Dogs are beloved members of our families and keeping them clean and healthy is a top priority for any pet owner. One of the essential products for maintaining a dog’s hygiene is a good quality dog shampoo. A dog’s skin is different from human skin and requires special care to avoid dryness, irritation, and other skin-related issues.
When choosing the best dog shampoo, there are several factors to consider. The first thing to keep in mind is the type of coat your dog has. Different breeds have different coat types, such as short hair, long hair, curly hair, and more. Each coat type has specific needs that should be addressed by the shampoo you choose. Another factor to consider is your dog’s skin type. Dogs can have dry, oily, or sensitive skin, and choosing a shampoo that caters to their specific skin type can prevent any skin-related issues.
It’s also important to choose a dog shampoo that is free from harsh chemicals that could cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Look for shampoos that are made with natural ingredients and avoid those that contain artificial fragrances, sulfates, parabens, and other harmful chemicals.
After researching and testing several dog shampoos, we have identified the best dog shampoos that cater to different coat and skin types while being free from harmful chemicals.
Best Dog Shampoos
We all love our furry friends, but sometimes they can get a little smelly. That’s where dog shampoo comes in. With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which one to choose. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best dog shampoos available. Whether your pup has sensitive skin, needs extra conditioning, or just needs a good deep clean, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.
1. Smiling Paws Pets – Itch Relief Shampoo for Pets
The Smiling Paws Pets Itch Relief Shampoo is a specially formulated product designed to alleviate itching and provide relief to pets suffering from skin irritations and allergies. This shampoo is gentle yet effective, making bath time a soothing experience for your furry friend. It is suitable for dogs and cats of all breeds and sizes.
Pros
- Soothes Itchy Skin: This shampoo contains ingredients known for their anti-itch properties, helping to soothe and relieve your pet’s itchy skin. It can be particularly beneficial for pets with allergies or dermatological conditions.
- Natural Ingredients: Many users appreciate that this itch relief shampoo is made with natural ingredients. It often includes soothing components like oatmeal, aloe vera, and essential oils, which can be gentle on your pet’s skin.
- Improved Coat Condition: Beyond itch relief, this shampoo can help improve the overall condition of your pet’s coat, leaving it soft, shiny, and healthy-looking.
Cons
- Price: Quality pet shampoos, especially those with natural ingredients, can be pricier compared to generic brands. Some pet owners may find the cost of this itch relief shampoo to be higher than other options on the market.
In summary, the Smiling Paws Pets Itch Relief Shampoo offers several benefits, including itch relief, natural ingredients, and improved coat condition. However, as with any pet product, individual sensitivities and the price may be factors to consider when deciding if this shampoo is the right choice for your pet’s needs.
2. Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Shampoo for Dogs
If you’re looking for a natural, effective solution to tackle stubborn odors, the Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Shampoo for Dogs is a great choice.
Pros
- The baking soda in the shampoo effectively neutralizes odors, leaving your dog smelling fresh and clean.
- The natural ingredients, including cucumber mint and kiwi blossom, moisturize your pet’s skin, keeping it healthy.
- The shampoo is safe to use with topical flea and tick treatments, making it convenient for pet owners.
Cons
- The shampoo may not lather as well as other dog shampoos, so you may need to use more product to cover your pet’s coat.
- Some users have reported that the shampoo has a strong scent that may be overwhelming for some dogs.
- While the shampoo is advertised as suitable for all breeds and ages, some users have reported that it caused dryness or itching in their pets.
We’ve used this shampoo on our own dogs and have been impressed with its ability to remove stubborn odors. The baking soda works quickly to neutralize smells, leaving our dogs smelling fresh for days. We also appreciate that the shampoo is made with natural ingredients and is safe to use with flea and tick treatments. However, we did notice that the shampoo doesn’t lather as well as some other dog shampoos, so we needed to use more product to cover our dogs’ coats.
Overall, we recommend the Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Shampoo for Dogs as a natural, effective solution for pet owners looking to eliminate stubborn odors.
3. Wahl Calming Pet Shampoo
If you’re looking for a pet shampoo that will clean, condition, detangle, and moisturize your dog’s coat while leaving behind a calming lavender chamomile scent, then Wahl’s Calming Formula 4-in-1 shampoo is a great choice.
Pros
- Concentrated formula means a little goes a long way
- Calming lavender chamomile scent
- Made with plant-derived ingredients and free of harsh chemicals
Cons
- Some users may not like the scent
- May not work as well for dogs with severe skin issues
- May not lather as much as other shampoos
We’ve been using this shampoo for our dog for a while now, and we love how it leaves her coat feeling soft and silky. The lavender chamomile scent is also very pleasant and calming. We appreciate that the shampoo is made with plant-derived ingredients and is free of harsh chemicals like PEG-80, alcohol, and parabens.
One thing to keep in mind is that the shampoo is concentrated, so you don’t need to use as much as you might with other shampoos. The rich lather makes it easy to clean your dog’s coat, and the formula rinses off cleanly.
Overall, we highly recommend Wahl’s Calming Formula 4-in-1 shampoo for anyone looking for a gentle, effective, and calming pet shampoo.
4. Burt’s Bees for Pets Oatmeal Dog Shampoo
We highly recommend Burt’s Bees for Pets Oatmeal Dog Shampoo for pet owners who want to take care of their furry friends with natural products.
Pros
- Soothes and softens dry, itchy skin
- Made with natural ingredients like colloidal oatmeal and honey
- Suitable for all dogs and puppies
Cons
- Light lather due to natural formula
- Doesn’t have a strong scent outside of main ingredients
- May require more shampoo for dogs with thicker coats
We tried Burt’s Bees for Pets Oatmeal Dog Shampoo on our furry friend and were impressed with how gentle and effective it was. The shampoo cleansed our dog’s skin and coat without any harmful chemicals that could dry out or damage their fur.
The natural ingredients in the shampoo, like colloidal oatmeal and honey, helped soothe and soften our dog’s dry, itchy skin. We also appreciated that the formula is pH balanced and suitable for all dogs and puppies.
While the shampoo doesn’t have a strong scent outside of the main ingredients, we didn’t mind as we prefer natural products without artificial fragrances. The light lather was also expected due to the natural formula, but it still effectively cleaned our dog’s fur.
Overall, we highly recommend Burt’s Bees for Pets Oatmeal Dog Shampoo for pet owners who want to take care of their furry friends with natural, effective products.
5. TropiClean 2-in-1 Papaya & Coconut Dog Shampoo and Conditioner
We highly recommend TropiClean 2-in-1 Papaya & Coconut Dog Shampoo and Conditioner for pet parents who want a natural and gentle shampoo for their furry friends.
Pros
- Cleans and conditions the coat for easy brushing
- Moisturizes the skin and coat for a silky soft finish
- Derived from natural ingredients such as coconut and vitamin E
Cons
- The scent may not last as long as some other shampoos
- Some dogs may not like the scent
- The bottle may be difficult to open for some people
TropiClean 2-in-1 Papaya & Coconut Dog Shampoo and Conditioner is a great smelling shampoo that cleans and conditions your dog’s coat. The natural ingredients such as coconut and vitamin E make the coat silky soft and moisturized.
The shampoo is easy to use and lathers well, making it easy to clean your dog’s coat thoroughly. The scent is pleasant and not overpowering, but some dogs may not like it. The scent may not last as long as some other shampoos, but it does leave your dog smelling fresh and clean.
The bottle may be difficult to open for some people, but once you get it open, the shampoo is easy to dispense. Overall, TropiClean 2-in-1 Papaya & Coconut Dog Shampoo and Conditioner is a great choice for pet parents who want a natural and gentle shampoo for their furry friends.
6. Wahl Oatmeal Formula Pet Shampoo
We highly recommend the Wahl Oatmeal Formula Pet Shampoo for dogs with sensitive skin.
Pros
- The oatmeal formula moisturizes dry skin and provides itch relief.
- The shampoo is easy to rinse off, leaving your dog’s coat looking clean, silky, and smooth.
- The shampoo is PEG-80 free, alcohol free, paraben free, and pH balanced.
Cons
- The coconut lime verbena scent may not be appealing to all owners.
- The shampoo is concentrated, so it’s important to thoroughly rinse your dog after shampooing to leave no residual shampoo behind.
- The shampoo may not lather as much as other dog shampoos due to its higher concentration of coconut derived sodding agent.
We used the Wahl Oatmeal Formula Pet Shampoo on our golden retriever who has sensitive skin and is prone to allergies. The shampoo effectively cleaned his coat and left it feeling soft and silky. We also noticed a significant reduction in his itching and scratching after using this shampoo.
The oatmeal formula and plant derived ingredients make this shampoo a great choice for owners who want to avoid harsh chemicals for their dog and themselves. It’s also allergy-friendly and safe for dogs with severe allergies.
Overall, we highly recommend the Wahl Oatmeal Formula Pet Shampoo for dogs with sensitive skin who need gentle yet effective cleaning and moisturizing.
7. Bodhi Dog New Grooming Pet Shampoo Brush | Soothing Massage Rubber Bristles Curry Comb for Dogs & Cats Washing | Professional Quality One Pack Blue
If you’re looking for a dog shampoo brush that is both effective and gentle, Bodhi Dog New Grooming Pet Shampoo Brush is a great option.
Pros
- The soft rubber tips quickly scrub away dead skin and loose fur making it an excellent pet brush for grooming and bathing.
- Pets love the massaging bristles that turn grooming into a soothing massage for your pet that feels good, gets them clean and helps keep their skin and coat healthy.
- The brush does a great job removing fur. It can be used as a deshedding tool to manage constant shedding.
Cons
- The brush may slip off your hand sometimes.
- Getting the hair out of the brush can be challenging.
- The handle may be tight for big hands.
We’ve used this brush on our furry friend and were impressed with how well it worked. The soft rubber tips are gentle on the skin, making it perfect for pets with sensitive skin. The massaging bristles are also a nice touch, making bath time more enjoyable for your pet. We also noticed a significant reduction in shedding after using the brush, which is a huge plus.
One of the downsides we found was that the brush may slip off your hand sometimes, especially when it’s wet. Additionally, getting the hair out of the brush can be challenging, but it’s a minor inconvenience. Lastly, the handle may be tight for big hands, but it’s not a deal-breaker.
Overall, we highly recommend the Bodhi Dog New Grooming Pet Shampoo Brush to anyone looking for a gentle yet effective dog shampoo brush that can also be used as a deshedding tool.
8. Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Pet Shampoo – Vanilla & Almond
We highly recommend the Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Pet Shampoo – Vanilla & Almond for pet owners who want to give their pets a heavenly scent while addressing dry, itchy, and flaky skin.
Pros
- Colloidal Oatmeal and Organic Aloe Vera help combat skin irritation, promote healing, and re-moisturize sensitive, dry skin.
- Soap-free and pH-balanced formula cleans and deodorizes safely and thoroughly, leaving your pet’s coat and skin plush and smelling better than ever before.
- Safe for all animals over 6 weeks old and will not wash off topical flea applications.
Cons
- May not be suitable for pets with severe skin conditions or allergies.
- The scent may not last as long as some other pet shampoos.
- The shampoo is a bit pricey compared to other options on the market.
We recently used this shampoo on our dog, who tends to have dry, itchy skin. The shampoo lathered well and had a pleasant vanilla and almond scent that lasted for a few days. Our dog’s coat was noticeably softer and shinier after using this product, and we noticed a significant decrease in itching and scratching. We also appreciate that the product is free of soap, gluten, DEA, parabens, synthetic dyes, sulfates, or phthalates, and is animal cruelty-free.
Overall, we believe that the Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Pet Shampoo – Vanilla & Almond is a great choice for pet owners who want to give their pets a luxurious bath experience while addressing dry, itchy, and flaky skin.
9. Pawfume Hypoallergenic Best Dog Shampoos & Conditioners – Probiotic Pet Shampoo for Smelly Dogs, Puppies (Show Dog)
If you’re looking for a dog shampoo that smells great and is also a conditioner and detangler, then the Pawfume Hypoallergenic Best Dog Shampoos & Conditioners – Probiotic Pet Shampoo for Smelly Dogs, Puppies (Show Dog) is a great option.
Pros
- Veterinarian Certified
- Professionally Formulated
- Detangling Dog Shampoo
Cons
- May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive skin
- The scent may be too strong for some people
- The pump dispenser may not work properly
We’ve used this dog shampoo on our furry friend and found that it leaves his coat softer and healthier-looking. The ph-balanced formula is great for dogs with strong odor concerns and is a luxuriously deodorizing dog shampoo. We also found that the signature fragrance lasts long after bathtime is over (5X longer!) and the scent of fine botanicals and premium conditioners will be wafting through your home – this is no ordinary dog shampoo!
One of the best things about this dog shampoo is that it is professionally formulated and is one of the best professional dog shampoo conditioner options in the market. It’s also hypoallergenic, making it a great option for dogs with sensitive skin. Additionally, it is a dog conditioner detangler, making it a great option for dogs with long hair.
However, we did find that the scent may be too strong for some people and the pump dispenser may not work properly. We also found that it may not be suitable for dogs with sensitive skin.
Overall, if you’re looking for a dog shampoo that smells great and is also a conditioner and detangler, then the Pawfume Hypoallergenic Best Dog Shampoos & Conditioners – Probiotic Pet Shampoo for Smelly Dogs, Puppies (Show Dog) is definitely worth considering.
10. Honest Paws Dog Shampoo and Conditioner
We highly recommend Honest Paws Dog Shampoo and Conditioner for pet owners looking for a natural and effective way to clean and condition their dog’s coat.
Pros
- The 5-in-1 formula cleans, deodorizes, conditions, detangles, and moisturizes your dog’s coat and skin, making it a one-step solution for a thorough bath.
- The natural ingredients, like coconut and palm, make it safe and non-irritating for your dog’s sensitive skin. It is also free of harmful synthetic chemicals, sulfates, and parabens.
- The hydrating properties of oats and aloe replenish the skin’s natural moisture while conditioning the fur, leaving your dog’s coat soft, clean, and shiny.
Cons
- Some dogs may not enjoy the scent or the bathing experience with this shampoo as much as other products.
- The formula may not be as effective for dogs with severe skin conditions or allergies.
- The price point may be higher compared to other dog shampoos on the market.
In our experience, the Honest Paws Dog Shampoo and Conditioner is easy to use and lathers up nicely. It leaves our dog’s coat feeling soft and smelling fresh without any harsh chemicals. We appreciate that it is made with natural ingredients and is safe for our dog’s sensitive skin. Overall, we think it’s a great choice for pet owners who want a high-quality dog shampoo that is gentle and effective.
11. Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Dog Shampoo & Conditioner
We highly recommend Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Dog Shampoo & Conditioner for pet owners looking for a natural, plant-based solution for their furry friend’s grooming needs.
Pros
- The all-natural formula is safe and effective for pets with sensitive skin.
- The 5-in-1 grooming solution simplifies the grooming routine, providing a single solution that cleans, deodorizes, conditions, detangles, and moisturizes your dog’s coat and skin.
- The formula is free from parabens, cruelty, sulfates, alcohol, and soap.
Cons
- The formula may not be as effective for pets with severe skin issues.
- The scent may not be as strong as some pet owners prefer.
- The formula may not lather as well as other shampoos.
We were impressed with the unique blend of ingredients in Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Dog Shampoo & Conditioner. The combination of Organic Aloe Vera Gel, Almond Oil, Oatmeal, and essential Vitamins (A, D, E, B12) provided remarkable relief for our pet’s skin issues while maintaining essential hydration. We also noticed a significant reduction in shedding after using this shampoo and conditioner.
The 5-in-1 grooming solution was a game-changer for us. It simplified our grooming routine, providing a single solution that cleaned, deodorized, conditioned, detangled, and moisturized our dog’s coat and skin. We were impressed with how soft and clean our dog’s coat felt after using this product.
Overall, Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Dog Shampoo & Conditioner is an excellent choice for pet owners looking for a natural, plant-based solution for their furry friend’s grooming needs. We were impressed with the formula’s effectiveness and the 5-in-1 grooming solution. We highly recommend this product to other pet owners.
12. BioSilk for Dogs Silk Therapy Detangling Dog Shampoo
We highly recommend BioSilk for Dogs Silk Therapy Detangling Dog Shampoo. This premium shampoo for dogs is perfect for all breeds and sizes. It cleanses and moisturizes your dog’s coat, leaving it soft, shiny, and healthy-looking.
Pros
- BioSilk for Dogs features the same classic ingredients & innovative technology as the original revolutionary BioSilk Therapy line for humans.
- This shampoo leverages silk and enriching vitamins working together to help restore moisture to your dog’s coat, and dog coconut oil for skin locks in hydration.
- With silk infused proteins and enriching vitamins, this dog detangler shampoo gently yet effectively helps you work through knots and tangles for a dog detangler for matted hair everyone can enjoy.
Cons
- Some customers may find the scent to be too strong.
- The price is a bit higher compared to other dog shampoos.
- It may not work as effectively on extremely matted hair.
BioSilk for Dogs Silk Therapy Detangling Dog Shampoo is a great product that is pH balanced for dogs, and it contains no parabens or sulfates, making it safe for regular use. This dog shampoo is made in the USA with high-quality ingredients, providing you with only the best dog shampoo on the pet market.
We found that this dog shampoo works effectively through knots and tangles, leaving your dog’s coat silky smooth. The coconut oil in this dog shampoo moisturizes skin, hydrates fur, and leaves behind a light scent that both dogs and owners will love.
To use, wet your dog’s coat thoroughly with warm water. Apply the dog shampoo from the back of the ears to the tail, carefully avoiding the eyes. Lather and gently massage deep into the coat and skin. Rinse well and use BioSilk dog conditioner for dogs for best results.
In conclusion, we highly recommend BioSilk for Dogs Silk Therapy Detangling Dog Shampoo. It is a premium shampoo for dogs that is made with high-quality ingredients, and it effectively cleanses and moisturizes your dog’s coat, leaving it soft, shiny, and healthy-looking.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best dog shampoo, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you make the right choice for your furry friend. Here are some features to consider when shopping for a dog shampoo:
Ingredients
The first thing to look for when choosing a dog shampoo is the ingredients. You want to make sure that the shampoo you choose is made with safe and natural ingredients that won’t irritate your dog’s skin or cause any adverse reactions. Look for shampoos that are free from harsh chemicals like sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances.
Skin Type
Just like humans, dogs have different skin types, and it’s essential to choose a shampoo that is suitable for your dog’s skin type. If your dog has dry or sensitive skin, look for a shampoo that is formulated to soothe and hydrate the skin. If your dog has oily skin, look for a shampoo that will help to balance the skin’s natural oils.
Coat Type
In addition to skin type, you also want to consider your dog’s coat type when choosing a shampoo. If your dog has a thick, double coat, look for a shampoo that will help to detangle and condition the coat. If your dog has a short coat, look for a shampoo that will help to clean and shine the coat.
Fragrance
While it’s tempting to choose a shampoo that smells great, it’s important to remember that dogs have a much stronger sense of smell than humans. Look for a shampoo that has a mild, natural fragrance that won’t overwhelm your dog’s sensitive nose.
Packaging
Lastly, consider the packaging of the shampoo. Look for a shampoo that comes in a bottle with a secure cap to prevent spills and leaks. Additionally, consider the size of the bottle and how frequently you will need to purchase it based on your dog’s grooming needs.
By considering these features, you can choose a dog shampoo that will effectively clean and nourish your dog’s skin and coat without causing any harm or irritation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best dog shampoo for fleas?
When it comes to fleas, we recommend using a shampoo that contains natural ingredients like neem oil, tea tree oil, or citrus extracts. These ingredients are known to repel fleas and keep them away from your dog’s skin. Look for shampoos that are specifically formulated to kill fleas and their eggs.
What is the best dog shampoo for puppies?
Puppies have sensitive skin, so it’s important to use a shampoo that is gentle and won’t irritate their skin. Look for a shampoo that is specifically formulated for puppies, with natural ingredients like oatmeal or aloe vera. Avoid using shampoos that contain harsh chemicals or fragrances.
What is the best dog shampoo for sensitive skin?
If your dog has sensitive skin, look for a shampoo that is free from harsh chemicals and fragrances. We recommend using a shampoo that contains natural ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, or chamomile. These ingredients are gentle on the skin and can help soothe any irritation or itching.
What is the best natural dog shampoo?
If you prefer natural products, look for a dog shampoo that contains natural ingredients like coconut oil, lavender oil, or chamomile. These ingredients are gentle on the skin and can help soothe any irritation or itching. Avoid shampoos that contain harsh chemicals or fragrances.
What is the best dog shampoo to use according to vets?
Vets recommend using a shampoo that is specifically formulated for dogs, with natural ingredients that are gentle on the skin. Look for shampoos that are pH-balanced and free from harsh chemicals and fragrances. We recommend consulting with your vet to determine the best shampoo for your dog’s specific needs.
What is the best and healthiest dog shampoo?
The best and healthiest dog shampoo is one that is free from harsh chemicals and fragrances, and contains natural ingredients that are gentle on the skin. Look for shampoos that are pH-balanced and contain natural ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, or chamomile. We recommend consulting with your vet to determine the best shampoo for your dog’s specific needs.
