Quick answer: To remove dog smell from your home, wash bedding and toys regularly, clean floors and soft furnishings, and let fresh air in every day. Dog friendly candles and room sprays can then finish the job, but they work best once the source of the smell is dealt with.
Find the source first
Scented products only cover up odour, so start by finding where it comes from. The usual suspects are:
- Dog beds, blankets and car seat covers
- Toys, especially soft ones and snuffle toys
- Rugs, carpet and the spot by the door where wet paws land
- The couch, if your dog is allowed up
- Your dog's own coat, ears and teeth
A strong smell from your dog that does not go away after a bath is worth mentioning to your vet. It can be a sign that something needs a closer look.
Wash bedding and toys
Bedding holds more odour than almost anything else in the house. Many owners wash dog beds and blankets weekly, using a fragrance free detergent and a hot enough cycle for the fabric. Dry bedding fully, ideally in the sun.
Toys collect saliva and dirt, so give them a regular wash too. Our guide on how often to wash dog toys has a simple schedule for every material.
Clean floors and soft furnishings
- Vacuum often. Hair carries odour, so go over floors, rugs and sofas a few times a week.
- Mop hard floors. Use a pet safe floor cleaner and check the label before use around dogs.
- Use washable throws. A blanket on the couch is far easier to wash than the couch.
- Clean the doormat. Wipe paws at the door and wash the mat regularly.
Let the fresh air in
Open windows on opposite sides of the house for a cross breeze, even for ten minutes. Air out bedding and cushions in the sun when you can. On hot days, keep your dog cool and comfortable while you do this. See keeping dogs safe in Australian summer heat.
Candles and room sprays for homes with dogs
Once the house is clean, a lovely scent makes it feel fresh. Barke. Collection is an official Australian stockist of Bug and Bun, whose range is designed for homes with dogs.
- Mondame11 Soy Candle (vanilla, fruit and floral) is $28.95 for 210g.
- Voyager Soy Candle (sea salt, citrus and acqua) is also $28.95 for 210g, for a fresher, coastal feel.
- Mondame11 Room and Linen Spray is $35.95, handy for a quick refresh of cushions and curtains.
- Fleur Room and Linen Spray (sweet, musky and floral) is $45.95.
Using scented products safely
- Never leave a candle burning unattended, and place it well out of reach of tails, paws and noses.
- Make sure your dog can leave the room if they do not like a scent.
- Keep rooms ventilated, and stop using a product if your dog sneezes, coughs or seems unsettled.
- Check with your vet before using scented products if your dog has breathing issues or sensitivities.
You can browse the whole Bug and Bun collection. For the dog itself, see how often to bathe your dog in Australia.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I wash my dog's bed?
Many owners wash it weekly. Dry it fully in the sun if possible, and have a spare bed so there is always a fresh one.
Are candles safe around dogs?
Used sensibly, yes, but keep flames well out of reach, never leave them burning unattended and ventilate the room. Ask your vet if your dog has any breathing concerns.
Why does my dog still smell after a bath?
Damp bedding, a dirty coat after drying or a health issue can all play a part. If the smell keeps coming back, mention it to your vet.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice.
