Spring cleaning tips for dog owners

Dog owners know how much love a dog brings, and how much dirt and smell can come with it. Keeping on top of cleaning, and bathing your dog when they need it, helps keep the doggy smell under control. Spring is a good time to give your home, and your dog's things, a proper clean.

Start with a sniff test

Walk around your home and seek out the areas that smell most of dog. Any spot where your dog has had an accident, or a favourite place where they like to lie, is likely to need attention.

Use an enzyme-based cleaner that is safe to use around pets. Enzyme cleaners break down the source of the smell rather than just covering it up.

Clean the car

Many dog owners will admit their car smells of wet dog. All those wet park walks and days at the beach add up. Give the car a thorough clean with a pet-friendly cleaner, or use a car valeting service if you're short of time.

Wipe paws before coming indoors

Get into the habit of cleaning your dog before they come into the house. Wipe muddy paws with a pet wipe or damp cloth, and give your dog a good rub down with a towel after a wet walk. This helps with eliminating wet dog smell from your home and makes future cleaning easier.

Wash their toys

Dog toys can get very dirty and smelly, so clean them regularly.

• Hard toys can be washed in hot soapy water and rinsed thoroughly, or put in the dishwasher if the label says they are dishwasher-safe. Avoid strong disinfectants, which can leave residues your dog may lick.
• Soft toys can be machine washed regularly. Check the label for the temperature, and don't use too much detergent, as some dogs have sensitive skin.

Throw away toys that are badly damaged, as loose pieces can be swallowed.

Keep on top of grooming

Regular brushing helps whatever the length of your dog's coat. It removes loose hair before it ends up around your home, and helps keep their skin and coat in good condition.

Wash the lead and collar

Sweat and mud from everyday walks will make your dog's lead and collar dirty and smelly. Rolling in fox poo will make their collar and lead dirty and smelly too, so wash them regularly. Once a week is a good habit.

Clean the soft furnishings

Curtains, carpets, cushions and other soft furnishings will soon smell of dog if they are never cleaned, especially if your dog is allowed on them. Dirty soft furnishings can harbour bacteria, mites and fleas, so clean them regularly, along with your dog's own bedding. It will keep your home smelling fresh.

Clean the dog food area

Every couple of months, give the area where you keep your dog's food a good clean, along with the containers it's stored in. Wash the containers in hot soapy water and rinse them well. While you're there, check that the food is still within its best before or use by date.