Proven Tips and Products to Eliminate Pet Odors Indoors and Outdoors
Dogs are cherished members of the family—but they can also bring along some not-so-pleasant smells. Whether it’s a result of indoor accidents, muddy paws, or that distinct “wet dog” scent, pet odors can linger and impact your home’s freshness.
If you're tired of dealing with dog smells, here are five effective ways to reduce odors in your home, plus a bonus tip that tackles outdoor areas that may be contributing more than you think.
1. Clean Accidents Immediately and Effectively
One of the top causes of lingering pet odor is urine or feces that wasn’t properly cleaned.
Use professional-grade enzymatic cleaners like Fizzion, Rocco & Roxie, or Nature’s Miracle. These products break down odor-causing bacteria instead of just masking the smell.
Pro Tip: Dogs often return to the same place to eliminate if they still detect the scent, so complete odor removal is key to preventing repeat accidents.
2. Revisit Potty Training and Routine Breaks
If indoor accidents are happening often, it might be time to go back to the basics.
Re-establish a consistent potty schedule, increase outdoor breaks, and reinforce successful bathroom trips with praise and treats. This builds good habits and prevents odor at the source.
Pro Tip: Download and follow the Legend Acres House Training Protocol and Log Sheets to track progress and set your dog up for long-term success in potty training.
3. Bathe Your Dog Regularly and Wipe Their Paws
Your dog’s coat, ears, and feet can trap dirt, bacteria, and outdoor debris that cause unwanted smells indoors.
Bathe your pup regularly using a pH-balanced, dog-safe shampoo, and clean their paws after each walk to avoid tracking in odors with wipes, Water-less Foam, or a Paw Cleaning Cup.
4. Wash Bedding, Blankets, and Toys Weekly
Soft surfaces absorb pet odors quickly. Wash your dog’s bed, blankets, and favorite toys at least once a week using fragrance-free, pet-safe Vinegar based detergent, or add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle for an extra odor-neutralizing boost.
5. Use Air Purifiers and Pet-Safe Deodorizers
A high-quality HEPA air purifier can help eliminate pet dander and airborne odors.
Pet-safe sprays like Angry Orange, Bubba’s Rowdy Friends Odor Eliminator, or OdoBan Pet work wonders on carpets, furniture, and floors.
Avoid plug-ins and candles with harsh scents that may irritate your dog’s sensitive nose.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Overlook Outdoor Odors
Even with a clean home, outdoor odors can still sneak in—especially if your pet spends time in the yard, on dirt, rocks, or artificial turf. These surfaces can retain strong smells from urine and waste, which then transfer onto your dog’s fur and paws.
To neutralize outdoor odors and freshen up your yard:
Use biofil granules and sprays like BioTurf, Simple Green Outdoor Odor Eliminator, ZorbX Pet Area Spray, or Stink Slayer for turf, gravel, and patios.
For rock or dirt yards, apply a slow-release agricultural lime. This not only helps deodorize soil naturally, but also encourages grass regrowth, turning smelly spots into green space again.
Regular maintenance of your outdoor pet areas is just as important as indoor cleaning!
Final Thoughts
Keeping your home smelling fresh with a dog around isn’t impossible—it just takes the right combination of products, consistency, and attention to both indoor and outdoor sources of odor.
For pet parents who want expert support in reducing behavior-related messes or establishing healthier routines, Legend Acres offers professional, force-free dog training and enrichment programs tailored to your family’s needs.
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🐾 About Legend Acres
Legend Acres
Force-Free, Fear-Free Dog and Horse Solutions
Kristi May MS, CVPM, LVMT, BSA, AHT, ABCDT
CHA Certified Riding Instructor | Equine Facility Manager | Animal Behavior Specialist
AKC Fit Instructor | Pet Partners Therapy Evaluator & Instructor
📍 Locations: Middle/West TN & Surprise, AZ
📞 (931) 516-3064
🌐 www.Legend-Acres.com
