Are you struggling to get rid of dog gland smell on your furniture? This unpleasant odor can be difficult to remove and can linger for a long time.
But don’t despair! There are several methods you can try to eliminate the smell and freshen up your furniture.
In this article, we’ll provide you with some tips and techniques for getting rid of dog gland smell on furniture and other surfaces.
What Are Dog Glands and Why Do They Produce an Odor?
Dog glands are a normal part of a dog’s anatomy and are located in various parts of the body, including the paws, tail, and anus. (1)
These glands produce a scent that is unique to each individual dog and is used as a way to mark territory and communicate with other dogs.
While the scent produced by these glands is usually not noticeable to humans, it can sometimes become more pronounced, especially when the glands are not expressed regularly.
This can lead to a strong, musky odor that is unpleasant to humans.
What Causes Dog Gland Odor To Be More Noticeable?
There are a few factors that can contribute to a more noticeable dog gland odor:
- Lack of regular grooming and gland expression: If your dog’s glands are not expressed regularly through grooming or by a veterinarian, the scent produced by the glands can become more concentrated and noticeable.
- Health issues: Certain health issues, such as infections or inflammation in the glands, can cause the gland odor to be more pronounced.
- Diet: A diet that is low in fiber or that does not provide proper nutrition can lead to problems with the glands, resulting in a stronger odor.
- Age: As dogs get older, their glands may not function as efficiently, which can lead to a stronger gland odor.
How Long Does Dog Gland Odor Last?
The length of time that dog gland odor lasts can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size and breed of your dog, their diet and health, and the level of gland expression.
In general, dog gland odor can last for several weeks or even months if the glands are not expressed regularly.
How To Get Rid Of Dog Gland Smell On Furniture
Here are some steps you can follow, to help you rid of your furniture of dog gland smell:
Cleaning The Affected Surface
The first step in getting rid of dog gland smell on furniture is to clean the affected surface thoroughly.
Use a mild detergent or a specialized pet stain and odor remover to scrub the surface and remove any visible stains or odors.
Make sure to rinse the surface well and allow it to dry completely before using it again.
Using Odor-eliminating Products
There are a variety of products available that are specifically designed to eliminate dog gland odor from furniture and other surfaces.
These products often use enzymes or other specialized ingredients to break down the odors and neutralize them.
To use these products, simply follow the instructions on the label and apply the product to the affected surface.
Be sure to allow the product to work for the recommended amount of time before rinsing or wiping it away.
Using Natural Remedies
If you prefer to use natural remedies to eliminate dog gland odor from your furniture, there are a few options you can try:
- Baking soda: Baking soda is a natural odor absorber that can be effective in eliminating dog gland odor from furniture. Simply sprinkle some baking soda over the affected surface and allow it to sit for several hours or overnight before vacuuming it up.
- White vinegar: White vinegar is a natural disinfectant that can help eliminate odors from furniture. Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle and apply the mixture to the affected surface. Allow the mixture to sit for several hours before wiping it away.
- Lemon juice: Lemon juice is another natural odor eliminator that can be effective in getting rid of dog gland smell on furniture. Mix equal parts water and lemon juice in a spray bottle and apply the mixture to the affected surface. Allow the mixture to sit for several hours before wiping it away.
Seeking Professional Help
If you have tried the above methods and are still unable to get rid of the dog gland smell on your furniture, it may be necessary to seek professional help.
A professional carpet cleaner or upholstery cleaner may be able to use specialized equipment and products to eliminate the odor from your furniture.
Preventing Future Dog Gland Odor on Furniture
Now that you hopefully have gotten rid of the gland smell on your furniture, it’s time to take some steps to prevent this from happening in the future.
Regular Grooming and Gland Expression
One of the best ways to prevent dog gland odor on furniture is to make sure your dog is groomed regularly and has their glands expressed when necessary.
This will help prevent the scent produced by the glands from becoming too concentrated and noticeable.
Using Protective Covers or Throws on Furniture
Another way to prevent dog gland odor on furniture is to use protective covers or throws on your furniture.
This can help protect the furniture from any stains or odors that may occur, and can make it easier to clean and maintain.
Keeping Your Home Well-Ventilated
Good ventilation in your home can also help prevent dog gland odor from becoming too noticeable.
By opening windows and using fans or air purifiers, you can help improve the air quality in your home and reduce the concentration of any odors that may be present.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Gland Odor
Can dog gland odor be harmful to humans? In general, dog gland odor is not harmful to humans and is not a cause for concern. However, if you are particularly sensitive to odors or if you are experiencing any other symptoms that may be related to the gland odor, it is a good idea to speak with your veterinarian or a healthcare professional for further guidance.
Is it normal for a dog’s glands to smell all the time? It is not normal for a dog’s glands to smell all the time. If you notice that your dog’s glands are producing a noticeable odor on a constant basis, it may be a sign of a health issue or a problem with the glands themselves. In these cases, it is important to speak with your veterinarian for further evaluation and treatment.
Can diet or health issues cause dog gland odor to be more noticeable? Yes, diet and health issues can both contribute to a more noticeable dog gland odor. A diet that is low in fiber or that does not provide proper nutrition can lead to problems with the glands, resulting in a stronger odor. Health issues such as infections or inflammation in the glands can also cause the gland odor to be more pronounced.
Conclusion
Dog gland odor can be a challenging problem to deal with, but with the right techniques and approaches, it is possible to get rid of the odor and prevent it from recurring.
By cleaning the affected surface, using specialized products or natural remedies, and taking preventative measures such as regular grooming and gland expression, you can keep your furniture and home smelling fresh and clean.
If you are still having trouble getting rid of the dog gland smell on your furniture, or if you have any other questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to seek the guidance of a professional.
A certified dog trainer or a veterinarian can provide you with additional information and resources to help you deal with the problem effectively.
We hope this article has been helpful in providing you with the information and tools you need to get rid of dog gland smell on furniture.
With a little bit of patience and persistence, you can successfully eliminate the odor and keep your home smelling fresh and clean.