How to Get Dog Smell Out of Carpet [Detailed Guide]

If you're tired of living with your carpet smelling like a kennel, our easy, step-by-step guide will show you how to get dog smell out of carpet in no time. So let's get started!
Things you need to complete this task...
Vacuum cleaner  – https://fave.co/45GuX1a
Lint roller  – https://fave.co/3MxLw8E
Spray bottle  – https://fave.co/3SdjIKA
Baking Soda  – https://fave.co/46WHtdR
White vinegar  – https://fave.co/3tSVPNW
Odor eliminator for carpets  – https://fave.co/3ucyA1H

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Now that you have all your tools and materials ready, let's get rid of that awful smell...
Step 1: Remove any solid debris from the carpet
Solid matter such as pet hair, dirt, and feces may be contributing to the smell. Therefore, it is important to get rid of them.

Begin by thoroughly vacuuming the affected area of the carpet. Use a vacuum cleaner with a strong suction and a brush attachment. This will enable you to remove as much debris as possible. Make sure to go over the area multiple times to remove all of the solid matter.

Sometimes, vacuuming might not remove some solid feces or other debris. In such a case, use a dustpan and brush to sweep up such items. After that, dispose of the debris properly.

After vacuuming, use a lint roller or a pet hair remover brush over the carpet’s surface. This will remove any remaining pet hair from the carpet.

Repeat the vacuuming process one more time. This is necessary to ensure that all debris has been removed.
Step 2: Apply a solution of white vinegar and water to the carpet
White vinegar is a natural odor neutralizer and can help remove any lingering dog smell from the carpet.

To apply this solution, mix one-part white vinegar with one-part water in a spray bottle. Make sure that the solution is well mixed.

Spray the solution generously on the affected areas of the carpet. Make sure to saturate the carpet fibers. Use a clean cloth or a sponge to gently rub the solution into the carpet. Thoroughly work it deep into the fibers.

If you failed to remove solid debris from the carpet as we explained previously, you might have some challenges in this step. Solid debris can absorb the solution thereby making it less effective. So, if you skipped that step, go back to it.

It is recommended to always test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area first. This way, you can confirm if it will discolor or shrink your carpet.
Step 3: Allow the solution to sit
The vinegar solution needs time to penetrate the carpet fibers and neutralize the odor-causing bacteria.

After applying the vinegar solution to the affected areas of the carpet, allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes.

If the smell is particularly strong, you may want to leave the solution on the carpet for a longer time: 20-30 minutes should be enough to do the trick. During this period, the solution will work to neutralize the smell.

During this time, avoid walking on or disturbing the carpet.
Step 4: Blot the area with a clean cloth or paper towels
This step is important because leaving too much moisture in the carpet can lead to mold and mildew growth. This, in turn, can cause additional smells and damage to the carpet.

Start by placing the cloth or paper towels on top of the affected area. Press down gently to absorb as much moisture as possible. Avoid rubbing the carpet, as this can cause the fibers to mat down.

Repeat this process until most of the moisture has been removed.

At this point, your carpet should be smelling fresh. However, if the dog smell lingers, do the next step…
Step 5: Sprinkle baking soda over the affected area
Baking soda is a natural odor absorber. Therefore, it might do the trick where white vinegar fails.

Sprinkle baking soda generously over the affected area. Use your hand or a clean cloth to spread the baking soda evenly over the carpet. Make sure that the baking soda is covering the entire affected area.
Step 6: Allow the baking soda to sit
This allows the baking soda to absorb any remaining smells and neutralize any remaining odor-causing bacteria.

The baking soda should sit on the carpet for at least one hour. If the smell is particularly strong, leave the baking soda on the carpet for a longer time: 2 to 3 hours is enough time for the baking soda to neutralize the smell.

Do not walk on or disturb the carpet during this period to enable the baking soda to work effectively.