What Are Harvest Mites on Dogs?

From late July into November, harvest mites can leave dogs with intensely itchy, uncomfortable skin. But what exactly are they, how do dogs pick them up and what can you do if your furry friend is affected?

Here’s the YuMOVE guide to helping avoid, spot and manage harvest mites, so you know what to look out for and when it’s time to speak to your vet.

Harvest mites (AKA Neotrombicula autumnalis) can cause seasonal skin challenges in dogs during late summer and autumn. It’s the tiny six-legged larval stage of the mite that causes the trouble.

Harvest mite larvae are most active during the day, particularly in warm, dry weather. They gather in long grass, matted vegetation, low bushes and clumps of earth, waiting for a warm-blooded animal to pass by. Once they find a host, they often attach around a dog’s front legs, chest, between the toes, in the armpits, around the tummy, neck and genital area, and sometimes in the ears, too.

Signs of harvest mites on dogs

You may notice your dog scratching within three to six hours of coming into contact with harvest mites. Unfortunately, the itching can continue for several weeks after the mites have gone.

As well as scratching, dogs may rub, bite or nibble at the affected areas. Some dogs can also develop scurf or patches of hair loss. If the skin becomes damaged through persistent scratching or chewing, secondary bacterial infections can sometimes develop.

The itching is caused by your dog’s reaction to the harvest mite’s digestive enzymes, so every dog can react a little differently.

Why do harvest mites cause itching?

Unlike fleas and many other parasites, harvest mite larvae don’t burrow into the skin or feed on blood. Instead, they attach to the skin’s surface using tiny hooked mouthparts before releasing digestive enzymes that break down skin cells. The larvae then feed on the resulting fluid.

Each larva usually stays attached for two to three days before dropping off naturally, having grown three to four times its original size.

If your dog has itchy skin but you’re not sure what’s causing it, take a look at our guide to itchy skin in dogs.

What do harvest mites look like?

Harvest mite larvae are tiny, measuring around 0.2mm, and are usually bright orange or reddish in colour. Although they’re found throughout the UK, they can be surprisingly localised. One garden may have a heavy infestation while neighbouring gardens have none at all.

They’re commonly found in parks, gardens and the countryside, and similar members of the Neotrombicula family are found around the world.

How to spot a harvest mite infestation

Because harvest mites are so small, they can be difficult to spot. If your dog is scratching more than usual, gently part the fur and check the skin carefully, especially between the toes and anywhere they seem particularly irritated.

If you notice tiny orange or reddish specks that look almost like coloured dust attached to the skin or hair, harvest mites could be the cause. If you’re unsure, or your dog’s skin looks sore or uncomfortable, it’s always best to speak to your vet.

Preventing harvest mites in dogs

While it’s not always possible to avoid harvest mites altogether, there are a few simple ways to reduce the risk.

Because the larvae are most active during the day, consider walking your dog early in the morning or later in the evening where possible. Avoid long grass and dense vegetation, particularly on warm, sunny days, and try to keep moving, as the worst infestations tend to happen when dogs spend time sitting or lying down in grassy areas.

It’s also worth making a habit of checking your dog’s paws and coat after walks. Not only could this help you spot harvest mites sooner, but it’s also a good opportunity to look for other seasonal hazards, such as grass seeds.

Harvest mite treatment for dogs

Unfortunately, there’s currently no licensed treatment for harvest mites available in the UK. However, some flea treatments are thought to be effective, so it’s always best to speak to your vet about the most suitable option for your dog.

If left untreated, the larvae will usually feed for a few days before dropping off naturally. Unfortunately, the itching can continue for several weeks or even months afterwards, so if you’re concerned about your dog, it’s always worth contacting your vet for advice.

Supporting dogs with itchy skin

Even after the harvest mites have dropped off, the itching can continue for several weeks. It can be frustrating to see your dog scratching, but alongside following your vet’s advice, there are ways you can help support their skin and keep them comfortable.

Try to discourage excessive scratching, biting and licking where possible, as this can further damage the skin and increase the risk of infection. Keep an eye on the affected areas, and if your dog’s skin looks worse or doesn’t start to improve, contact your vet for advice.

Skin support for itchy dogs

If your dog struggles with itchy, sensitive skin during certain times of year, adding a daily skin supplement to their routine can help support healthy skin from within.

YuMOVE Skin & Coat Support Itching Dog is specially formulated to help support comfortable skin and nourish your dog’s skin from within. Simply add it to their food each day as part of their normal routine.

How does YuMOVE Skin & Coat Support Itching Dog support your dog’s skin?

With a blend of Omega-3 and Omega-6 oils, YuMOVE Skin & Coat Support Itching Dog helps support comfortable skin every day. Omega-6s from Borage Oil help with scratching and keep skin comfortable, while Omega-3s from Algal, Flaxseed and Fish Oils help soothe sensitive skin.

Vitamin E helps support your dog’s natural skin defences and nourishes skin from within, helping keep their skin in great condition all year round.

For more ways to support your dog’s skin and coat, take a look at our Dog Skin & Coat Support supplements.