How to Stop Your House From Smelling Like a Dog
Dog odors in the home are a common frustration for pet owners. These smells can originate from a variety of sources, including dander, hair, body oils, urine, saliva, and sweat. Such odors tend to gather in carpets, upholstery, floors, and even linger in the air. Thankfully, there are efficient ways to combat this issue and maintain a fresh-smelling home.
1. Improve Ventilation
- Open windows and doors regularly to allow fresh air inside.
- Use fans to circulate air throughout your living spaces.
- Install and maintain clean HVAC filters—preferably HEPA filters that trap allergens and odors.
- Place portable air purifiers in high pet-traffic areas and replace their filters frequently.
2. Clean All Surfaces Frequently
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, furniture, curtains, and floors several times a week.
- Use a vacuum cleaner with HEPA filtration or one designed specifically for pet hair.
- Change and clean your vacuum's filter regularly.
- Mop hard floors using a pet-safe cleaner or a vinegar-water mix to neutralize odors.
3. Deep Clean Carpets and Fabrics
- Deep clean carpets regularly to remove embedded odors.
- Quickly blot accidents with thick paper towels without rubbing.
- Apply an enzyme-based cleaner to break down smell-causing bacteria, especially after pet accidents.
- Avoid steam cleaning urine spots, as heat sets in smells.
- In severe cases, consider replacing carpet and padding or consulting a professional cleaner.
4. Wash Soft Furnishings Weekly
- Remove, launder, and rotate cushion covers, curtains, pet bedding, and throws.
- Add baking soda or vinegar to your laundry detergent for odor-fighting power.
- Have non-washable items professionally cleaned as needed.
- Sprinkle baking soda on soft surfaces, leave overnight, and vacuum the next day.
5. Use Natural Deodorizers
- Baking soda naturally absorbs odors from surfaces and the air.
- White vinegar helps neutralize bacteria that cause smells.
- Use diffusers or candles sparingly; they mask rather than eliminate odors.
- Only use essential oils if they are tested and safe for pets.
6. Groom Your Dog Regularly
- Bathe your pet as recommended using safe grooming products.
- Brush them often to reduce loose fur and minimize dander buildup.
- Maintain oral hygiene to prevent saliva-related smells.
- Wipe their paws regularly before allowing indoors.
7. Limit Odor Accumulation
- Restrict your dog’s access to furniture or cover it with washable blankets.
- Designate specific pet-friendly rooms or limit their movement in the house.
- Don’t allow them in certain rooms such as bedrooms or carpeted areas if managing odor is difficult.
8. Handle Accidents Properly
- Ensure your pet is properly house-trained.
- Immediately clean accidents using enzymatic cleaners made for pet messes.
- Address any medical issues that may be causing indoor marking.
9. Address Persistent Odors
- If deep cleaning doesn’t solve the problem, check walls, baseboards, and subfloors for lingering smells.
- Seal or repaint affected areas, and replace drywall or floors if necessary.
- When all else fails, invest in professional odor remediation services.
10. Establish Long-Term Cleaning Habits
- Maintain a cleaning schedule for floors, upholstery, air filters, and pet items.
- Wash toys, blankets, towels, and pet bowls regularly.
- Keep litter boxes clean if you have multiple pets.
With consistent maintenance, attentive cleaning practices, and proactive grooming, most dog-related odors can be significantly reduced or eliminated—leaving your home smelling fresh and clean.
