How to Get Rid of Dog Smell Without a Bath - 7 Expert Tips

If there's one element that can challenge an owner's love for their dog, it's the dog smell. Some dogs hate to bathe, and it can be a nightmare for a dog owner. You may not have time, it may be too cold, or perhaps your pup already had a bath yesterday!

Dogs can smell for various reasons, and sometimes it's a once-off issue that can easily be solved, but for some dogs, it is an ongoing dilemma. Whatever the reason or situation, there are some ways you can get rid of your dog's smell without having to bathe it, and we have seven expert tips for you to help your dog smell woes!

The 7 Tips on How to Get Rid of Dog Smells Without a Bath

1. Use Waterless Shampoo or Wipes

Water shampoos or wipes are an excellent solution for removing dog smell without having to bathe your dog. These products provide a quick refresh and help combat odors that owners resent. They are great for dogs on the go and for dogs who frequently explore outside and return home smelling like they have rolled in something pungent.

Waterless or dry shampoo is formulated to cleanse without having to rinse. It absorbs excess sebum and removes dirt while making your dog smell fresh. Wet wipes are wet tissues that remove dirt and odors from your dog's coat. They will also usually include a fragrance, aloe vera, and vitamin E to hydrate the skin.

2. Use a Dog-Friendly Deodorizer

Deodorizing sprays made specifically for dogs are handy for in-between bath times and keep your dog smelling fresh. You could say that it is a “doggy cologne,” and they usually come in various scents.

3. Use Baking Soda or Cornstarch

Cornstarch or baking soda can be a helpful alternative if you need an immediate remedy. It will work the same way as a dry shampoo. Simply sprinkle it onto your dog and gently rub it, then brush it off and allow the odor to disappear with it!

Baking soda is also a great option if you prefer to use natural ingredients and want to avoid any chemicals. It is safe to use on your dog if it doesn’t ingest large amounts and it doesn’t get in its eyes. However, it’s always best to consult your vet before using baking soda.

4. Brush Your Dog’s Coat Regularly

Your dog’s coat is the perfect area for accumulating debris and dirt, especially if your dog loves playing outdoors. As the dirt and debris accumulate without being removed, they begin to smell over time. Regularly brushing your dog can help remove debris, dirt, and loose hair and dander that can quickly accumulate and contribute to an unpleasant-smelling dog.

While brushing your dog’s coat won’t remove odors on the spot, it will help maintain a clean coat, which will reduce the odors between baths. Having a regular brushing routine will also help remove loose hairs and distribute the natural oils produced by the skin.

5. Keep Your Dog’s Bedding Clean

Odors from your dog can easily be transferred to your dog’s bed and blankets and vice versa. Your dog’s dander, hair, and dirt will accumulate in your dog’s bedding, and for a while, you won’t notice the smell because you are used to it until, eventually, it gets really bad, and you start to smell it everywhere else.

Dog parents often overlook their dog's bedding, and while it is not usually intentional, it can be one of the main reasons for the smell. If you have a dog smell lingering and it's brought you to this article, think about the last time you washed your dog’s bedding and consider giving a good hot wash today. Try to get yourself into a routine of washing your dog’s blankets, and you will notice how the smell will be drastically reduced; your pup will be grateful too.

6. Keep Your Dog's Teeth Clean

Dog parents also commonly overlook oral hygiene, but it’s never too late to get into a teeth-cleaning routine. Keeping your dog’s mouth and teeth clean will help reduce dog smell; you only have to do it once a week. You can use a doggy toothbrush and toothpaste or even some dental wipes made for dogs. Provide dental treats and chew toys to help remove plaque build-up, and your dog will certainly have a cleaner mouth and fresher breath.

7. Keep Your Dog's Ears Clean

Like your dog’s teeth, ensuring their ears are clean and preventing earwax buildup is essential to reduce dog smell. Not only is ear cleaning important for odor control, but it is also a crucial step in preventing and treating ear infections.

While you do not need to clean their ears regularly, you must check them weekly for any odor, wax build-up, or discharge. Only clean your dog’s ears if they are visibly dirty, if your dog went swimming, or if your vet directed you to. When cleaning its ears, you will need to use a vet-approved solution. You gently squeeze it into the ear and massage the base to distribute. The solution loosens dirt and debris. Allow your dog to shake its head and gently wipe away debris or wax with a cotton ball.

High-quality wet wipes can help you keep your dog clean from head to tail. Our Hepper Wash Wipes are infused with natural, moisturizing ingredients that will soothe your dog's skin while effectively removing dirt and grime. These soft, hypoallergenic wipes are made in the USA and safe for dogs and puppies of all breeds.

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How to Get Dog Smell Out of Your Home

Now that your dog smells fresh and clean, the hint of aroma that remains in your home also needs to be taken care of to eliminate the cycle of dog smell.

Having a pet means cleaning up smells, stains, hair, vomit, and more...and you can add to your pet clean-up routine with the Hepper Advanced Bio-Enzyme Pet Stain & Odor Eliminator Spray.

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• FOR ANY MESS, ON ANY SURFACE - This pet odor eliminator cleans your carpets, floors, furniture, fabrics, and more. Whether it's urine, feces, vomit, or drool, you can erase all foul spots and smells!
• FRESH, NATURAL ODOR - Our unique formulation doesn't rely on dangerous or unpleasant chemical fragrances to get the job done. We eradicate smells and stains, not just cover them up.

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Why Does My Dog Smell Bad?

There are several reasons why your dog may smell bad. It could have rolled in something, caught an infection, picked up a smell from its blankets, or just have smelly breath. Before you try to eliminate the dog smell, you must first identify what is causing your dog to smell.

Consider Taking a Trip to The Vet If the Smell Persists No Matter What You Do

Some skin conditions, such as yeast infections, can emit a persistent and unpleasant smell. Dogs with skin folds or floppy ears are particularly prone to skin infections. The skin fold makes it easy for moisture and bacteria to get trapped. Allergies can also lead to skin infections due to excessive scratching and licking.

If your dog's smell is persistent and your cleaning efforts and smell-eliminating methods are proving futile, you should get your dog examined at the vet.

Conclusion

A few factors could contribute to a smelly dog and a home filled with dog aroma, but there are simple ways to find a resolution and relieve your nostrils. A bath is the easiest and most effective way, but sometimes that's not an option, and you can’t bathe your dog frequently without harming their skin and fur. You can keep the dog smell away in between baths by using any of our expert tips, but if it is persistent, you should consider taking your dog to the vet.

Related Reads:

• Stinky Dog Face: Vet Reviewed Signs, Causes & How to Help

• Can I Use Baby Wipes on My Dog? Vet-Reviewed Canine Facts & FAQ

Featured Image Credit: UfaBizPhoto, Shutterstock