Best Shampoo for Dogs: Top Picks for a Clean and Healthy Coat

Dogs are beloved pets that bring joy and companionship to many households. As a dog owner, one of the most important aspects of caring for your furry friend is maintaining their hygiene. Bathing your dog is an essential part of their grooming routine, and using the right shampoo can make all the difference.

When it comes to choosing the best shampoo for dogs, there are several factors to consider. One of the critical things to pay attention to is the type of shampoo you’re using. Just like with human hair, dogs have different coat types and textures that require specific types of shampoo. Some shampoos are designed for dogs with sensitive skin, while others are formulated to combat fleas and ticks.

At the same time, it’s important to choose a shampoo that is safe for your dog. Some shampoos contain harsh chemicals that can irritate your dog’s skin or even be toxic if ingested. As responsible dog owners, it’s our job to make sure we’re using products that are both effective and safe for our furry friends.

We spent hours researching and testing different dog shampoos to identify the ones that are the best for our four-legged companions. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks and what makes them stand out.

Best Shampoos for Dogs

As pet owners, we know how important it is to keep our furry friends clean and healthy. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best shampoos for dogs. These shampoos are specially formulated to clean and moisturize your dog’s skin and coat, leaving them smelling fresh and looking their best. Whether your dog has sensitive skin, is prone to allergies, or just needs a good bath, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.

1) Wahl USA Dry Skin & Itch Relief Pet Shampoo for Dogs

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If you’re looking for a shampoo that is gentle on your dog’s skin and coat, then Wahl USA Dry Skin & Itch Relief Pet Shampoo for Dogs is an excellent choice.

PROS

Made in the USA with plant-derived ingredients
Concentrated formula allows for up to 70% more baths than other leading brands
Coconut lime verbena scent leaves a pleasant smell on your dog’s coat

CONS

Some pets may be sensitive to certain plant oils used in the product
May not lather as much as other dog shampoos
Some users may find the scent too strong

We love using this shampoo on our furry friends because it is pH balanced, alcohol-free, paraben-free, and PEG-80 free. The oatmeal formula helps moisturize dry skin and provides itch relief. The shampoo is easy to rinse off and leaves your dog’s coat looking clean, silky, and smooth.

We appreciate that Wahl is a company of animal lovers and has been serving professional vets and groomers for over 50 years. The shampoo is allergy-friendly and safe for dogs with sensitive skin. However, we strongly recommend talking to your vet and doing a small spot test on your pet at least 24 hours before using any new product.

Overall, Wahl USA Dry Skin & Itch Relief Pet Shampoo for Dogs is a great choice for dog owners who want to avoid harsh chemicals and provide their furry friends with a gentle, effective cleaning.

2) Wahl USA 4-in-1 Calming Pet Shampoo for Dogs

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If you want a shampoo that cleanses, conditions, detangles, and moisturizes your dog’s coat and skin, then the Wahl USA 4-in-1 Calming Pet Shampoo for Dogs is the perfect choice for you.

PROS

Veterinarian Certified: Pawfume’s veterinary formula dog shampoo and conditioner guarantees a softer, healthier coat.
Professionally Formulated: Pamper your pet with one of the best professional dog shampoo conditioner options in the market.
Detangling Dog Shampoo: Not only is this a dog shampoo that smells good & a dog conditioner, it’s also a dog conditioner detangler!

CONS

May be expensive for some pet owners.
Some customers reported that the scent may not last as long as advertised.
May not be suitable for dogs with extremely sensitive skin.

We recently tried out the Pawfume dog shampoo and conditioner on our furry friend, and we were impressed with the results. The formula is ph-balanced, making it the best dog shampoo for smelly dogs, and it’s also luxuriously deodorizing. After just one wash, our dog’s coat was noticeably softer and shinier.

We also loved the fact that this dog shampoo smells amazing. 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!

Overall, we highly recommend Pawfume’s dog shampoo and conditioner to anyone looking for a high-quality, professional-grade product that will leave their furry friend smelling fresh and looking great.

6) Honest Paws Dog Shampoo and Conditioner

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We highly recommend Honest Paws Dog Shampoo and Conditioner for pet owners looking for a premium dog wash that is gentle on their furry friends’ skin and coat.

PROS

This 5-in-1 dog wash is a time-saver, as it cleans, deodorizes, conditions, detangles, and moisturizes the coat in one step.
The natural, plant-based ingredients make it safe and non-irritating for dogs with sensitive skin or allergies.
The hydrating properties of oats and aloe leave the coat soft, shiny, and free of matting and irritation.

CONS

The shampoo’s scent is not appealing when applying it, but it smells clean and fresh once rinsed out.
The lather is not very rich, which may require using more product than usual.
The bottle is smaller than other dog shampoos on the market, which may not be cost-effective for larger dogs or frequent use.

We were impressed with the results of using Honest Paws Dog Shampoo and Conditioner on our furry friends. The shampoo lathered well and rinsed out quickly, leaving their coats shiny, fluffy, and smelling fresh. We appreciated that it is free of parabens, sulfates, phosphate, DEA, and MEA, making it a safer and healthier option for our pets. The shampoo’s eco-friendly formula and the brand’s commitment to customer satisfaction make it a great choice for pet owners who care about their pets’ well-being and the environment.

7) TropiClean 2-in-1 Papaya & Coconut Dog Shampoo and Conditioner

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If you’re looking for a natural shampoo and conditioner for your furry friend, TropiClean 2-in-1 Papaya & Coconut Dog Shampoo and Conditioner is a great option.

PROS

Cleans and conditions in one step
Leaves coat silky soft and controls odor
Made with natural ingredients like coconut and vitamin E

CONS

May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive skin
The scent may not last as long as some other shampoos
May not lather as well as some other shampoos

We recently tried this shampoo on our dog and were pleased with the results. The shampoo lathered well and rinsed out easily. Our dog’s coat was left feeling silky soft and smelling great. We also appreciated that it is made with natural ingredients and is free from harmful chemicals like parabens and dyes.

One thing to note is that if your dog has particularly sensitive skin, this shampoo may not be the best choice for them. While it did not cause any issues for our dog, some reviewers have noted that it caused itching or irritation for their pets. Additionally, while the scent is pleasant, it may not last as long as some other shampoos.

Overall, we would recommend TropiClean 2-in-1 Papaya & Coconut Dog Shampoo and Conditioner to pet parents looking for a natural, effective shampoo and conditioner for their furry friend.

8) Wahl USA Odor Control Shampoo for Dogs & Pets

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We highly recommend the Wahl USA Odor Control Shampoo for Dogs & Pets to keep your furry friend smelling fresh and clean.

PROS

The eucalyptus and spearmint scent is refreshing and long-lasting.
The shampoo is highly concentrated, so a little goes a long way.
The shampoo is PEG-80 free, alcohol free, paraben free, and pH balanced, making it a great choice for pets with sensitive skin.

CONS

Some pets may be sensitive to certain plant oils used in the product, so it’s important to do a small spot test before using.
The shampoo doesn’t stop yeasty smells, so it may not be the best choice for dogs with strong odors.
The shampoo doesn’t help with shedding, so it may not be the best choice for dogs who shed a lot.

We have used the Wahl USA Odor Control Shampoo for Dogs & Pets on our own pets and have been impressed with the results. The shampoo lathers well and cleans dirty coats and other environmental residue that dulls your dog’s coat and odor. It also deodorizes and leaves your pet looking and smelling clean.

We appreciate that the shampoo is made in the USA and contains plant-derived ingredients, making it a safer choice for pets and their owners. The 24 oz size and concentrated formula allow for up to 70% more baths than other leading brands, making it a great value for pet owners.

Overall, we highly recommend the Wahl USA Odor Control Shampoo for Dogs & Pets for its refreshing scent, concentrated formula, and safe ingredients.

9) Vet’s Best Allergy Itch Relief Dog Shampoo

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We highly recommend Vet’s Best Allergy Itch Relief Dog Shampoo for dogs with allergies or sensitive skin. It is a natural remedy that effectively washes away allergens, relieves itchy skin, and leaves your dog smelling fresh and clean.

PROS

Soothes itchy skin and calms redness.
Leaves your dog’s coat clean and smelling spa-day fresh.
Can be used as often as necessary without drying out your dog’s skin.

CONS

May leave the skin a little dry if used excessively.
Some dogs may have an allergic reaction to the natural ingredients.
The shampoo is relatively expensive compared to other dog shampoos on the market.

Vet’s Best Allergy Itch Relief Dog Shampoo is a veterinarian-formulated blend of essential oils and natural ingredients such as oatmeal, d’limonene, and tea tree oil. It is specially designed to relieve your dog’s discomfort and itchiness caused by allergies or sensitive skin.

We love that this shampoo is natural and gentle enough to use as often as necessary without drying out your dog’s skin. It effectively washes away allergens and leaves your dog’s coat clean and smelling great. We also appreciate that it works well with other topical flea and tick control products.

However, we do caution that some dogs may have an allergic reaction to the natural ingredients, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s skin after using the shampoo. Additionally, if used excessively, the shampoo may leave the skin a little dry.

Overall, we highly recommend Vet’s Best Allergy Itch Relief Dog Shampoo for dogs with allergies or sensitive skin. It is a natural, effective, and pleasant-smelling shampoo that will leave your dog feeling clean and comfortable.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best shampoo for your furry friend, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you’re getting a product that is safe and effective. In this buying guide, we’ll go over some important features to consider when selecting a dog shampoo.

Ingredients

One of the most important things to look at when choosing a dog shampoo is the ingredients list. Make sure to avoid shampoos that contain harsh chemicals or irritants, such as sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances. Instead, opt for shampoos that use natural ingredients, such as oatmeal, aloe vera, and essential oils. These ingredients are gentle on your dog’s skin and coat, and can help soothe any irritation or dryness.

Coat Type

Different dogs have different coat types, and it’s important to choose a shampoo that is specifically formulated for your dog’s coat. For example, if your dog has a thick, double coat, you may want to look for a shampoo that is designed to penetrate deep into the fur to remove dirt and debris. On the other hand, if your dog has a thin, delicate coat, you’ll want to choose a shampoo that is gentle and won’t strip away natural oils.

Scent

While it may be tempting to choose a shampoo based on its scent, it’s important to remember that dogs have a much more sensitive sense of smell than humans. Strong fragrances can be overwhelming and even irritating to your dog, so it’s best to choose a shampoo with a mild, natural scent.

pH Balance

Dogs have a different pH balance than humans, and using a shampoo that is too acidic or too alkaline can cause irritation and dryness. Look for a shampoo that is pH balanced specifically for dogs to ensure that it will be gentle and effective.

Packaging

Finally, consider the packaging of the shampoo. Look for a bottle with a secure cap or pump to prevent spills and leaks, and make sure the bottle is easy to grip and handle. Additionally, choose a size that is appropriate for your dog’s size and frequency of use.

By keeping these features in mind, you can choose a dog shampoo that will keep your furry friend’s coat clean, healthy, and smelling great.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of shampoo is recommended by veterinarians for dogs?

Veterinarians generally recommend using a mild, pH-balanced shampoo that is specifically designed for dogs. Avoid using human shampoos or those that contain harsh chemicals, as they can cause skin irritation and other health problems in dogs. Look for shampoos that are labeled as “veterinarian-recommended” or “safe for dogs” to ensure that you are using a product that is safe and effective for your furry friend.

What is the best shampoo for dogs with allergies or sensitive skin?

If your dog has allergies or sensitive skin, it is important to choose a shampoo that is gentle and hypoallergenic. Look for shampoos that contain natural ingredients such as oatmeal, aloe vera, or coconut oil, which can soothe and nourish your dog’s skin without causing irritation. Avoid shampoos that contain fragrances, dyes, or other artificial additives, as these can trigger allergies and other skin problems.

Which dog shampoo is most effective for relieving itchiness?

If your dog is experiencing itchiness or irritation, look for shampoos that contain ingredients such as tea tree oil, chamomile, or lavender, which have natural anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. These ingredients can help to relieve itching and discomfort, while also promoting healthy skin and coat. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully, and avoid over-bathing your dog, as this can strip the skin of natural oils and exacerbate the problem.

What are the top-rated dog shampoos for odor control?

If your dog has a strong odor, look for shampoos that are specifically formulated to tackle this problem. Look for shampoos that contain ingredients such as baking soda, citrus, or mint, which can help to neutralize odors and leave your dog smelling fresh and clean. Be sure to choose a shampoo that is safe and gentle for your dog’s skin, and avoid using too much of the product, as this can cause skin irritation and other problems.

How often should I bathe my dog with medicated shampoo for skin conditions?

The frequency of bathing your dog with medicated shampoo will depend on the severity of their skin condition and the instructions provided by your veterinarian. In general, it is recommended to bathe your dog with medicated shampoo once or twice a week, or as directed by your veterinarian. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully, and avoid over-bathing your dog, as this can strip the skin of natural oils and exacerbate the problem.

Are there any natural or organic shampoos that are safe and effective for dogs?

Yes, there are many natural and organic shampoos that are safe and effective for dogs. Look for shampoos that contain natural ingredients such as oatmeal, aloe vera, or coconut oil, which can nourish and soothe your dog’s skin and coat. Be sure to choose a product that is free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and other artificial additives, as these can cause skin irritation and other health problems in dogs.

PROS

Made in the USA with plant-derived ingredients
Calming formula with lavender and chamomile
Highly concentrated, so a little goes a long way

CONS

May not lather as much as other dog shampoos
Some users may not like the scent of lavender and chamomile
The conditioning part of the shampoo may not be enough for dogs with long hair

We were impressed with the concentrated formula of the Wahl USA 4-in-1 Calming Pet Shampoo for Dogs. A small amount of shampoo is enough to create a rich lather that effectively cleanses your dog’s coat and skin. We also appreciate that this shampoo is free of harsh chemicals like PEG-80, alcohol, and parabens.

The calming formula of this shampoo with lavender and chamomile is perfect for dogs with sensitive skin. It gently cleanses, conditions, detangles, and moisturizes your dog’s coat and skin, leaving it looking clean, silky, and smooth. However, some users may not like the scent of lavender and chamomile.

One downside of this shampoo is that it may not lather as much as other dog shampoos, which may make it harder to apply evenly on your dog’s coat. Additionally, the conditioning part of the shampoo may not be enough for dogs with long hair, so you may need to use a separate conditioner.

Overall, we highly recommend the Wahl USA 4-in-1 Calming Pet Shampoo for Dogs for its plant-derived ingredients, calming formula, and highly concentrated formula. It’s a great choice for owners who want to avoid harsh chemicals and provide their dogs with a gentle and effective shampoo.

3) Burt’s Bees for Pets Oatmeal Dog Shampoo

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We highly recommend Burt’s Bees for Pets Oatmeal Dog Shampoo for pet owners looking for a natural, gentle, and effective shampoo for their furry friend.

PROS

Made with natural ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, honey, and green tea extract.
Soothes and softens dry, itchy skin while naturally cleansing the coat.
Free of fragrances, sulfates, colorants, and harsh chemicals.

CONS

Thin liquid consistency may make it difficult to dispense onto the dog’s coat.
May not lather as well as other shampoos due to its natural formula.
Some users may not like the lack of strong scent in the shampoo.

We recently tried Burt’s Bees for Pets Oatmeal Dog Shampoo on our own furry friend and were impressed with the results. The shampoo effectively lifted dirt and grime from our dog’s coat without stripping it of its natural oils. Our dog’s coat felt soft and looked shiny after using the shampoo.

We also appreciated that the shampoo is made with natural ingredients and is free of harsh chemicals. The colloidal oatmeal and honey in the formula helped soothe our dog’s dry, itchy skin.

The only downside we found was that the shampoo has a thin liquid consistency, which made it a bit difficult to dispense onto our dog’s coat. Additionally, the shampoo does not lather as well as other shampoos due to its natural formula. Lastly, some users may not like the lack of strong scent in the shampoo.

Overall, we highly recommend Burt’s Bees for Pets Oatmeal Dog Shampoo for pet owners looking for a natural, gentle, and effective shampoo for their furry friend.

4) Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Shampoo For Dogs

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If you’re looking for an effective solution to tackle stubborn odors, the Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Shampoo for Dogs is definitely worth considering.

PROS

The baking soda in this dog deodorizer shampoo naturally controls and removes dog odors, leaving your pet’s coat smelling fresh and clean.
The natural ingredients in this dog shampoo, including cucumber mint and baking soda, work together to tackle odors and keep your pet’s coat clean while moisturizing dry skin.
This dog shampoo is safe to use with topical flea and tick treatments, making it a convenient choice for pet owners.

CONS

Some users have reported that this shampoo caused skin irritation or rashes in their dogs, so it’s important to test it out on a small area first and discontinue use if you notice any adverse reactions.
The scent of kiwi blossom may not be to everyone’s liking.
While this shampoo is effective at removing odors, it may not be the best choice for dogs with extremely dirty or greasy coats.

We’ve been using this shampoo on our golden retriever and have been impressed with the results. It lathers up nicely and rinses clean, leaving our dog’s coat smelling fresh and feeling soft. We appreciate that it’s made with natural ingredients and doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals that could irritate our pet’s skin. However, we do recommend being cautious when using it for the first time, as some dogs may be sensitive to the baking soda or other ingredients. Overall, we think this is a great option for pet owners looking for an affordable and effective dog deodorizer shampoo.

5) Pawfume Dog Shampoo and Conditioner – Hypoallergenic Dog Shampoo for Smelly Dogs – Best Dog Shampoos & Conditioners – Probiotic Pet Shampoo for Dogs – Best Dog Shampoo for Puppies (Blue Ribbon) Blue Ribbon Pack of 1

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If you’re looking for a high-quality dog shampoo and conditioner that will leave your furry friend smelling fresh and clean, Pawfume’s veterinary formula dog shampoo and conditioner is definitely worth considering.

PROS

Veterinarian Certified: Pawfume’s veterinary formula dog shampoo and conditioner guarantees a softer, healthier coat.
Professionally Formulated: Pamper your pet with one of the best professional dog shampoo conditioner options in the market.
Detangling Dog Shampoo: Not only is this a dog shampoo that smells good & a dog conditioner, it’s also a dog conditioner detangler!

CONS

May be expensive for some pet owners.
Some customers reported that the scent may not last as long as advertised.
May not be suitable for dogs with extremely sensitive skin.

6) Honest Paws Dog Shampoo and Conditioner

We highly recommend Honest Paws Dog Shampoo and Conditioner for pet owners looking for a premium dog wash that is gentle on their furry friends’ skin and coat.

PROS

This 5-in-1 dog wash is a time-saver, as it cleans, deodorizes, conditions, detangles, and moisturizes the coat in one step.
The natural, plant-based ingredients make it safe and non-irritating for dogs with sensitive skin or allergies.
The hydrating properties of oats and aloe leave the coat soft, shiny, and free of matting and irritation.

CONS

The shampoo’s scent is not appealing when applying it, but it smells clean and fresh once rinsed out.
The lather is not very rich, which may require using more product than usual.
The bottle is smaller than other dog shampoos on the market, which may not be cost-effective for larger dogs or frequent use.

7) TropiClean 2-in-1 Papaya & Coconut Dog Shampoo and Conditioner

If you’re looking for a natural shampoo and conditioner for your furry friend, TropiClean 2-in-1 Papaya & Coconut Dog Shampoo and Conditioner is a great option.

PROS

Cleans and conditions in one step
Leaves coat silky soft and controls odor
Made with natural ingredients like coconut and vitamin E

CONS

May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive skin
The scent may not last as long as some other shampoos
May not lather as well as some other shampoos

Overall, we would recommend TropiClean 2-in-1 Papaya & Coconut Dog Shampoo and Conditioner to pet parents looking for a natural, effective shampoo and conditioner for their furry friend.

8) Wahl USA Odor Control Shampoo for Dogs & Pets

We highly recommend the Wahl USA Odor Control Shampoo for Dogs & Pets to keep your furry friend smelling fresh and clean.

PROS

The eucalyptus and spearmint scent is refreshing and long-lasting.
The shampoo is highly concentrated, so a little goes a long way.
The shampoo is PEG-80 free, alcohol free, paraben free, and pH balanced, making it a great choice for pets with sensitive skin.

CONS

Some pets may be sensitive to certain plant oils used in the product, so it’s important to do a small spot test before using.
The shampoo doesn’t stop yeasty smells, so it may not be the best choice for dogs with strong odors.
The shampoo doesn’t help with shedding, so it may not be the best choice for dogs who shed a lot.

Overall, we highly recommend the Wahl USA Odor Control Shampoo for Dogs & Pets for its refreshing scent, concentrated formula, and safe ingredients.

9) Vet’s Best Allergy Itch Relief Dog Shampoo

PROS

Soothes itchy skin and calms redness.
Leaves your dog’s coat clean and smelling spa-day fresh.
Can be used as often as necessary without drying out your dog’s skin.

CONS

May leave the skin a little dry if used excessively.
Some dogs may have an allergic reaction to the natural ingredients.
The shampoo is relatively expensive compared to other dog shampoos on the market.