Dogs are great. They love you unconditionally, entertain you constantly, and provide a sense of companionship that’s hard to beat. They also…smell. Despite being one of the best parts of having a canine around, that “doggy odor” can quickly seep into carpets, furniture, and the air. Before you know it, your home doesn’t smell fresh at all.
Fortunately, a few easy habits and natural ingredients are all you need to fight odors and keep your house smelling fresh—even with dogs!
1. Know Where Dog Odors Originate
There’s nothing worse than not knowing what’s causing a smell. Odors can be tricky to pinpoint, but understanding why homes with dogs smell can help you solve the problem.
Where Do Dog Smells Come From?
Dog smells come from several sources:
-
Dog fur and skin oils
-
Accidents indoors (even well-trained dogs have accidents from time to time!)
-
Freshly bathed, wet fur
-
Dog toys, beds, and blankets
-
Dog breath and saliva
Kisses are cute, but when your pup licks your face—or your couch, pillows, blankets, or clothes—they’re transferring odors to surfaces all over your home.
2. Create a Daily Cleaning Schedule
As with any odor problem, you’ll never achieve a fresh-smelling home if your house isn’t clean. Focus on areas that dogs frequent and where hair, dander, and dirt tend to accumulate.
Here’s what to include in your cleaning schedule:
a. Vacuum and Sweep Frequently
Dog hair and dander can quickly cover floors, carpets, rugs, and furniture. Vacuum at least twice a week—or every other day for homes with multiple dogs—to remove hair and trapped odors. If your vacuum has a HEPA filter, it will also trap tiny particles of dander that can cause smells.
b. Wash Blankets and Bedding
Couch blankets, dog beds, and pillows should be washed regularly to prevent oils, dirt, and odor buildup. Use hot water and pet-safe detergent at least once a week.
c. Mop Hard Flooring
Wood floors, tile, and laminate should be mopped regularly. Choose a mild cleaner or use a natural solution like white vinegar and water.
d. Deep Clean Upholstery
Dog fur, dander, and moisture from wet fur can cling to fabric furniture. Sprinkle baking soda liberally on couches and chairs, wait 15–30 minutes, then vacuum it up. Baking soda naturally absorbs odors and is safe for pets.
3. Keep Your Dogs Clean
One of the best ways to prevent odors in your home is to keep your dogs smelling fresh! This doesn’t mean bathing your dog every other day—bathing too frequently can dry out their skin.
Instead, bathe your dogs as needed. As a general rule:
-
Short-haired dogs: every 4–6 weeks
-
Long-haired dogs: every 3–4 weeks
-
Dogs that swim or play outside often may need more frequent baths
Always use dog-friendly shampoo—human shampoos can irritate your dog’s skin and cause more odors. Be sure to dry your dogs thoroughly after baths and outdoor play, as damp fur can cause musty smells.
Pro Tip: Wipe your dog’s paws with a soft towel after walks or outdoor playtime. They can bring in dirt, wet leaves, rainwater, and other outdoor smells that linger on your floors.
4. Use Natural Fresheners
Avoid chemical air fresheners whenever possible and opt for natural solutions instead. These options tackle the source of odors without masking them, and they’re safe for your pups to breathe!
Try these ideas:
-
Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, rugs, and pet beds.
-
Mix equal parts water and white vinegar for a spray.
-
Use activated charcoal to absorb odors.
-
Use natural, pet-safe essential oils sparingly.
5. Allow Your Home to Breathe
Airflow works wonders for getting rid of stale, musty odors. Whenever possible, open your windows for even a few minutes each day to let fresh air circulate.
6. Pay Attention to High-Risk Areas
Some areas in your home are more prone to odors because dogs spend more time there. Pay extra attention when cleaning:
-
Entryways and mudrooms
-
Carpets and rugs
-
Dog beds and furniture they sleep on
-
Dog toys and food/water bowls
7. Stop Doggy Odors at the Source
To truly eliminate odors, tackle them where they originate:
-
Dog accidents: Clean urine or feces immediately with an enzymatic cleaner. These cleaners break down odor-causing compounds rather than just covering them up.
-
Wet fur: Always dry your dog after baths and outdoor play.
-
Anal glands: Dogs may occasionally release a distinct smell from their anal glands. Regular veterinary care can help prevent this.
8. Run Air Purifiers and Add Scent Boosters
Air purifiers trap allergens like hair and dander, helping reduce odors. Run them daily if possible. You can also use pet-safe air fresheners, essential oil diffusers, or potpourri. Avoid harmful oils such as tea tree or pennyroyal.
9. Invest in a Dehumidifier
Basements, bathrooms, and rooms where dogs spend a lot of time can become musty. Damp environments attract bacteria and mold, which cause odors. A dehumidifier reduces moisture in the air, keeping your home fresher.
10. Train Your Dogs (A Little)
Training your dogs to stay in certain areas or follow basic commands can help maintain a fresh home. Some helpful tips:
-
Keep dogs off furniture
-
Encourage dogs to sleep in their own beds
-
Keep dogs out of bedrooms at night
-
Clean dogs’ paws before entering the house
-
Train dogs to wait at the door until paws are wiped
-
Keep dogs off countertops
Training doesn’t mean your dogs aren’t welcome—it just helps control where odors are likely to accumulate.
11. Keep Dogs Healthy
Healthy dogs smell better. Dogs with skin infections, dental issues, or digestive problems may produce odors that linger in your home. Ensure your dogs eat a balanced diet, visit the vet regularly, and brush their teeth often.
12. Store Dog Supplies Properly
Leashes, harnesses, coats, and boots can hold odors and transfer them to your home. Store supplies in sealed bins or odor-proof bags. Wash blankets and covers regularly.
13. Daily Odor Maintenance
Even a few minutes a day can make a huge difference:
-
Wipe down surfaces your dogs use frequently
-
Use natural air fresheners or activated charcoal bags
-
Vacuum, sweep, or mop floors
-
Give your dog a quick towel wipe-down
Consistent daily maintenance prevents smells from building up and makes deep cleaning easier.
Wrapping It Up
It’s entirely possible to live with dogs and maintain a clean, fresh-smelling home. Prevent odors by keeping your pups clean, washing bedding regularly, and using natural ingredients to tackle smells at the source. Pay attention to high-traffic areas and maintain a daily cleaning routine.
No dog odor is permanent. With the right habits, your home can stay fresh and inviting—even with dogs around!
Save pin for later
- Why Cats Avoid Eye Contact - January 31, 2026
- How to Stop Cats From Climbing Where They Shouldn’t - January 31, 2026
- Why Dogs Get Hyper at Night - January 31, 2026