In general, canine ectoparasites like ticks, fleas and flies, which send part of their life cycles off the host animal, inflict the most damage in late spring through early fall in temperate climates, and are a year long problem in continually warm climates. Fleas may be a problem year round to kennels or in other situations where there is constant warmth. Mites and lice spend their entire lives on their canine hosts. Sheltered dogs may be affected year round, but animals exposed to harsh climates are most severely affected in late winter and early spring, when their coats are thickest and the dogs may be in poor condition.

Life cycle of a 1-host tick (Not in New Zealand)

Life cycle of a 2-host tick (Not in New Zealand)
Note: in any stage of the multi-host tick life cycle, the host may be the same animal, another animal in the same species, or a member of another species.

Life cycle of a 3 host tick
Note: in any stage of the multi host tick life cycle, the host may be the same animal, another animal in the same species, or a member of another species.

Life cycle of flea