The Best Dog Shampoos
No matter how much you love dogs, no one loves a smelly one. That's why dog shampoo is such an important purchase for dog parents everywhere. Dog shampoos can help you keep your pup's coat clean, but they can also help treat other skin and hair-related issues, such as allergies, rashes, and even excessive shedding. Every pup has slightly different needs when it comes to bathtime, so we've rounded up some great options to help you pick.
What to Look For
While we were researching dog shampoos, we found that the best ones are moisturizing, made with quality ingredients, and easy to use. With these things in mind, our favorite dog shampoo is the two-in-one tearless shampoo and conditioner from Burt’s Bees. This formula is gentle enough for puppies while still being able to wash out layers of dirt and grime. Natural buttermilk and linseed provide moisture for your dog’s skin and coat even once the shampoo has been rinsed out. We also love the bar shampoo from WashBar because it makes giving your dog a bath easier than ever. Hold onto the shampoo with one hand and scrub it in with the other to let your pup know they’re in good hands. Keep reading to discover a dog shampoo that you and your furry friend will love.
Burt’s Bees for Puppies 2-in-1 Tearless Shampoo and Conditioner
Nurture with nature
This shampoo and conditioner combo from Burt’s Bees is a gentle formula that will leave your pup squeaky clean after every bath. While this shampoo may have been designed for puppies, it is a great option for dogs of all ages and with a variety of skin types. Buttermilk and linseed oil help to soothe skin and deeply condition your dog’s fur, so it shines. This formula is pH balanced, fragrance-free, and chemical-free, so why not consider adding it to your dog’s grooming routine?
Pros:
- We like that even though this shampoo is fragrance-free, it will still make your dog smell fresh and clean once they’ve been washed.
- You don’t need to use very much of this shampoo each time you give your dog a bath. This means one bottle will last for quite a while, depending on the size of your dog.
Cons:
- This shampoo doesn’t contain any sulfates, so it doesn’t lather or create soap suds.
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Medicated Dog Shampoo
If your dog suffers from allergies or an illness that makes their skin inflamed and itchy, this medicated shampoo from Veterinary Formula is going to help. Coal tar, salicylic acid, and micronized sulfur work to soothe scaly skin and even help to treat bacterial and fungal infections. Your dog will feel instant relief from this hydrating formula, and you’ll start to see results quickly once you start this effective treatment.
Pros:
- We like that this dog shampoo doesn’t wash out flea and tick treatments, even if it is used regularly on your dog.
- Even though the instructions say that the shampoo has to be left on for ten to 15 minutes after lathering, many users have found that it is still effective if it’s left on for less time. If your dog doesn’t like baths or has very sensitive skin, they may not want to be covered in shampoo for long periods of time.
Cons:
- This shampoo has a strong smell due to the medicated formula, which can be unpleasant for some people.
Coat Defense Daily Preventative Powder
Clean and dry
Just like people, some dogs have sensitive and itchy skin. In these cases, it’s best to use a shampoo that both protects and nourishes your pup. This natural powder can be used in between bathtimes as it helps soothe irritated skin. And since it eliminates excess moisture, this powder will protect your dog from the bacteria and fungus that cause infections. Plus, this 100% natural powder is talc-free and devoid of any synthetic ingredients. What’s not to love?
Pros:
- If your dog deals with chronic itching, this powder works surprisingly fast.
- Is your dog getting stinky? We’re pleased to note that this powder is also an excellent deodorizer.
Cons:
- While this powder is quite effective, it’s also expensive, especially for the size.
Mighty Mutt Hypoallergenic Waterless Shampoo for Dogs
Relieve the redness
It can be a struggle to convince your dog to get in the tub when they aren’t feeling their best. That’s why we love this waterless shampoo from Mighty Mutt. This hypoallergenic shampoo is perfect for any dog that has itchy skin, causing redness and discomfort. Free from sulfates, parabens, and fragrance, this foaming shampoo can be used between baths to refresh your pup’s skin and fur. You’re going to love pampering your dog and making them smell fresh again with this natural shampoo.
Pros:
- After rubbing in a pump or two of the foaming shampoo, you won’t need to towel dry or blowdry your dog. The areas where you use the shampoo will be slightly damp and will air dry quickly.
- We like that this dog shampoo won’t leave any residue on your dog’s skin or fur.
Cons:
- The fresh scent is only noticeable when the shampoo is first applied, and then it starts to dissipate.
WashBar Natural Dog Soap Bar
If you have a hard time getting your dog to relax when it’s time for their bath, you’re going to love this dog shampoo bar from WashBar. This is a great option for anxious dogs because you’re able to apply the shampoo with one hand while the other hand is free to pet and reassure your furry friend. The gentle shampoo is vegetable-based and contains natural oils such as tea tree and manuka that help to moisturize your dog’s skin. Young, old, short-haired, or long-haired, this shampoo bar is going to work wonders on your dog.
Pros:
- Each bar is equivalent to a 20.3 fluid ounce bottle of shampoo, so you won’t have to worry about running out any time soon.
- We like that this shampoo bar comes in recyclable cardboard packaging, so there isn’t any plastic packaging to dispose of.
Cons:
- You may have to repeat the washing process a couple of times to get your dog thoroughly clean, especially if they have long, thick hair or if they are really dirty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I be washing my dog?
Generally, you should be giving your dog a bath once a month. This will ensure that their skin and coat are free of dirt and that they are able to shed any excess fur that doesn’t come out naturally. Dogs produce oils that keep their skin from drying out, so bathing them too often can be harmful. If your dog spends a lot of time outside and gets dirty often, you may want to consider using a waterless or moisturizing shampoo if you are planning to clean them more frequently.
Can I use my shampoo when I give my dog a bath?
While you can technically use your personal shampoo to clean your dog, it may not be the best thing to do in the long run. Human shampoos have a lower pH level, so they’re more acidic to match our skin, whereas dogs need a more neutral shampoo on the pH scale. So if you need to bathe your dog with your shampoo in a pinch, that’s fine, but we recommend purchasing a shampoo specifically for your pup.
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