Remove dog smell

Many dog ​​owners are familiar with the problem: Their beloved four-legged friend not only brings joy into the home, but often also a persistent odor. The typical dog odor can become particularly intense after a walk in the rain, a romp in the woods, or after contact with other dogs. Not only the fur, but also the dog bed, sofa, carpet, or even the car can absorb the odor and retain it permanently. In this article, you'll learn how to effectively reduce dog odor – through proper grooming, cleaning, and simple household remedies.

Removing dog odor: causes and effective solutions

Dogs have a natural odor , the intensity of which varies depending on breed, age, and care. This odor can become stronger after a walk in the rain, playing in the woods, or interacting with other dogs. But sometimes there's more to it than that – skin problems, ear infections, or an unsuitable diet can cause unpleasant odors. The dog bed, furniture, or car can also absorb the odor and retain it for a long time.

The good news : Dog odor can be significantly reduced with the right measures. In addition to regular grooming and proper nutrition, cleaning textiles and living spaces also plays an important role. In this article, you'll learn the most common causes of strong dog odor and get practical tips for effectively eliminating it – from tried-and-tested household remedies to special care products.

Understanding the causes of dog odor

Not all dog odors are the same. While a slight odor is perfectly normal, a strong, persistent, or unpleasant odor can indicate a health problem. To effectively eliminate dog odor, it's important to understand the causes.

Natural odor vs. pathological odor

Dogs have a natural scent mark that helps them communicate with other dogs. This scent can become particularly strong after playing outdoors or in wet conditions, but is generally harmless. It becomes problematic when a dog smells unusually strong or even unpleasant. A foul, fishy, ​​or sweet smell can indicate infections, skin diseases, or other health problems.

Influence of diet on body odor

Diet has a major influence on a dog's odor. A high-quality, balanced diet contributes to healthy skin and coat and can reduce unpleasant odors. Too many artificial additives, low-quality proteins, or an intolerance to certain ingredients can, however, lead to an intensified body odor. Poor digestion, flatulence, or foul-smelling stools can also indicate poor nutrition.

Skin problems, infections and dental problems as possible causes

Persistent dog odor can also be caused by health problems . Skin infections, fungal infections, or allergies often lead to excess sebum or inflamed skin, which can produce an unpleasant odor. Dental problems such as tartar or gingivitis are also a common cause of bad breath. Ear infections, especially in dogs with long or droopy ears, can lead to a strong, often sour odor.

Remove dog smell from your dog

A well-groomed dog smells less intense. Proper grooming, regular cleaning, and targeted measures help reduce unpleasant odors directly on the dog.

Bathing properly: How often and with which shampoo?

Dogs should only be bathed when absolutely necessary , as over-washing can damage the skin's natural protective layer. Typically, a bath every four to eight weeks, or when the dog is particularly dirty, is sufficient. A mild, pH-neutral dog shampoo is essential to prevent the skin from drying out. Special odor-neutralizing shampoos—such as EnviWell's Chic Coat —also help remove stubborn odors.

Grooming and regular brushing as prevention

Regular brushing removes dead skin cells and dirt , preventing odors from developing in the first place. Long-haired dogs especially benefit from daily grooming, as dirt and moisture can otherwise quickly build up. Proper grooming supports a healthy coat change, which minimizes natural odors.

Remove dog smell from the apartment

Dogs not only leave behind hair, but also odors on furniture, carpets, and in the air. Targeted cleaning measures are necessary to create a permanently fresh environment.

Cleaning sofa, carpet and dog bed

Textiles such as sofa covers, carpets, and dog beds retain odors particularly strongly. Regular vacuuming and washing pillowcases or blankets in the washing machine with a pet-friendly detergent will help reduce unpleasant odors. Dog beds should be washed at least every two weeks or treated with special cleaning sprays.

A particularly effective solution is "Charakterstark ." This probiotic product uses highly dosed microorganisms to actively combat unpleasant odors such as pet odors, sweat, or musty textiles . It protects the natural microbiome, supports sustainable odor elimination, and can be used preventively to prevent unpleasant odors from occurring in the first place. "Charakterstark" is ideal for dog beds, blankets, carpets, car seats, and many other textiles that come into contact with dog odors.

Effective home remedies for odors

Natural household remedies such as baking soda, vinegar, or lemon juice are proven effective against dog odors. Baking soda can be sprinkled on carpets or upholstery and vacuumed after a few hours to neutralize odors. A mixture of water and apple cider vinegar is a natural fabric freshener. Lemon juice provides a fresh scent and can be diluted and used as a mild cleaning agent.

Remove dog smell from textiles and furniture

Dog odor is particularly ingrained in fabrics, so regular cleaning of textiles is crucial.

Clean washable dog blankets regularly

Blankets, pillows, and covers that come into contact with your dog should be washed at least once a week . Detergents with odor-neutralizing enzymes help remove stubborn odors.

Odor-neutralizing sprays and fragrances for furniture

Odor-neutralizing sprays are suitable for non-washable furniture items such as sofas or car seats. These neutralize odor particles instead of simply masking them. Fragrances with lavender or citrus fruits have an additional refreshing effect. Here, too, Charakterstark can offer a sustainable solution by actively combating odor-causing bacteria and providing long-lasting freshness.

Prevention: How to keep dog odor to a minimum

To reduce dog odor in the long term, it's important to focus not only on immediate cleaning and grooming, but also on preventative measures. Proper nutrition, dental care, and hygiene in the living area can reduce unpleasant odors to a minimum.

Healthy diet for a neutral smell

Diet not only affects your dog's health, but also their body odor. High-quality food with natural ingredients, no artificial additives, and a balanced ratio of protein and fat can help reduce your dog's strong odor. Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, support healthy skin and a shiny coat, which reduces sebum production and odor. Poor- quality food or an intolerance to certain ingredients, on the other hand, can lead to an unpleasant odor or digestive problems, which can also be noticeable. If your dog still smells strong despite proper grooming, it may be helpful to change their food or seek veterinary advice.

Regular dental care against bad breath

Bad breath is one of the most common odor problems in dogs and is often caused by tartar, gingivitis, or bacterial deposits . Regular dental care helps prevent unpleasant mouth odor. In addition to special dog toothbrushes and toothpastes, natural alternatives such as raw carrots or dental chews can also help keep teeth clean. Regular veterinary checkups are also important for early detection of dental problems.

Ventilate and regularly clean sleeping areas

Dog beds, blankets, and pillows are real odor reservoirs , as dander, sebum, and dirt get trapped in the fabric. To prevent persistent odors from developing, these textiles should be washed regularly. A washable dog bed or a removable cover makes cleaning easier. Household remedies like baking soda or special fabric fresheners also help neutralize odors. Regular ventilation also ensures fresh air in the living space and reduces the accumulation of pet odors. Those looking for a permanent solution can also use an air purifier with an activated carbon filter, which filters not only odors but also pet hair and dust from the air.