If you own a dog, you're likely familiar with the distinctive pet smell that can linger in your home. Especially if you have a larger breed or a particularly "fragrant" pooch, that smell can spread throughout the house. But there are plenty of ways to keep your home feeling fresh and clean, even with a furry friend. Here are some practical tips for minimising dog odour in your space.
How to Get Rid of Dog Smell in the House
Dog odour can easily seep into furniture and carpets, making it tough to remove once it settles in. Addressing the smell before it becomes ingrained is key.
Step 1: Identify the Source of the Smell
Start by identifying where your dog’s smell is most concentrated. Dogs usually have a favourite spot or two around the house, and these are the places where odour is likely to build up the most. You can try sniffing around or simply observe where your dog tends to hang out – these areas are your main targets for deep cleaning.
Step 2: Regularly Groom Your Dog
Regular grooming is essential for keeping your dog – and your house – smelling fresh. Try these grooming tips to help manage odour:
Use High-Quality Dog Shampoo and Conditioner: Opt for a good-quality dog shampoo and conditioner, ideally one with natural ingredients that’s gentle on your dog’s skin. These products can help maintain a clean and healthy coat and minimise any strong odours.
Feed a Balanced Diet: Good nutrition plays a major role in keeping your dog’s natural smell in check. Talk to your vet about selecting the right food for your dog's breed and health needs, as a healthy diet can reduce body odour and improve overall wellness.
Keep Up with Dental Hygiene: Many dog odours stem from dental issues. Regularly brushing your dog’s teeth or giving them dental chews can help keep their breath fresh. Ask your vet for recommendations on the best products for your dog's dental care.
Step 3: Clean Your Furniture and Home Regularly
Furniture, carpets, and other surfaces that your dog comes into contact with should be cleaned regularly to help control odours. Here’s a DIY cleaning solution that works well:
Mix equal parts hot water and white vinegar.
Add a small amount of liquid dish soap and stir.
Put the mixture in a spray bottle and use it to spray and wipe down any smelly furniture or surfaces.
White vinegar is excellent for neutralising odours. For carpets, steam cleaning is ideal, as it provides a deep clean that can reach odours embedded within the fibres.
Dog Smell Removal: Top Tips for a Fresh-Smelling Home
Essential oils can be a great way to introduce pleasant scents into your home, but it’s important to use them safely around pets. Here are some pet-safe essential oils that can help keep your house smelling fresh:
Lavender: This calming scent is perfect for masking pet odours. Use it sparingly and ensure the room is well-ventilated, as dogs have a much stronger sense of smell than humans. A drop or two diluted in water can be sprayed on areas where you want to reduce odour.
Chamomile: Known for its gentle, soothing scent, chamomile can help replace bad smells with a fresh, pleasant aroma. Chamomile oil, when diluted, is safe to use on dog beds and around your pet’s favourite hangouts.
Clary Sage: This oil has a light, refreshing smell that’s perfect for freshening up linens, furniture, and other surfaces. Avoid applying it directly to your dog’s coat, but feel free to use it on their bedding or in rooms where you want to mask pet smells.
Note: Always use essential oils in moderation around pets. Dogs have highly sensitive noses, so too much fragrance can be overwhelming. Additionally, never apply undiluted essential oils to your dog, and keep them out of reach to avoid accidental ingestion.
Consider Professional Cleaning Services
If you’ve tried all these dog smell removal tips and still find that odours persist, consider a visit to your vet. Sometimes, ongoing dog odours can be related to health issues, such as anal gland problems, which a vet can address. Meanwhile, a professional cleaning service can give your home’s carpets and upholstery a deep, thorough clean to tackle those stubborn smells.
With a little extra care and these practical dog smell removal strategies, you can enjoy a clean and comfortable home alongside your beloved pet.
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