Dogs are lovable companions, but the smell they sometimes leave around the house can be difficult to get used to. Try these hacks to leave your house smelling fresh.

Does your house smell like a dog? If the answer is yes, then there are a few things you need to do to get your house in order. Dogs have a way of creating a mess, whether they’re rolling in mud, eating something they shouldn’t eat or simply having smelly accidents around your house.

The good news is that there are many different ways you can combat pet odours around your home. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Make sure your dog is well-groomed

Unlike cats, dogs aren’t going to clean themselves so it’s up to you as the owner to make sure your dog is washed, and groomed thoroughly and regularly, especially if you want to keep dog smells at bay. It is recommended that you bathe your dog once a month if they have normal skin. Use dog shampoo or human baby shampoo. If you have to bathe them more than once a month, use a soap-free or moisturising shampoo so that their skin doesn’t dry out. Create your own dog grooming kit by acquiring a bucket, shampoo, nail clippers, brush, toothbrush and the works. This way, you are able to keep all the supplies in one place.

2. Create your own purifying spray

House dogs will always leave their mark on your furniture, linen, clothing and carpets. These items then absorb the smell which, over time, begins to make the house stink. Get yourself a spray bottle. Fill your bottle with 1 cup of water and 10 drops of purification essential oil (there are different brands). Shake the bottle and use regularly to ward off smelly dog odours naturally and safely.

3. Create your own dog deodorant

It may sound ridiculous but dogs also need their own deodorant. You can create this by filling a spray bottle with 2 cups of water, 10 drops of lavender oil, 15 drops of tea tree oil and 1/3 cup of melted coconut oil. Mix the ingredients together and give the bottle a good shake. The coconut oil is great for moisturising, lavender oil is a good calming agent and tea-tree oil repels fleas and acts as a natural deodorant.

4. Clean and air out your home regularly

When you have a dog, you cannot afford to slack off on cleaning your house. Make sure your house gets a good clean at least once a week. Vacuum carpets, wash laundry/linen, dust surfaces and open windows and doors to let fresh air in. Make sure your dog plays outside for most of the day and have designated areas where they are allowed to chill.