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10 Tips for Reducing Dog Odor in Your Home

by | Apr 28, 2025 | Dog Health & Wellness, Yard Maintenance & Cleanliness | 0 comments

Let’s be honest—dogs are amazing, but their smell? Not so much.
 You love your pup, but sometimes, no matter how much you clean, that unmistakable “doggy odor” lingers in your home.

Odors can become even harder to manage during busy seasons when your home sees more activity, guests, and indoor time with your dog. Taking steps to create a dog-friendly holiday home can help reduce messes and smells while keeping your space comfortable and welcoming.

From furniture to carpets, even your air can feel like it’s holding onto that not-so-fresh scent.
 So, what can you do to keep your home smelling clean while still letting your pup enjoy life indoors?

As a pet owner, I know firsthand how quickly odors can build up. Keeping your home fresh doesn’t mean getting rid of the things that make your dog happy—it’s about being proactive and using the right methods to control and eliminate odors at the source.
Some of these tips might be small changes, while others require a bit more effort, but together, they’ll make a huge difference in keeping your home smelling clean.

Here are 10 tried-and-true tips to banish dog odor and keep your home fresh!

1. Regularly Bathe Your Dog (But Not Too Often!)

Bathing your dog is one of the most effective ways to control odor, but overdoing it can strip their skin of natural oils, leading to dryness and even more odor problems. Aim for a bath every 4-6 weeks using a gentle, pet-safe shampoo designed to neutralize odors rather than just mask them. If your dog needs a freshen-up between baths, pet wipes or a dry shampoo for dogs can be a great alternative!

2. Brush Your Dog Frequently

Brushing isn’t just about preventing shedding—it also helps distribute your dog’s natural oils and removes dirt, debris, and odor-causing bacteria trapped in their fur. For short-haired breeds, a rubber grooming brush works well, while long-haired dogs benefit from regular detangling and de-shedding sessions. A quick daily brush can significantly cut down on that doggy smell.

3. Wash Your Dog’s Bedding Often

Dog beds, blankets, and even their favorite stuffed toys can trap odors over time. Make a habit of washing their bedding at least once a week in hot water with pet-safe detergent. For an extra odor-fighting boost, add white vinegar to the rinse cycle—it helps neutralize stubborn smells without harming your pup.

4. Keep Carpets and Rugs Clean

 Carpets and rugs absorb pet odors like a sponge. To keep them fresh: ✔️ Vacuum regularly (at least twice a week) with a vacuum designed for pet hair. ✔️ Use baking soda as a natural deodorizer—sprinkle it on, let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum it up. ✔️ Steam clean carpets every few months to remove deep-set pet odors and bacteria.

5. Wipe Down Paws After Walks

Dogs bring in dirt, bacteria, and who-knows-what-else from outside, which can contribute to that “dog smell” in your home. Keep a towel or pet-safe paw wipes by the door and give their paws a quick wipe-down before they track everything inside. Bonus: This also helps keep your floors cleaner!

6. Use an Air Purifier

Investing in a high-quality air purifier with a HEPA filter can do wonders for removing pet dander, hair, and odors from the air. Look for one that also includes activated carbon filters, which help neutralize pet smells rather than just recirculating them.

7. Freshen Up with Natural Odor Eliminators

Instead of masking pet odors with strong artificial sprays, try natural solutions: 🌿 Place bowls of baking soda or activated charcoal around the house to absorb odors. 🌿 Simmer a pot of water with lemon, cinnamon, or rosemary for a natural air freshener. 🌿 Use vinegar and water as a safe, non-toxic cleaning spray for pet areas.

8. Clean Your Dog’s Ears and Teeth

Dog odors don’t just come from their fur—ear infections and bad breath can also contribute! ✔️ Check and clean their ears weekly with a vet-approved solution to prevent infections. ✔️ Brush their teeth daily (or at least a few times a week) with dog-safe toothpaste. ✔️ Offer dental chews or water additives to help with fresh breath.

9. Maintain a Clean Litter-Free Yard

If you have a backyard, keeping it free of pet waste is essential for odor control. Regular scooping and waste removal services (like ours!) help prevent lingering smells from sneaking into your home—especially in warmer months when odors intensify.

💡 Pro Tip:

Sprinkling baking soda or using pet-friendly yard deodorizers can help neutralize odors in problem areas.

10. Schedule Regular Grooming & Vet Visits

Sometimes, persistent odors can be a sign of skin infections, allergies, or other health issues. If your dog still smells despite regular cleaning, a visit to the vet might be necessary. Routine grooming appointments help keep their coat clean, nails trimmed, and ears checked—ensuring your pup (and your home) stay as fresh as possible.

Key Takeaways

Keeping your home odor-free doesn’t have to be a losing battle. By maintaining a clean pup, freshening up their environment, and using simple, effective solutions, you can enjoy life with your dog without the lingering smells.Dog odors can be managed—and it all starts with regular cleaning habits and the right tools.

Request a free quote today to keep your yard tidy no matter how active your pup gets!

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