Seven biting and stinging insects that may target your dog

During the summer months, dogs are at increased risk from various biting and stinging insects. Because of their thick fur, these pests may go unnoticed until your dog starts scratching or licking irritated areas excessively. Understanding the common biting insects and ways to prevent bites is essential to safeguard your dog's health and comfort.

Preventing Biting Insect Attacks on Your Dog

Protecting your dog from biting insects is crucial as bites can cause pain, itchiness, and sometimes allergic reactions or infections. Several topical flea and tick treatments, as well as insect-repellent collars, are available that help reduce the likelihood of your dog becoming a victim of these pests, especially in summer when these insects are most active.

Regular veterinary advice on suitable parasite control for your dog’s lifestyle and environment is important. Promptly inspecting your dog after outdoor activities and monitoring any bite or sting sites for signs of infection or allergic reaction can prevent serious complications.

1. Fleas

Fleas are one of the most common biting insects affecting dogs year-round but are especially prolific in summer. These tiny dark insects bite to feed on your dog's blood, causing intense itching and redness. Flea saliva may trigger allergic dermatitis in some dogs, leading to swelling and discomfort. Fleas can also contribute to spreading tapeworms and infest your dog's environment.

Using a well-regarded flea treatment recommended by your vet, along with good hygiene at home, is key to controlling fleas effectively.

2. Ticks

Ticks latch onto dogs to feed and are often found around wooded or grassy areas. Ticks appear as small lumps and must be removed carefully without leaving the head embedded, which requires special technique.

Ticks can transmit serious diseases like Lyme disease, so it’s vital to check your dog thoroughly after walks and follow best practice removal guidelines. Many vets advocate the use of tick preventatives that repel and kill ticks before they attach.

3. Mosquitoes

Mosquito bites cause itchy red bumps and can annoy your dog significantly. In the UK, mosquitoes are not known to transmit malaria, but they can spread other diseases like heartworm in different regions, making prevention advisable for dogs that regularly travel abroad.

Reducing mosquito exposure by avoiding heavily infested areas at dawn and dusk and using vet-approved repellents can help minimise bites.

4. Mites

Mites such as ear mites and mange mites are microscopic and often cause severe itching, hair loss, and skin inflammation. Mite infestations are contagious among dogs and require veterinary diagnosis and treatment using specific parasiticides.

Prompt treatment is important to prevent painful skin lesions and secondary infections. Avoid contact with dogs known to have mites until cleared by a vet.

5. Bees

Bee stings cause immediate pain and swelling. Some dogs can have severe allergic reactions leading to dangerous systemic effects such as anaphylaxis. Monitor any sting site carefully and seek emergency veterinary care if your dog shows signs of distress, swelling in the face or throat, or difficulty breathing.

If your dog is known to be sensitive, your vet might recommend carrying an antihistamine for immediate use following a sting.

6. Wasps

Wasps can sting multiple times and cause painful swelling and itching similar to bees. Although not as commonly triggering severe allergies as bees, wasp stings should be treated with caution, and bite sites monitored for infection or excessive reaction.

7. Horseflies

Horseflies are larger, aggressive insects that deliver painful bites. Their bites usually cause localised swelling, pain, and itching. While typically not dangerous, horsefly bites can be very distressing for your dog.

Avoiding areas where horseflies congregate during summer can reduce the risk of bites.

Conclusion

Understanding these seven common biting and stinging insects that can target dogs during the warmer months helps you take proactive steps to protect your pet. Use recommended parasite controls, check your dog regularly after outdoor activity, and monitor any bites or stings carefully. Rapid treatment and veterinary advice can prevent complications and keep your dog comfortable and safe throughout the summer and beyond.