Dogs, by their very nature, can be rather messy creatures. Their frequent outdoor playtime and occasional accidents indoors, especially during their puppy phase, can create unwanted odors. These odors, particularly the pungent dog smell, can permeate your furniture, carpet, and flooring, leading to long-term problems.
While you may become accustomed to these smells and not notice them anymore, your guests and potential home buyers certainly will. Therefore, it’s important to learn simple do-it-yourself methods for eliminating these odors, ensuring your home always exudes a fresh scent. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about dog smells and offer expert recommendations for effectively getting rid of them.
Why Is Dog Smell So Hard To Get Rid Of?
Dogs have a unique scent, and much of it is due to their skin and fur. The oil glands in their skin secrete oils that can have a potent odor, especially if left unwashed. Additionally, dogs have a distinct microbial community living on their skin, more commonly known as “doggy odor.”
These microbes break down sweat and other substances in a dog’s coat and contribute to the smell. The reason why dog smell is so persistent is because their scent has a tendency to linger long after they’ve left the room. This is because their scent molecules are not heavier than air, so they don’t settle like the dust and dander.
Another reason why dogs’ smell is so hard to remove is due to their scent glands. Dogs have scent glands in their ears, anus, and paws that can release odors when they’re agitated or scared. These glands can be challenging to remove, and if not adequately cleaned, their scent will remain in the house. Also, dogs tend to rub their scent glands all over furniture, carpets, and other surfaces, which further perpetuates the smell.
Furthermore, dogs may also have food allergies or underlying medical conditions that can contribute to their scent. If a dog has a skin condition like seborrhea or yeast infections, it can cause them to smell even worse. Dogs with underlying health issues may also have a strange odor, which will require a visit to the vet.
But don’t worry, there are ways to fight the dog smell. One of the easiest ways is to give your dog frequent baths with the right shampoo. It’s essential to use a dog-specific shampoo since human shampoos can cause skin irritation and dryness. Regularly grooming your dog can also help control the scent. Brush their coat to remove any loose hair, debris, and dead skin cells that may contribute to the odor.
If the smell persists, consider air purifiers and odor-neutralizing sprays. Air purifiers can filter out pollutants, allergens, and odors, while odor-neutralizing sprays work well for spot cleaning. Another tip is to ensure you’re washing your dog’s bedding often, as the scent can become trapped in the fabric.
How To Get Rid of Dog Smell?
Clean Your Floors and Carpets
Floors and carpets are places where dog smells tend to accumulate over time. Since pets are constantly stepping in and out of the house, they bring a lot of dirt and bacteria with them. This bacteria can quickly develop a musty, unpleasant odor. To address this, vacuum your carpets daily and wash your floors regularly. You can also sprinkle baking soda on your carpets and let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming to help neutralize odors.
Use Air Purifiers
Air purifiers are great for removing pet dander and other allergens from your home, making them an ideal tool for eliminating dog smells. They work by removing airborne particles and pollutants, which can accumulate and cause a stale or musty smell. Make sure to choose a purifier specifically designed for pet odors, as regular air purifiers might not be as effective in removing the smell.
Wash Your Dog’s Beddings
Your dog’s beddings may be the root of your odor problems. If they aren’t regularly washed, they can quickly develop a pungent smell that can spread throughout your house. Making sure to wash your dog’s beddings weekly or bi-weekly can help eliminate the source of the odor. You can also use a pet-safe fabric spray to keep their bedding smelling fresh in between washes.
Use Odor Absorbers
There are several products specifically designed to eliminate pet odors, such as odor-absorbing bags and activated charcoal. These products work by absorbing the odor-causing particles, leaving your home smelling fresh and clean. Place them in areas where pet smells accumulate the most, such as near litter boxes or the dog’s bedding.
Groom Your Dog Regularly
Regular grooming of your dog can help keep them smelling clean and fresh. Brushing them once or twice a week will help remove excess fur and dead skin, both of which can contribute to unpleasant pet odors. Also, if your dog has a particularly potent odor, a bath may be in order. Just be sure to use a pet-specific shampoo to avoid skin irritation.
Final Verdict
Getting rid of dog smell in your house can be a challenge, but it’s not impossible. By implementing these five steps, you can enjoy a clean, fresh-smelling home in no time. Remember to clean your floors and carpets regularly, use air purifiers, wash your dog’s beddings, use odor absorbers, and groom your dog regularly. With these tips, you can keep your home smelling wonderful, even with your furry companion around.
