Understanding Ticks in English Bulldogs A Realistic, Responsible Guide for Buyers

January 8, 2026

Ticks are external parasites that feed on a dog’s blood and can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis. Ticks are environmentally acquired, not genetic or congenital, and are not a reflection of breeder care or quality. At WB English Bulldogs, we educate families so they understand the risks, prevention, and management of ticks in puppies.

1. What Are Ticks?

Ticks are small arachnids that attach to the skin of dogs and other animals to feed on blood. They can transmit diseases depending on species and duration of attachment. Common tick species affecting dogs include black-legged ticks, brown dog ticks, and lone star ticks.

Ticks can cause:

Skin irritation or localized redness
Mild to severe itching
Blood loss in severe infestations
Transmission of tick-borne diseases

Ticks are common in outdoor environments and can affect dogs of all breeds.
(Merck Veterinary Manual; American Veterinary Medical Association)

2. How Puppies Are Exposed

Ticks are environmentally acquired, usually from outdoor areas such as grass, woods, yards, or contact with wildlife.
Puppies may be exposed after leaving the breeder, even if raised in a clean environment.
Puppies in areas where ticks are endemic are at higher risk, but exposure can happen anywhere.

3. Common Signs of Tick Exposure or Infestation

Visible ticks on the skin or in the fur
Redness, irritation, or scabs at bite sites
Excessive scratching or licking
Lethargy, fever, or loss of appetite in cases of tick-borne disease

Prompt veterinary care is essential if ticks are found, especially to prevent transmission of disease.

4. Treatment and Prevention

Ticks are treatable and preventable with veterinarian-approved topical treatments, oral medications, or tick collars.
Regular inspection of the puppy’s skin and fur, especially after outdoor activity, is critical.
Environmental management, including yard maintenance, helps reduce exposure.

5. Why Ticks Are Not Covered Under Our Health Warranty

WB English Bulldogs’ one-year health warranty excludes ticks because:

Ticks are environmentally acquired, not congenital or hereditary.
Exposure occurs after the puppy leaves our care and is beyond the breeder’s control.
Tick infestations are manageable and treatable with veterinary care.
Even puppies from the cleanest litters may be exposed in new environments.

6. Responsible Ownership and Care

Owners should:

Apply veterinarian-recommended tick prevention consistently
Regularly inspect the puppy for ticks
Maintain a clean and well-maintained yard
Seek prompt veterinary care if ticks are detected or symptoms of tick-borne disease appear

With proper preventive care and vigilance, ticks rarely cause long-term health issues.

7. Setting Proper Expectations

As professional English Bulldog breeders since 1998, WB English Bulldogs is committed to producing healthy puppies and educating families.

Ticks are common environmental parasites, not a reflection of breeder practices. Awareness, prevention, and prompt veterinary attention ensure the best outcome for your puppy.