Dog Sprayed by a Skunk? How to Get Rid of the Smell Fast

Quick answer: The most effective home remedy for skunk smell on a dog is a freshly mixed solution of 1 quart (about 1 liter) of 3% hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup of baking soda and 1 to 2 teaspoons of liquid dish soap. Wearing gloves, work it into the dry coat (avoiding the eyes), leave it for about 5 minutes, rinse thoroughly, then shampoo. Never store the mixture in a closed container, and note it may lighten dark fur. Tomato juice only masks the smell.

First Steps Right After a Skunk Spray

1. Keep your dog outside so the smell doesn’t spread through your home.
2. Check the eyes. Red, watery or squinting eyes need a gentle flush with clean, cool water. Call your vet if irritation continues.
3. Check for bites or scratches. Skunks can carry rabies, so contact your vet about any wound and make sure your dog’s rabies vaccine is current.
4. Don’t wet the coat yet. Water spreads the oily spray; treat the dry coat first.

The Hydrogen Peroxide Skunk Recipe

1. Mix in an open bowl or bucket just before use. Never store it in a closed bottle; the gas it releases can make a sealed container burst.
2. Wearing gloves, massage it into the coat, focusing on the sprayed area. Keep it away from the eyes, nose and mouth.
3. Leave it on for about 5 minutes, but not much longer, as peroxide can lighten fur.
4. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
5. Wash with your regular dog shampoo and rinse again. Repeat if needed.

For the face, use a cloth dampened with the mixture and wipe carefully around (not near) the eyes. Commercial enzyme-based skunk odor removers made for pets are a good alternative.

Getting Skunk Smell Out of Your Home

• Open windows and run fans.
• Wash bedding, collars and towels with detergent and a cup of baking soda.
• Wipe hard surfaces with a diluted vinegar solution.
• Leave bowls of baking soda or activated charcoal out to absorb odor.

How to Avoid Skunk Encounters

• Skunks are most active at dusk and night, so keep evening walks on a leash and use a light.
• Check the yard before letting your dog out after dark.
• Secure trash, compost and pet food, which attract skunks.
• Close off spaces under decks and sheds where skunks may den.

Skunk Smell FAQs

Does tomato juice get rid of skunk smell?

Not really. It can mask the odor briefly, but it doesn’t break down the oils that cause it. The peroxide, baking soda and dish soap mix works far better.

How long does skunk smell last on a dog?

Untreated, it can linger for weeks, and it may come back faintly when the coat gets wet. Proper treatment removes most of it on the first try.

Is skunk spray dangerous to dogs?

It’s mostly unpleasant, but it can irritate the eyes and, rarely, cause more serious reactions. Call your vet if your dog has eye pain, vomiting, weakness or a bite.

Can a groomer remove skunk smell?

Yes. A professional bath with a de-skunking treatment can help, especially for long or thick coats. Treat your dog at home first if you can.

Need a deep clean afterward? Book a Groomit bath and groom at home. More odor tips: why does my dog stink?