Tick check after hiking with your dog
Introduction
Bush walks and coastal trails are great for dogs, but they can pick up ticks along the way. A quick check after each hike reduces risk and helps you find small ticks before they cause trouble. This guide was prepared with input from our lead vet, Dr. Feargus McConnell, BVSc.
Your post-hike tick check (5 minutes)
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Set up. Good light, a fine comb, and clean tissues.
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Head and neck. Feel around lips, eyes, ear flaps and edges, under the collar.
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Front to back. Part the coat and run fingers slowly along the skin over the chest, belly, flanks, and tail base.
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Hidden spots. Between toes, armpits, groin, under the tail. Use the comb on long coats.
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Second look. Repeat later that day and again the next morning. Some ticks are tiny at first.
If you find a tick
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Remove it promptly. Use a tick tool or fine-tipped tweezers. Grip close to the skin and lift straight out. Do not twist, squeeze, or put chemicals on it.
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Keep the tick. Pop it in a sealed container in case your vet wants to see it.
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Check for more. Search the rest of the coat carefully.
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Watch your dog. Over the next 24–48 hours, watch for wobbliness, gagging, change in bark, vomiting, or laboured breathing. These need a vet visit now.
Prevention between hikes
Daily checks help, but prevention is key. Choose a proven tick product matched to your dog’s weight and age, and give it on time. In risk areas and seasons, keep grass short and avoid thick scrub.
Products we trust
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NexGard Chewables for Dogs — monthly tick and flea control when used as directed.
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Bravecto Chew for Dogs — long-lasting tick and flea control per label.
Safety checks
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Dog products for dogs only. Never apply a dog product to a cat.
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Match the weight band and minimum age on the pack.
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Some dog spot-ons advise keeping cats away from recently treated dogs. Follow label advice.
FAQ
Do I need to check if I use prevention?
Yes. Checks and prevention together are best in risk areas.
How soon after a hike should I check?
Right away, then again later that day and next morning.
Can I rely on bathing to remove ticks?
No. Water does not reliably remove attached ticks.
Not sure which tick product fits your dog and routine?
Tell us your dog’s age, weight, and lifestyle and we will help you choose — contact us.
Protect your dog with a quick post-hike check and on-time prevention. It is a simple habit that pays off.
