What Does an Embedded Tick Look Like on a Dog?

Discovering an embedded tick on a dog can be unsettling, especially if you’re unsure what to look for. These tiny parasites latch onto a dog’s skin and feed on their blood, potentially transmitting diseases. Unlike ticks that crawl on the fur, embedded ticks bury their mouthparts beneath the skin, making them more difficult to spot. At Lincolnway Veterinary Clinic, our team can help you understand what an embedded tick looks like on a dog and can help you identify and address the issue quickly. If you’re concerned that your dog has an embedded tick, call us at (574) 256-1871 to schedule an appointment with our experienced team.

How to Identify an Embedded Tick on a Dog

An embedded tick on a dog is often mistaken for a small bump, skin tag, or scab. Since ticks attach themselves firmly, they can remain in place for hours or even days. Here are some signs that indicate a tick has embedded itself into your dog’s skin:

• A small, dark lump – Embedded ticks are typically gray, brown, or reddish and can range from the size of a pinhead to a small grape, depending on how long they have been feeding.
• A hard or rubbery texture – Unlike a skin tag, an embedded tick will feel firm or slightly squishy when touched.
• Visible legs or a bloated body – In some cases, a tick’s body may still be visible above the skin, with tiny legs protruding from the sides.
• Irritated or swollen skin – The area around the tick may appear red, inflamed, or swollen due to the irritation caused by the bite.
• Scabbing or crusting – Some embedded ticks cause the surrounding skin to develop a scab or crust, making them harder to differentiate from minor skin injuries.

Since ticks can carry diseases like Lyme disease and ehrlichiosis, recognizing them early is essential. If you suspect your dog has an embedded tick, contact Lincolnway Veterinary Clinic at (574) 256-1871 to schedule an exam.

Common Places to Find an Embedded Tick on a Dog

Ticks prefer certain areas of a dog’s body where the skin is thinner and harder to reach. These locations offer an ideal environment for ticks to attach and feed undisturbed. When checking your dog, pay close attention to these areas:

• Head and ears – Ticks are commonly found around the ears, under the chin, and near the eyes. The warm, dark environment makes these spots attractive to parasites.
• Neck and shoulders – Since dogs often explore areas with tall grass or bushes, ticks frequently attach around the neck and shoulders.
• Armpits and groin – These hidden spots provide protection, making it easy for ticks to remain unnoticed.
• Between the toes – Ticks often burrow between a dog’s toes or near the paw pads, especially after a walk in grassy or wooded areas.
• Base of the tail – This is another location where ticks latch on, particularly if a dog frequently sits or lies in grassy areas.

Regularly checking your dog’s coat and skin can help you detect embedded ticks before they have a chance to feed for an extended period.

How Long Does It Take for a Tick to Embed?

Ticks can attach to a dog within minutes of contact, but the embedding process takes longer. After latching onto the skin, a tick inserts its mouthparts into the tissue and begins to feed. Here’s what happens over time:

• 0-2 hours – A tick crawls onto the fur, looking for a suitable attachment point.
• 2-10 hours – Once the tick finds a location, it inserts its mouthparts and starts to feed.
• 10-24 hours – The tick becomes securely embedded, making removal more difficult.
• 24-48 hours – By this point, the tick may appear engorged, as it has been feeding on the dog’s blood.

Since embedded ticks can transmit diseases within 24 to 48 hours, early detection is important. If you find a tick on your dog, contact Lincolnway Veterinary Clinic at (574) 256-1871 for professional guidance.

Signs of Infection or Tick-Borne Diseases

Even after a tick is removed, the bite site may remain irritated. While mild redness is common, certain symptoms indicate a more serious problem:

• Swelling and pus
• Excessive scratching or licking
• Lethargy or fever
• Loss of appetite
• Joint pain or stiffness

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment at Lincolnway Veterinary Clinic by calling (574) 256-1871. Prompt veterinary care can help address potential infections or tick-borne illnesses.