When dog smell is unpleasant: baking soda helps

Like all animals, dogs have a distinctive smell. In the case of pets kept in the home, this can be disturbing for many owners, as furniture and clothes can easily pick up the smell from the four-legged friend. What are the remedies and which ones should you use?

The dog smells like a dog. There’s nothing wrong with that, although no one likes the characteristic wet dog smell after a heavy rain. But what do you do if it’s not just you who’s bothered, but the people around you? Obviously, it’s not the dog’s fault, and you’re not keen to blame your four-legged friend. Although some people don’t even notice it, in some cases there is nothing you can do, you have to fight back. Fortunately, with a little research, the problem can be remedied.

The smell of dogs

Just like in humans, the smell of a dog is linked to sweating. Although they get rid of excess heat through their pads and nose, they can also sweat to some extent through their fur-covered skin. The latter has a unique chemical scent. It is also a natural phenomenon that the skin of the animal produces oil, which also has a characteristic odour. In addition, the secretion of the scent gland has a specific combination of odours, which is different for each animal. Although to the owner all the sheep ‘smell’ alike, they smell differently to each of their breed mates. As they move around, they pick up a lot of micro-organisms with their feet, which, when mixed with sweat, are said to smell like popcorn. Interestingly, the chick chick does not have a typical doggy smell – although this latter phenomenon is not a big hit with its breedmates.

What to do?

There are a few home remedies and easy ways to get rid of unwanted odours!

Use these: vinegar and baking soda

There is a reason why these products are used in chemical-free households, as they are very good at neutralising odours. Once you have thoroughly and methodically cleaned all furniture and fixtures, it is a good idea to wipe smooth surfaces (such as floors) with a mixture of vinegar and water. Vinegar is a wonderful deodoriser, but it should be used with care as vinegar also has a strong smell.

Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda on the sofa, armchair, chair, in short, anywhere you can smell unwanted odours. Then let it sit for a few hours to work its magic. Finally, vacuum the treated surfaces.

Bathing and cleaning

If it is already justified and necessary to bathe the dog, wash it with a special shampoo. Nowadays, there are veterinary preparations that have an odour-removing effect, so they can be handy. But it is worth consulting a doctor before using these to make sure you choose the right one.

It should also be remembered that it is not advisable to bathe your pet too frequently, as this may reduce the skin’s resistance. Instead, make sure you groom the coat regularly and keep the ears and eyes clean. If necessary, take her to a beautician or ask for advice.

Wash or change the bed

It is good to know that the dog’s bedding can also be the main source of the smell. Make sure that blankets and pillows are washed at regular intervals. If the bed cannot be washed and repeated rinsing does not work, it is worth replacing the bed with a new one. Your pet might be happy about that too. Wash or wipe your toys if necessary!

Odour removers available in stores

There are natural-based odour-removing and odour-eliminating sprays, water-soluble powders, powders, sachets that can effectively remove unpleasant odours from anywhere in the home. Their advantage is that they are easy to use and can be quick solutions for everyday life. On the downside, some ingredients may irritate your dog’s olfactory system, so be sure to check the ingredients.

Regular cleaning

Although cliché, it is worth cleaning as often as possible to reduce the odour. Set aside days to mop and vacuum, so that cleanliness is effectively maintained. Use environmentally and pet-friendly cleaning products and get as much ventilation as possible.