I was shocked last summer to find a tick on two of my dogs. We do live near the woods and often take walks. The only way to find ticks on your dog is to physically check the skin for any bumps - then check closely to see the cause. After referral with the Vet, the following worked well in removing the ticks:
For a few ticks, remove each one with tweezers. Clean the area around the tick with a disinfectant such as hydrogen peroxide before and after removal.
When removing ticks, don't twist. Your best chance of removing the whole tick is to pull it straight out with a steady action. Twisting usually leaves the head behind.
You may want to wear protective gloves.
You also may want to place the tick in a small container, like a pill container, and bring it to your vet for identification. Never use a burned match, petroleum jelly, or nail polish to try to remove ticks. Follow up with the Vet - they may recommend additional treatment.
Read the PDF "Tick Borne Illnesses in Michigan" brochure