Where are ticks most likely to hide on my dog?

Ticks prefer warm, thin-skinned areas like around the head and face, inside and around the ears, the neck and collar line, armpits, groin, between toes, and under the tail. They head for spots where blood vessels are close to the surface and where your dog can't easily scratch them off.

How long does a tick need to be attached before it can transmit Lyme disease?

There isn't a universal rule about exactly when disease transmission risk kicks in, and some tick-borne infections can transmit more quickly than Lyme disease. That's why finding and removing ticks promptly makes a genuine difference—the longer a tick stays attached, the greater the risk.

What's the right way to remove a tick from my dog?

Use a tick removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, then either twist gently until it releases or pull upwards slowly with steady pressure. Don't squeeze the tick's body or jerk suddenly, as this could increase disease transmission risk.

Dogs on the Hills

How to Check Your Dog for Ticks After a Walk

Ticks are common in woodland, moorland and long grass, especially in warmer weather, and they crawl onto dogs rather than jumping. Check your dog's head, ears, armpits, groin and belly after every walk—some UK ticks carry Lyme disease, so prompt removal matters, and a vet visit is sensible if part of the tick remains or your dog becomes unwell.

21 September 20268 min read