Top 5 Signs of Tick-Borne Diseases in Dogs (How to Spot and Prevent Them)

Introduction

Tick-borne diseases in dogs can be life-threatening if not detected early. Ticks transmit harmful pathogens that cause illnesses such as Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, Anaplasmosis, and Babesiosis. As a responsible pet owner, recognizing the early symptoms is crucial for timely treatment. In this article, we’ll discuss the top 5 signs of tick-borne diseases in dogs and how to protect your furry companion.

1. Lethargy and Weakness

One of the earliest signs of a tick-borne disease is a sudden loss of energy. If your normally active dog becomes lethargic, sleeps excessively, or shows reluctance to move, it could indicate an infection. Tick-borne pathogens attack red blood cells, leading to anemia and muscle weakness.

👉 What to do: If your dog is unusually tired, check for ticks and schedule a veterinary checkup.

2. Fever and Shivering

A high fever (above 103°F or 39.4°C) is a common response to infections like Ehrlichiosis and Babesiosis. Dogs may also experience chills, shivering, and warm ears. Fever indicates that the immune system is fighting off the tick-borne pathogens.

👉 What to do: Use a rectal thermometer to check your dog’s temperature and consult a veterinarian if fever persists.

3. Joint Pain and Lameness

Many tick-borne diseases, especially Lyme disease and Anaplasmosis, cause joint inflammation and stiffness. Dogs may develop limping that shifts between legs or show difficulty in getting up after resting.

👉 What to do: If your dog shows signs of joint pain, avoid excessive activity and consult your vet for blood tests to rule out tick infections.

4. Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss

Dogs suffering from Ehrlichiosis and Babesiosis may lose their appetite due to nausea and internal organ damage. Persistent weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea are red flags that should never be ignored.

👉 What to do: Encourage hydration and monitor food intake. If symptoms persist, blood tests are necessary to confirm a tick-borne disease.

5. Pale Gums and Nose Bleeds

Tick-borne diseases like Babesiosis and Ehrlichiosis destroy red blood cells, leading to anemia. Pale gums, nosebleeds, and blood in urine or stool indicate severe infection. Some dogs may also have swollen lymph nodes.

👉 What to do: Check your dog’s gums (they should be pink, not white or yellowish). Seek immediate veterinary care if you notice unusual bleeding.

How to Protect Your Dog from Tick-Borne Diseases

✔ Use tick preventatives (topical treatments, tick collars, or oral medications)
✔ Check your dog for ticks daily, especially after walks in grassy areas
✔ Remove ticks immediately using tweezers or a tick remover tool
✔ Keep your yard tick-free by trimming grass and using pet-safe pesticides
✔ Schedule regular veterinary checkups to detect infections early

Final Thoughts

Tick-borne diseases in dogs can be serious, but early detection and prevention are key. If your dog shows any of these 5 signs, consult a veterinarian immediately. Keeping up with tick control and routine health checks will help protect your pet from these dangerous infections.

Do you have any experiences with tick-borne diseases in your pet? Share your story in the comments!

Veterinary and research