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Living with dogs means accepting a certain level of mess, muddy paws, loose hair, and nose prints on the windows. But that doesn’t mean you have to choose between a clean home and your dog’s company.
I’ve lived with multiple dogs for years, and I’ve tried just about every shortcut out there. Some work. Some don’t. The truth is, keeping your home clean when you live with dogs comes down to daily habits, sensible materials, and a few pet-friendly cleaning hacks.
This guide is here to help you find realistic ways to manage the mess. Whether you’re battling hair on the sofa or constantly wiping paws after walks, these tips are built around real life, not a spotless show home.
Start with Prevention: Keep Dirt Outside
The less your dog brings indoors, the easier it is to keep your house clean.
- Keep a stack of old towels or dog-safe wipes by the front door
- Teach your dog to wait at the door after a walk
- Wipe dog paws after walks, especially in winter or after rain
- Consider using a doormat designed to absorb dirt and moisture
If your dog tolerates it, a waterproof jumper or an Equafleece can help reduce the amount of mud that ends up on their belly and legs. It won’t stop everything, but it cuts down on what you need to clean later.
An outdoor tap is handy if you’ve got the option. If not, keep a bucket of warm water ready near the door to rinse off the worst of it before your dog steps inside.
Daily Habits That Make a Difference
You don’t need to spend hours cleaning every day. These small habits go a long way:
- Brush your dog every day to reduce loose hair
- Shake out washable throws or blankets regularly
- Wipe food bowls and dry the area after meals
- Vacuum or sweep high-traffic areas little and often
- Use a rubber glove or a damp microfibre cloth to gather hair from cushions and soft furnishings
If your dog wears a collar most of the time, swap it out now and again. They collect oils and smells, which can transfer to furniture and bedding.
Choose Dog-Friendly Materials That Clean Easily
Not all surfaces are equal when it comes to cleaning. A few smart choices can save you time and frustration.
- Flooring: Hard floors (wood, laminate, tile) are easier to clean than carpet. If you love carpet, try keeping it to lower-traffic areas.
- Rugs: Outdoor rugs work well indoors. They’re tough, easy to clean, and designed to handle moisture. Carpet tiles are another option — easy to replace if one gets stained.
- Furniture: Leather or faux-leather sofas are easier to clean than fabric sofas. Use machine-washable throws to protect upholstery and add warmth.
- Walls and cupboards: Glossy or wipeable paint finishes are easier to clean, especially around feeding areas and sleeping spots.
When buying a dog bed, pick one that’s washable and simple to wipe down. Some look nice but are impossible to clean properly. If you’ve got sunshine, use it. Fresh air and sunlight are great for airing out bedding and toys.
Safe, Pet-Friendly Cleaning Products That Work
Many household cleaners are toxic to dogs, even after they’ve dried. It’s worth double-checking labels and sticking to safer options.
I keep a spray bottle on the kitchen counter filled with a mix of white vinegar and a few drops of washing-up liquid. It’s my go-to for wiping up muddy pawprints and food spills. It’s cheap, pet-safe, and does the job.
Other pet-friendly cleaning hacks I use:
- Shaving foam for spot-cleaning carpet
- Bicarbonate of soda to absorb smells in beds and on rugs
- White wine vinegar in a spray bottle to neutralise odours
- Sellotape or lint rollers to lift hair from clothes
- Old toothbrushes for scrubbing bowl crevices and toy seams
Wash bowls daily, especially if feeding raw or wet food. Hot water and mild washing-up liquid are fine, rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean towel.
How to Deal with Dog Hair and Smells
Dog hair finds its way into every corner. It clings to soft furnishings, floats under furniture, and hides in curtain folds.
- Vacuum regularly using a pet-specific brush attachment
- Run a damp rubber glove over sofas to gather loose hair
- Wash dog bedding weekly, or more often if damp or smelly
- Clean toys, leads, and collars every couple of weeks
- Open the windows for fresh air. It’s simple but effective
Be careful with air fresheners and candles. Dogs are sensitive to strong scents, and some ingredients can irritate their lungs. Natural options like soy candles, beeswax, or homemade vinegar sprays are better choices.
What to Do If Your Dog Keeps Making a Mess
Sometimes the problem isn’t just mud or hairit’s accidents, marking, or destructive behaviour.
- If your dog is toileting indoors, rule out medical causes first
- Set a clear routine for feeding, walking, and toilet breaks
- Reward calm behaviour after walks instead of rushing inside
- Use scent-free cleaners to avoid encouraging repeat marking
- Offer mental stimulation through scent games or training tasks
Mess often comes from boredom or stress. If your dog is struggling, don’t wait for it to become a habit. I offer one-to-one support that’s tailored to your dog and your home. Sometimes a small change makes all the difference.
FAQs
How do I stop my dog from bringing mud into the house?
Use a doormat and wipe their paws every time. A waterproof jumper or fleece can help, and outdoor cleaning, like a hose or bucket rinse, reduces what they carry in.
What’s the best way to remove dog smell from a room?
Open the windows. Wash bedding and soft furnishings. Sprinkle bicarb of soda on fabrics, leave overnight, then vacuum. Avoid heavily scented sprays.
Are essential oils safe for dogs?
Some are, some aren’t. Avoid tea tree, eucalyptus, and clove oils. Stick to lavender or chamomile and always dilute. Never spray near your dog’s face or bedding.
What cleaning products are safe to use around dogs?
White vinegar, bicarbonate of soda, washing-up liquid (in small amounts), and unscented baby wipes. Always avoid bleach, ammonia, and anything labelled antibacterial unless it’s confirmed pet-safe.
Can I machine wash dog toys?
Many soft toys can go on a gentle cycle. Hard toys can be soaked in warm water and mild detergent, then rinsed thoroughly. Check for loose parts before reusing. See Cleaning toys
Conclusion
A clean home with dogs isn’t impossible, but it does take a bit of planning. It’s not about chasing perfection. It’s about small, consistent actions that make your space feel calm, safe, and comfortable for both of you.
If you’re finding things a bit much, I offer individual support for dogs and their people across Finchley and North London. Sometimes it helps to talk it through with someone who gets it.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on personal experience and general guidance. Always consult your vet or a qualified professional for medical or behavioural concerns.