What should I check if my dog keeps getting ticks in summer? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If your dog keeps getting ticks in summer, the main things to check are where they're walking, how often they're in long grass or woodland, and whether you're checking their coat thoroughly after outings. It can also help to look at grooming, coat type and any nearby areas where ticks may be more common.
There are usually several possible reasons, and it doesn't always mean anything is seriously wrong. The aim is to work out the pattern so you can manage it more effectively.
Things To Check
1. Check whether ticks are appearing after walks in the same places, especially long grass, hedgerows, woodland edges or overgrown verges.
2. Look closely at where the ticks are attaching, such as around the ears, neck, under the collar, between the toes, under the legs and around the tail base.
3. Check whether your dog's coat is thick, long or very dense, as ticks can be easier to miss in heavier coats.
4. Look at your post-walk routine and see whether your dog is being checked straight away, or only later when ticks may have had more time to attach.
5. Check whether collars, harnesses or grooming habits might be making it harder to spot ticks in certain areas.
6. Look for any redness, swelling, scabs, soreness or a skin reaction around previous tick attachment sites.
7. Check whether other pets in the home are also picking up ticks, which may point to a shared environment rather than one dog's behaviour alone.
Common Causes
The most common reason is simple exposure to tick-prone areas during summer, especially in long grass, woodland or countryside walks. Warm weather often means more outdoor activity, which can increase the chance of contact.
Ticks can also be easier to miss on dogs with thicker coats, or if checks aren't being done thoroughly after every outing. Some dogs just pick them up more often because of where they walk, how they explore, or how close they get to vegetation.
Less commonly, a home or garden with lots of overgrown areas can contribute, especially if your dog spends time resting in shaded, sheltered spots outdoors.
What To Do
Build a simple routine of checking your dog after every summer walk, especially if they've been in grass, hedges or woodland. Pay extra attention to hidden areas where ticks can be missed easily.
Keep grass trimmed where possible and reduce access to heavily overgrown areas if that's practical for your space. If your dog has a long or dense coat, regular grooming can make it easier to spot anything unusual early.
It can also help to keep a note of when and where ticks are found. That makes it easier to spot patterns and choose walks more carefully next time.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet if the bite site becomes very red, swollen or painful, if your dog seems unwell, or if you can't remove a tick safely. You should also seek advice if your dog develops lethargy, lameness, fever or a reduced appetite after a tick bite.
Products That May Help
For dogs that seem to pick up ticks more often in summer, an insect-focused routine can be useful as part of everyday management, alongside regular checks and good grooming.
Related Questions
How do I check my dog for ticks properly?
Where do ticks usually hide on dogs?
When should I remove a tick from my dog?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.