How to Get Rid of Skunk Smell on a Dog

Use this recipe to get rid of skunk smell on a dog.

If you've experienced the horror of letting your dog into the house and seeing him begin to rub all over your carpet and chairs as the overwhelming skunk smell reaches your nose, you've no doubt wondered: "How do I get rid of skunk smell on a dog?"

Have no fear; we have the answer for you!

De-Skunking Recipe

First, check your dog's eyes. If they're red, indicating that skunk spray has gotten into them, rinse them well with cool water or sterile saline (don't use contact lens solution, which contains preservatives as well as chemicals designed to clean lenses which may irritate your dog's eyes) for 5 minutes before bathing her.

If possible, keep your dog outside while you prepare the bath; otherwise, the smell will get into your home and on your furniture.

Here is the recipe that we find works the best to neutralize skunk odor:

3% hydrogen peroxide, 1 quart
Baking soda, ¼ cup
Dawn dish soap, 1 teaspoon

Rub the mixture onto the dog, staying away from the eyes and nose. Rinse it out well without leaving it on too long.

Shampoo your dog with regular canine shampoo, and rinse thoroughly.

Dry your dog well with a towel, and keep her someplace warm to finish drying.

This mixture may bleach a darker dog's fur. The risk goes up the longer the solution stays on the dog.

Be Prepared Ahead of Time

It can be helpful to be ready for this situation ahead of time by getting some Nature's Miracle Skunk Odor Remover.

If possible, let your dog out to eliminate before dusk, when the skunks are more likely to be moving around. If that isn't possible, take your dog out on a leash and be sure you have a flashlight. Skunks will usually hide when they see or hear you and your dog coming. The trouble occurs when your dog is loose and she chases and corners the skunk.

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