How to Reduce Dog Smell

Dogs have many terrific qualities, but they also have some characteristics that you might prefer to do without. Any dog owner can imagine the familiar scent of dog odor, and some owners are more repelled by it than others. Dogs secrete a natural odor just like any mammal, but with a bit of work, you can greatly reduce the presence of this odor inside your house and even on the dog itself.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog shampoo
  • Grooming scissors
  • Dog brush
  • Baking soda
  • Pet deodorizer
  • Air freshener
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Vacuum hose extension
  • Fans
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Canine cologne
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Instructions

    • 1

      Bathe your dog to remove odor. Bathe large dogs in a bathtub, and bathe small dogs in a tub or sink. Fill your tub or sink with water until it reaches approximately half the height of your dog, place the dog gently in the tub, and use the water to dampen the entire coat. Lather the fur with a deodorizing dog shampoo and rinse.

    • 2

      Groom your dog regularly. Not all breeds require routine fur clipping, but many, like the English sheepdog, the bearded collie, and most terriers, must be trimmed as often as once a month to prevent matting and excess fur accumulation. If you allow fur to grow out of control, it will increase the amount of odor as the dog sheds throughout your home and retains moisture. Trim excess fur with dog grooming scissors, or bring your dog to a trained dog groomer for a professional job. Brush your dog each day.

    • 3

      Sprinkle baking soda along your carpet and upholstery, allow it to remain for 15 minutes, and vacuum. Use a thin hose extension when vacuuming upholstery. Baking soda absorbs odors, and therefore can prove very effective in removing any unpleasant scents left behind by your dog. For excess odor, use a pet deodorizing powder enriched with baking soda. You can find these at pet supply stores. Spray air freshener to further improve the smell of your home.

    • 4

      Improve your air circulation. By opening your windows and turning on fans, you can dramatically reduce dog odor by drawing stray fur, skin particles, and moisture outdoors. Situate fans in areas where your dog spends the most time, such as near furniture.

    • 5

      Clean your home regularly. If you allow your home to become overrun with shed fur, the odors will persist. By vacuuming your carpet and furniture regularly, sweeping and polishing your hardwood floors, and wiping down household surfaces with clean cloths and disinfectant sprays, you eliminate much of the odor's source.

    • 6

      Apply a canine cologne to your dog's fur. Sometimes marketed as fragrance spray, a canine cologne can keep your dog smelling fresh throughout the day. Some pet supply stores also sell deodorizing wipes, which you can rub gently along the dog's fur to eliminate unpleasant odors.