Where to look for a tick on a Spitz? - briefly
Inspect the dog's ears, neck folds, armpits, groin, and between the hind legs, as ticks commonly attach in warm, hidden skin creases. Remove any found promptly with fine‑point tweezers, pulling straight out to avoid leaving mouthparts.
Where to look for a tick on a Spitz? - in detail
When examining a Spitz for ectoparasites, focus on the regions where skin folds or hair is dense, because these provide a protected environment for the parasite.
The ears are a primary site; the inner pinna, the canal entrance, and the area behind the ear must be part of the visual sweep. The armpits, also known as the axillary folds, often harbor ticks that attach to the thin skin. The groin and the area under the hind legs are similarly vulnerable, as the hair there is short and the skin is exposed when the animal moves.
The base of the tail, especially the ventral side, is another common attachment point. Inspect the tail’s root and the surrounding skin for any swelling or embedded bodies. The belly, particularly along the midline where the coat may be softer, should be palpated gently.
Between the toes, in the interdigital spaces, and around the paw pads, the warm, moist environment can attract ticks. Separate each toe and run a fingertip along the pad to detect any small protrusions.
The neck, especially the dorsal surface where a collar sits, can trap ticks that fall from the head or ears. Lift the collar and examine the skin directly beneath it.
If a tick is found, use fine‑point tweezers or a dedicated removal tool, grasp the parasite as close to the skin as possible, and pull upward with steady pressure. After removal, clean the bite site with antiseptic and monitor for signs of infection.
Regular grooming, weekly full‑body checks, and maintaining a clean environment reduce the likelihood of infestation and facilitate early detection.