Can Dogs Get Harvest Mites?

Harvest mites, also known as chiggers or red bugs, are tiny parasitic mites that feed on the skin of various animals - including dogs. That’s right - dogs can get harvest mites too. These tiny pests are common in warm and dry climates and are active during the late summer and early fall. It is because of this that they are called “harvest” mites. But don’t be fooled by their tiny size – these mites can cause significant discomfort to dogs, mostly due to the irritation that their bites can cause.

What Are Harvest Mites? Are They Dangerous for Dogs?

Belonging to the Trombiculidae family, harvest mites are this subclade’s larvae. They are almost microscopic, measuring only about 0.2 mm in size. These mites are bright orange or red, which makes them slightly easier to spot on a dog’s skin, though their small size still makes them difficult to detect. They tend to live in grassy or wooded areas and attach themselves to dogs, humans, or other animals when they come into contact with the vegetation where the mites live.

Now, once a harvest mite attaches itself to a dog’s skin, they will inject saliva into it in order to break down the cells which they consume.

Unlike fleas or ticks, which feed on blood, these mites feed on skin cells. It is this process that causes an intense allergic reaction in dogs, leading to inflammation and itching. The dog may develop red, raised bumps or welts at the bite sites, typically in areas where the skin is thinner, such as the paws, belly, ears, or armpits.

Your furry friend might scratch or bite the affected area, in hopes of easing the irritation. But this can potentially cause further skin damage or further infections. While harvest mites do not burrow into the skin, their bites can remain itchy and uncomfortable for several days, even after the mites are detached and gone.

Symptoms of Harvest Mites in Dogs

It is important to note that intense itching and irritation are not the only symptoms of harvest 

mite bites. If a dog is repeatedly scratching or licking at a particular area, this could indicate the presence of harvest mites, so know what signs to look out for.

• Red bumps and welts will often appear on the dog’s paws, belly, ears, or between their toes.
• Itching that is caused by harvest mites can be intense, and if your pet is vigorously scratching this is a classic indicator.
• In some cases, dogs may lose fur around the affected area due to excessive scratching.
• Constant scratching or biting may lead to crusty patches or open wounds. This is one of the more advanced signs.

Of course, you need to make sure that harvest mite infestation is treated as soon as possible. This typically involves relieving the itching and removing any remaining mites. Of course, you need to seek the help of a vet, who will prescribe the proper treatment for your pet's unique case.

For example, special anti-itch creams and sprays might be applied to the affected area to soothe irritation. You might also be advised to regularly bathe your dog with a medicated or anti-parasitic shampoo that can help wash away the mites and reduce inflammation.

Of course, in some cases, a veterinarian may prescribe oral antihistamines or corticosteroids to reduce allergic reactions and itching when the reaction is more severe – so it's important to visit a vet as soon as possible. After all, they know what is best for your furry four-legged friend and will help make sure they get better in no time.