Does your home smell fishy? Do you think the smell is coming from your beloved pup? If so, you’re not alone. Many pet owners struggle with fishy odors from their furry friends. But the good news is there are steps you can take to eliminate the smell and keep your home smelling fresh. Here are some simple tips for getting rid of the fishy smell from your dog.
How to Get Rid of Fishy Smell from Dog: Simple Tips for a Fresher Home
- Regularly bathe your dog – To keep your pup smelling fresh, you’ll need to give them regular baths. Use a shampoo specifically made for dogs to ensure their skin and coat stay healthy.
- Brush your pet’s fur – Brushing your pet’s fur on a regular basis helps remove dirt, debris, and excess oils from their coat which can cause a fishy smell.
- Clean their bedding – Make sure you clean your pet’s bedding at least once a week to keep it free of bacteria and odors that can contribute to the fishy smell.
- Change their food – If possible, switch your dog’s food to one with fewer fish-based ingredients as these can contribute to the smell in their fur and urine.
- Keep them dry – After baths or when they get wet from the rain or other activities, make sure you dry off your pup thoroughly with a towel or blow dryer to prevent moisture buildup in their fur which can lead to bad smells.
- Use an air freshener – If all else fails, you can use an air freshener specifically designed for pet odors to help neutralize the fishy smell in your home.
Causes of Fishy Smells from Dogs
The cause of the fishy smell coming from your pup can vary, but the most common culprit is an infection. Bacterial or fungal infections of the skin, ears, eyes, or mouth can all lead to a fishy smell. Other causes include poor hygiene, a poor diet, or an underlying medical condition. If the smell persists, it’s best to take your pup to a veterinarian to rule out any medical conditions.
Another cause of the fishy smell from dogs can be related to their coat. Dogs with oily coats tend to have a stronger odor, while dogs with dry coats have a milder smell. If your pup has an oily coat, it’s important to bathe them regularly to help keep the smell at bay.
Prevention of Fishy Smells from Dogs
The best way to prevent fishy smells from dogs is to practice good hygiene. This means regularly brushing their coat and bathing them with a hypoallergenic shampoo. It’s also important to check your pup’s ears and eyes for any signs of infection. Additionally, you should feed your pup a high-quality diet and provide plenty of exercises to keep them healthy and free of fishy smells.
Cleaning and Disinfecting
If your pup has an infection, it’s important to clean and disinfect its environment to prevent the spread of bacteria. This includes washing their bedding, toys, and bowls in hot water and using a pet-safe disinfectant on hard surfaces like floors and walls. You should also vacuum floors and furniture to remove any dust or dirt that could harbor bacteria.
Deodorizing Your Home
Once you’ve cleaned and disinfected your pup’s environment, it’s time to start deodorizing your home. This can be done with a combination of natural and commercial deodorizers. Natural deodorizers like pure vanilla extract, baking soda, and white vinegar can help absorb odors and leave your home smelling fresh. Commercial products like OdorKlenz and Febreze can also be used to neutralize odors.
Cleaning Your Dog
Cleaning your pup is key to getting rid of fishy smells. Start by brushing their coat to remove any dirt or debris. Then, bathe them with a hypoallergenic shampoo and rinse thoroughly. After the bath, make sure to dry your pup completely with a towel. If your pup has an infection, use a medicated shampoo to help treat the problem.
Natural Solutions for Fishy Smells from Dogs
There are several natural solutions you can use to help reduce fishy smells from your pup. Apple cider vinegar is a great option as it can help balance your pup’s skin pH and eliminate odors. You can also try adding a few drops of lavender or tea tree oil to your pup’s bathwater. These oils have natural antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help reduce odors.
Commercial Solutions for Fishy Smells from Dogs
There are also a variety of commercial solutions available for getting rid of fishy smells from your pup. These products contain ingredients like baking soda, activated charcoal, and citrus extracts that can help absorb odors and leave your pup smelling fresher. Be sure to read the label carefully to make sure the product is safe for your pup and follow the directions for the best results.
Tips for Reducing Fishy Smells from Dogs
If you’re looking for more tips on reducing fishy smells from your pup, here are a few to keep in mind:
- Brush your pup’s coat regularly to remove dirt and debris.
- Wash your pup’s bedding and toys in hot water.
- Vacuum floors and furniture to remove dust and dirt.
- Use natural or commercial deodorizers to eliminate odors.
- Feed your pup a high-quality diet and provide plenty of exercise.
- Take your pup to the vet if the smell persists.
Conclusion
Fishy smells from your pup can be a nuisance, but they don’t have to be a permanent problem. With the right steps, you can eliminate the smell and keep your home smelling fresh. Start by practicing good hygiene, cleaning and disinfecting your pup’s environment, deodorizing your home, and cleaning your pup. You may also want to try natural or commercial solutions to help eliminate odors. Finally, if the smell persists, take your pup to the vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions. By taking these steps, you can help keep your pup and your home smelling fresh.