Maine Has the Worst Tick Problem for Dogs in the U.S.

Ticks are one of those hidden risks most dog owners don't think much about until they suddenly become a problem. From backyard grass to hiking trails, these tiny parasites can latch on quickly, often going unnoticed until after exposure.

What many pet parents don't realize is that tick risk isn't the same everywhere. Weather, wildlife populations, and seasonal conditions can all play a major role in how common ticks are-and how often dogs come into contact with them during everyday outdoor activities. Nevertheless, ticks are a problem for both humans and dogs and therefore pups can contract tick-borne illnesses. "Ticks are among the most efficient carriers of disease because they attach firmly when sucking blood, feed slowly, and may go unnoticed for a considerable time while feeding," reports the Illinois Department of Public Health.

Recently, pet health tracking service Maven Pet evaluated Internet searches for on tick bites, removal and treatment. Certain states were head and shoulders above the rest, especially one. Here's the number one worst state for tick problems for dogs, plus the rest of the top five. Scroll on to see if you live there and also learn more about tick safety so you can refresh your memory before all of your summer adventures with your furry family member.

Related: 8 Best Outdoor Dog Breeds for Adventurous Pet Owners, Say Experts

Why Tick Risk Varies by State

Tick risk isn't the same across the country because ticks depend heavily on climate, vegetation, and wildlife to survive. States with warmer temperatures, higher humidity, and longer growing seasons tend to support larger tick populations because those conditions allow ticks to remain active for more of the year.

Landscape also plays a big role. Areas with dense woods, tall grasses, and abundant deer or small mammals provide ideal environments for ticks to feed and reproduce. In contrast, drier or colder regions often have shorter tick seasons and fewer suitable habitats, which lowers overall risk.

Because of these differences, some states naturally see far more tick activity affecting dogs than others, especially during peak outdoor seasons.

When Tick Season Peaks for Dogs

Tick season typically peaks in the warmer months, especially from spring through early fall, when temperatures and humidity create ideal conditions for ticks to become active. In many parts of the U.S., activity starts increasing in early spring as the weather warms and continues through summer, when ticks are most abundant.

During these peak months, dogs are at higher risk of exposure because ticks are more active in grassy, wooded, and brush-heavy areas where pets commonly walk or play. In some warmer states, tick activity can last nearly year-round, but spring and summer remain the highest-risk periods overall.

What's the Worst Tick-Infested State for Dogs?

What state has the worst tick problem for dogs? Maven Pet ranked Maine as the state with the worst tick problem for dogs based on data.

According to the State of Maine Department of Health and Human Services, 13 different tick species live in the "Pine Tree State." Not all of these ticks will bite, but some, like the deer tick, American dog tick and woodchuck tick, will. These bites can pose risks to dogs, which is why it's good to know if the state you live in is a hotspot for ticks or not.

Texas A&M shares that ticks can carry diseases that can affect your dog's health, such as:

• Babesiosis is a red blood cell infection that deer ticks (and other species) can have.
• Ehrlichiosis, an infection that can cause flu-like symptoms and death
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever, an infection that can cause fever and lower appetite
• Lyme disease, an infection that can trigger joint pain, low to no energy and fever (dogs can get vaccinated for Lyme disease)

The Top 5 States With the Worst Dog Tick Problems

According to Maven Pet, four of the five most tick-infested states for dogs are located in the Northeast. Maine has the worst tick problem for dogs, according to Maven Pet's data. The top five tick-infested states for dogs are:

1. Maine
2. Vermont
3. New Hampshire
4. Michigan
5. Connecticut

If you live in one of these states or plan to travel to one with your dog, you'll want to take steps to keep your pup safe. But one vet shares that everyone could use an annual refresh on tick safety and dogs.

How to Tell If Your Dog Has Ticks?

Ticks are small, but you don't need a microscope to spot one on your pet. "Ticks are visible to the naked eye, even when they're not engorged," explains Dr. Chyrle Bonk, DVM, an Embrace Pet Insurance veterinarian contributor. "They're black-brown insects about the size of an apple seed. Engorged ticks are those that are attached to your dog's skin and filled with blood. Most become whitish and can be as large as the end of your finger."

Dr. Bonk shares that frequent grooming is the best way to check for ticks. "After being outside, run a brush or fine-toothed comb over your dog's body to help remove debris and prevent mats," Dr. Bonk advises. "Also, be on the lookout for small black-brown insects that often hide in the groin, armpits, ears and under your dog's collar."

Related: These 7 Dog Breeds Are Perfect If You Already Have a Dog, According to Trainers

What to Do if You Find a Tick on Your Dog

Early removal is crucial if you find a tick on your dog's coat. "Ticks can transmit diseases to your dog, most of which require them to stay attached for a length of time, so early removal is key to preventing disease transmission," Dr. Bonk says.

Whether you do the job yourself or call a vet is highly personal. "If you're comfortable with it, you may remove a tick at home," Dr. Bonk says. "If you're unsure, consult your veterinarian. If your dog has multiple ticks, consider speaking to a vet first."

How to Remove a Tick From Your Dog Safely

To remove a tick from your dog, you'll need a few tools, plus patience, precision and know-how. Whether you live in Maine, the state with the worst tick problem for dogs, or somewhere else, Dr. Bonk's tick removal tips can be life-changing for your pet.

1. Get the best view. Dr. Bonk instructs dog parents to begin by parting your dog's fur so you can get a "good look at the tick."
2. Grab your tools and use them right. Use a pair of tweezers or a specific tick removal tool. "Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible," Dr. Bonk says.
3. Go easy and deliberately. "Gently pull straight out without twisting the body," Dr. Bonk says.
4. Get rid of the tick correctly. Dr. Bonk recommends disposing of the tick in alcohol.
5. Clean the bite area. Use warm water and mild soap, Dr. Bonk advises.
6. Keep an eye on your pet and call for help if needed. "See a veterinarian if the area is overly red, swollen or has a rash," Dr. Bonk states.

Related: 7 Best Guard Dogs for Families With Kids, According to a Trainer

Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe from Ticks This Summer

Prevention is the best strategy for eliminating the risk of tick-borne illness in your dog. To keep your dog safe from ticks, Dr. Bonk recommends:

1. Use a flea and tick preventative. There are many on the market that are safe and effective. "They come in the form of an oral chewable, topical or collar," Dr. Bonk says. Your vet can help you choose.
2. Avoid ticks' favorite hiding spots. Dr. Bonk says these spots include long grasses, woody shaded areas and thick shrubbery where ticks. A playdate in a well-manicured park will help your dog get their energy out, with fewer risks for ticks.
3. Groom your dog after being outside. That way, you can remove ticks before they attach.
4. Check yourself as well. Ticks can't jump like fleas, but they can pass from human to pet if you're snuggling really close. So, check yourself for ticks, as well. It'll keep you safe and is a way to show love to your pet.

Sources:

• Dr. Chyrle Bonk, DVM, an Embrace Pet Insurance veterinarian contributor
• IDPH State
• CDC
• State of Maine Department of Health and Human Services.
• Keeping Pets Safe from the Threat of Ticks
• VCA Animal Hospitals

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This story was originally published May 13, 2026 at 4:10 AM.