What Smells Do Dogs Hate and How To Get Rid of Them

Dogs have a keen sense of smell that is up to 100,000 times more powerful than a human’s, and while their ability to detect scents is impressive, it also means they can be sensitive to certain smells. If you notice your furry friend becoming agitated or avoiding certain areas of your home, it could be due to an offensive odor. In this blog, we’ll explore what smells dogs hate and how you can get rid of them to ensure your dog is happy and comfortable in your home.

Scents Dogs Don’t Like

Citrus

Dogs have a strong aversion to citrus smells, as the scent is overpowering and unpleasant to them. If you want to deter your dog from certain areas of your home or prevent them from chewing on furniture, try using a citrus-scented spray. You can also place citrus peels in areas you want to keep your dog away from.

Vinegar

While humans may use vinegar as a cleaning solution, dogs find the scent to be unpleasant. If your dog has marked their territory in your home, you can use a vinegar solution to neutralize the scent. Mix equal parts water and vinegar and spray the affected area. The vinegar smell will dissipate within a few hours, leaving your home smelling fresh and clean.

Ammonia

Dogs have a strong dislike for the smell of ammonia, which is commonly found in cleaning products. If you use ammonia-based cleaners in your home, be sure to keep your dog away from the area until the scent has dissipated. You can also use ammonia to your advantage by placing a small amount in a spray bottle with water and spraying it in areas where you don’t want your dog to go.

Perfumes and Scents

While humans may enjoy wearing perfume or using scented candles, these strong smells can be overwhelming for dogs. In fact, some dogs may experience respiratory problems or even seizures due to the intensity of the scent. If you want to keep your home smelling fresh, opt for natural scents such as lavender or eucalyptus.

Smoke

Dogs are highly sensitive to smoke, and the smell can linger in your home long after you’ve finished smoking. If you’re a smoker, consider smoking outside to prevent the smell from permeating your home. If you have guests who smoke over, try to keep the area well-ventilated or ask them to smoke outside.

Rotting Food

Dogs have an acute sense of smell, and the scent of rotting food can be overwhelming for them. If you leave food out for your dog or have leftovers sitting in your fridge for too long, be sure to dispose of them properly. Keep your trash cans sealed and take them out regularly to prevent any lingering odors.

Scents Dogs Like

While dogs can be sensitive to certain smells, there are also scents that they enjoy. For example, dogs are known to be drawn to the smell of meat, such as beef or chicken. They may also enjoy the scent of things like lavender, coconut, or vanilla. Some of these are found in dog cologne sprays to keep dogs smelling fresh. In addition, dogs are highly attuned to the scent of their owners, and may find comfort in familiar smells. By incorporating these scents into your home, you can create a welcoming environment for your furry friend. Just be sure to avoid using any scents that may be harmful to your dog’s health. 

Conclusion

Dogs can be sensitive to certain smells, and it’s important to be aware of which scents they find unpleasant. By using natural scents and avoiding offensive odors, you can create a comfortable and welcoming environment for your furry friend. If you notice your dog becoming agitated or avoiding certain areas of your home, try removing any offending smells to ensure your dog is happy and healthy.