Dog Owners Trade Tried And Tested Cleaning Hacks That Could Minimize Pet's Distinctive Scent And Lessen Complaints From Guests

A dog owner mops and vacuums daily but guests still complained of the pungent dog smell.

Chelsi

• Published in Animal Stories
• March 5, 2024

A dog's life may be too short, but its smell is everlasting. As a dog owner myself, I only understand too well the struggle of minimizing, not even eliminating, the ever-present eau de canine around the house.

Searching for the perfect odor eliminator is incredibly challenging. Homemade concoctions and professional-grade cleaners are nothing against a dog's lingering scent.

An otherwise clean home with the faint undercurrent of a dog's scent is something any dog owner learns to live with. It becomes unnoticeable eventually if enough time passes, but guests do not have that luxury.

Even the most dedicated dog owners would be bothered if several guests used the word pungent to describe their homes. Luckily, there are knowledgeable dog owners who are willing to share their tried and tested cleaning methods that keep their homes free of their pets' aromas.

They detailed their cleaning hacks after one pet owner couldn't get rid of their dog's scent despite the rigorous cleaning schedule they adhered to. The OP expected their house to smell clean after the daily vacuuming and mopping they subject it to.

The OP's dog also gets regularly bathed every three weeks, but its scent perfumed their house. Unwilling to let their house reek perpetually, the OP turned to wiser pet owners for advice, and here are some of the best answers.

OP, and other curious dog owners, would have to do a series of trial and error to see which proposed solution works for them.

A dog owner shared a sobering reminder that none of the suggestions could work. They tried every hack with their previous dog and nothing worked.

But before OP gives up on their house, they could try taking their pet to a professional dog groomer.

If OP has the budget, replacing their carpet and fabric furniture could also help.

Less frequent bathing and thorough drying of a dog's coat came highly recommended.

OP should also maintain the cleanliness of their dog's feeding area.

It's also worth looking into the dog's diet. A commenter said high-quality dog food, instead of dry kibble, made a world of difference for their pet.

OP could also look into investing in a quality air purifier, which worked for one dog owner.

Consulting their dog's vet wouldn't hurt in OP's case. They need to make sure that their dog's noticeable smell isn't from a health issue.

Dog owners need to thoroughly dry their dog after bathing, especially if it has an undercoat.

This can be done during the dog's regular vet check-up!

OP's house may be due for a deep clean done by professionals if regular cleaning isn't cutting it anymore.

If OP is looking for a cost-effective solution, then the remedy they are looking for could be in their cupboard.

Cleaning and grooming vary based on a dog's breed, age, health, and diet.

Sentimentally, OP should cherish their dog's scent because it will be gone before they know it.

Maintaining a clean home is paramount for your and your pet's safety and health. Positive feedback from guests is just a flattering bonus.

However, as some commenters explained, getting rid of your pet's lingering scent around the house 100% is a frustrating challenge. A hint of your pet's scent is a reasonable exchange for the joy they bring into our lives.

Chelsi