If you’ve ever walked into your home and been hit with that dog smell, you’re not alone. Pet odors are one of the most common complaints from homeowners, especially when preparing to sell or after moving into a house that had previous pets. The good news is that you don’t have to live with it. In this post, we’ll walk you through exactly how to get dog smell out of your house, fast.
Whether it’s mild or deeply set in, these tips will help freshen things up and keep your home feeling clean and comfortable.
Sniff Out the Real Problem First
Before you reach for the air freshener, take a minute to find where the odor is really coming from. Pet smells don’t just float in the air, they settle into fabrics, floors, and even HVAC systems.
Here’s where to check first:
- Carpets and rugs (especially near pet beds or crates)
- Couches, cushions, and curtains
- Baseboards or walls where dogs like to nap
- Air vents and filters, which can trap dander and smells
- Hard-to-reach areas like under furniture or near doorways
Many pet odors come from lingering bacteria, not just fur or dirt. According to the American Kennel Club, dog smells often come from oils in their skin and fur, which can rub off and stick to surfaces source.
Fast Fixes for Everyday Odors
If the smell is recent or mild, you might be able to freshen things up in a day. Here are a few go-to solutions:
- Baking soda + vacuum: Sprinkle baking soda on carpets or rugs and let it sit for 30 minutes before vacuuming. It absorbs odors naturally.
- Enzyme-based cleaners: These are made to break down organic matter—perfect for dog messes or soaked-in smells.
- Wash fabrics: Throw couch cushion covers, curtains, or dog bedding in the wash with a splash of white vinegar.
- Open windows: Letting in fresh air is one of the easiest (and cheapest) ways to clear out stuffy smells.
- Odor absorbers: Charcoal bags or open bowls of baking soda in corners of the room can help reduce lingering odors.
Deep Cleaning That Makes a Difference
Still noticing the smell? It may be deeper than the surface. At this point, regular cleaning might not be enough.
- Steam clean carpets and upholstery: Rent a steam cleaner or hire a pro to lift out embedded odors.
- Clean walls and baseboards: Pet oils can stick to painted surfaces. Use a gentle degreasing cleaner and wipe them down.
- Scrub pet areas: Anywhere your dog eats, sleeps, or relaxes deserves extra attention.
- Change air filters: Old filters can blow pet smells through your HVAC system long after you’ve cleaned the house.
And don’t forget vents—if the smell seems to be everywhere, it might be circulating through your ductwork.
Smells Fine to You? Guests Might Disagree
Over time, it’s easy to go “nose blind” to the way your own home smells. You might not even notice the odor anymore—but visitors definitely can.
Here are a few ways to check:
- Step outside for 10 minutes, then walk back in. You’ll notice strong smells more easily.
- Ask a friend or neighbor to do a quick “sniff test.”
- Pay attention to how air smells near vents, furniture, and pet zones.
This is especially important if you’re planning to rent or sell your home. In fact, strong pet odors are one of the top turn-offs for potential buyers, according to a Zillow housing survey source.
Keep the Odor From Coming Back
Once your house is fresh, don’t let the smell creep back in. Here’s how to stay ahead of it:
- Wash pet bedding weekly
- Vacuum with a HEPA filter—this helps trap hair, dander, and bacteria
- Groom your dog regularly, especially during shedding season
- Use washable rugs in high-traffic areas
- Designate “dog zones” to keep the smell from spreading through the whole house
Making odor prevention part of your regular cleaning routine saves you time (and frustration) in the long run.
Other Recommended Maintenance
Sometimes, pet odors point to deeper home issues. A few signs to watch for:
- Stained or warped floors from old accidents
- Cracked or discolored baseboards
- Musty smells that signal poor airflow or moisture buildup
These are issues that often come up during home inspections—especially when pets have lived in the home for years. Keeping up with simple maintenance like replacing air filters or inspecting crawl spaces can make a big difference.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried all the tricks and the smell still isn’t going away, it could be a sign of something more serious. Here’s when it’s time to bring in help:
- The odor seems to be coming from inside the walls or under flooring
- You notice moisture, mold, or damage in pet areas
- Vents and HVAC continue to circulate pet smells
- You’re planning to sell your home and want to make sure nothing will raise a red flag during an inspection
This is where Avalon Home Inspections can help. Our team knows how to spot hidden odor sources, moisture problems, and pet-related wear and tear that most homeowners miss.
A professional home inspection isn’t just for buying or selling—it’s the smart move if you want a clean, healthy home without the guesswork.
Conclusion
Your dog may be part of the family, but their smell doesn’t have to be. With the right cleaning strategies and smart maintenance, you can get dog or cat smell out of the house and feel fresh at home again.
Buying, selling, or not sure what’s causing that lingering odor? Schedule a home inspection with Avalon today. We’ll help you uncover hidden issues and give you a clear path forward—so you can breathe easy again.
