Dog Friendly Cleaning Tips

Let’s be real. As much as we love our dogs, they occasionally leave behind a mess. Many pet owners may not be aware that the cleaning supplies they use to clean up their dog’s messes and their home, in general, may be dangerous or toxic for their pets.

The danger comes not only when they ingest the ingredients directly from the bottle or by licking a freshly cleaned surface, but the residue they leave behind in the air can still be inhaled and enter their lungs, causing discomfort and health complications.

In the article, we’re going to share some dog-friendly cleaning tips, ingredients, and recipes to ensure your pets are safe and your home gets adequately cleaned.

How to read the labels

Cleaning products account for the sixth most frequent cause of toxicosis in household pets. Sadly, even cleaners labelled as “all-natural” or “environmentally friendly” may still contain ingredients that make our dogs sick.

While it’s not foolproof, first look for products that say “chemical-free,” “biodegradable,” and “non-toxic.” Then, flip the bottle to look at the ingredients and ensure they’re dog-safe.

Safe vs toxic cleaning ingredients

Generally, any cleaning products with strong odours will be toxic to animals (and usually unpleasant for us). These pungent smells disinfect and cover up the nasty smells.

If your pet had a mild exposure to any of these ingredients, and their vet has cleared them of immediate danger, their stomach may be mildly sensitive for a while.

Dog-safe DIY home cleaners

Thankfully, you don’t need a commercially bought cleaner with many ingredients to clean your home. Here are some home staples that make effective and dog-safe cleaners:

Distilled vinegar

Yes, it’s a strong smell, but it’s safe, and it works well as a disinfectant and deodorizer. Mix one gallon of lukewarm water with a half cup of vinegar and use it to clean countertops, floors, sinks, windows, and walls.

Baking soda

We know baking soda is good for getting the smell of last weeks leftover stir-fry out of the fridge, but it’s also a powerful cleaning agent. Sprinkle some on a dirty carpet, then vacuum it up. It’s also great for cleaning your pet’s bowls and hard-surface toys when mixed 1:1:1 water, salt, and baking soda.

Castile soup + borax + washing soda + baking soda

This combination makes a great DIY laundry detergent that you can use for your clothes and any textiles your pets may have soiled or that smell like wet dog.

If your pet has ingested a toxic substance

If you suspect your pet has accidentally ingested a toxic cleaning product, monitor them closely, perform any necessary dog first aid, and if they begin to act unusually, take them immediately to a veterinarian.

When in doubt, or if your pet already has any food sensitivities, they might enjoy a pet food specially made for them. If you suspect your pet has food allergies in addition to environmental sensitivities, the Go! Solutions Sensitivities Recipes with a single source of animal protein may be the right dietary solution for you!

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Limited ingredient recipes for your canine friend

Our Go! Solutions Sensitivities recipes are specially formulated by experts to help dogs suffering from food sensitivities.

Sensitivities™ Recipes