How to Get Dog Pee Smell Out of Shoes & Boots: 5 Proven Methods

It’s Saturday night and you’re ready to go out—but your puppy has once again used your favorite shoes as an impromptu restroom. While wiping away visible stains might be quick, eliminating that stubborn ammonia-like odor is another story entirely. The good news? With the right approach, you can rescue your footwear and restore freshness—no replacement needed.

Close-up of dog urine stain on white athletic shoe sole and upper

The 5 Methods to Get Dog Pee Smell Out of Shoes & Boots

1. If You Can, Toss Them in the Washing Machine

This is often the quickest and most effective solution—if your shoes are machine-washable. Only use this method for footwear made from canvas, nylon, cotton, or polyester. Always check the care label first.

Before washing:

  • Remove insoles and laces (place laces in a mesh garment bag)
  • Brush off any dried debris or residue
  • Wash insoles separately—many absorb urine deeply and may need replacing; hand-washing with mild soap and cold water is worth trying first

For the wash cycle:

  • Use a delicate or hand-wash setting—skip the spin cycle to prevent warping
  • Choose liquid detergent (powder can lodge in seams and fabric weaves)
  • Add a pet-safe stain remover if needed—but spot-test it on an inconspicuous area first
  • Toss in a couple of clean, old towels to balance the load and cushion the shoes

After washing:

  • Gently blot excess moisture with a clean towel
  • Stuff shoes with dry rags or crumpled paper towels to absorb lingering dampness and help maintain shape
  • Air-dry completely in a well-ventilated area—never use direct heat or a dryer, which can set odors and damage materials
Shoes placed inside mesh laundry bag with towels in washing machine drum

2. Baking Soda + Vinegar Soak (For Non-Machine-Washable Shoes)

Perfect for leather, suede, or structured boots that can’t handle machine washing. This duo works by neutralizing ammonia (the main odor compound in urine) while lifting trapped residues.

How to do it:

  1. Mix ½ cup white vinegar with 2 cups warm water in a basin
  2. Soak a clean cloth or soft brush in the solution and gently wipe all affected areas—including tongue, heel lining, and toe box
  3. Sprinkle generous amounts of baking soda inside the shoe and on any stained exterior surfaces
  4. Let sit overnight (or at least 8 hours) in a dry, airy spot
  5. Vacuum or brush out the powder thoroughly the next day

Tip: For persistent smells, repeat the process—or add a few drops of FurPetVo’s natural odor-neutralizing spray (available at furpetvo.com) during the final wipe-down.

3. Enzyme Cleaner Treatment (Best for Deep Odor Elimination)

Unlike masking sprays or deodorizers, enzyme-based cleaners break down the organic compounds in urine—eliminating the source of the smell, not just covering it up. Look for products labeled “pet-safe” and “urine-specific,” like FurPetVo’s Bio-Neutral Enzyme Spray.

Application steps:

  • Blot away any remaining moisture with a dry towel
  • Spray liberally inside the shoe, especially around the insole, heel cup, and toe seam
  • Let it dwell for 10–15 minutes—don’t wipe it dry; enzymes need time to digest odor-causing proteins
  • Air-dry fully before wearing

Pro tip: Use FurPetVo’s enzyme spray regularly on high-risk areas (like entryways or crates) to prevent future accidents—and keep your footwear smelling fresh longer.

4. Freezer Method (For Quick, Low-Effort Relief)

Yes—freezing really does help! Cold temperatures slow bacterial activity and temporarily suppress volatile odor molecules. It won’t eliminate deep-set stains or biological residue, but it’s a great first step or emergency fix.

How to use it:

  1. Place shoes in a sealed plastic bag (double-bag to avoid cross-contamination)
  2. Freeze for at least 24 hours—up to 48 for stronger odors
  3. Remove and let thaw at room temperature, then air out for several hours

Note: This method works best when combined with one of the above techniques—not as a standalone solution.

5. Activated Charcoal Deodorizing (Ongoing Odor Control)

Once your shoes are clean and dry, activated charcoal packets act as long-term odor sponges—absorbing moisture and residual smells between wears.

Try this routine:

  • Drop two FurPetVo Activated Charcoal Deodorizer Pouches (available at furpetvo.com) inside each shoe overnight
  • Store shoes in a breathable cloth bag—not plastic—to allow airflow
  • Refresh pouches every 2–4 weeks by placing them in direct sunlight for 2 hours
Two charcoal deodorizer pouches nestled inside a pair of hiking boots

Prevention Tips to Keep Your Footwear Safe

Even the best cleaning methods are no match for consistent prevention:

  • Keep a FurPetVo Pet-Safe Floor Mat near entryways to catch paw moisture and discourage indoor marking
  • Train your dog to use designated potty zones—and reward consistently with FurPetVo training treats
  • Rotate footwear regularly so shoes have time to air out fully between uses
  • Store shoes upright in a cool, dry closet—not crammed in a dark, humid shoe rack

With these five proven methods—and a little proactive care—you’ll keep your shoes smelling clean, stay confident stepping out the door, and give your pup fewer tempting targets. Because when it comes to pet life, convenience shouldn’t mean compromise.