Have you noticed your dog scratching continuously or licking their paws excessively? Are their ears red, do they seem to have sudden sensitivity to things that never bothered them before? These may not be just seasonal allergies— they could be a reaction to household cleaning products.
Here are 5 signs your dog might be reacting to cleaning chemicals:
1. Persistent scratching or licking at paws, belly, or armpits
Cleaning their bowls, toys, or bedding with strong detergents or scented sprays can leave behind chemical residues. Dogs with sensitive skin may react with irritation, and vets often identify household cleaning products as common triggers for contact dermatitis in dogs.
2. Red patches, rashes or inflamed skin in typical contact zones
Contact areas like the abdomen, inner thighs, or any other contact area are especially at risk. Red or raw skin in these areas often points to chemical sensitivity rather than fleas or food allergies.
3. Frequent ear infections, watery eyes or coughing after cleaning
Chemical vapours or residues may irritate ears, nose, and respiratory tracts. Many household cleaning products contain compounds that sensitive pets cannot tolerate.
4. Avoiding toys or bedding after cleaning
If your dog’s favourite toy suddenly sits untouched after you’ve cleaned it, chemical residues or lingering scents may be to blame. What we perceive as “clean” can feel uncomfortable, or even unsafe, to a dog’s sensitive nose.
5. New skin or gastrointestinal issues after switching cleaning routine or detergents
Sometimes the culprit isn’t food! It can be the bowls, bedding or toys you clean. The detergents, sprays, or cleaners used can trigger discomfort. Even unscented products can leave residue that cause licking, chewing, or digestive upset.
Why this matters
Dogs don’t ask for chemical sprays or strong detergents—they just trust us to keep their world safe. Their delicate skin and super-sensitive noses can be easily irritated by everyday cleaning products that we might barely notice. That’s why we created Lipaw: no soap, no harsh chemicals, no strong scents—just tap water transformed with safe cleaning technology to lift away lint, and destroy residue and biofilm without upsetting your dog’s skin or sense of smell. It’s more than cleaning, it’s peace of mind.
Protect your pet today! Check Lipaw