Why does my dog have a hard swelling where a tick was attached?

Read time: 3 minutes

Overview

A hard swelling where a tick was attached is often a local skin reaction as the area heals, and it may also be a small scab, leftover irritation, or a bit of swelling around the bite site. In many cases it settles on its own over a few days to a couple of weeks, but there can be several possible causes, so it’s worth keeping an eye on it.

Things To Check

1. Check whether the lump is getting larger, smaller or staying the same over the next few days.

2. Look closely for redness, heat, broken skin, discharge, crusting or a bad smell.

3. Feel whether the area seems painful or makes your dog pull away when touched.

4. Check that the whole tick was removed and that there isn’t any tick material still left in the skin.

5. Note whether your dog is licking, scratching, rubbing or chewing at the spot.

6. Watch for any other signs such as tiredness, reduced appetite, limping or feverish behaviour.

7. Check if there are more ticks on your dog, especially after walks in long grass, woodland or grazing areas.

Common Causes

The most common reason is a mild local inflammatory reaction where the tick attached. The skin can feel firm while it heals, especially if the bite was irritated.

A small scab or healing nodule is also common after the tick is removed, particularly if the area has been scratched or disturbed.

Less commonly, a bit of tick mouthpart or other debris may be left behind and keep the area irritated for longer.

If the swelling becomes red, warm, painful or starts to ooze, a secondary skin infection could be developing and should be checked.

Very occasionally, a lump may be unrelated to the tick bite and just noticed at the same time, so anything that doesn’t settle deserves a proper look.

What To Do

Keep the area clean and dry, and try to stop your dog scratching or licking it if they’re interested in the spot.

Monitor the lump once or twice a day so you can tell if it’s improving, staying stable or getting worse.

If the skin is only mildly irritated, gentle handling is usually best. Avoid picking at it or trying to squeeze it.

It can also help to keep up with regular tick checks after walks, especially if your dog spends time in areas where ticks are common.

When To Contact A Vet

Speak to your vet if the swelling is getting bigger, becomes painful, hot or very red, starts to discharge, or doesn’t begin to settle within about one to two weeks. You should also get advice sooner if your dog seems unwell, develops a fever, goes off food, or you think part of the tick may still be left in the skin.

Products That May Help

Good grooming and gentle coat care can make it easier to check your dog’s skin after a tick has been removed and to keep the area clean as it settles.

Pet Care

Item added to your cart