Our top tips on how to get rid of dog smell in your home

(Image credit: Heal's)

published 25 October 2020

We all love our dogs, but that doggy smell? Not so much. Our tips on how to get rid of dog smell in your house help you both mask the unpleasant odor and take pet care measures to minimize or eliminate it from your pet. As much as your favorite air freshener means well, this won't work miracles to completely banish that odor from your space. Here's what will really help...

How to get rid of dog smell in your home

1. Improve your cleaning routine

Doggy smells linger in your carpet and furniture because dogs shed hair and dander, which can be tricky to remove with ordinary cleaning methods or appliances. Invest in a dedicated vacuum for pet hair for carpets and regularly refresh your furniture with an upholstery cleaner. Another good method for refreshing both carpets and furniture is to sprinkle everything with baking soda, leave for a few hours, and then vacuum up. Baking soda is an excellent odor absorber, so really works.

2. Try a plug-in air freshener

An air freshener is not a long-term solution, but if you have guests coming and notice the dog odor in your house, an air freshener can really help. Choose a plug-in version rather than a spray for a longer-lasting effect.

3. Invest in an air purifier

Particularly if you're an allergy sufferer, the best air purifier is a must if you have a dog. Look for for one with at least two filters – a HEPA filter for tiny particles of dander that cause allergies and a carbon filter to absorb the smell. We'll be honest and say that an air purifier will not completely get rid of dog smells, but it will reduce them, especially if you keep it on.

4. Give your dog a bath – but avoid over-bathing

This isn't rocket science, of course: bathing your dog equals a nicer-smelling dog. Having said that, avoid bathing your canine friend constantly, because it can cause skin irritation and disrupt their natural skin barrier, causing a different kind of odor to develop (a bit like sour yeast). A weekly bath is more than enough for a dog; paws can be cleaned a dried off with towels.

5. Switch up your dog's food

Sometimes the cause of dog stinks at home is actually your dog having trouble digesting their food. Food sensitivities can cause excessive flatulence and bad breath. If you're noticing an excessive odor, it may be time to switch your dog a better, more natural food, or take them to the vet's for a check-up to eliminate any health problems.

Find more solutions for pet-related issues at Pets Radar.

TOPICS

Anna is a professional writer with many years of experience. She has a passion for contemporary home decor and gardening. She covers a range of topics, from practical advice to interior and garden design.