How to Get Rid of Dog Smell: 12 Tips Every Pet Owner Needs to Know

How To Get Rid of Dog Smell: Key Points

• Dog odor usually comes from a mix of natural oils, bacteria, moisture, and sometimes underlying health issues
• Cleaning your home is just as important as cleaning your dog
• Consistent grooming is key to odor control
• Use natural deodorizers like baking soda, vinegar, sunlight, and DIY sprays

Introduction

If you’ve ever walked into your home and been hit with that familiar "dog smell," you’re not alone. Whether it’s clinging to your couch, trapped in your carpets, or wafting off your pup after a muddy walk, pet odor can be persistent. But knowing how to get rid of dog smell isn’t just about masking it—it’s about eliminating the source, both on your dog and in your home.

Here are 12 proven tips to help you banish dog odor for good—naturally, effectively, and without harsh chemicals!

Why Does My Dog Smell So Bad?

Before you can fix the problem, you first need to understand it! Dog smell isn’t just your dog “being a dog.” Rather, it’s usually caused by a combination of natural oils, poor hygiene, and/or underlying health issues.

1. Natural Oils, Dirt & Moisture

For starters, dogs naturally produce oils to protect their skin and coat. But when those oils mix with dirt, bacteria, or moisture (think: wet dog smell), they create a strong odor.

Some common culprits typically include:

• Humid weather or rainy walks;
• Dirty collars and unwashed bedding;
• Lack of regular brushing or grooming.

2. Skin & Ear Infections, Yeast, or Dental Issues

Have you ever wondered, Why does my dog smell so bad even after a bath? Well, the answer might be medical. Infections, especially yeast, often cause a musty or sour smell.

So, make sure you watch out for:

When in doubt, ALWAYS consult your vet. Sometimes, odor can be a symptom of something more serious—and not just a nuisance.

How to Get Rid of Dog Smell in the House

Even a squeaky-clean dog can leave behind lingering odors in your home. Luckily, these next tips will help refresh your living space and keep it that way.

3. Wash Pet Bedding and Toys Weekly

Your dog’s bed is often the smelliest item in the house. For this reason, we recommend washing it once a week using fragrance-free detergent. It would also be a good idea to toss hard plastic toys in the dishwasher for a deeper clean, too!

4. Clean Upholstery, Carpets & Floors

Fabrics and flooring absorb dog odors quickly. To combat this, use this simple 3-step routine:

✔️ STEP 1 - Baking soda: Sprinkle it over carpets, let sit for 15–30 minutes, then vacuum.

✔️ STEP 1 - Enzymatic cleaner: Breaks down odor-causing bacteria and organic stains.

✔️ STEP 3 - Vinegar-based floor solution: Mop with equal parts white vinegar and water for a natural deodorizer.

5. Open Windows and Purify the Air

Airflow matters! Let fresh air in daily and consider adding the following to your home:

• HEPA + carbon air purifiers (especially in shared spaces)
• HVAC filter replacements every 2–3 months
• Dehumidifiers if your home is damp (moisture = smell magnifier)

How to Get Rid of That “Dog Smell” on Your Dog

To eliminate odors, start at the source—your pup! Regular hygiene is key, but it has to be done correctly. So, make sure to keep these next tips in mind…

6. Bathe with the Right Shampoo (But Not Too Often)

More baths aren’t always better. Overbathing can actually dry your dog’s skin. In turn, this will make the odor worse.

Instead:

• Use a natural deodorizing shampoo 1–2x/month.
• Avoid artificial fragrances that can irritate skin.
• Always dry your dog thoroughly (especially in skin folds).

7. Check Your Dog’s Anal Glands

Wondering how to get rid of that fishy smell from your dog? That distinct odor is often a sign that their anal glands are full or irritated, which is more common than most pet parents realize. Addressing the issue promptly can help eliminate the smell and keep your dog more comfortable. If you’re not sure whether your dog’s anal glands are the culprit, here are a few signs to watch for:

• Scooting or dragging their rear across the floor;
• Excessive licking or biting at their backside;
• A sudden, strong fishy odor near the tail;
• Swelling, redness, or discomfort when sitting.

Anal glands can easily become impacted or infected if left untreated. If you notice any of these symptoms—or if you're unsure—contact your veterinarian. Trying to express your dog’s anal glands yourself (without proper training) can cause pain or injury. So, it's always best to let a professional assess and treat the issue.

8. Clean Ears, Wipe Paws, Brush Regularly

These often-overlooked areas are odor hotspots:

Keeping up with these simple routines can make a BIG difference in how your dog smells day-to-day! After all, clean ears help prevent yeast buildup, wiped paws reduce tracked-in grime, and regular brushing keeps your dog’s coat healthier and less prone to holding odors. By staying consistent with these small habits, you’ll tackle odor at the source and keep your pup feeling fresh between baths + full grooms.

How to Get Rid of Dog Smell Naturally

Natural deodorizers are safer for your dog—and your home. Here's how to use them effectively:

9. DIY Sprays, Baking Soda & Vinegar Tricks

Skip the harsh chemical sprays and try:

• DIY Deodorizer: Mix 1 cup water, 1 tbsp ACV, and 2–3 drops of dog-safe essential oil (like lavender).
• Baking soda: Works on carpets, couches, and even pet beds.
• Sunlight: UV rays kill bacteria—let beds or toys air out in direct sunlight whenever possible.

Best Products to Remove Dog Odor (and How to Use Them)

If DIY isn’t cutting it (or simply not your cup of tea), these pro-recommended products will take your odor control to the next level!

10. Odor-Neutralizing Shampoos & Sprays

Look for formulas with oatmeal, aloe, and baking soda. Avoid masking sprays that only cover up the scent.

Recommended:

• Earthbath Deodorizing Shampoo
• Kin+Kind Natural Dog Odor Spray

11. Enzyme Cleaners for Surfaces

Perfect for dog pee, vomit, and general stink. These break down odor-causing proteins instead of covering them up.

Recommended:

• Rocco & Roxie Stain & Odor Eliminator
• Nature’s Miracle Advanced Formula

12. Air Purifiers with HEPA + Carbon Filters

These trap dander, allergens, and odor molecules.

Recommended:

• Levoit Core 300
• Filtrete Odor Reduction Filter
• Molekule Air Mini+

Final Thoughts: Clean Dog, Fresh Home

Dog smell is normal—but it doesn’t have to take over your home. From cleaning bedding to brushing your pup and using enzyme cleaners, these 15 strategies will help you eliminate odors at the source.

Master At-Home Grooming With Confidence

If you’re ready to take control of your dog’s hygiene and make odor prevention part of your regular routine, Paw Parent Academy can help. Our expert-led courses teach you how to groom your dog safely and effectively at home—saving you money, reducing stress, and keeping your pup healthier between professional visits. Whether you’re battling seasonal shedding or everyday stink, we’ll show you exactly what to do and how to do it, step by step.

How to Get Rid of Dog Smell FAQs

Why does my dog smell so bad?

Common causes include skin infections, oil build-up, dental disease, ear issues, anal glands, or dirty bedding.

Why does my dog still smell after a bath?

Lingering odor may result from improper rinsing, incomplete drying, or underlying infections like yeast or skin folds that trap moisture.

How to get rid of dog smell in the house fast?

Open windows, sprinkle baking soda on carpets, wash pet bedding, and use an enzymatic odor eliminator on soft surfaces.

How to get rid of dog gland smell?

Wipe your dog’s rear with grooming wipes and book a vet or groomer visit if expression is needed—fishy odor usually points to full glands.

How to get rid of a fishy smell from a dog?

A fishy odor often comes from full or infected anal glands—use wipes for temporary relief and consult your vet for treatment.

How to get rid of dog smell naturally?

Use baking soda, white vinegar, lemon juice, and fresh air—these neutralize odors without harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances.

What is the best homemade dog deodorizer?

A DIY spray made from water, apple cider vinegar, and dog-safe essential oils (like lavender) works great between baths.

How can I get rid of dog pee smell?

Use an enzymatic cleaner to break down the urine compounds—avoid ammonia-based cleaners, which can worsen the odor.