How to Remove Dog Smell and Keep Your Home Fresh

Dogs bring a lot of joy to our lives, but let's face it, they also bring some less-than-pleasant odours. Whether it’s that familiar “wet dog smell” or a lingering doggy scent on your carpets, sofas, or even your car seats, pet owners know the struggle all too well. The good news? You don’t have to live with those pet smells forever.

This guide will show you how to remove dog smell, tackle odours from different surfaces, and keep your dog's fur fresh so that your home smells clean and inviting.

Why Does Your Dog Smell?

Before you tackle the odour, it’s important to understand why your pup might smell in the first place. Common culprits include:

Dog's fur absorbing substances: From muddy paw prints on floors to dirt and bacteria clinging to your dog’s fur, your best friend may gather odours as they explore.
Wet dog smell: When your dog gets wet, bacteria and yeasts on their skin release compounds, causing that unpleasant smell.
Pet bedding issues: Pet bedding, especially when not washed regularly, can harbour hair, dirt, and oils from your dog's skin, leading to persistent pet odours.
Health issues: Sometimes, a bad odour can be tied to underlying health problems like skin infections, ear infections, or poor dental hygiene. If you suspect this, always check with your vet.

Now that we know the sources, let's explore how to banish doggy smells for good.

How to Remove Dog Smell from Your Home

Your house doesn’t have to give away the fact that you own pets. Here’s how to tackle specific areas of your home to rid it of dog smell.

1. Carpets

Carpets can trap dog smells, pet hair, dirt, and bacteria deep within their fibres. Here’s how to get them fresh again:

Vacuum regularly: Aim to vacuum at least twice a week to reduce pet hair, dust, and dander. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter for extra efficiency.
Use baking soda: This natural odour remover is your best ally. Sprinkle baking soda liberally on your carpets, leave it overnight to absorb smells, and vacuum it up the next day.
Deep clean occasionally: Consider hiring professional cleaners or using a carpet shampooer with pet-friendly cleaning products to combat deeply embedded odours.

2. Sofas and Soft Furnishings

Soft furnishings like sofas, curtains, and throw pillows can also absorb dog odours.

Removable covers: If your sofa has removable covers, wash them in a pet-friendly detergent and dry them thoroughly to prevent bacterial growth.
Deodorising spray: Keep a pet-safe deodorising spray handy to refresh cushions and throw pillows.
UV light: To tackle hidden stains like urine or bacteria, you can use a UV light to locate and clean hard-to-reach areas.

3. Dog's Bed

Your dog's bedding is a major source of pet smells in your house.

Wash weekly: Wash your pet bedding regularly with a pet-friendly detergent. Hot water helps to eliminate bacteria effectively.
Use an odour remover: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the wash cycle for natural freshness.
Vacuum it often: Vacuum pet bedding to remove loose hair and reduce odours between washes.

4. Hard-to-Reach Areas

Places like under furniture or deep corners can harbour pet smells.

Dust regularly: Pet dander and hair gather in these areas. Dust these spaces weekly using a microfiber cloth.
Vacuum thoroughly: Use vacuum attachments to clean hard-to-reach areas.

5. Air and General Environment

It’s not just surfaces—the air in your house can also absorb odours from pets.

Use an air purifier: An air purifier designed for pet odours can filter out allergens, pet hair, and stinky air.
Scented candles: Lightweight, natural scented candles or essential oils can add a fresh scent without overwhelming.

Preventing Future Dog Smells

The best way to keep your home smelling fresh is to address the source of odours directly.

Grooming Your Dog

Brush regularly: Brushing on a regular basis helps to reduce dog hair and remove any dirt or debris that could smell over time.
Bath your dog: Choose a gentle, pet-friendly shampoo to bathe your dog regularly. How often you bathe will depend on your dog’s breed and activity level.
Dry thoroughly: After a bath, ensure your dog is completely dry to prevent wet dog smells. Use a towel or a pet-safe hairdryer.

Diet and Health

Check your dog's diet: A poor diet can lead to unpleasant smells from your dog’s fur or even their breath. Consider speaking to a vet about their nutritional needs.
Dental hygiene: Brush your dog’s teeth on a regular basis and consider dental chews to keep their breath fresh.

Managing Pet Areas

Use washable pet bedding: Look for pet bedding with easy-to-remove, washable covers to make cleaning a breeze.
Regular cleaning schedule: Establish a frequent cleaning schedule for high-traffic areas like your dog’s bed, toys, and feeding area.

Final Tips to Keep Your Home Smelling Great

When it comes to completely removing pet smells, it’s all about staying consistent and proactive. Incorporate these tips into your cleaning routine and remember that fresh air and proper ventilation go a long way.

If you’re still struggling with lingering odours, try a commercial odour remover designed for pets, or hire a professional cleaning service for a thorough deep clean. A clean and fragrant home doesn’t just make it more inviting for humans, but ensures your furry friend lives in comfort too!