Why does my dog get ticks

Why does my dog get ticks?

Ticks live anywhere moist and shady with vegetation, like grasslands, woodlands, heathlands and parks. Ticks also live in urban parks, brought in by foxes, other dogs, birds and even deer. Ticks wait for a host to brush by them. They wait at the edge of a piece of vegetation, like leaves or grass, known as “questing”. They hold their legs outstretched, ready to climb on. They grab hold of the hair or fur and move through it to the skin.

Ticks need to feed on blood to live. In order to progress through their life stages they need a blood meal at each stage. They even have a numbing compound in their saliva so the host doesn’t notice they are being bitten. They will only detach once they have fully fed.

When are ticks active?

Ticks are most active from spring through to autumn when it’s warm and humid, and avoid extreme heat or cold. An evening walk after a period of rain is when they’re likely to be out! They’re increasingly becoming a year-round problem with warmer, wetter weather and milder winters.

Where does my dog pick up ticks?

There is a strong preference for the types of walks people give their dogs. Over 80% of UK dogs have access to woodlands, bushes and/or areas of high or uncut grass. These are considered the most rewarding walks for both dogs and owners, but this also means entering areas where ticks are common. Ticks are even common nowadays in urban parks, brought in by animals like deer.

On these walks there is likely to be a lot of interaction between the dog and its surrounding vegetation, much more so than if a dog was kept on a short lead in the centre of a path. Dogs love sniffing and stuffing their head and neck into vegetation (and reading pee-mails), and we love that they lead such positive lives with this type of enrichment, so we’ve got to think about prevention.

Are some breeds more likely to get ticks?

A study by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has found that curly coated dogs such as Cavapoos, Cockapoos, Goldendoodles and Cavachons are more likely to become infested with ticks. They suspect that the curly coats are just irresistible for ticks! This is closely followed by wire-haired breeds like the Miniature Schnauzer and Cairn Terrier. Dogs with long ears are also more likely to pick up ticks than those with upright ears.

How do I still let my dog have fun walks, but reduce their risk of picking up ticks?

It is essential to use a repellent or preventative if you live in a high-risk area and your dog is likely to pick up ticks. They aren’t just unpleasant, they can also carry diseases like Lyme Disease.

1. Regular Tick Checks: After outdoor activities, thoroughly check your dog for ticks, especially in areas like under the collar, between toes, and around the ears.

2. Tick Preventatives: There are various tick preventatives available, including both natural and pharmaceutical options. These include tick collars, spot-on treatments, oral medications, and natural repellents. The choice of product depends on the specific needs and risks for your dog, as well as the efficacy of each option. It's important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best preventive measure for your pet, considering your preferences and your dog’s lifestyle.

3. Innovative Protective Gear: Equip your dog with protective gear designed to repel ticks such as a Whippa Snappa harness, with embedded insect repellent. Our premium harnesses are hypoallergenic, safe for pets and the environment, fragrance free and fully machine washable with no need to reapply the repellent. Learn more here.