How to Stop Doggy Odor

Dog owners know very well the bad smells that can emit from their dogs, especially those that come in and out of the house. You don't have to live with doggy odor, as these smells can be managed with a few simple steps. By purchasing a few inexpensive items and exercising regular grooming habits, your dog's smell can be reduced or eliminated.

Things You'll Need

  • Baking Soda
  • Baby wipes
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Citrus scent oil
  • Cotton swabs
  • Cotton balls
  • Toothbrush
  • Dog toothpaste
  • Rubber gloves
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a tub of unscented baby wipes. Make a 50/50 mix of water and baking soda. Add a few drops of citrus oil to the mixture. Shake this mixture and stir until all the baking soda particles are completely mixed. Pour this mixture in the tub, lifting sections of the wipes to make sure that they are well-saturated. You can now close the tub and use the wipes as needed. It is a good idea to leave the tub next to the outdoor entry your dog uses.

    • 2

      Wipe your dog down every time it comes in from the outside. This is the first and most important step to stopping doggy odor. Take a wipe, and starting with the dog's head, wipe your pet from head to toe. This acts as a neutralizer for odor. The dog doesn't need to be wet, just make sure you wipe it fully, wiping the crotch area last. If the dog has visible dirt on it, take care to remove this and get a clean wipe before continuing.

    • 3

      Swab your dog's ears regularly, especially if the dog has been swimming. Take a cotton swab or cotton ball and clean the opening and flaps of the ear. You should only remove dirt that is visible to the eye. If there is a strong odor, dip the swab in peroxide and wipe the entry. If the odor does not go away, or if you feel your dog has dirt deep in the canal, consult with your vet for care. Never push anything into the ear canal.

    • 4

      Clean the pads of your dog's feet. Use a cotton ball dipped in peroxide and wipe the surface and in between the creases of the foot pads. This will help get rid of dirt that the dog brings inside, but it will also help you remove any fecal matter that may have been stepped on. Pay close attention to the dog's rear end. You should always make sure this area is kept clean.

    • 5

      Brush your dog's teeth on a schedule recommended by your vet. Plaque and gingivitis can become health problems, but they are also a major cause of bad breath odor. Keep your dog's mouth clean and healthy, and you won't have to deal with the dreaded doggy breath syndrome.