We all love our dogs but don't always love how they smell or make our homes smell. Short of getting rid of our pets or placing them in an outdoor space, there are some things that you can do to mitigate the smells that can be present in our homes.
Understanding why dogs smell the way they do, due to the natural oil on their skin, can empower pet owners. While people can shower more often than our dogs, these oils can build up and transfer to fabrics. However, a healthy animal's odor can be managed with regular grooming and a reasonable bathing ritual. If you've been following these schedules and your dog still has a strong odor, it's a sign to consult a vet to rule out any skin or dental infection.
Once you have eliminated a medical issue contributing to the smell, you can try simple solutions to improve your home experience. These solutions can range in price, so depending on how much you want to invest, you can start small and see what works for you.
One of the simple steps you can take to help with the smell is to keep a strict cleaning schedule. Vacuum the dog bed once a week and every couple of weeks. Dog beds and any chair or sofa covers should be washed to protect your furniture. Keeping your floors clean will help as well. Depending on the type of dog you have and their specific shedding type you should vacuum accordingly. Hardwood, tile, and vinyl floors should be cleaned with hot water and a pet-friendly cleaning solution. Baking soda is a natural odor eliminator and can be used around your pets safely, so it would be a helpful solution.
Odor elimination can be handled in some other ways as well. Air purifiers can be helpful, but because of the amount that the smell can permeate, you typically would require a pretty high-end model, so unless you want to spend the money, you may want to consider some odor-eliminating gels that contain some natural extracts that can help neutralize the smell. Put these containers of odor neutralizers around the home to help remove the smell of the dog. These can work much better than masking the smell with candles or potpourri since they can remove the scent, not cover it up.
Living with a dog, a member of your family comes with its challenges. However, committing to a proper cleaning regimen is a responsible step towards ensuring your pet's well-being and a pleasant living environment. We love our dogs and with the right care, we can certainly love living with them. If you're interested in adopting a dog or cat, consider visiting the Hot Springs Village Animal Welfare League.
