How to Remove Dog Odor

Dogs often emit an odor that can permeate the entire home. Something as simple as playing outside or not having been bathed in some time can be the cause. Or the odor could come from something more serious, such as an illness or infection. Whatever the case, you probably want to get rid of the dog smell.

Things You'll Need

  • Water
  • Dog shampoo
  • Towel
  • Rags
  • Mouthwash
  • Washing machine
  • Baking soda
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Steam cleaner
  • Vinegar
  • Bucket
  • Mop
  • Dryer sheets
  • Odor eliminating spray
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Instructions

    • 1

      Bathe your dog. Wash the animal thoroughly with warm water and a dog shampoo. Work the shampoo into your pet's fur with your hands. Rinse the dog well with plain water and dry it thoroughly with a towel.

    • 2

      Dampen a rag with mouthwash and rub it onto your dog's fur to further eliminate the odor. Rinse and dry the dog after the mouthwash has remained on the coat for a few minutes. Take care not to get the mouthwash into the dog's eyes, ears, nose or mouth.

    • 3

      Wash in the washing machine the dog's bedding, furniture slipcovers, blankets and any other machine washable items with which your dog comes into contact. Use the hottest water setting possible. Add the appropriate amount of laundry detergent, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Also add ¼ cup of baking soda to the wash cycle. Allow the bedding to dry completely.

    • 4

      Sprinkle baking soda onto carpets, furniture and upholstery. Allow the baking soda to set overnight. Vacuum the areas thoroughly the next day.

    • 5

      Steam clean non-washable items such as furniture, carpet and upholstery. If you do not own a steam cleaner, you can rent one at most rental stores. Add ¼ cup of vinegar to the steamer water before cleaning. Refer to the owner's manual of the steamer to make sure that it is safe to use products other than water in the steam cleaner.

    • 6

      Wash hard surfaces such as floors and baseboards with a vinegar and water solution. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and warm water in a bucket. Mop or wipe the hard surfaces with the solution.

    • 7

      Lay dryer sheets in your furniture and in inconspicuous areas around the house. The dryer sheets will help to absorb the dog odor. Place them under couch cushions, inside of pillowcases and under throw rugs. Change the dryer sheets monthly to maintain a fresh smell.

    • 8

      Spray an odor-eliminating product throughout the home. Spray furniture, bedding, pet bedding, upholstery and carpets. These sprays work well to neutralize dog odor.