Every pet parent can agree that bathing your fur baby is an essential part of pet care, and finding the best dog shampoos for your pooch can seem confusing with so many options out there in the market.
To curate a list of the finest products for you, we’ve reviewed countless testimonials from dog owners with various dog breeds. And they’ve nothing but good things to say about the products we’ve picked! We are now sure that bath time will be a breeze for you and your four-legged friend, just as it should be.
Keep reading to learn more about choosing the right shampoo for your pet and also to gain some very important insights into the ingredients you should stay away from.
How to Choose the Right Dog Shampoo for Your Pet
When it comes to choosing a suitable dog shampoo for your pooch, there are a few things that you should keep in mind:
Skin Type
Similar to humans, dogs also have different skin types. Opt for a shampoo that’s specifically formulated for your pet’s skin type — be it dry, sensitive, or oily. This way, you can effectively keep your dog clean while also keeping irritation and itching at bay.
Coat Type
Depending on your dog’s breed, the type of coat can vary — from short and curly to long and straight; there are different combinations that you may have to work with. Choose a shampoo that caters to the texture and length of your dog’s coat to ensure that it’s properly cleaned and conditioned without causing it to become tangled or matted.
Specific Concerns
If you have to deal with issues like ticks, fleas, or infections, you must choose a shampoo with ingredients addressing these concerns. We suggest that you consult your veterinarian before making a purchase, especially if the case is severe.
Potential Allergens
When you’re selecting a shampoo for your dog, look for non-irritating options — hypoallergenic dog shampoo is great choice. These formulations are free from harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, and dyes, hence reducing the risk of allergic reactions. Moreover, natural and organic ingredients are a safe alternative if your dog has sensitive skin or allergies.
pH Balance
Your pet’s pH balance differs from that of humans, so it’s crucial that you opt for a shampoo that is specially crafted for dogs. This will maintain the natural balance of their skin and coat. Plus, pH-balanced shampoos are gentle and won’t strip any essential oils off your pooch’s skin.
If you still need help deciding the right option for your fur baby, we suggest you consult your vet. That way, you can get tailored recommendations for your dog’s individual needs and skin conditions.
Ingredients to Avoid in a Dog Shampoo
Choosing to bathe your dog at home can be a more convenient and affordable option than visiting a grooming salon. However, selecting the right shampoo can be an arduous process. Some pet shampoos can harm your precious pooch — they may contain artificial colors and chemicals that can potentially harm your fur baby’s skin. So, let’s take a look at some toxic ingredients that are better left out of your dog’s shampoo:
Preservatives
One of the main antibacterial ingredients used in dog shampoos is parabens and they may also be added to prolong the product’s shelf life. They are usually chemicals such as methylparaben, propylparaben, and isopropylparaben. Though not proven, they may cause allergic reactions like irritation, dryness, hair loss, and rashes, with even more severe symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea.
Surfactants or Sulfates
Sulfates in shampoos are known to strip the natural oils from your dog’s skin, leading to dryness and redness when used regularly. Some common Sulfates to look out for are Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), ammonium lauryl sulfate, ammonium laureth sulfate, sodium coco sulfate, TEA lauryl sulfate, and MEA lauryl sulfate.
Though not proven yet, SLS and SLES may have an adverse effect on puppies’ eyes, further leading to cataracts, while MEA and TEA sulfates may lead to cancer.
Artificial Fragrances
If a dog shampoo smells good, it is very likely that the added fragrance contains phthalates — an ingredient that can disturb your dog’s endocrine system. Artificial fragrances are generally formulated with petrochemical substances like benzaldehyde, ethanol, and ethyl acetate, all of which may potentially cause respiratory problems and nervous system disorders. Moreover, these ingredients have also been infamously linked to cancer in dogs.
Formaldehyde
According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), formaldehydes are carcinogenic. These are slow-releasing chemicals that may cause skin irritations in dogs. Sodium benzoate, one of the most common formaldehydes, becomes a toxic chemical called benzene when it is in combination with citric or ascorbic acid. Benzene is a deadly chemical that may be associated with lymphoma and other blood disorders in dogs.
Best Dog Shampoos You Can Buy in 2024
Our team has dug deep to find some of the best dog shampoos out there — they’ve all been proven to keep your fur baby’s coat clean, healthy, and oh-so shiny!
Our curated list consists of more than just our recommendations; we’ve received input from professional groomers and long-time dog owners, ensuring that these options are safe yet effective, catering to diverse needs.
BEST OVERALL
WAHL Four In One Shampoo And Conditioner
PHOTO CREDIT: WAHL
Why We Love
Leaves no residue
Good quantity
High concentration
Plant-derived ingredients
Allergy-friendly formula
But…
It may not be suitable for dogs who are sensitive to fragrances.
Crafted in the USA, this lavender chamomile dog grooming product from WAHL is pH-balanced and free from alcohol, parabens, and PEG-80. It lathers really well while cleaning, detangling, conditioning, and moisturizing the coat. The lavender scent is calming, and a little of the product goes a long way.
It’s also safe, effective, and allergy-friendly, rightfully earning the top spot as the best dog shampoo and conditioner on our list! Used by professional groomers and veterinarians for over 50 years, you can rest assured that your four-legged companion will love this shampoo.
BEST ALL-NATURAL
Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Pet Wash Shampoo + Conditioner
PHOTO CREDIT: Pro Pet Works
Why We Love
Restores natural oils
Relieves dry and itchy skin
Cruelty-free formula
Lathers easily
Rinses clean
Chemical-free composition
But…
It may not be suitable for those who prioritize fragrance
With a plant-based formula, this natural dog shampoo and conditioner is a boon for fur babies with sensitive skin. It is formulated with organic aloe vera gel, oatmeal, almond oil, and essential vitamins, making it safe and effective for daily use. Furthermore, it contains no parabens, sulfates, alcohol, or soap!
Apart from cleaning, it also conditions, detangles, deodorizes, and moisturizes your dog’s coat and skin, ensuring that they are left looking, smelling, and feeling soft and clean. It’s also hypoallergenic, hydrates the skin, offers relief, aids in de-shedding, promotes healthy skin cell maintenance, and safeguards against UV damage.
BEST DEODORIZING
ARM & HAMMER Super Deodorizing Pet Shampoo
PHOTO CREDIT: ARM & HAMMER
Why We Love
Free from parabens and sulfates
Suitable for all dogs
Long-lasting freshness
Gentle on the fur and skin
Spill-proof packaging
Lathers well
But…
Bottle prone to leaks
If you’re tired of dealing with odors that are hard to remove from your dog’s coat, then this shampoo from ARM & HAMMER is just what you need! Crafted from natural ingredients, this special shampoo will leave your pet’s coat fresh and super clean. The refreshing kiwi blossom smell adds to the experience — you’ll start looking forward to your dog’s bath time.
The shampoo is infused with baking soda to deodorize your pooch further, allowing them to feel fresh for longer. Plus, the formula is safe to use on puppies, too, making it a versatile option to have at home.
BEST MOISTURIZING
BURT’S BEES for Dogs Oatmeal Shampoo
PHOTO CREDIT: BURT’S BEES
Why We Love
Trusted by millions of pet parents
Nourishing Formula
Cruelty-free
Made in the USA
Available in multiple sizes
Leak-proof
But…
Runny consistency
Dealing with dry skin and coat can be challenging, but this oatmeal shampoo from BURT’S BEES will help you effortlessly tackle the issue. From the very first use, you’ll notice a smoother and more conditioned coat, along with clean and soothed skin. Plus, the formula contains ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, honey, and beeswax, all of which make it a gentle option that works amazingly well on sensitive skin.
Its tearless and pH-balanced nature makes it suitable for both dogs and puppies — it’s mild and effective! Plus, it’s also devoid of fragrances, colorants, sulfates, and other harsh chemicals.
BEST FOR WHITE COATS
TROPICLEAN Whitening Pet Shampoo
PHOTO CREDIT: TROPICLEAN
Why We Love
Protects the fur from damage
Gently gets rid of dirt
Made with feel-good ingredients
It can be used on all coat types
Suitable for cats
Generous size
But…
Nozzle dispenses too much product
This brightening shampoo for dogs is perfect for white coats — it effectively gets rid of stains and brightens the coat. However, it can also enhance coats of all colors. The formula creates a luxurious lather and has an invigorating, long-lasting scent that helps reduce unwanted odors. It contains moisturizing blueberry and oatmeal, along with other natural ingredients meant to give your pooch a silky-soft coat.
To add to the goodness, it’s also free from parabens, dyes, and soap and isn’t tested on animals. To make the most of this product, we suggest pairing it with the brand’s stain remover and deodorizer.
MOST VERSATILE
TOP PERFORMANCE Fresh Pet Shampoo for Dogs & Cats
PHOTO CREDIT: TOP PERFORMANCE
Why We Love
Conditions the coat
Long-lasting fragrance
Extra-large, 1-gallon size
Gently removes dirt and odor
Makes hair more manageable
Safe for puppies and kittens
But…
Needs to be diluted as it’s a concentrate
The Fresh Pet Shampoo from TOP PERFORMANCE has a fantastic fragrance and makes your pooch’s coat bright and shiny. The formula prevents the coat from getting matted and tangled, making the comb-out process effortless. Moreover, it is formulated to match the natural pH balance of your fur baby’s coat and skin — it is a safe option to use at home.
A review on Amazon reads, “My groomer recommended this shampoo. Wanted to use the same thing she used so I wouldn’t be switching back and forth between shampoos on my Maltese. And this stuff is good. It smells good and works great. And my groomer uses it on almost all her dogs she grooms!! So I highly recommend this product. Been using it now for almost 3 years weekly!! 5 stars for me!!”.
PHOTO CREDIT: BODHI
Why We Love
Gentle formulation
Latex-free brush
Relieves itching
Brush can be used wet or dry
Non-toxic formula
Cruelty-free
But…
Hard for smaller hands to get a good grip on the brush
This botanical-based shampoo from BODHI DOG works wonders at soothing and moisturizing dry and itchy skin. It contains premium ingredients such as oat proteins, aloe vera, coconut, vitamins A, D, and E, and fruit extracts — together, they provide an instant cooling and calming effect, offering relief to inflamed and damaged skin. Since the formula is so gentle, it’s safe to be used on sensitive skin and is devoid of detergents, alcohol, parabens, SLS, or stripping agents.
The bath brush is very soft with rubber tips that scrub away dead skin and loose fur, making it a great option to use while grooming or during bath time. It also helps the shampoo to lather better, enabling you to use less product while giving your dog a deeper cleanse.
BEST FOR FLEAS & TICKS
ADAMS plus Flea & Tick Shampoo
PHOTO CREDIT: ADAMS plus
Why We Love
Makes the grooming process easy
Kills lice
Suitable for puppies and kittens
Doesn’t dry out the skin
Creates a good amount of foam
Smells great
But…
The screw-on pump dispenser isn’t included
Get rid of ticks and fleas on your pooch and prevent re-infestation by using this shampoo from ADAMS plus — the potent formula kills parasites when they come in contact. The formula contains soothing aloe vera, coconut extract, lanolin, and oatmeal, which makes the best shampoo for dogs with sensitive skin. It makes your pooch’s coat soft and manageable, restoring its natural shine.
Lightly scented with a fresh fragrance, your pet will smell good all day long. A little product goes a long way — you just need around one tablespoon of this dog flea shampoo for every five lbs of your dog’s weight.
PHOTO CREDIT: VETERINARY FORMULA
Why We Love
Softens the skin
Intensely hydrating
Works on mange
Addresses dandruff
Recommended by vets
Value for money
But…
Prone to leakage
Featuring a gentle and soothing formula, this dog shampoo promotes healthy skin and a coat that’s free from flakiness, dryness, or oily skin that’s caused by environmental factors. Crafted with potent ingredients like coal tar, salicylic acid, and micronized sulfur, it works fast to hydrate your pet’s skin while helping shed dry skin. It’s also free from parabens, dyes, and soap, containing gentle cleansers that won’t cause any damage.
Since it is specifically formulated for dogs, it has a lower pH level, unlike regular shampoos that humans use. If your four-legged companion is dealing with issues like irritation, greasiness, flaking, rashes, or crusty skin, we recommend you pick this product up.
BEST DETANGLING
BIOSILK for Dogs Detangling Shampoo
PHOTO CREDIT: BIOSILK
Why We Love
Pleasant scent
Makes the fur stronger
Convenient spray nozzle
Conditions wild fur
Lasts for a long time
Non-greasy
But…
Some find the smell a little overpowering
Similar to the revolutionary BIOSILK Therapy line for humans, this dog shampoo from the brand features the same classic ingredients and innovative technology. Made in the USA, the formula contains no parabens or sulfates and is perfectly pH-balanced to suit dogs’ skin. Silk-infused proteins and enriching vitamins restore moisture to your fur baby’s coat, while coconut oil helps in locking hydration — detangling your pooch’s hair will be a breeze!
It’s 100% safe to be used on your pet’s skin regularly, and you don’t have to worry about getting infections or rashes. A review on Amazon reads, “Smells great, leaves my dog’s coat soft, keeps it smooth and detangled, and so very shiny! Literally no complaints other than I wish I could get this by the barrel!”.
MOST ATTRACTIVE PACKAGING
WAGS & WIGGLES Soothe Oatmeal Shampoo
PHOTO CREDIT: WAGS & WIGGLES
Why We Love
Safe for sensitive skin
Effectively cleanses
Attractive packaging
Contains softening properties
Value for money
Easy to use
But…
You have to use a lot of product
If your four-legged companion is dealing with itchy skin, this shampoo can be a great pick — it moisturizes the skin and alleviates dryness and flaking. It lathers pretty well and is suitable for dogs and puppies of all sizes. Free from SLS, parabens, and DEAs, you can rest assured that your dog isn’t coming in contact with any harsh chemicals.
The delightful warm vanilla scent adds to the overall experience, making your pooch smell pleasant. Plus, this dog shampoo for itching is specifically designed for canines, so it won’t destroy your pet’s skin protective barrier.
BEST VEGAN OPTION
Lillian Ruff Berry Blue Brightening Face & Body Wash
PHOTO CREDIT: Lillian Ruff Berry
Why We Love
Tear-free formula
Made in the USA
Generous size
Hydrates the skin
Enhances shine
Recommended by vets and groomers
But…
Some may find the scent overwhelming
With Lillian Ruff’s Berry Blue Brightening Face & Body Wash, a dull coat will become a worry of the past! Suitable for dogs with short and long coats, this shampoo produces a rich and luxurious lather that rinses off with little to no effort, leaving behind absolutely no residue. Though it works amazingly well on white coats, it can also be used on coats of all colors as well to enhance the way they appear.
Enriched with natural blueberry extracts and a pleasant aroma, every bath session will feel like a relaxing spa day for your pooch. A little of the product goes a long way to nourish, soften, and cleanse your fur baby’s coat and skin. Moreover, the formula is pH-balanced, gluten-free, sulfate-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free, and vegan.
BEST-SMELLING
Bugalugs Lavender & Chamomile 4 in 1 Shampoo
PHOTO CREDIT: Bugalugs
Why We Love
Concentrated formula
Large size
Ideal for anxious dogs
Relieves itchy skin
Has deodorizing properties
Suitable for puppies
But…
May leak if not stored properly
This 4-in-1 dog shampoo is a miracle worker — it cleans, calms, conditions, and hydrates your furry friend’s coat. With a 10:1 dilution rate, the product goes a long way, making it an economical option for those on a budget. Additionally, the formula is pH-balanced and enriched with lavender and chamomile, making it suitable for all dog breeds and ages. Also, you can use this grooming product even if your pooch has sensitive skin.
The mild formula cleanses deeply yet gently, eliminating foul and unwanted odors. The calming lavender and chamomile fragrance lingers, allowing your dog to smell fresh and approachable. As a bonus, it also leaves the coat looking soft and shiny!
How to Effectively Use a Dog Shampoo
To make the most out of your dog shampoo purchase, follow these steps:
- Using lukewarm water, wet your dog’s fur thoroughly — this will ensure that you get a good lather with the shampoo.
- Take a small amount of the dog shampoo, or as instructed by the brand, and gently massage it into your pooch’s coat. Be careful not to get any of it into your pet’s eyes or ears.
- Massage the coat to work the shampoo in a rich lather while paying extra attention to the areas that are smelly or dirty.
- Again, using lukewarm water, rinse your dog thoroughly, ensuring that all of the product is washed out.
- Dry your furry friend using a towel, or you can even use a blow dryer on the lowest heat setting if they are comfortable with it.
How We Chose the Best Dog Shampoos
The above list of best shampoos for dogs was curated after a thorough research process by our team. We started off by providing surveys to pet parents, understanding their preferences and concerns that may arise during the purchase process. After that, we sought expert opinions of veterinarians and professional groomers to gain more knowledge on ingredients, their effectiveness, and what to avoid.
Additionally, we also considered factors such as skin and coat type, fragrance preferences, and sensitivities, making it our goal to cater to diverse needs and preferences. All together, we are committed to providing the safest and highest quality product recommendations to pet parents in the USA.
FAQ
What is the highest-rated dog shampoo?
There are a couple of highly-rated dog shampoos available on the market; you can take a look at the WAHL Four In One Shampoo And Conditioner to get started.
What shampoo works best for dogs?
This answer is subjective since it depends on different factors like skin type, coat condition, specific needs, and any sensitivities. However, shampoos like BURT’S BEES for Dogs Oatmeal Shampoo or the TROPICLEAN Whitening Pet Shampoo are known for their gentle yet effective formulations.
What is the best people shampoo for dogs?
We do not recommend using a human’s shampoo on dogs since the pH balance and ingredients may not suit their skin. Doing so can potentially lead to dryness, irritation, and more. Always use shampoos that have specifically been designed for dogs.
What is the best product to wash your dog with?
Use products that are specially formulated for them — gentle and all-natural options that are also effective. You can explore brands like WAHL, Bugulugs, and Bodhi Dog.
