How to Get Rid of a Skunk Smell on Dogs Using Household Items

Your dog has just come home after playing in the woods. He's happy to see you, as ever, but he smells foul! Then you realize--your dog has just been skunked! Skunks spray intruders when they feel threatened or vulnerable. The liquid consists of a sulfur-alcohol compound produced in glands near the anus--not in the tail, as you may have imagined. While skunk spray is foul and sticky, there are several household products that will neutralize the odor and leave your four-legged friend feeling fresh and comfortable.

Things You'll Need

  • Leash
  • Rag or dishcloth
  • 1 quart 3% hydrogen peroxide
  • 1/2 cup baking soda
  • 1 tbsp laundry detergent or dishwashing liquid
  • Large bucket
  • Mixing spoon
  • Tub or dishpan
  • Apron
  • Rubber gloves
  • Hose
  • Dog shampoo
  • Towels or hair dryer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Catch your dog and clip the leash to his collar. Tie the leash to something solid such as a patio table or flagpole so he can't escape while you bathe him.

    • 2

      Wipe any remaining skunk liquid off your dog with the rag or dishcloth. Take a note of where the skunk hit him--you'll be focusing your efforts on these areas later. Throw the rag away once you've used it to wipe your pet.

    • 3

      Mix the baking soda, peroxide, and dish liquid in a bucket. Use the spoon to ensure all the baking soda dissolves. Use a bucket bigger than you think you'll need, as the solution will foam profusely.

    • 4

      Stand your dog in the tub or dishpan, depending on his size. Put on the apron and rubber gloves to keep the skunk smell from getting on you. Rub a liberal amount of the de-skunking solution into his coat, focusing on the areas where the skunk's spray landed on him. Leave the solution on your dog for 10 minutes. (Reserve any excess solution for later.)

    • 5

      Rinse your dog thoroughly using the hose. Check his fur to see if the smell remains. If so, use more de-skunking solution and let it sit on the dog for another 10 minutes. Repeat until the smell has entirely dissipated.

    • 6

      Shampoo your dog with normal dog shampoo, then allow him to dry naturally (if it is a sunny day), or towel or blow-dry him if it's damp outside. Keep your dog outside or in a closed room until he is completely dry.