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dog owner hugging the pets

Is your furry friend followed with a stench so bad you can’t ignore it? Is it bad to the point you’re exhausted, wondering “how can I get rid of dog smell?” Well, this article is here as your saving grace! 

At Fieldstone Animal Inn, we’ve catered to thousands of dogs and because of this, we’ve figured out the dos and don'ts of dealing with dog odor. And today, we’re sharing that wisdom with you. But before you get to tips on how to get rid of dog smell, let’s explore why dogs smell in the first place!

Why do pet dogs smell?

Dog odors can sometimes feel like a mystery, but there are clear reasons why our furry friends might not always smell like roses. Let’s break down the 3 main reasons why your dog smells bad

Natural causes

Dogs naturally produce oils and secretions from their skin to keep their coat healthy. While these are essential for their skin’s health, they can build up and create an odor over time. Additionally, bacteria and yeast naturally found on their skin can also contribute to unpleasant smells, especially if they overgrow due to moisture or lack of grooming.

dog chasing a ball in the forest

Environmental factors

Dogs love to explore, and sometimes that means rolling around in smelly substances outside. Whether it’s grass, mud, or something unidentifiable, these activities can leave lingering smells. Wet dog smell is another common culprit, as moisture amplifies natural odors, especially after baths or rainy walks.

Potential health concerns

Persistent odors may signal an underlying health issue. Skin infections, ear infections, or dental problems can all produce strong smells. Additionally, a poor diet or digestive issues may lead to unpleasant body odors. If the smell persists despite cleaning and grooming, it’s best to consult your vet to rule out any health problems.

Now that you know the answer to “Why does my dog smell,” it’s time to find out how to get rid of dog smell!

How to get rid of dog smell immediately?

Does your home smell more like a kennel than a cozy retreat? There’s still hope! Here are some quick and effective ways to tackle that dog smell and bring freshness back to your space:

Target the source

The first step in fighting dog smell is to go straight to the source. Your dog’s bedding and toys can harbor odors over time, so start by giving them a good wash using pet-safe detergents. You should also clean your dog bowls frequently, just like you wash your own dishes!

Don’t forget the collar! It’s easy to overlook, but collars can trap dirt and odors, so make it a habit to clean them regularly. By keeping your dog’s belongings fresh, you can prevent lingering smells from spreading throughout your home.

Quick cleaning of surfaces

Sometimes, the smell doesn’t just come from your dog. It can seep into your floors, carpets, and furniture. Tackle stains and accidents with enzymatic cleaners, which are specifically designed to break down urine and organic matter. 

floor cleaning with dog playing on the laminate

These cleaners don’t just mask odors, they eliminate them at the source. Follow up with a thorough vacuuming session to remove hair and dander, then mop hard surfaces to keep them spotless. A clean home is a fresh-smelling home, and regular maintenance can make all the difference.

Ventilate your space

Fresh air is your best friend when it comes to banishing odors. Open your windows and doors to let the air circulate and push out any lingering smells. If that’s not enough, bring in reinforcements! Fans and air purifiers can help improve air quality and keep the space smelling clean. 

open window for ventilation

For an added boost, consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters to trap pet dander and airborne particles effectively.

Address your dog

Sometimes, the issue of dog smell can be from the dog itself.  In those cases, you’ll have to address the root issues. A quick grooming session can work wonders. Start by wiping them down with pet-safe wipes or a damp towel to remove dirt and oils from their fur. 

soapy dog bath in Fieldstone Animal Inn

Follow up with a gentle brushing session to get rid of loose hair and debris. Keep your dog clean and well-groomed to reduce odors at the source and watch that dog smell disappear.

What are other natural ways to remove dog smell?

Looking for natural solutions to minimizing dog smell? If you’ve been wondering “how to get rid of dog smell,” here are some alternative solutions to try out: 

Use baking soda and vinegar

Baking soda is your secret weapon against odors. Sprinkle it generously on carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture, let it sit for at least 15–20 minutes to absorb smells, and then vacuum it up for a quick refresh. For hard surfaces, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. 

This dynamic duo works wonders to neutralize lingering smells, leaving your home fresh and clean. Vinegar’s natural acidity cuts through stubborn odors, while baking soda absorbs and neutralizes them. Just make sure to test any surface first to avoid damage.

Use natural air purifiers

Why not let nature do the work for you? Place activated charcoal or coffee grounds in open containers around your home to soak up odors like magic. These natural deodorizers work continuously to absorb and trap unwanted smells. 

For an extra boost, add air-purifying plants like spider plants, peace lilies, or Boston ferns. These beauties not only brighten up your space but also improve air quality and help keep it smelling crisp and clean. Plus, they’re easy to maintain and pet-friendly.

Create natural air fresheners

Say goodbye to artificial sprays and hello to homemade freshness. Mix a few drops of lavender or chamomile essential oil with water in a spray bottle and mist the air for an instant pick-me-up. These calming scents can also help create a relaxing atmosphere for you and your dog. 

Just remember to steer clear of oils like tea tree or eucalyptus, which can be harmful to pets. You can also make scented sachets using dried herbs and flowers to keep rooms smelling pleasant without any chemicals.

Ensure regular dog grooming

Your dog’s hygiene is just as important as your home’s! Bathe them regularly with natural, odor-neutralizing shampoos to keep their coat smelling clean and fresh. For dogs that are prone to dry skin, use moisturizing shampoos to avoid irritation. 

dog relaxing during a grooming session

Don’t forget their oral hygiene too! Vet-approved dental products can help tackle bad breath and keep their mouth healthy. Regular brushing and dental chews go a long way in keeping odors at bay. A well-groomed dog means a fresher home and a happier you.

Use a pet-safe deodorizer

For an extra layer of freshness, try using a pet-safe deodorizer specifically designed to neutralize pet odors without any harmful chemicals. Spray it on carpets, furniture, or directly in the air to keep your home smelling clean and inviting. 

Make sure the deodorizer you choose is non-toxic and free of harsh ingredients to ensure it’s safe for your furry friend. This simple addition to your cleaning routine can make a big difference in maintaining a fresh environment.

FAQs

How often should I bathe my dog to reduce smell?

Dogs need to be bathed once every 2–3 months to keep them smell-free. However, the type of dog breed and coat impacts how often you’ll need to bathe your puppy. For instance, dogs with oily coats and longer hair will need to be bathed more frequently than dogs with short hair. Plus, if your dog stays indoors for the most part, you won’t have to bathe them as often!

Why does my dog still smell after a bath?

If you’ve given your dog a thorough bath and still notice an odor creeping up, there might be an underlying issue. They might have a bladder or skin infection that is causing a fishy smell. Excessive earwax and ear infections also cause a noticeable smell. 

Some dogs might smell because they have dental issues, and this can be solved by regularly brushing their teeth. However, in some cases, your dog smells bad because of an anal sac issue too!

Can essential oils harm my dog?

Most essential oils are harmful and toxic to dogs and should be clearly avoided around them. Essential oils of tea tree, wintergreen, ylang-ylang, pine, sweet birch, cinnamon, peppermint, pennyroyal, and citrus are poisonous and toxic to dogs. If you have a dog around, make sure essential oils are out of the picture. 

What is the best type of cleaner for pet accidents?

Enzyme-based cleaners are the best type of cleaners for pet accidents. These enzymes mimic the natural process of breaking down accidents organically, eliminating the stain and odor entirely. Plus, they’re completely safe for a variety of surfaces like carpets, mattresses, hard floors, upholstery, and more. 

How can diet affect my dog’s smell?

If you’re wondering why you have a smelly dog, it might be because of the diet! Poor and unbalanced diet can disrupt your dog’s digestive system and cause gut problems, skin allergies, as well as yeast infections. All of these cause foul odors in dogs and can be the reason behind the dog smell you’re facing. 

What scent gets rid of dog smell?

Many scents can mask poor dog smell. The most popular choices to mask these types of odors are vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. While the former two are safe to be used around dogs, essential oils are poisonous and toxic to dogs and should only be used in areas where dogs have no access. You can also use charcoal briquettes in a room or fabric fresheners on fabric-based surfaces!

Conclusion

Bad odor can follow dogs around like a nightmare, making it hard to enjoy their company. But if your dog has been smelling awful lately, there can be many underlying factors to consider. Once you figure out the why, it’s easier to know how to get rid of dog smell. In this blog, we’ve tackled multiple ways you can identify where the smell is coming from and how to treat it by yourself. 

Still finding it tough to get rid of poor dog smell on your own? Come say hi at Fieldstone Animal Inn and treat your fuzzy friend to a professional and proper bath. Our expert groomers make sure your puppy comes out as clean as a whistle!


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A Boutique Pet Care Experience
Fieldstone has been outstanding in all capacities since we started bringing our husky pup, Scout here last fall. Their personal attention to both our pup and our family has been unmatched.
Jen Ewing Fox.
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Conveniently located in Anne Arundel county near BWI airport.
Location 174 Obrecht Road Millersville, MD 21108
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