Does White Vinegar Work for Killing Dog Feces Odor?

White vinegar is your best friend's best friend when it comes to dog odors.
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Whether you are housebreaking a new puppy or have an older dog that has occasional accidents, a pile of doggie poop can leave behind a lingering odor even after you pick it up and dispose of it. While many commercial products claim to remove pet odors, a simple mixture of white vinegar and water is an inexpensive alternative.

Dealing With Stinky Poo

When your pooch deposits a present in your home, pick up and dispose of the pile of feces. Remove any residue left behind. If it is on a carpet, blot with a clean, damp cloth to remove any remaining fecal matter. How you treat the smell will depend on what surface your dog used for his indoor bathroom. White vinegar is acidic, which works to deodorize offensive smells. Because vinegar is natural, it is gentle enough to use on a variety of surfaces. In a small bowl, mix together equal parts water and white vinegar. If your dog went potty on a tile or wooden floor, wipe the floor down with the solution and a clean sponge or cloth. When treating a carpet, gently rub the area with a cloth dipped in the vinegar mixture.

Not Just for Poo

In addition to eliminating feces odor, vinegar works to eliminate other common doggie messes. White vinegar helps to eliminate urine odors. If your dog tends to sport the "smelly dog" odor, mix 1 cup of white vinegar with 2 gallons of water to create a rinse for your dog’s coat that will help him smell fresh and clean.