.