How to Get Rid of Dog Smell in a House
Dog ownership brings immense joy, but it often comes with a challenge—lingering dog odors in your home. These smells can originate from natural oils in a dog's skin, environmental exposure, or health issues. Fortunately, with a dedicated cleaning routine and attention to your pet’s hygiene, you can significantly reduce and even eliminate dog-related odors at home.
Understanding the Source of Dog Odors
Dogs have active scent glands, and their bodies naturally emit odors through skin, mouths, ears, and anal glands. Key causes of dog odors include:
- Skin infections (bacterial or fungal)
- Ear infections
- Dental diseases
- Dirty or wet fur harboring bacteria and yeast
- Poor diet or digestive issues
Step 1: Groom Your Dog Regularly
- Brush your dog daily to remove loose fur and dander.
- Bathe your dog every 4–8 weeks with a dog-appropriate shampoo. Pay special attention to breeds with skin folds.
- Clean ears regularly using a vet-approved method, especially for floppy-eared breeds like Basset Hounds.
- Brush your dog's teeth with pet-safe toothpaste to prevent tartar and bacteria buildup that cause bad breath.
Step 2: Maintain a Clean Household
Environmental cleanliness is crucial. Follow these routines:
- Wash pet bedding weekly in hot water with white vinegar added to the wash cycle, and dry thoroughly in sunlight when possible.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstery frequently to remove pet hair and dander.
- Steam clean rugs and carpeted surfaces regularly to eliminate embedded odors without harsh chemicals.
- Mop hard floors with a pet-safe cleaning solution.
- Open windows to ventilate your home and improve air circulation.
- Use air purifiers with HEPA or activated charcoal filters in pet areas.
Step 3: Deodorize with Natural and Enzymatic Cleaners
- Baking soda: Sprinkle on soft surfaces, let sit, and vacuum to absorb odors.
- White or apple cider vinegar: Mix 50/50 with water and spray on hard surfaces or fabrics.
- First Saturday Lime: Safe for indoor and outdoor odor neutralization; vacuum after application indoors.
- Enzymatic cleaners: Break down organic compounds responsible for urine and feces odors.
- Activated charcoal: Use small open containers to absorb airborne smells (keep away from pets).
Step 4: Address Odors in Concrete and Basements
- Clean with mild detergent or TSP to strip residue.
- Apply vinegar solution, scrub, rinse, and follow with baking soda treatment.
- Use pet-safe enzymatic formulas for persistent smells.
- Seal surfaces with odor-blocking primer or concrete sealant.
- Ensure ventilation or supplement with ozone generators if needed.
Step 5: Prevention is Key
Preventing odors is often easier than treating them. Maintain these habits:
- Stick to a regular grooming schedule
- Feed your dog a quality, digestible diet
- Brush and clean teeth and ears as advised by your vet
- Dry your dog thoroughly after baths or walks in rain to avoid musty smells
- Use pet-safe dry shampoo or unscented wipes between baths
- Clean accidents immediately with enzymatic cleaners
When to Consult a Veterinarian
If your dog emits a persistent or particularly strong odor despite good hygiene, consult a vet. Potential underlying causes include infections, allergies, metabolic diseases, or dental problems. Symptoms like yeasty smells, fishy odor, bad breath, or appetite/behavioral changes may signal a medical issue.
A healthy, well-groomed pet and a clean home go hand in hand. With proper care and cleaning routines, dog smells can be effectively eliminated, leaving your home fresh and pleasant for both you and your furry friend.
