Six Effective Ways to Keep Your House Smelling Fresh When You Have a Dog
- Guest blog from Deidre Holland, owner of The Happy Jack Co
Dogs are amazing companions, but they can also bring a few challenges to your home. One of the most common challenges is the odour that can come with having a furry friend in the house. Luckily, there are several ways to keep your home smelling fresh and clean, even when you have a dog. Here are some tips to help you keep your home smelling great.
- Wash Your Dog's Bedding Regularly
Your dog's bed is where they spend a lot of time, so it's essential to keep it clean. Wash your dog's bedding regularly to get rid of any smells or dirt. Use a detergent that is safe for dogs and avoid using fabric softeners that can irritate their skin. Dry the bedding thoroughly to prevent mould and mildew growth. You can also use spray deodorisers they contain no synthetic fragrances, are safe to be sprayed directly onto your dog, their bedding and in shared spaces such as your bedroom or car. Even better, the Saint Ernie dog beds are lined with waterproof PUV lining to reduce an accidents seeping into the pillows, therefore reducing smells and mould!
- Groom Your Dog Regularly
Regular grooming not only keeps your dog's coat shiny and healthy, but it also helps to control odours. Brush your dog's coat regularly to remove loose hair and dirt that can cause odours. Also, bathe your dog every few weeks using a mild dog shampoo. Avoid over bathing your dog because it can strip the natural oils from their skin and coat, leading to dryness and irritation. This can make your dog’s skin more prone to infections, which can lead to an unpleasant odour. Use a gentle dog shampoo, that does not strip the oils and contains no harmful synthetic fragrances. After bathing, make sure to dry your dog thoroughly to prevent the growth of bacteria and mould.
In addition to regular bathing, you can also keep your dog smelling fresh by brushing their coat regularly, cleaning their ears and teeth, and using pet-safe air fresheners in your home. By taking a holistic approach to your dog's hygiene, you can help to keep them healthy and smelling great.
If your dog has skin and paw irritations it can lead to constant licking and gnawing of the skin and paws, which may in turn lead to a yeast overgrowth with a very pungent cheesy/yeast smell. You can tackle these skin problems with natural skin and nose balms.
- Watch their diet
Dogs can smell as a result of eating certain foods because the food is metabolised and excreted through their skin and sweat glands, which can cause bad odours. The compounds produced during the metabolism of certain foods can have a strong odour. These compounds can make a dog's skin and coat smell less pleasant. In addition, the breakdown of fats and proteins in a dog's diet can also produce compounds that have a strong odour. In some cases, digestive issues can also contribute to an unpleasant odour in dogs. If a dog is experiencing digestive issues, it's important to address the underlying cause and make dietary changes if necessary. Feeding your dog a balanced, nutritious diet can help keep their skin and coat healthy and minimize any unpleasant odours.
- Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can help to absorb odours in your home. Sprinkle baking soda on your carpets, rugs, and furniture and let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming it up. You can also mix baking soda with water and to create a paste and use it to clean your dog's toys and other items.
- Use Scented Candles or Essential Oils
Scented candles or essential oils can help to mask odours in your home. Choose a scent that you like and use it to freshen up your home. Be sure to choose a high-quality candle or essential oil that is safe for pets. Pet sprays that contain essential oils are another easy solution. Avoid air commercial air purifies that contain synthetic fragrances as the strong scents can irritate their noses and lungs. Some chemicals commonly found in synthetic fragrances, such as phthalates, have been linked to endocrine disruption in humans and animals. Endocrine disruption can interfere with the normal functioning of the endocrine system, which is responsible for regulating hormones in the body.
- Open the Windows
Fresh air is one of the easiest ways to freshen up your home. Open the windows for a few hours each day to let in fresh air and circulate it throughout your home. This will help to reduce any odours and keep your home smelling fresh.
In conclusion, having a dog doesn't mean your home has to smell like one. By following these tips, you can keep your home smelling fresh and clean, even when you have a furry friend. Regular grooming, watching their diet, using air essential oils, and freshening up your home with baking soda or scented candles are just a few ways to keep your home smelling great.
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