how to get rid of dog stink

No matter how much we love our dogs, there’s no denying that they can sometimes smell... less than lovely. Whether it’s a lingering musty odour, that classic “wet dog” smell, or something stronger, dog stink can make your home and your pet feel a little less fresh than you’d like. The good news is that with a few consistent habits and the right approach, you can get rid of dog stink and keep it under control.

Start With the Dog

The first place to tackle dog odour is on your dog themselves. Many smells come from a build-up of oils, dirt, saliva, and bacteria on their skin and coat. Regular grooming is key—even for short-haired breeds. A proper bath with a dog-specific shampoo helps remove odours without irritating their skin. Human shampoos or heavily fragranced products can actually make the smell worse or cause skin problems, so always use a product made for dogs.

If your dog still smells shortly after a bath, or the smell comes from their ears, skin folds, or mouth, it could point to a health issue like an ear infection, skin condition, or dental disease. If the stink is persistent or foul, it’s best to have them checked by your vet.

Keep Bedding and Toys Clean

Even the cleanest dog can start to smell again if they’re sleeping on dirty bedding. Wash your dog’s bed, blankets, and soft toys regularly—ideally once a week or at least every two weeks. Use a pet-safe detergent and let everything dry thoroughly before putting it back. Odour can cling to damp fabrics, and that musty smell can quickly spread through your home.

It’s also worth wiping down hard toys and disinfecting food and water bowls frequently, as bacteria and drool can collect there too.

Brush and Wipe Down Often

Brushing your dog helps remove loose fur, dirt, and dander that can trap smells. For dogs with oily coats or those who love a muddy walk, a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth or dog grooming wipe after outdoor play can go a long way in preventing odour build-up between baths.

Don’t forget to check their paws—especially after rainy walks. Mud and moisture caught between their toes can become smelly if left unchecked.

Clean Your Home With Dogs in Mind

No matter how clean your dog is, if your house traps smells, you’ll still notice it. Vacuum often to remove fur and dander from carpets and furniture. Use a hoover with a HEPA filter if possible, and consider steam-cleaning rugs and soft furnishings every few months.

You can also sprinkle bicarbonate of soda on carpets before hoovering—it naturally absorbs odours. For hard floors, a pet-safe floor cleaner will help keep surfaces fresh without harsh chemicals.

Avoid covering up smells with strong air fresheners or sprays, which can irritate your dog’s nose. Instead, focus on eliminating the source.

Watch Their Diet and Health

Sometimes, bad smells come from the inside out. Poor diet, digestive issues or allergies can affect your dog’s skin, coat, and breath. Make sure they’re eating a high-quality, balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and staying up to date with dental care.

Brushing your dog’s teeth a few times a week and offering dental chews can help with bad breath, which is often part of the "doggy smell" many owners want to get rid of.

Not All Dog Smells Are “Normal”

A bit of doggy odour is expected, especially after a muddy walk or a splash in the river. But some smells should raise a red flag. If your dog smells fishy, sour, metallic, or yeasty—even after bathing—it could signal an underlying health issue. Anal gland problems, yeast infections, dental decay, or ear infections can all produce distinctive smells.

If the stink is strong and localised (around the ears, mouth, skin folds, or rear), it’s a sign to get your vet involved.

Don’t Over-Bathe Your Dog

While it’s tempting to bathe a smelly dog often, too much washing can make odours worse. Over-bathing strips natural oils from the skin, causing dryness and sometimes triggering the body to produce more oil to compensate. That oil can smell strong and trap bacteria.

Most dogs only need a proper bath every 4–6 weeks, unless they get especially dirty. In between, focus on brushing, wiping down, and keeping bedding clean.

Watch for Damp Dog Smell

One of the most common complaints is that classic “wet dog smell”. This happens when water reacts with the natural oils and bacteria on your dog’s skin, releasing an earthy, musty odour. To reduce this, dry your dog thoroughly after baths or rainy walks—especially in colder weather. Use a clean towel and, if needed, a pet-safe blow dryer on a low setting.

Leaving your dog to air dry, especially indoors, can make that damp smell linger much longer.

Airflow Helps More Than Air Freshener

Instead of masking the smell with sprays or plug-ins, improve air circulation. Open windows daily, especially in rooms your dog spends time in. Use a fan or air purifier to help move and clean the air. A purifier with a carbon or HEPA filter can help reduce dander, hair, and pet odours naturally—especially in smaller or carpeted spaces.

Upholstery and Carpets Are Key Smell Traps

Even if your dog is squeaky clean, soft furnishings can hold odours for weeks. Sofas, rugs, car seats, and even curtains can trap that subtle “dog” smell. Using washable covers, regular vacuuming, and occasional steam cleaning can make a huge difference.

If your dog is allowed on the sofa or bed, layer washable throws or blankets over those areas so you can remove and wash them weekly. This is a much easier fix than trying to deodorise a full sofa or mattress.

Natural Deodorisers Can Help (But Be Careful)

Bicarbonate of soda is safe to use around dogs and great for neutralising odours in carpets. Let it sit for 20 minutes before hoovering. You can also mist dog beds or fabric surfaces with a light spray of diluted white vinegar and water—it neutralises smells and dries odour-free. Just make sure your dog isn’t around when spraying, and let everything dry fully before they lie on it.

Avoid using essential oils or strong-scented sprays, as some ingredients are toxic to dogs, even in small amounts.

Summary

To get rid of dog stink, start with regular grooming, keep bedding and toys clean, and make sure your home is fresh and well-ventilated. A clean dog in a clean space is far less likely to smell, and if your dog still stinks despite all your efforts, it could be time for a vet check to rule out underlying health issues. With a bit of consistency, you can enjoy all the love your dog brings—without the lingering smell.