Fleas & Ticks in Summer: A Practical Guide for Every Dog Owner
Summer means longer walks, taller grass, warmer weather — and a big jump in flea and tick activity. The good news: with a few simple habits, you can massively reduce the risk and spot problems early.
Why fleas and ticks are worse in summer
Fleas thrive in warm, humid conditions and can multiply quickly in homes and gardens. Ticks become more active as temperatures rise, especially in long grass, woodland edges, heathland, and areas with lots of wildlife.
Even if your dog looks fine, a single tick can attach in minutes, and fleas can hitch a ride home and set up in soft furnishings before you notice.
Fleas vs ticks: what you’re dealing with
Fleas are tiny, fast, and usually cause itching, red skin, and sometimes flea dirt (black specks) in the coat.
Ticks are larger, attach to the skin, and may look like a small bump that grows over time as they feed.
Both can affect any dog — from city walkers to countryside adventurers.
Prevention: the simple routine that works
Think of prevention as a layered approach: vet-approved protection + smart habits + regular checks.
1) Use vet-approved parasite protection
There are several options (spot-ons, tablets/chews, collars). What’s “best” depends on your dog’s size, lifestyle, and local risk.
Ask your vet which product covers both fleas and ticks (some focus more on one than the other).
Stick to the schedule — missing doses is one of the most common reasons infestations happen.
If you have multiple pets, make sure everyone in the household is protected.
Important: Never use cat flea products on dogs (and vice versa). Some ingredients are dangerous to the wrong species.
2) Do quick checks after every walk
A 60-second check can prevent days of itching — and reduce the chance of ticks staying attached.
Focus on:
Around the ears and neck/collar area
Under the armpits
Between the toes
Around the groin and tail base
For long-coated dogs, run your hands slowly through the coat and feel for small lumps.
3) Keep your dog’s coat and kit clean
Brush regularly (especially after long grass or woodland walks).
Wash bedding more often in summer.
Don’t forget car boots, travel crates, and favourite blankets.
4) Tidy your garden
Fleas and ticks love sheltered, damp spots.
Keep grass trimmed.
Clear leaf piles and long vegetation.
Discourage wildlife access where possible.
How to spot fleas early
Common signs include:
Persistent scratching, nibbling, or chewing
Red or irritated skin
Hair loss or scabs (often near the tail base)
“Flea dirt” in the coat (black specks that turn reddish-brown when wet)
If you suspect fleas, act quickly. Fleas don’t just live on your dog — they live in your home environment too.
What to do if you find fleas
Treat your dog with a vet-recommended flea product.
Treat the environment: wash bedding on a hot cycle, vacuum thoroughly (including sofa seams), and empty the vacuum outside.
Repeat as advised: fleas have a life cycle, so one clean-up rarely solves it overnight.
If your dog has sore skin, hot spots, or seems very uncomfortable, speak to your vet — some dogs develop flea allergy dermatitis and need extra support.
How to spot a tick (and where they hide)
Ticks often attach in areas with thinner skin or where they’re harder to notice:
Ears (inside and behind)
Neck and chest
Under legs
Between toes
Around the eyes and muzzle
A tick may feel like a small pea-sized bump. Part the fur and look closely.
Safe tick removal (the right way)
If you’re confident, remove ticks promptly using a tick remover tool.
Keep your dog still and calm.
Slide the tool under the tick as close to the skin as possible.
Twist/pull according to the tool instructions until it releases.
Clean the area afterwards.
Avoid:
Squeezing the tick’s body
Burning it
Using petroleum jelly or oils
If you’re unsure, the tick is in a tricky spot, or the skin looks inflamed, ask your vet to remove it.
When to call the vet
Contact your vet if:
Your dog is lethargic, off food, or feverish after a tick bite
You see swelling, infection, or persistent irritation at the bite site
Flea treatment isn’t working after you’ve treated both dog and home
Your dog has repeated skin flare-ups or severe itching
Extra tips for high-risk dogs
Some dogs are simply more exposed in summer:
Dogs that run through long grass, bracken, or woodland
Dogs that swim (some products may be affected — check guidance)
Dogs that travel to different regions
For these dogs, consider:
More frequent checks
A dedicated tick tool in your walking kit
Asking your vet about protection that matches your dog’s lifestyle
A simple summer checklist
Vet-approved flea and tick protection is up to date
Quick post-walk coat check (especially ears, toes, and underarms)
Bedding washed regularly
Garden kept tidy
Tick remover tool in your kit
Final thought
Fleas and ticks are a nuisance — but they’re also manageable. A consistent routine and fast action make all the difference, so you can focus on what summer’s really for: good walks, good training, and happy dogs.
Disclaimer: This article is for general guidance and doesn’t replace veterinary advice. If you’re worried about your dogs health, contact your Vet.
