What to Do When Your Dog Gets Skunked: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re a dog owner, you probably know that curiosity can sometimes get your pup into sticky (and smelly) situations! One of the most infamous is the dreaded skunk spray. Skunk odor is notoriously strong and stubborn, but with the right approach, you can tackle it effectively. At Pups Fresh Fade, we understand the urgency of dealing with a skunk encounter, so here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get the stink out and get your dog back to their fresh self.

1. Act Fast but Don’t Panic

Skunk spray is not only pungent but also oily, meaning it sticks to fur and skin. The sooner you act, the better your chances of minimizing the odor. Bring your dog indoors (if possible, into a laundry room or bathroom) to contain the smell. Avoid letting them rub against furniture or carpets, as the smell can transfer.

2. Check Your Dog for Signs of Irritation

Skunk spray can irritate a dog’s eyes, nose, and mouth. If your dog is rubbing their face or has watery eyes, they may have been sprayed directly in the face. Check their eyes for redness and rinse with plain water or a saline solution if they seem irritated. If your dog seems in pain or discomfort, contact your vet immediately.

3. Avoid Water Initially

It’s natural to want to hose your dog down, but water can actually make the skunk smell worse by spreading the oils. Instead, use a dry method first to neutralize the odor.

4. Make a Homemade De-Skunking Solution

One of the most effective de-skunking solutions is a simple homemade recipe:

• 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide

• 1/4 cup baking soda

• 1-2 teaspoons liquid dish soap (preferably unscented)

This mixture works because hydrogen peroxide and baking soda create an oxidizing reaction that helps neutralize the sulfur compounds in skunk spray. However, avoid mixing this solution in advance, as it can become unstable when stored.

Tip: Wear gloves, as the solution can be harsh on hands.

5. Apply the Solution Carefully

Using gloves, apply the mixture to your dog’s fur, avoiding the eyes, nose, and mouth. Work it into the fur thoroughly, especially in areas that were directly sprayed. Let the solution sit for about 5–10 minutes. Be mindful of their coat color—if your dog has dark fur, avoid leaving the mixture on too long, as it may have a slight bleaching effect.

6. Rinse Thoroughly with Lukewarm Water

Once the mixture has had time to work, rinse your dog thoroughly with lukewarm water. Make sure to get all of the solution out of their fur, as any residue could lead to dryness or irritation.

7. Follow Up with a Dog-Safe Shampoo

After rinsing out the solution, wash your dog with a mild dog shampoo to help restore moisture to their coat and further remove any lingering smell. Avoid using human shampoo, as it can disrupt their skin’s natural balance.

8. Repeat if Necessary

Sometimes one wash isn’t enough to completely remove the skunk smell, especially if your dog was sprayed directly. You may need to repeat the process or consider a follow-up professional grooming appointment.

9. Wash Collars, Leashes, and Any Fabric Exposed to the Odor

Skunk spray can cling to collars, leashes, and even fabrics your dog might have brushed against. Wash these items separately with a strong detergent, and consider using baking soda or vinegar to help neutralize the odor.

10. Book a Professional Grooming Appointment with Pups Fresh Fade

If the smell persists or if you’d rather have the experts handle it, we’re here to help! At Pups Fresh Fade, we use specialized shampoos and techniques to remove odors effectively and safely. Our mobile grooming service means we can come right to your door, eliminating the hassle of transporting a skunked pup.

Don’t Let a Skunk Encounter Ruin Your Day!

We know how challenging it can be to deal with skunk spray, but with these tips, you can help get your dog back to smelling fresh in no time. For professional grooming help, give Pups Fresh Fade a call at (831) 200-3669 or click here. We’ll take care of your pup so they can get back to their usual clean and happy self!