How to Get Rid of Dog Smell in House: Simple & Effective Tips

Dogs are wonderful companions, but their smells can sometimes take over your home. That musty, kennel-like odor can make your house feel less cozy and welcoming. Whether it’s from wet fur, pet accidents, or just your dog’s natural scent, these odors can linger on furniture, carpets, and even in the air. The good news? You don’t have to live with the smell or part with your furry friend. With some simple cleaning habits and a few household items, you can get rid of dog smell in your house and keep it fresh. In this guide, we’ll walk you through proven, easy-to-follow methods to banish dog odors for good.

Why Does Your House Smell Like Dog?

Understanding what causes dog smells helps you tackle them effectively. Here are the main culprits:

• Dander: Dogs shed tiny skin cells called dander, which can build up on surfaces and in the air, contributing to odors.
• Wet Dog Smell: When your dog’s fur gets wet, it can release a strong, musty odor.
• Accidents: Urine or feces, especially if not cleaned thoroughly, can leave lingering smells.
• Body Odor: Dogs have natural odors from their skin, ears, and paws, which can transfer to furniture and carpets.
• Bad Breath: Dental issues or diet can cause bad breath, adding to the overall smell.
• Anal Glands: These small sacs near a dog’s anus can produce a strong odor if infected or not expressed properly.

By targeting these sources, you can create a cleaner, fresher home environment.

Step-by-Step Guide to Eliminate Dog Smell

Here’s a detailed plan to remove dog odors from your house using simple tools and techniques.

1. Bathe Your Dog Regularly

Bathing your dog is the first step to reducing odors. A clean dog means less smell spreading to your furniture and carpets.

• How Often: Bathe your dog every 4-6 weeks, depending on their breed and lifestyle. Dogs with thick coats or those who play outside often may need more frequent baths American Kennel Club.
• What to Use: Choose a dog-specific shampoo designed to neutralize odors. Avoid human shampoos, as they can irritate your dog’s skin.
• How to Do It: Wet your dog thoroughly, apply shampoo, and rinse well. Dry them completely with a towel or low-heat blow dryer to prevent wet dog smell.
• Tip: If your dog hates baths, use treats to make it a positive experience.

2. Clean Dog Bedding and Linens

Dog beds, blankets, and any linens your dog uses can trap odors, making them a major source of smell.

• How Often: Wash dog bedding every 4-6 weeks. If your dog sleeps on your bed, wash your sheets weekly The Spruce.
• How to Do It: Use hot water and a pet-safe detergent. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the wash for extra odor-fighting power.
• Tip: For non-washable beds, spot clean with a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar, then air dry.

3. Vacuum Regularly

Pet hair, dander, and dirt can embed themselves in carpets, rugs, and furniture, releasing odors over time.

• How Often: Vacuum at least once a week, focusing on high-traffic areas where your dog spends time.
• What to Use: A vacuum with a HEPA filter traps tiny particles like dander, improving air quality The Spruce.
• How to Do It: Vacuum carpets, rugs, furniture, curtains, and even under furniture where “hair bunnies” gather. Clean or replace the vacuum filter regularly.
• Tip: Use pet-specific cleaning tools, like disposable dusters or mops, for quick cleanups between vacuuming sessions.

4. Use Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural, affordable way to absorb and neutralize odors.

• How to Do It: Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on carpets, rugs, and upholstery. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then vacuum thoroughly The Spruce.
• Why It Works: Baking soda absorbs odor-causing molecules, leaving surfaces fresher.
• Tip: Test a small area first on delicate fabrics to avoid damage.

5. Clean with Vinegar

White vinegar is another natural cleaner that breaks down odor-causing molecules.

• How to Do It: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Use it to clean floors, carpets, upholstery, or soak bedding The Spruce.
• Why It Works: Vinegar’s acidity neutralizes odors and cleans surfaces.
• Tip: The vinegar smell dissipates as it dries, leaving no odor behind.

6. Use Enzymatic Cleaners

For pet accidents like urine, vomit, or feces, enzymatic cleaners are highly effective.

• How to Do It: Spray the cleaner on the stain, let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then blot with a clean cloth The Spruce.
• Why It Works: Enzymes break down organic matter, eliminating the source of the odor.
• Tip: Use a blacklight to find hidden urine stains, which glow yellow or green.

7. Steam Clean Carpets

For deep cleaning, steam cleaning carpets can remove embedded dirt and odors.

• How to Do It: Rent a carpet steamer or hire a professional service. Use hot water and a pet-friendly cleaning solution The Spruce.
• Why It Works: The heat and suction pull out dirt and odors from deep within carpet fibers.
• Tip: If you don’t own a steamer, many hardware stores offer rentals.

8. Improve Air Quality

Good ventilation and air purification can significantly reduce airborne odors.

• How to Do It: Open windows and doors regularly to let fresh air circulate. Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter, placed near your dog’s bed or favorite spot The Spruce. Change air filters in your heating and cooling system every 3 months.
• Why It Works: Fresh air and filtration remove odor particles from the air.
• Tip: Avoid using scented candles or air fresheners to mask odors, as they don’t address the root cause.

9. Clean Dog Toys and Crates

Toys and crates can harbor bacteria and odors from drool and dirt.

• How to Do It: Wash toys in warm soapy water or the dishwasher if safe. Clean crates with pet-safe disinfectants.
• Why It Works: Regular cleaning prevents odor buildup in your dog’s belongings.
• Tip: Rotate toys to ensure they all get cleaned regularly.

10. Store Pet Food Properly

Open bags of pet food can release odors into your home.

• How to Do It: Store pet food in airtight containers to keep it fresh and odor-free Good Housekeeping.
• Why It Works: Sealing food prevents smells and deters pests.
• Tip: Check expiration dates and discard old food.

Preventive Measures

To keep your home smelling fresh long-term, adopt these habits:

• Weekly Cleaning Schedule: Vacuum, spot clean, and wash bedding regularly to stay ahead of odors.
• Regular Grooming: Brush your dog weekly to reduce shedding and distribute natural oils, which can help control odor.
• Health Checks: Monitor your dog for signs of health issues like dental problems or anal gland infections, which can cause excessive odor. Consult your vet if you notice unusual smells PetMD.
• Ventilation: Keep windows open when possible to maintain good airflow.
• Protect Furniture: Use washable covers or blankets on furniture to prevent odors from seeping in.

How to Know If It’s Working

After cleaning, you might wonder if the dog smell is truly gone. Here are some ways to check:

• Ask a Friend: Someone who doesn’t live with you may notice odors you’ve grown used to.
• Scent Test: Leave your home for a few hours, then return and smell different areas.
• Focus on Problem Areas: If certain spots still smell, target them with additional cleaning.

Additional Tips

• Check for Hidden Stains: Use a blacklight to find urine stains that may be causing persistent odors.
• Consider Professional Help: For stubborn smells, hire a professional carpet cleaning service JimsCleaning.
• Use Pet-Safe Products: Always choose cleaners safe for your dog to avoid health risks.

Tools and Products That Help

Here’s a table summarizing useful tools and products for eliminating dog odors:

Tool/Product	Purpose	Where to Use
Vacuum with HEPA Filter	Traps pet hair and dander	Carpets, rugs, furniture, curtains
Baking Soda	Absorbs and neutralizes odors	Carpets, upholstery
White Vinegar	Breaks down odor-causing molecules	Floors, carpets, upholstery
Enzymatic Cleaner	Removes organic stains and odors	Pet accidents (urine, vomit)
Air Purifier with HEPA Filter	Reduces airborne allergens and odors	Near dog’s bed or high-traffic areas
Pet-Safe Disinfectant	Cleans toys and crates	Dog toys, crates
Airtight Containers	Prevents food odors	Pet food storage

Conclusion

Eliminating dog smell from your house is entirely possible with consistent effort and the right techniques. By bathing your dog regularly, cleaning bedding and furniture, vacuuming often, using natural cleaners like baking soda and vinegar, and improving air quality, you can create a fresh, inviting home. Preventive measures like grooming and proper food storage will help keep odors at bay. With these steps, you and your furry friend can enjoy a clean, odor-free living space.