How Do I Get Rid of Ticks on My Dog

Dogs are often the happiest that run and play outside; however, without the appropriate type of tick prevention, doing whatever they love the best would potentially expose them to injurious tick-borne diseases. Ticks are the common parasites lurking within the grassy, damp, wooded, or bushy areas, even across the sandy beaches. If the tick gets latched onto your dog, it will suck out their blood. 

Ticks are often active during the falls, spring, and summer; however, they can hardly survive in temperatures below freezing time. There are numerous tick species; however, they get killed with the same mode of treatment. If your furry companion comes home with a parasitic pest on the skin, then you should stay prepared with the right knowledge and tools. Therefore, the primary question among dog owners is, "How do I get rid of ticks on my dog?"

Understanding the Risk of Ticks for Small Dog Breeds

Ticks pose a notable health-related risk, mainly across small dog breeds like Miniature Dachshunds and Miniature Poodles. Their compact sizes make them more at risk of the impacts of tick infestation. Unlike larger dogs, who may handle the tick bites in a better way, a small dog suffers from serious consequences like tick-borne illnesses or anemia. Ticks tend to hide in tall grass, wooded areas, and across urban parks. After they latch onto the dog, they are touched to notice the fur, specifically with the small breeds. Staying proactive is important for the comfort and the health of your furry companion.

Step-By-Step Removal Process to Remove Ticks

So, how do I get rid of ticks on my dog? Once you encounter them, it is an emergency task. Let us check out the stepwise guide to assist you in safely and effectively removing ticks from small dog breeds.

Prepare Your Tools

Before handling tick removal, it is important to gather the required tools. The process involves the use of a pair of gloves, fine-tipped tweezers, a small container, and rubbing alcohol. The tweezers work best across breeds like Bichon Frise, where ticks are often hard to spot due to their small or toy sizes.

Locate the Tick

Part your dog's fur to spot the tick. Toy breeds often have dense coats that make it tough to locate ticks. Ensure thoroughness, mainly around the neck, paws, and ears, which are the areas where ticks normally hide. 

Remove the Tick

Use the fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick closer to the dog's skin without pinching it. Pull it upwards in an even or slow motion. Avoid jerking or twisting, as this causes the mouthparts to break off and stick to the skin, leading to potential infection. For dog breeds with sensitive skin, ensure that this process is performed gently, avoiding any type of discomfort.

Dispose of the Tick

Place the tick into a smaller container that is filled with rubbing alcohol, as it will help kill it. Avoid crushing the tick with your fingers since it carries harmful bacteria that potentially spread. Ensure cleaning of the impacted area on your dog with a mild antiseptic. 

Long-Term Tick Prevention Solutions for Small Breeds

Knowing "how do I get rid of ticks on my dog" is the key to avoiding the infestation. For small breeds like French Bulldogs or Yorkshire Terriers, prevention will often spare them from any health risks or unnecessary discomfort. The following are a couple of ways that can keep your dog free from ticks:

Also Read : French Bulldog Vs English Bulldog

Topical Treatments

Topical treatments are an effective way to prevent ticks. They are mainly applied monthly to the skin of dogs. They operate by killing or repelling ticks before they bite or latch onto your dog. For small dog breeds like Miniature Schnauzers and Havanese, ensure that you use a treatment that is well-suited for their weight to avoid negative reactions.

Tick Collars

Tick collars often release chemicals that repel ticks, generally lasting several months. They are highly convenient options, mainly for active dogs. The collars work when combined with other tick control methods since they cover the areas around the neck and head where the ticks will typically bite.

Oral Medications

The other preventative strategy to prevent ticks on your dogs is oral medications. They work by making the blood of your dogs toxic for the ticks that will die if they attempt to feed. The option is beneficial in small breeds like Cocker Spaniels as it operates internally and does not need frequent reapplication, such as topicals. Try consulting with your vet to determine the ideal oral medications for the dog's breed and size.

Regular Grooming and Checks

Regular grooming sessions enable you to spot the ticks earlier. Small dog breeds with lengthier coats, like Shih Tzus, need more attention in grooming as ticks hide in their fur. Regularly brush your dog's coat, mainly after outdoor activities, and make it a habit of checking its body for ticks, aiming towards the areas around the ears, under the legs, or near its tail.

Natural Remedies to Repel Ticks

Natural remedies prove effective for those seeking to avoid chemical treatments. These methods can help reduce the chances of ticks latching onto your dog without exposing it to the harsh elements.

Essential Oils

Essential oils like lavender and eucalyptus act as natural tick repellents. Dilute a couple of drops in water and spray the dog's coat to aid in preventing ticks. Breeds like Bichon Frises or Toy Poodles tend to have sensitive skin that benefits from the gentle alternative to chemical treatments. Ensure the safety of the oils for dogs and appropriately keep them diluted.

Apple Cider Vinegar

The addition of small amounts of cider vinegar to your dog's water bowl can help repel ticks. Vinegar often makes dogs' skin less appealing to ticks. Breeds like Miniature Dachshunds or Chihuahuas often benefit from this as part of a massive prevention strategy. Stay cautious of not overdoing it, as a lot of vinegar often upsets dogs' stomachs.

Final Thoughts

If you ever wonder, how do I get rid of ticks on my dog, knowing about the risks, the preventative methods, and the removal strategies is the key here. Small dog breeds like the Pomeranians, Maltese, or Chihuahuas need more attention or care due to their compact size and becoming prone to tick-related issues. Consistent checks, regular grooming and maintenance of a clean space travel a longer way to keep the dog safe out of the peskier parasites.