Any pet parent who’s ever discovered a tick on their dog knows just how easy it is to miss these tiny hitchhikers. But what’s more surprising is that for every tick you do find, there could be more tucked away in places you haven’t thought to check. Ticks are expert hiders—and they know exactly where to go to avoid detection.

At 3Moms Organics, we’ve spent years helping pet owners better understand where ticks love to hide, and how a thoughtful daily routine using natural tick repellent can make a big difference. In this guide, we’ll walk through the top tick-prone areas on your dog’s body, plus simple grooming and yard care habits to help reduce exposure.

One Unexpected Risk: Birds

Before we dive into the hiding spots, here’s something most dog owners don’t realize: birds are one of the biggest carriers of ticks. Their ability to travel long distances means they can bring ticks into entirely new environments—like your backyard. Bird feeders may attract feathered visitors, but they also increase the likelihood of ticks entering your space. If ticks are already an issue for your household, removing feeders can help limit further exposure.

In fact, when ticks are found on pets, the chances of them being found on people in the same household rises dramatically. It’s a reminder that prevention starts at home—with daily checks, smart yard care, and reliable protection like a natural tick spray.

Where Ticks Tend to Hide on Dogs

Ticks don’t just latch on anywhere. They seek out warm, hidden areas with minimal light and limited disruption. Here are the top areas you should be checking every time your dog comes in from outside:

1. Between the Toes and Paw Pads
The tiny spaces between your dog’s toes are prime real estate for ticks. These crevices are protected, hard to see, and easy for ticks to latch onto without being noticed.

2. Inside and Around the Ears
Ticks are drawn to the folds and thin skin around a dog’s ears. Some even burrow into the ear canal. If your pup is scratching or shaking their head more than usual, this might be why.

3. Under the Collar and Around the Neck
Collars can trap heat and moisture—exactly what ticks like. Be sure to remove your dog’s collar regularly to inspect the area beneath.

4. Tail Base and Groin Area
These hidden, less-visible parts of your dog’s body are often missed during routine grooming. Yet they’re favorite spots for ticks due to the warmth and shelter.

5. Eyelids and Facial Wrinkles
Especially in breeds with folds (like Bulldogs or Pugs), ticks can hide in the skin creases or close to the eyes. Be gentle when checking but don’t skip these areas.

6. Genital and Rear Area
Ticks can find their way to spots we often hesitate to check. These areas offer privacy and protection, so it's important to look here too.

7. Armpits and Inner Thighs
Warm and tucked away, these zones offer ticks a place to hide that’s easy to overlook. Lift your dog’s legs to get a better view.

8. Gumline and Roof of the Mouth
It’s rare, but ticks can sometimes latch onto soft tissue in your dog’s mouth—especially after sniffing through tall grass or bushes.

9. Nostrils
Ticks can cling to fur or skin near the nasal opening. Check this area if your dog has been rooting around in brushy spots.

10. Belly and Hip Joints
For dogs who lie on the ground frequently, these areas are exposed to crawling pests. Older dogs may be especially vulnerable here.

How Breed and Coat Type Affect Tick Risk

Not all dogs are the same when it comes to tick exposure. Understanding your dog’s coat and body type can help you focus your checks:

• Wrinkled Breeds (e.g., Shar-Peis, Bulldogs): Deep folds hold heat and moisture—two things ticks love. Clean and inspect these areas regularly.

• Long-Haired Breeds (e.g., Huskies, Collies): Thick fur can hide ticks easily. Brushing often helps identify and remove unwanted guests.

• Short-Haired Dogs (e.g., Boxers, Dalmatians): Ticks may be easier to spot, but thin-skinned areas like the belly or underarms still need attention.

No matter your dog’s breed, pairing routine grooming with a quality natural tick repellent can help create an added layer of protection.

Ticks Vary by Size—and by Hiding Strategy

Smaller ticks (known as nymphs) are harder to see and often burrow into tighter spaces—like the corners of the eyes or between the toes. Larger adult ticks prefer broader access areas like the neck or base of the tail.

This is why a daily once-over after outdoor play is so important. Consistency keeps you ahead of the game—and makes it less likely that any ticks go unnoticed for long.

Full-Body Check Routine: Start to Finish

Here’s a simple routine you can use after every walk or outdoor play session:

1. Start at the head – Check ears, eyes, and face folds.

2. Move to the neck – Take off the collar and inspect underneath.

3. Work down the legs – Pay close attention to armpits and paws.

4. Check the belly, hips, and tail base – Use your fingers to feel for small bumps.

5. Finish with the rear and groin – Look quickly but thoroughly.

Following up with a quick spray of a natural tick spray or natural mosquito spray repellent can help discourage any lingering pests from sticking around.

Beyond the Dog: What You Can Do Around the House

Keeping your pet tick-free also means managing their environment. Here are a few ways to make your home and yard less welcoming to ticks:

• Remove bird feeders to reduce exposure to bird-borne ticks.

• Trim grass and shrubs so ticks have fewer places to wait and latch on.

• Wash collars, bedding, and toys regularly to keep lingering ticks or eggs from settling in.

• Use a pet-safe yard spray or apply natural mosquito repellent to outdoor areas.

And finally, make sure you're using a product you can trust. At 3Moms Organics, we’ve created plant-based options like TickWise, a carefully crafted natural tick spray designed for families who prefer safe, effective, and chemical-free solutions.

Keep It Simple. Keep It Natural.

Protecting your dog from ticks doesn't have to be complicated. With a consistent check routine, smart yard habits, and a go-to tick repellent, you can reduce the risk of unwanted surprises. For added peace of mind, reach for natural mosquito spray repellent or natural tick repellent products that fit your pet's lifestyle—and your values.

Ready to start? Explore our all-natural solutions at 3Moms Organics Tick Repellent Collection.