Dog owners told to get rid of this piece of furniture to eliminate 'dog smell' at home

A dog laying on a carpet
-Credit: (Image: Getty Images)


We're a country of dog lovers, yet it's an undeniable truth - our furry companions can pack quite the pong.

While it is important to note that particularly strong smells can be a sign of health issues in your pooch such as skin diseases or oral issues, even the most healthy of dogs will carry an odour that can make us wince.

Dogs - and indeed all mammals - carry their own scents to allow them to be easily recognisable among other animals, so it's not that your dog stinks, it's just that their natural smell isn't too pleasant to our noses.

And while your dog's smell is just part of its genetics, that doesn't mean you want your whole home smelling of dog. Thankfully, you don't have to put up with the smell - as cleaning fans have shared some top tips to help eliminate the signature "dog smell" from your furniture.

READ MORE: 'My corgi has learnt sign language - she gets so excited over one gesture'

The helpful advice emerged on Reddit when one soon-to-be pup parent sought counsel for keeping both the "distinct dog smell" and fur accumulation at bay in their living space. They expressed: "I'm specifically concerned about the smell and keeping the amount of fur in the carpet and on furniture to a minimum."

Dog enthusiasts were quick to share a crucial piece of advice in the comments - ditch your fabric sofas. Instead, they encouraged pet owners to opt for leather furniture, which is easier to clean and keep hair-free.

In addition to swapping out your fabric sofa, some also suggested that removing any carpet might be beneficial. Wooden floors are simpler to maintain and don't retain smells as readily. You can then add rugs for a cosy feel, which are much easier to clean than carpets.

One person shared: "I have a friend who has two large dogs and she asked me what her house smells like and if I can smell the dogs ... I honestly couldn't smell them. She has washable rugs and leather furniture, also wood floors so I don't think there's anything the smell can really stick to."

Another added: "We have two cats and these are the things that have made my house easy to take care of. No carpet, covers for our furniture, try to have things that are made with materials that repel cat hair and an air purifier. We used to live in a house with wall to wall carpet and it was really hard to keep clean. Never again will I have carpet."

Other suggestions included investing in air purifiers to help cleanse the air in your home, as well as a vacuum that has been proven effective on pet hair and removable, washable furniture covers.

And, naturally, many emphasised the importance of regularly bathing your dog.

An individual advised: "Wash your dog regularly. Not everyone bathes their dogs much. The recommended amount can depend on the breed. Make sure you use a shampoo designed for dogs, they have a different ph balance than humans. Everyone else has great advice for cleaning the home, but I find cleaning the dog to be the most important."