How to Get Rid of Dog Smell
Everyone loves having a Fur Baby, but no one loves the smell that lingers, especially if you have a pup that is a complete inside dog. Chances are, you are used to the smell, but your visitors may think otherwise! If they can smell the dog(s) before seeing them, you know it’s time for a deep clean!
Firstly, why do dogs smell so bad?
Your pooch is proud of its scent. It’s their identity and way of leaving their mark on the world. They have a build-up of oily skin, and it’s likely their saliva is on dog toys and their bedding. It doesn’t assist that dogs sweat through their feet, so everything they touch (or walk on) leaves their scent.
How to get rid of the dog smell in the house
Depending on how bad the smell is, you may have your work cut out for you – but the good news is, once you’ve completed a deep clean, if you regularly maintain it, the smell should lessen and eventually disappear completely.
1. Vacuum
Vacuum everything and then repeat it. Vacuuming needs to be done more than you think it should, and maintaining a routine will assist in minimising the smell. Ensure that you are vacuuming carpets, rugs, floors and furniture. If you have a steam cleaner suitable for rugs and lounges, even better. You can also use this to spot clean areas of your carpets.
Extra vacuuming means that you also need to be changing your filter often. It will allow for a more thorough cleaning.
2. Use pet-specific tools
Some pet shops, or online stores, sell specific pet cleaning tools. There is a pet duster that has special fibres to trap and lock in dust and allergens.
3. Hire a professional to remove dog smell on your carpet
It’s worthwhile hiring a professional carpet cleaner who can steam clean your carpets once or twice a year. They will be able to remove deep smells and stains, but you should be mindful that if you have a young pup, the change in carpet odour may confuse them, resulting in them trying to mark their territory again. Regular outside toilet breaks are encouraged.
3. Neutralise Furniture
If possible, remove lounge and cushion covers and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to wash these. If you have any mystery stains that are difficult to remove, use baking soda. Baking soda will absorb other odours and makes the perfect deodoriser.
If you cannot remove covers, buy a soft-bristled brush and brush down your lounge before wiping over it with a damp cloth. Allow this to dry.
If you have leather furniture, wipe over it with a mixture of white vinegar and water but be careful not to oversaturate.
You can use white vinegar and baking soda for stains on carpets or even in your dogs’ bed. Spray the affected area with vinegar and sprinkle the baking soda on top. Leave for a few hours, and you will see the soda draw out stains and smells. Vacuum over it and then allow the area to dry completely.
5. The Dog Bed
It’s important to buy a dog bed that is machine washable. If it’s not, it’s time to throw it out, especially if it smells! A dog’s bed should be washed every week.
6. Fresh Air
Open those windows! Air out your house daily, and open your windows and doors. Fresh air will make a huge difference in removing dog smells and odours. You may also want to use a diffuser daily, however, you need to ensure that the oil you use is pet safe.
Keeping on top of these easy-to-follow tips will make a huge difference to the smell of your home. We hope you found our tips on how to get rid of dog smell useful.
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