How to Get Dog Smell Out of Carpet: 8 Effective Tips and Tricks

As pet lovers, we all know that "distinct furry friend fragrance" that just won’t go away from the carpet. These persistent odors can permeate through the entire house, affecting the overall ambiance.But fear not! Before you consider throwing the rug away, let's refresh it with ease. 

In this blog, we'll explore 8 effective methods on how to get dog smell out of carpet. From homemade cleaning solutions to professional cleaners, we'll cover a range of practical techniques to remove these odors, as well as tips to prevent their recurrence. Let's get into it!

Why Dog Odors in Carpets

Carpets and rugs have a fiber structure which is easy to absorb dander, hair, oils, and liquids.Dog odors in carpets can originate from several sources:

• Pet Dander: When dogs shed, they can release tiny skin flakes called dander that get stuck in the carpet fibers over time, creating a musty pet smell.
• Urine: If accidents like urine aren't cleaned promptly and thoroughly, they can seep into the carpet pad, causing a persistent odor.
• Saliva: Dogs' saliva from licking or drooling can harbor bacteria that contribute to bad smells on carpets.
• Sweat: Though not as prolific sweaters as humans, dogs do sweat from their paws and hair follicles. This sweat can transfer to your carpets, especially in areas where your dog likes to lie down or rest.

The combination of these sources contributes to the distinctive "dog smell" that can permeate your home if not properly managed.

8 Effective Ways to Take Dog Odor out of Carpet

Eliminating dog odors from carpets requires a mix of quick action when accidents happen, regular maintenance, and targeted treatments. Below are proven strategies to freshen your carpets:

1.Immediate Actions when Accidents Happen

Why act fast? Urine begins penetrating carpet padding within 10 minutes. The longer it sits, the harder odor removal become. So, if your dog pees on your carpet, take measures immediately.

1. Use thick paper towels to blot the urine. Do not rub, just press it to absorb the liquid. This way is to minimize the damage and prevent it from spreading around.
2. Use an enzyme cleaner to spray the affected area. Enzyme cleaners can help break down the urine molecules. 
3. Then press a clean and absorbent towel onto the spot.
4. Do not use steam. High temperatures can solidify the proteins in urine, locking the odor in your carpet.
5. Place a fan over the area to accelerate drying and prevent mildew.

Pro Tip: Test cleaner on hidden area first to prevent discoloration.

2.Regular Vacuuming

Even without accidents, carpets can still hold on odors from pet dander, saliva, and dirt. Consistent vacuuming is key to defense against dog odors.

It removes pet hair, dander, and dirt before they have a chance to settle deeply into carpet fibers.

Vacuuming at least 2-3 times a week can significantly reduce odor buildup, especially in high-traffic areas and spots where your dog spends most of its time.

Choosing the powerful vacuum can significantly enhance your cleaning efforts. Boasting 8,000 Pa powerful suction, the HydroJet™ robot eufy S1 Pro can effortlessly remove embedded dust, pet dander from the carpet, and eliminate up to 99.99% of bacteria, providing superior disinfection results.

3.Baking Soda Treatment

Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that's safe for both pets and carpets. As one of the best ways to remove dog odor from carpet, it absorbs odors and moisture, leaving your carpets smelling fresh.

• For mild odors, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda directly on the carpet, let it sit for 2-3 hours, then vacuum it up thoroughly.
• For stronger odors, you can mix 1 cup baking soda with a few drops of lemongrass oil (antibacterial) safe for pets. Scrub into fibers with a brush or carpet rake. Let it sit overnight for maximum odor absorption and vacuum it up thoroughly the next day.
• Pro Tip: Avoid essential oils if your dog is prone to licking carpets. (e.g., tea tree oil is toxic to pets).

4.Vinegar Solution

Utilizing vinegar, specifically white vinegar, is another effective way on how to get dog smell out of carpet naturally. Its acidic nature breaks down odor-causing bacteria without leaving a residue.

• Combine 1 cup white vinegar and 1 cup water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the solution over the carpet (without soaking it), and let it air dry. The vinegar smell will dissipate as it dries, taking the dog odor with it.
• For set-in smells, after misting, gently brush the carpet with a soft brush to help the solution penetrate the fibers, then let it dry.
• Pro Tip: Never use on wool carpets, as vinegar's acidity can damage fibers.

5.Hydrogen Peroxide and Dish Soap

Hydrogen peroxide paired with mild dish soap can create a powerful oxidative cleaner that breaks down organic compounds and bacteria. Therefore, it is effective in eliminating deep-seated dog odors.

• Combine 1 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide and 1 teaspoon of fragrance-free dish soap in a spray bottle. Shake gently to avoid foaming. 
• Test on a hidden carpet area for discoloration.
• Then spray generously on stained areas, focusing on odor spots.
• Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then blot with a microfiber cloth.
• Rinse with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly with fans.

Pro Tip: For wool/silk carpets, use an enzyme cleaner instead.

6.Enzymatic Cleaners

When considering how to get dog urine smell out of carpet, pet-safe enzymatic cleaners are highly effective. 

When choosing cleaners, avoid mixing with chlorine or peroxide-based cleaners. The chemical cleaners can produce toxic chloramine gases, which are harmful to both humans and dogs.

These cleaners contain natural enzymes that break down the organic matter in dog stains (like urine, feces, and vomit) that cause odors, effectively neutralizing the smell.

For the best results, follow the product instructions closely, usually involving spraying the cleaner to the affected area and use a stiff brush to press the liquid into the carpet fibers.

Depending on the product you use, keep it on your carpet for 15 minutes to 24 hours  before blotting or rinsing.

Budget Alternative: Make DIY enzyme cleaner with citrus peels, brown sugar, and water (ferment for 3 months.)

7.Steam Cleaning

Steam cleaning is a powerful deep-cleaning method, especially for non-urine areas. The high-temperature steam kills bacteria and dissolves odorous substances without the use of chemicals.

However, this method is only recommended in non-dog-urine zones. Because high temperatures can lock in odors.

For non-urine areas: Slow, overlapping strokes to extract maximum contaminants.

If you don't own a steam cleaner, renting one is a straightforward option available from many local hardware stores.

When operating a steam cleaner, be mindful to prevent soaking the carpet too much. Excessive moisture can lead to mold development, creating additional issues.

8.Professional Cleaning Services

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, dog odors can persist, deeply embedded in your carpet's fibers. In such cases, professional cleaning services may be the answer.

These services have access to industrial-strength equipment and cleaning solutions not available to the general public.

A professional cleaner can assess the condition of your carpet and use targeted treatments to eliminate odors.

While this option may be more costly than DIY methods, it's often the most effective way to ensure your carpets are thoroughly cleaned and deodorized, especially in severe cases.

How to Prevent Dog Smells from Lingering on Your Carpet

Maintaining a fresh-smelling home involves more than just cleaning up after incidents occur. Implementing preventive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of dog odors becoming a persistent problem. Here are key strategies to consider:

1. Regular Grooming

Regular grooming of your dog is one of the most effective ways to minimize odors. This includes:

• Brushing to remove loose fur and reduce dander,
• Bathing with pet-safe shampoos to keep their coat clean,
• And proper dental care to prevent bad breath and saliva odors.

Regular grooming not only keeps your pet smelling fresh but also reduces the amount of hair and dander that can accumulate in your carpet.

2. Pet Training

Training your pet to avoid certain behaviors can significantly reduce carpet odors.

This includes house training to prevent accidents on the carpet and teaching your dog not to bring food or chew toys onto carpeted areas.

Establishing designated eating and play areas can help confine messes and odors to more manageable and cleanable spaces.

3. Carpet Protection

Investing in a carpet protector is an effective strategy to shield your carpets from the direct impact of dog-related odors.

Typically crafted from a sleek, transparent plastic, these protectors maintain the aesthetic of your carpets while providing an essential barrier against odor sources.

Alternatively, consider using throw rugs or runners in high-traffic areas or places your dog frequents. These can be easily removed and washed, reducing the wear and tear on your underlying carpet.

Conclusion

Tackling the challenge of removing dog smell from carpets may seem daunting, but as we've seen, there are numerous effective methods at your disposal. From regular vacuuming to the use of baking soda, enzymatic cleaners, and steam cleaning, each strategy on how to get dog smell out of carpet offers its own benefits. Moreover, preventive measures such as regular grooming, pet training, and carpet protection are essential in ensuring that these smells don't become a recurring issue. By adopting a comprehensive approach that combines immediate odor removal with long-term preventive measures, you can maintain a fresh and odor-free living space for both you and your pets.

FAQ

Why does my carpet still smell like dog after cleaning?

When your carpet still smells like dog after cleaning, it's likely due to pet odors that have penetrated deep into the carpet fibers, padding, or subfloor, where surface cleaning doesn't reach.

Additionally, incomplete removal of pet urine or other organic matter during cleaning can contribute to persistent odors.

How long does dog scent last on carpet?

Generally, dog scents can linger on a carpet for several weeks to a few months if not effectively addressed. The duration varies depending on factors such as the intensity of the odor, the carpet's material, how the carpet is cleaned, and the humidity and temperature of the environment.

Does baking soda really deodorize carpet?

Yes, baking soda can effectively deodorize carpet by absorbing and neutralizing odors rather than merely covering them up. Sprinkling baking soda on your carpet, letting it sit for a few hours or overnight, and then vacuuming it up can help eliminate unpleasant smells.