A dog is a happiness. Loving, loyal, genuine – there’s no arguing with that! The only thing is, that happiness can come with a bunch of fur all over the apartment, dirty paw prints, stained carpets, and scattered food everywhere.
Sound familiar? Don’t worry! Here are 15 life hacks on how to maintain a clean home when you have a dog.
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Choose the Right Breed
If you’re really concerned about shedding issues, choose the “right” breed. There are no completely non-shedding dogs, but there are breeds where shedding is almost unnoticeable. Pay attention to such breeds!
Regular Grooming
Properly selecting the right grooming tools plays a significant role in caring for your dog’s coat. It’s best to consult with a professional groomer who can advise you on which brush to use and how often to groom your specific dog.
In the battle against shedding, you’ll definitely win if you get an original FURminator and use it as instructed. Unlike all other brushes, gloves, and deshedding tools, this tool not only removes already shed fur but also the fur that’s about to shed but is still held by friction with other hairs and hair follicles.
Essentially, the FURminator allows you to remove the fur that would have ended up on your couch tomorrow.
Suitable Bathing Products
As a responsible owner, you already know that you shouldn’t wash your dog with your own shampoo or soap. You should purchase special shampoos and conditioners that are suitable for your dog’s skin and coat type.
Believe me, it’s not just marketing; it’s effective care that will help you forget about the unpleasant smell of your dog, dandruff, and excessive shedding.
Walk Them Right
If the weather outside is bad, it’s best to dress your dog in a waterproof suit and shoes. It’s great that modern pet stores offer a wide range of comfortable clothing for dogs. You’ll easily find an outfit for your beloved pet, whether it’s a toy terrier or an Irish wolfhound.
Train Them
Teach your dog proper behavior – there are only benefits for everyone in this. If your dog isn’t accustomed to rolling in the mud and picking up “interesting” finds from the ground, it will greatly simplify (and make it safer) to live with them.
Clean Their Paws After Every Walk
If your dog always wears shoes, you can confidently skip this step. However, for everyone else, it’s a good idea to prepare a basin of water, a special paw-cleaning solution, a sponge, and a towel in advance. It’s best to place them at the entrance to your apartment or house so that your pet enters already clean!
Get a Practical Dog Bed
A properly chosen dog bed is one-third of the success in keeping things tidy. If your dog is accustomed to a dog bed, you won’t have to worry about fur on your own bed.
Plus, your dog will take their bone to their designated spot, not to your pillow. Opt for dog beds that are easy to clean and wash, including in the washing machine.
Don’t Allow Furniture Habits
How about not letting your dog jump on sofas and chairs? If that works for you, initially train your dog to use their bed and prevent any opportunities for them to climb up.
But if you can’t resist the pleasure of cuddling with your pet on the couch, then the next point is for you!
Furniture Decor
If your pet is allowed to use the furniture, consider practical decor or special covers. The idea is that you can easily shake off fur from the decor or toss it in the washing machine at any moment.
Practical Flooring Options
If you used to love high-pile carpets or hides before getting a dog, now is the time to reconsider your preferences. How about uncluttered laminate flooring or practical coverings with short, dense piles?
Well-Arranged Dining Area
Your dog should have its own designated eating area with two separate bowls: one for water and one for food. Set aside an area in your home for these bowls that is easy to clean.
It’s better to purchase special bowls with trays or a mat underneath. This prevents splashing and spreading of food throughout your home.
Crate. Not Punishment, but A Cool Home
You can purchase a special dog crate or pen for your dog at a pet store. Don’t associate it with punishment; think of it as a playpen for your dog.
In a spacious crate with a bed and toys, your dog will be comfortable. And you won’t have to worry about your pet breaking your favorite vase or chewing on that pillow while you’re away.
The Right Toys in The Right Place
The more toys your dog has, the better. However, to keep your dog interested in them, you should rotate them intelligently. For example, let your dog play with one set of toys for a few days, and then switch to another set, and so on in a cycle.
Keep the toys your dog is currently playing with in a designated basket. As for the toys waiting for their turn, hide them away from your pet’s sight (and teeth).
If you have any pet-related items or toys in your home that your dog doesn’t like or that you no longer use, feel free to get rid of them. You don’t necessarily have to throw them away; you can consider donating them to an animal shelter as an option.
Clean More Often
Make an effort to turn cleaning into a pleasant ritual rather than a dreaded chore. For example, why not vacuum while listening to an audiobook with headphones on? Or practice pronouncing foreign words while you clean?
To effectively clean, you’ll need a powerful vacuum cleaner with attachments for hard-to-reach places, plenty of lint rollers with sticky tape, and a convenient scraper.
Take Care of Your Dog’s Health
Most importantly, visit the veterinarian not only when necessary but also for preventive check-ups. Ensure your dog has a proper diet and care regimen. Timely administer parasite control and vaccinations. It’s much easier to care for a healthy dog – this has been proven many times!
Wishing a happy life to your furry friend, and may harmony and friendship always reign in your home!
