How to Prevent Ticks on Dogs

How to Prevent Ticks on Dogs

If you’ve ever found a tick on your dog, you know how unsettling it can be. These tiny parasites aren’t just creepy—they can transmit serious diseases like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to protect your furry friend and keep ticks at bay.

Here’s everything you need to know about tick prevention for dogs, from daily habits to long-term protection.

Tick-borne diseases are on the rise.

Ticks latch onto your dog to feed on blood, but that’s not all they leave behind. Many ticks carry bacteria or parasites that can cause illness in both pets and humans. In fact, almost 50% of ticks in the northeast carry Lyme Disease. 

Preventing ticks isn’t just about avoiding pests—it’s about protecting your dog’s health.

1. Use a Vet-Recommended tick preventative

There are several types of tick preventatives, and the best choice depends on your dog’s lifestyle, health, and age. Common options include:

  • Topical treatments (applied to the back of the neck monthly)

  • Oral medications (chewables that protect against ticks and fleas)

  • Tick collars (provide long-lasting protection)

  • Shampoos or sprays (helpful for short-term or outdoor use)

Chat with your dog’s vet about your tick and pest concerns and they can recommend the right product for your pet. 

2. Spot check your dog’s fur as soon as they come inside

Ticks are most active in warm weather, especially in wooded or grassy areas. After a walk, hike, or romp in the yard, give your dog a thorough check, paying close attention to:

  • Ears and around the neck

  • Under legs and between toes

  • Around the tail and groin area

  • Under collars or harnesses

Use your fingers to feel for small bumps, and if you find a tick, carefully remove it with tweezers or a tick removal tool.

3. Mitigate your property for ticks

The truth of the matter is that ticks are unavoidable, but you can take some steps to help lower the amount of them on your property and prevent more from popping up. Here are some ideas.

  • Mow the lawn regularly

  • Trim bushes and clear tall grass

  • Remove leaf litter and brush piles

  • Create a barrier between wooded areas and your lawn with mulch or gravel

You can also consider yard-safe tick control products or consult a professional for eco-friendly pest control.

4. Be careful in wooded areas

During peak tick season (spring through early fall), try to avoid dense woods, tall grasses, and marshy areas. Stick to trails when hiking and don’t let your dog wander into overgrown vegetation, as those are likely the most infested areas. 

5. Keep Your Dog Well-Groomed

Regular grooming makes it easier to spot ticks and helps reduce the risk of infestations. If you have a long haired dog, you definitely know how easy it is for something as small as a tick from going unnoticed. Pickup a tick-comb from your local pet store and try to do a quick sweep of your dog’s fur every day.

6. Stay Informed About Local Tick Risks

Some areas have a higher prevalence of ticks and tick-borne illnesses. Your vet can provide guidance on regional risks and help you choose the right level of protection.

 

The Bottom Line: Prevention Is the Best Protection

Tick prevention takes a little effort, but it goes a long way toward keeping your dog happy, healthy, and parasite-free. By staying proactive with vet-approved treatments and daily checks, you can give your pup the safe outdoor time they love—with fewer creepy crawlies involved.

Back to The Shameless Digest