If you’re a dog owner living near wooded areas or even suburban spaces, chances are you’ve either experienced — or will eventually experience — the unmistakable smell of skunk spray. Almost 20 years of living on acreage with bird dogs, and a week ago it finally happened to us.
Here’s what to do if your dog gets skunked, so you can tackle the odor quickly and effectively.
Step 1: Keep Your Dog Outside
As tempting as it is to rush your dog into the house to clean them up, don’t bring them inside yet. Skunk spray is incredibly pungent and will transfer to your furniture, carpets, and anything else it touches. Leave your dog outside while you prep your cleaning supplies.
Step 2: Check for Injuries
Before anything else, inspect your dog’s eyes and face. Skunk spray can be very irritating, especially to the eyes. If you notice excessive redness, squinting, or discharge, rinse their eyes gently with clean water or a pet-safe eyewash, and call your vet if symptoms persist.
Step 3: Skip the Tomato Juice (It’s a Myth!)
Contrary to popular belief, tomato juice doesn’t actually neutralize skunk odor—it just masks it temporarily. Instead, use this effective DIY solution:
Skunk Odor Removal Solution:
- 1 quart (4 cups) of 3% hydrogen peroxide
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1 teaspoon liquid dish soap (like Dawn)
Mix these ingredients in an open container just before use (do not store it — it can build pressure and explode). This combo works by breaking down the oily compounds in skunk spray (called thiols) that cause the odor.
Quick links to products to keep on hand:
Hydrogen Peroxide: https://amzn.to/3Kc41RX
Baking Soda: https://amzn.to/4257kjR
Liquid Dish Soap: https://amzn.to/46kGiHF
Step 4: Apply the Solution
- Wear gloves to protect your hands.
- Thoroughly apply the mixture to your dog’s coat, avoiding their eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, but don’t leave it on too long—hydrogen peroxide can bleach fur.
- Rinse completely with warm water.
- Repeat once if needed.
Step 5: Shampoo & Rinse Again
Once you’ve tackled the skunk oil, wash your dog with their regular pet shampoo to remove any residue. Rinse thoroughly and towel dry.
Quick link for dog shampoo:
Step 6: Treat Your Dog’s Eyes if Irritated
If your dog was sprayed in or near the face and their eyes seem red or irritated, rinse them gently and contact your veterinarian. Some dogs may need medicated eye drops or further care.
Step 7: Clean Yourself and Your Gear
Your clothes, towels, and anything else that touched your dog will likely carry some of the smell. Wash everything with strong detergent and add white vinegar or baking soda to the wash to help neutralize the odor.
Bonus Tips:
- Act quickly: The sooner you neutralize the spray, the better the results.
- Avoid the eyes and mouth: Be extra gentle around your dog’s face.
- Ventilate your home if any smell got inside.
- Prevent future skunk run-ins: Keep your dog on a leash at night, and make your yard less appealing to skunks by removing food sources and sealing access to crawl spaces.
When to Call the Vet
Seek veterinary care if:
- Your dog was sprayed directly in the face or eyes.
- They’re vomiting or coughing (inhalation of spray can cause nausea).
- They show signs of a severe allergic reaction or distress.
Final Thoughts
Getting skunked is no fun—for you or your dog—but with the right tools and a little patience, you can get rid of that awful smell and help your pup feel better fast. Keep the DIY solution ingredients on hand just in case, and you’ll be prepared the next time nature gets a little too close! Hoping we go more than 20 years without having to deal with this again!
This is such a helpful guide for a stressful situation. I never realized how effective the hydrogen peroxide and baking soda mixture could be. The tip about keeping your dog outside while washing makes so much sense and seems much easier to manage.
Yes, keeping them outside while washing away the smell is a huge help!!
Thanks for sharing.
You’re welcome. Hopefully, you will never need it!