Different kinds of ticks can infest different breeds of dogs. No breed of dog is exempted from being infested with ticks, especially if the owner doesn't maintain their dog's regular and proper care and grooming. There are two types of ticks commonly found on dogs- the brown dog ticks and the American dog ticks. Adult male brown dog ticks are about 1/8 of an inch long, flat, brown in color and have divots throughout the shell. Female brown dog ticks, especially when feeding, are larger than males. Deer ticks and western black-legged ticks may as well infest dogs.

Ticks should be removed immediately upon notice of their presence. The best way to remove ticks is to use tweezers, pulling it by the head slowly and carefully. Never squeeze the tick’s body and make sure there is nothing left in your dog's skin. To protect yourself from these damaging little creatures and to prevent the spread of diseases, never use your bare hands and use latex gloves instead. Wash your dog's skin with anti-bacterial soap after tick has been removed and of course, yours too should be washed.

Other methods in treating ticks are through dusts, dips or sprays. Care must be taken when rubbing dusts into your dog's fur and skin to prevent chemicals from getting into his eyes, nose or mouth. Spraying and dipping should be used in heavy infestations.

Although tick infestation can be treated and is usually not life-threatening, prevention is always recommended. Ticks can often be acquired from wooded areas, tall grass, low brush and damp areas. Avoiding these areas will help you and your Labrador dogs from being infested.

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