Mary Allen
The best prophylaxis against ticks is still the daily search of the Chihuahua for the small arachnids. Ideally after every walk but at least once a day.
Ticks on the short-haired Chihuahua are usually easy to spot and can be quickly removed before they have found a suitable place for their blood meal. With the long-hair variant, you can use a flea comb to help.
You will also find numerous powders and sprays on the market that are freely available and are often based on purely plant-based ingredients. However, the effect is often insufficient or wears off too quickly.
Garlic in dog food is also often touted as a natural tick repellent. However, this claim is not scientifically supported. Extreme caution is also required with garlic. Insufficient quantities, it is toxic and can harm the dog. With a lightweight like the Chihuahua, toxic levels are quickly reached, which is why this type of tick prevention is not recommended.
Spot-on preparations from the vet are very effective. In addition to ticks, they also eliminate other ectoparasites such as fleas or mites and their effect lasts for several weeks.
Tick collars, on the other hand, are controversial. These release their toxins permanently to the dog since the collar has to be worn permanently. When playing with fellow animals or stroking, care must also be taken to ensure that these toxins are not passed on to humans or other animals. You must not bathe the dog with a tick collar and it must not go swimming in water with it.