Ticks can cause irritation and discomfort for dogs, particularly those that spend time outdoors. While New Zealand doesn't have the dangerous paralysis ticks found in Australia, it's still important to know how to protect your dog from these parasites.
To help keep your dog tick-free, it's important to understand what ticks are, where they're found, how to check for them and what to do if you find one.
What types of ticks can affect dogs?
Ticks are arachnids rather than insects, making them more closely related to spiders than fleas.
The most common tick affecting domestic animals in New Zealand is the cattle tick, also known as the bush tick. Unlike the paralysis ticks found in Australia, New Zealand cattle ticks don't cause tick paralysis. However, they can still cause skin irritation and discomfort.
New Zealand cattle tick (bush tick): Haemaphysalis longicornis
The New Zealand cattle tick, also known as the bush tick, is the main tick species affecting dogs in New Zealand.
These ticks are most commonly found in the North Island and parts of the South Island, particularly in grassy areas, farmland and bushland.
While they primarily feed on livestock, they can also attach to dogs and other animals. Ticks may appear reddish-brown when unfed and become larger and greyer as they feed on blood.
Although they don't cause tick paralysis, their bites can lead to localised skin irritation, swelling and discomfort. Heavy infestations may also cause blood loss and, in severe cases, anaemia.
What are the signs of ticks on dogs?
Some dogs may show very few signs of a tick bite, while others may experience:
- Redness or irritation around the bite site
- Scratching or excessive licking
- Small lumps or bumps on the skin
- Localised swelling or discomfort
- Lethargy or weakness in more severe infestations
You can also check your dog's coat by running your fingers through it carefully or using a fine-tooth comb. Pay close attention to hidden areas such as inside and around the ears, between the toes and around the face and rear.
If your dog appears unwell or you notice unusual symptoms, contact your vet for advice.
How do ticks affect dogs?
In New Zealand, tick bites generally cause localised irritation and discomfort rather than the severe neurological symptoms associated with Australian paralysis ticks.
Ticks attach themselves to your dog's skin and feed on their blood, which can cause redness, itching or swelling around the bite site.
While a single tick may cause little discomfort, larger infestations can lead to increased irritation and, in severe cases, blood loss or anaemia.
Signs that your dog may be affected include:
- Scratching or excessive licking
- Redness or swelling around the bite site
- Small lumps on the skin
- Lethargy
- Pale gums or weakness in severe cases
If your dog appears unwell and you suspect a tick may be responsible, contact your vet.
How to check your dog for ticks
Regular tick checks are particularly important if your dog spends time outdoors, especially in areas with long grass, bushland or dense vegetation.
Run your fingers slowly over your dog's entire body, feeling for small bumps or unusual areas.
Pay particular attention to:
- Around and inside the ears
- Around the eyes and face
- Under the collar
- Under the front legs
- Between the toes
- Around the groin and rear
- Along the tail
During periods of higher tick activity, consider checking your dog at least once daily and after walks through bushland or long grass.
How to remove a tick from a dog
If you find a tick on your dog, it should be removed promptly. If you're unsure how to remove it or your dog is showing any signs of illness, contact your vet for assistance.
What you need for tick removal
Before removing the tick, have the following ready:
- Gloves
- A tick-removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers
- A jar or sealed container for the removed tick
Keeping the tick may allow your vet to help identify it if your dog becomes unwell.
Removing the tick
If possible, have another person gently hold your dog still while you remove the tick.
Using an appropriate tick-removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers, grasp the tick as close to your dog's skin as possible and remove it carefully according to the directions of the tool being used. If using tweezers, pull steadily without twisting or jerking.
Avoid squeezing the tick's body or using oils, heat or other home remedies to try to detach it.
If you're unable to remove the tick completely, your dog becomes distressed or you have any concerns, contact your vet.
After tick removal
Place the tick in a sealed jar or container, then clean the area and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
Continue monitoring your dog for any signs of irritation, swelling or discomfort around the bite site.
If you notice increasing redness, swelling, lethargy, weakness or any other concerning symptoms, seek veterinary advice promptly.
If you're unsure what type of tick you've removed, keep it in a sealed container so your vet can help identify it.
When is tick season for dogs?
In New Zealand, ticks are generally more active during the warmer months, particularly in spring, summer and autumn.
They're most commonly found in warmer regions of the North Island and some areas of the South Island, where conditions are more suitable for their survival.
However, ticks can still be present outside these periods, so it's important to remain vigilant throughout the year.
If you live in or travel through a tick-prone area, regularly check your dog after spending time outdoors.
How to prevent ticks on dogs
Regular preventative treatment and physical tick checks are two of the most important ways to reduce your dog's risk.
Here are a few things you can do.
1. Be aware of your environment
Keep grass short and reduce leaf litter, plant debris and dense vegetation around your yard where possible.
When walking your dog, be particularly vigilant in bushland, long grass, farmland and other areas where ticks may be present.
2. Groom your dog regularly
Regular grooming can make it easier to spot ticks and other changes to your dog's skin or coat.
Dogs with thick or long coats may require particularly thorough checks after spending time outdoors.
3. Conduct routine tick checks
Check your dog after walks and outdoor adventures, especially if you live in or have visited a tick-prone area.
During periods of higher tick activity, daily checks can provide an additional layer of protection alongside preventative treatment.
4. Keep tick prevention up to date
Prevention is better than cure. One of the most effective ways to protect your dog is to maintain an appropriate parasite prevention routine that includes tick protection.
Not every flea or parasite treatment protects against ticks, so always check the product label to make sure it provides protection against ticks found in New Zealand.
Regular tick prevention treatments for dogs
Tick prevention for dogs comes in several forms, including chews, spot-on treatments and other parasite control products. Some products also provide protection against fleas and worms.
The right option will depend on factors such as your dog's age, weight, lifestyle, location and individual needs.
Speak to your vet or visit your local Petstock to chat with our team about which option may be suitable for your dog, and always follow the product label and dosing instructions.
While ticks in New Zealand don't pose the same risks as paralysis ticks in Australia, they can still cause irritation and discomfort for dogs. Regular preventative treatment, routine checks and knowing what to look for can help keep your dog protected.
Ready to help protect your dog? Explore Petstock’s range of tick prevention treatments for dogs and find an option that suits their needs.