Brown Dog Ticks

Brown Dog Ticks are common in southern regions of the United States, in northern areas it can establish in houses and kennels.

Pest Description:

• Color: Reddish-brown, blue-gray when engorged with blood
• Legs: Larvae have 6 legs, Adult have 8 legs
• Shape: Flattened, tear drop
• Size: 1/8" when not engorged, 1/2" when engorged
• Antennae: None
• Region: Southern United States
• Habits: These ticks feed almost exclusively on dogs but can become concerning to homeowners because it can often be seen crawling up walls and furnishings if the dog is infested.
• Habitat: Female Brown dog ticks will drop off the hose when engorged and seek a quiet place to deposit her mass of 1,000 to 3,00 eggs. Cracks and crevices, wall hangings and areas near the ceiling are preferred sites to leave her egg mass.
• Threats: Brown dog ticks seldom feeds on humans but are considered a potential vector of Rocky Mountain spotted fever.