How to tell if a dog has a tick – what are the symptoms? - briefly
Examine the coat for tiny, oval, dark‑colored bumps firmly attached to the skin, especially around the ears, neck, or between the toes. Additional signs include localized redness, hair loss, lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, or joint swelling.
How to tell if a dog has a tick – what are the symptoms? - in detail
Ticks attach to a dog’s skin and feed for several days. Early detection prevents disease transmission and skin damage. Look for the following indicators:
- Small, rounded or oval bumps that may be red, brown, or black. A tick’s body is often visible as a distinct lump, while its legs may be hidden.
- A raised, firm area around the bite site, sometimes with a halo of redness that expands as the tick swells.
- Excessive scratching, licking, or chewing at a particular spot, especially on the head, ears, neck, armpits, groin, or between the toes.
- Sudden loss of appetite, lethargy, or fever without an obvious cause; these systemic signs can appear within 24–48 hours after attachment.
- Swollen lymph nodes near the attachment area, indicating an immune response.
- Unusual skin changes such as crusting, scabbing, or ulceration at the bite location.
Physical inspection should be part of routine grooming. Run a fine‑toothed comb or use a gloved hand to feel for irregularities on the coat. Pay special attention to folds, under the collar, and between the pads. If a tick is found, grasp it close to the skin with tweezers or a tick‑removal tool, pull straight upward with steady pressure, and avoid crushing the body. After removal, clean the site with antiseptic and monitor the dog for at least two weeks for any emerging signs of infection, such as joint swelling, vomiting, or changes in behavior. Prompt veterinary evaluation is warranted if any of these symptoms develop.