What does a tick bite look like on a dog's head? - briefly
A tick attachment on a canine’s scalp appears as a small, dark, raised spot with a tiny central puncture and often a surrounding reddened ring. If the parasite remains attached, the body may be visible as a firm, engorged lump beneath the skin.
What does a tick bite look like on a dog's head? - in detail
A tick attached to a dog’s head typically appears as a small, dome‑shaped lump that may be difficult to see beneath the fur. In the first 24–48 hours the parasite is pale, flat, and only a few millimetres in diameter. The surrounding skin often shows a faint, localized redness that may be mistaken for a minor abrasion.
As the tick feeds, its body expands dramatically. Within a few days it becomes a noticeably larger, rounded mass, often dark brown to black, resembling a tiny grape or a swollen bead. The engorged tick may be partially visible through the hair, especially on the ears, muzzle, or around the eyes. The skin directly under the attachment point frequently exhibits a small puncture wound surrounded by a raised, firm area. This area can be mildly swollen and may feel warm to the touch.
Common visual cues include:
- A raised, circular bump that matches the size of the feeding tick.
- Color change from light tan to deep brown or black as the tick fills with blood.
- A central puncture or fissure at the apex of the bump.
- Localized erythema that may spread outward if irritation or infection develops.
- Hair loss or thinning directly over the bite site, often resulting from the tick’s mouthparts or subsequent scratching.
- Crusting or scab formation if the bite has been irritated for several days.
In some cases, the skin around the bite may develop a small ulcer or necrotic spot, especially if the tick has transmitted pathogens. The ulcer appears as a shallow crater with a darkened base, sometimes surrounded by a halo of redness. Secondary bacterial infection can produce pus, increased swelling, and a foul odor.
Observing these characteristics promptly enables early removal of the tick and reduces the risk of disease transmission. If any of the described signs progress rapidly—such as expanding swelling, persistent heat, or discharge—veterinary evaluation is advisable.