Can a clean freak like me cope with a dog ?

How can I keep my home clean and fresh as a new dog owner?

Becoming a dog owner is honestly one of the best thingsbut let’s be real, it does come with a bit of mess! Muddy paws, fur everywhere, and the odd little “accident”… it’s all part of it.

The good news? With a few simple routines and the right products, you can stay on top of it all and still enjoy every moment with your pup 💛

Puppy Training & Odour Control

Let’s start with the big one accidents happen, especially in the early days!

The key here is not just cleaning, but properly removing the smell so your pup doesn’t keep going back to the same spot.

Use an enzymatic cleaner straight away it breaks down the odour at source rather than just masking it. Keep puppy pads handy in key areas of the house, and always reward good behaviour (treats go a long way here!).

Consistency is everything it really does make training so much easier.

• Enzymatic pet odour remover

• Puppy training pads

• Dog training treats (e.g. Pooch & Mutt)

Grooming Freshness & Your Outdoor Kit

Coat & Bath Hygiene

Keeping your dog fresh doesn’t mean constant bathing. A weekly wash with a gentle dog shampoo is more than enough, and in between, a quick spritz of pet cologne keeps them smelling lovely.

Walking Essentials

Walks are where most of the mess startsso being prepared is key! A good anti-pull harness makes walks easier and safer, and always have poo bags on hand (bonus points if they’re lightly scented!).

PET HYGIENE TIPS 💡

• Keep an old towels, paw wipes and a paw cleaner by the door game changer!

• Use a handheld vacuum for daily pet hair

• Wash soft toys monthly (pop them in a pillowcase)

• Clean food bowls daily in hot soapy water

• Use a rubber brush or rake on carpets to lift stubborn hair

• Dog shampoo (gentle/natural)

• Pet cologne spray

• Paw wipes

• Portable paw cleaner

• Rubber pet hair brush

Feeding Zone & Furniture Hygiene

Your dog’s feeding area can quickly become messy water splashes, food spills… it all adds up!

A silicone feeding mat underneath bowls is such a simple fix it catches everything and wipes clean in seconds. Try to wash bowls daily to keep things hygienic.

For the rest of the home, especially sofas and bedding, regular washing is key. Add a splash of white vinegar and a pet-safe laundry cleanser to help remove odours properly and keep everything smelling fresh.

• Silicone pet feeding mat

• Pet-safe laundry cleanser

• White vinegar

• Washable dog bedding

Toy Hygiene & Deep Cleaning

Dog toys get very grubby especially with all that drool!

For hard toys, soak them in warm water with bicarbonate of soda. It’s a simple, natural way to lift dirt without using anything harsh.

For beds and soft furnishings, a handheld steam cleaner is amazing. It uses just water to kill bacteria, making it perfect for pet homes.

Keeping on top of these little cleaning jobs regularly makes a huge difference and stops things building up.

• Bicarbonate of soda

• Handheld steam cleaner

• Dog toy cleaning brush (optional)

Final Thought

Having a dog doesn’t mean your home has to feel messy or smell like it! It’s all about creating simple routines and using products that actually work.

Once you’ve got your system in place, it becomes second nature and you can just enjoy the cuddles, the walks, and all the lovely bits that come with having a dog 🐶✨