Brown Dog Tick (Likely)

Scientific Name: Rhipicephalus sanguineus

Order & Family: Order Ixodida, Family Ixodidae

Size: 3mm to 12mm depending on life stage and engorgement level.

Brown Dog Tick (Likely)

Natural Habitat

Typically found in human dwellings, kennels, and areas frequented by dogs; they can complete their entire life cycle indoors.

Diet & Feeding

Strictly hematophagous (blood-feeding), primarily targeting dogs but will bite humans or other mammals if necessary.

Behavior Patterns

They are 'three-host' ticks, meaning they drop off the host to molt between larval, nymphal, and adult stages. They can survive for long periods without a meal.

Risks & Benefits

Significant risk as a vector for Rocky Mountain spotted fever, canine ehrlichiosis, and babesiosis. They are considered a major pest in residential environments.

Identified on: 12/27/2025