Some vets sell tick removal tools at their office. I got one at my vet's and I purchased another one from Amazon.
Amazon.com: Contech Tick Twister Pro: Pet Supplies This is the one I use. When you use it right you make sure you get the head out of the skin. When using tweezers many times you end up crushing the body and the head stays embedded in the skin. It's best to make sure you get the whole thing out the first try.
Spring and fall are the times of year that ticks are most prevalent. Flea comb your dog when you bring him in so you catch anything he may have picked up while outside. Just make sure you have a way to crush the nasty icky things. They are much harder than a flea.