How to Get Dog Smell Out of a House
Dog lovers understand the joy pets bring to a home—but also recognize the lingering odors they sometimes leave behind. Fortunately, maintaining a fresh-smelling home with dogs is entirely achievable. This guide outlines effective strategies to eliminate dog odors and keep your house clean and inviting.
Understanding Dog Odor
Dogs naturally produce odor through their
scent glands and secrete oils via the skin, mouth, and ears. Contributing factors include:
- Skin infections and irritations
- Ear infections
- Dental disease
- Anal gland issues
- Moisture in the fur supporting bacteria or yeast
- Environmental contaminants (grass, dirt, etc.)
Routine Pet Grooming to Control Odor
Regular grooming is essential to reducing dog smell at the source:
- Brush your dog daily to remove dander and loose hair.
- Bathe your pet every 4–8 weeks using a dog-appropriate shampoo. Rinse thoroughly.
- Clean skin folds on breeds like French Bulldogs or Pugs to prevent bacterial growth.
- Dry your dog completely after baths or rain to prevent musty odors.
Dental and Ear Hygiene
Bad breath and ear infections contribute significantly to dog odor:
- Brush your dog’s teeth with a pet-safe toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Offer dental treats approved by your veterinarian.
- Clean ears regularly with a cotton pad or as advised by your vet.
Keeping Your Home Clean
Environmental cleanliness is key to managing lingering odors:
- Wash pet bedding and blankets weekly in hot water and vinegar.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture frequently.
- Use a steam cleaner or hot-water extractor for deep carpet cleaning.
- Mop hard floors with pet-safe solutions.
- Ventilate your home by opening windows regularly.
- Install HEPA air purifiers or use activated charcoal in pet areas.
Natural Odor Neutralizers
Use safe, effective deodorizers in pet zones:
- Baking soda: Sprinkle on textiles, wait, and vacuum dry.
- White or apple cider vinegar: Mix with water for a cleaning spray.
- First Saturday Lime: Great for outdoor kennels and indoor litter areas.
- Enzymatic cleaners: Excellent for eliminating organic odors.
- Activated charcoal: Absorbs odors—keep containers in pet zones out of reach.
Concrete and Basement Odors
Concrete can retain pet smells from accidents:
- Clean the area with a mild detergent or TSP and rinse well.
- Spray with vinegar and water, scrub, rinse, and dry.
- Apply baking soda liberally; leave overnight, scrub, and rinse.
- Use enzymatic pet treatments if odors remain.
- Seal with an odor-blocking primer once fully dry.
Preventing Odor Buildup
Proactive care helps stop smells before they start:
- Groom and bathe your dog regularly.
- Trim hair that may trap moisture or dirt.
- Feed a high-quality diet—better digestion reduces body odor.
- Clean and rotate pet toys and gear.
Quick Freshening Tips
Between regular cleanings:
- Use waterless dog shampoo or unscented pet wipes.
- Hang pet bedding in the sun to naturally disinfect.
When to See a Vet
Persistent odors may indicate health concerns. Consult your vet if:
- Your dog’s smell doesn’t improve after cleaning.
- There are signs of skin, dental, or ear infections.
- You notice fishy, sour, or yeast-like smells.
By combining consistent pet care with attentive home cleaning, you can enjoy the companionship of your dog without compromising the freshness of your living space.
