Dog Deodorising Sprays Compared: What Actually Works?

---

Dog Deodorising Sprays Compared: What Actually Works?

Dog smells are a normal part of life with pets, but that doesn’t mean your home, car, or dog’s bedding has to smell unpleasant. Dog deodorising sprays are often used between washes to help manage everyday odour, but not all sprays work in the same way.

This guide compares the different types of dog deodorising sprays, how they work, and how to choose the right one for your routine.

The aim is to help pet parents understand what deodorising sprays can realistically do, when they’re useful, and how to avoid buying something that doesn’t suit their needs.

---

What are dog deodorising sprays used for?

Dog deodorising sprays are designed to freshen, not deep clean. They’re most often used:

• Between baths
• After wet or muddy walks
• On dog beds, blankets, and towels
• In cars or travel crates

In the UK, deodorising sprays are commonly used after wet weather walks, where damp coats and muddy paws can leave lingering smells around the home.

A deodorising spray works best as part of a regular care routine. It can help manage day-to-day smells, but it won’t replace proper washing when your dog or their bedding needs it. For more information on washing your dog check out this post

---

Types of dog deodorising sprays compared

The biggest difference between dog deodorising sprays is how they deal with odour.

Fragrance-only sprays

These sprays work by masking odour with scent.

Pros:

• Immediate freshness
• Simple and widely available

Cons:

• Smells can return quickly
• Strong fragrances may not suit sensitive pets
• Odour isn’t neutralised, just covered

Best for light, short-term freshness.

---

Odour-neutralising sprays

These sprays are designed to neutralise odour molecules rather than cover them up.

Pros:

• Freshness tends to last longer
• Often lighter in fragrance
• Better for recurring smells

Cons:

• Effectiveness depends on formulation
• Not all are suitable for fabrics

Best for regular use in homes with dogs and cats.

---

Fabric-safe deodorising sprays

These sprays are formulated for use on soft furnishings such as dog beds, blankets, towels, and car interiors.

Pros:

• Suitable for repeated use on fabrics
• Helps prevent lingering smells
• Useful in multi-pet households

Cons:

• Not always intended for direct use on coats

Best for bedding, throws, and areas where smells tend to build up over time.

---

Multi-use deodorising sprays

Some deodorising sprays are designed for use on both pets and pet-related fabrics.

Pros:

• Convenient for everyday routines
• Fewer products needed
• Practical for busy households

Cons:

• Must clearly state they are suitable for both uses

Best for pet parents who want a simple, all-round option.

At DotDotPet, we generally see deodorising sprays used as a supporting product, something that helps manage everyday freshness alongside regular washing, rather than replacing it. Click here for more info.

---

Ingredients and safety considerations

When comparing dog deodorising sprays, ingredient transparency matters, especially if the spray will be used frequently or in a home with more than one pet.

It’s worth looking for:

• Clearly listed ingredients
• Mild or naturally derived fragrances
• Products labelled as suitable for regular use

Be cautious with sprays that rely on very strong scents or don’t clearly explain how they work. A strong fragrance doesn’t always mean better odour control and may not suit every pet or household.

---

When a deodorising spray is the right choice

A dog deodorising spray can be particularly useful:

• Between washes
• For dog beds and towels
• After wet weather walks
• In cars or travel crates

However, a spray won’t solve persistent odour on its own. If smells keep returning, it’s usually a sign that bedding needs washing or your dog needs a proper clean. Check out our Shampoos here

---

How to choose the right dog deodorising spray

When pet parents ask us about deodorising sprays, the most important factor is usually where and how often they plan to use it, rather than how strong the scent is.

Before buying, consider:

• Will you use it mainly on your dog, on fabrics, or both?
• How often will it be used?
• Do you prefer light freshness or stronger odour control?
• Are there multiple pets in the household?

The best deodorising spray is one that fits naturally into your routine and supports everyday care, rather than trying to do everything at once. Find out more about our sprays here

---

Final thoughts

There isn’t a single “best” dog deodorising spray for every situation. The right choice depends on how odour builds up in your home, how often you need to freshen things, and how you care for your pet day to day.

Used correctly, a deodorising spray can be a practical way to keep things feeling fresher between washes, without overcomplicating your routine.