If you’re constantly battling against those pesky ticks, you might be wondering if your furry friend is more prone to these blood-sucking critters than others. Well, wonder no more.
New research ¹ has revealed that some breeds are like magnets for ticks, while others seem to have a secret weapon against them. Want to know where your pup stands?
We’ll begin with the breeds that ticks favor most and finish with the breed that offers the best defense.
1. Cavapoo: Curly Coats & Tick Bait
If you’re the proud owner of a Cavapoo, you might want to stock up on tick repellent. These adorable crosses between Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Poodles have a whopping 5.19% risk of tick infestation over a 5-year period.
That’s 2.50 times higher than your average crossbreed dog! Experts think it’s their curly Poodle coat that makes them so irresistible to ticks.
2. Goldendoodle: Ticks Go Gaga for Golden Curls
Goldendoodles, the lovable mix of Golden Retrievers and Poodles, aren’t far behind in the tick magnet department. With a 5.14% risk of infestation and a 2.63 times higher risk than other crossbreeds, these teddy bear look-alikes need extra TLC when it comes to tick prevention.
Regular grooming and repellents are a must.
3. Standard Poodle: Ticks Have a Taste for the Finer Things
Who would have thought that the elegant Standard Poodle would be such a hit with ticks? With a 5.14% risk of infestation, they have the second-highest risk among purebreds. It seems that their signature curly coat, which is often passed down to their designer dog offspring, is like a welcome mat for ticks.
4. Cockapoo: Ticks Can’t Resist a Cuddle
Cockapoos, the charming mix of Cocker Spaniels and Poodles, have a 4.79% risk of tick infestation. That’s 2.42 times higher than your average crossbreed! Just like their Cavapoo and Goldendoodle cousins, it’s that irresistible Poodle coat that ticks can’t seem to stay away from.
5. Cavachon: Fluffy but Not Immune
Last but not least, we have the Cavachon, a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Bichon Frise. While their 4.29% risk of tick infestation is lower than the other breeds on this list, it’s still important for owners to stay vigilant. Their soft, fluffy coat can still be a cozy hideout for ticks.
6. Beagles: Tiny but Tough
Don’t let their small size fool you – Beagles are mighty when it comes to fighting off ticks. One study found that these adorable hounds had five times fewer ticks attach compared to English Cocker Spaniels when exposed to the same number of these pests. Their short, dense coat seems to be the secret to their success.
7. Staffordshire Bull Terriers: Ticks Don’t Stand a Chance
Staffies, with their muscular build and loyal nature, are another breed that ticks don’t mess with. The VetCompass study found that these tough pups had some of the lowest odds of being bothered by ticks.
While the reason behind their resistance is still a mystery, their short, smooth coat and tough skin might be giving ticks a hard time.
8. Rottweilers: Double Coat, Double Trouble for Ticks
Rottweilers may have a reputation for being tough, but they’re also tough on ticks. The VetCompass study found that these powerful pups had a lower risk of tick infestation compared to other breeds. Their thick, double coat could be the key to keeping ticks at bay.
9. Chihuahuas: Small but Mighty Against Ticks
Chihuahuas may be pint-sized, but they pack a punch when it comes to fighting off ticks. The VetCompass study identified these feisty little dogs as having a lower likelihood of tick infestation.
It could be their tiny size and short, close-lying coat that make it harder for ticks to latch on.
10. English Bulldogs: Wrinkly but Resistant
Last but not least, we have the English Bulldog. These wrinkly-faced charmers were found to have some of the lowest odds of being infested with ticks by the VetCompass research team. Their short, smooth coat could be making it tougher for ticks to get a good grip.
So there you have it – the breeds that are winning and losing the war against ticks. But remember, no matter what breed your furry friend is, regular tick checks and preventative treatments are still the best weapons in your arsenal.
And if you’re ever unsure, just ask your vet – they’re always ready to help you keep your pup tick-free!
Sources:
- https://www.rvc.ac.uk/vetcompass/news/cavapoo-and-cockapoo-designer-dog-breeds-at-high-risk-of-tick-infestation-study-finds
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.