The 15 Best Dog Shampoos of 2023
by Tom Ken
When it comes to grooming your dog, finding the best dog shampoos is always the starting point as it plays a crucial role in cleaning and caring for the pet's coat.
Dog shampoos have a unique formulation that kills and removes germs and dirt, which collect on the pup's coat as it wanders around. They also help nourish the skin and fur with essential nutrients to keep them looking shiny and healthy.
Editor's Recommendation: Top Dog Shampoos
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Contents
- Editor's Recommendation: Top Dog Shampoos
- 7 Best Dog Shampoos: Review
- Best Overall: Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Medicated Dog Shampoo
- Best Budget: Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Spray for Dogs
- Best for Puppies: Honeydew Natural Dog Shampoo
- Best Fragrance-Free: Burt's Bees Natural Shampoo for Dogs
- Best Shampoo & Conditioner: TropiClean Shampoos for Pets
- Best for Dry Skin: John Paul Pet Oatmeal Shampoo
- Best for Itchy Skin: Pets Are Kids Too Anti-Itch Shampoo & Conditioner
- Other Good Recommendations
- Nature's Specialties Plum Silky Dog Shampoo
- Wahl Pet-Friendly Waterless No Rinse Shampoo
- Bexley Labs Curaseb Antifungal & Antibacterial Shampoo
- Nature's Miracle Natural Oatmeal Shampoo
- Fresh 'n Clean Scented Shampoo
- Veterinary Formula Solutions Snow White Shampoo
- Strawfield Pets Store Chlorhexidine Shampoo
- Buddy's Best Natural Dog Shampoo
- How to Buy the Best Dog Shampoos
- Q&A
- Conclusion
- Related Posts
Other benefits of dog shampoos include helping maintain skin pH, preventing skin and coat issues, and ensuring the pooch always smells nice. If you are on the market for a good one, our review and buying guide below provides a perfect place to start your shopping.
7 Best Dog Shampoos: Review
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES |
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 | 1. Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Medicated Dog Shampoo (Best Overall) |
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 | 2. Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Spray for Dogs (Best Budget) |
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 | 3. Honeydew Natural Dog Shampoo (Best for Puppies) |
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 | 4. Burt's Bees Natural Shampoo for Dogs (Best Fragrance-Free) |
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 | 5. TropiClean Shampoos for Pets (Best Shampoo & Conditioner) |
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 | 6. John Paul Pet Oatmeal Shampoo (Best for Dry Skin) |
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 | 7. Pets Are Kids Too Anti-Itch Shampoo & Conditioner (Best for Itchy Skin) |
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1. Best Overall: Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Medicated Dog Shampoo
- Size: 16 fluid ounces
- Fits for: Dogs over 12 weeks
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Shampoo is our best overall option as it is a medicated shampoo that effectively cleans and protects your dog's skin and coat. The shampoo is antiparasitic and antiseborrheic to help protect the dog against red skin rashes, bacterial infection, and various other conditions.
You can be sure it does what it says as the formula comes with veterinary recommendations. It does not contain any soap, paraben, or dyes, making it safe for all pets. What's more, it is a pH-balanced product suitable for pets with sensitive skins and allergies.
Since this shampoo also contains oatmeal, it effectively hydrates the skin and promotes healing to keep the pet in great shape.
While some pet owners might have an issue with the pungent odor, the good news is that most dogs don't, and it also dissipates super-fast.
Pros:
- Medicated to relieve various skin conditions
- Formula is veterinary recommended
- Suitable for dogs with sensitive or allergic skins
- Hydrates skin and promotes healing
- Paraben and dye-free
Cons:
- Quite a strong odor
2. Best Budget: Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Spray for Dogs
- Size: 20 fluid ounces
- Scent: Kiwi blossom
- Fits for: All life stages
The more affordable Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Spray is for pet owners who do not wish to spend a lot of cash on dog shampoos as it is a more budget-friendly option. What's more, it is highly effective at eliminating odor thanks to the baking soda enhanced formula.
Besides eliminating foul odors, the lovely kiwi blossom scent that lingers long after the bath ensures the pet is always left smelling fresh and clean. The shampoo uses all-natural ingredients with no harsh chemicals and can work for all life stages.
As this shampoo has a conditioner, it might leave the fur slightly oily. However, provided your pet does not have a super oily skin type, it should be fine.
Pros:
- More affordable for budget shoppers
- Very effective at eliminating odor
- Works for all dog ages
- All-natural ingredients
Cons:
- Leaves pets hair with a slightly oily feel
3. Best for Puppies: Honeydew Natural Dog Shampoo
- Size: 8 fluid ounces
- Scent: Lavender oatmeal
- Fits for: All life stages
Honeydew Natural Dog Shampoo is a gentle oatmeal formula that makes it one of the best puppy shampoos on our list. However, it can still work effectively for all life stages. Better yet, it is all-natural with no harsh chemicals, parabens, or sulfates.
The shampoo effectively neutralizes bad dog odors with the pleasant lavender oatmeal smell that lingers long after bath time. What's more, there are several moisturizing agents like glycerin and jojoba oil that hydrate the dull fur.
There are only 8 ounces of product in the container, but the good news is that a little goes a long way with this shampoo. Therefore, it is still enough for several washes.
Pros:
- Very ideal for puppies
- Neutralized odors effectively
- All-natural with no harsh chemical
- Contains moisturizing agents
Cons:
- Little product in the bottle
4. Best Fragrance-Free: Burt's Bees Natural Shampoo for Dogs
- Size: 16 fluid ounce to 1 gallon
- Scent: Fragrance-free
- Fits for: All life stages
For pet owners that prefer something with no fragrance, the Burt's Bees Natural Shampoo is the best dog shampoo for you on our list. Better still, it does not contain any colorants, sulfates, or harsh chemicals.
The formula only uses some high-quality and all-natural ingredients to make this a safe product for your pet. With this product, your pet's skin is also moisturized as it contains colloidal oat flour, while the inclusion of honey keeps the fur shiny.
Although the shampoo seems to produce quite a light lather, this is typical of most natural formulas, and it should not be a deal-breaker.
Pros:
- Does not contains any fragrance or artificial colors
- All-natural ingredients
- Works for all dogs
- Moisturizes skin and keeps fur shiny
Cons:
- Has a light lather
5. Best Shampoo & Conditioner: TropiClean Shampoos for Pets
- Size: 20 fluid ounces to 2.5 gallons
- Scent: Papaya & coconut
- Fits for: Dogs 12 weeks or older
TropiClean Shampoos for Pets is our best dog shampoo and conditioner. This multifunctional product cleanses, moisturizes your pet's fur and skin in just one step, saving you the need to use several products on your canine.
Better yet, the shampoo has a pleasant papaya and coconut scent that leaves the pup smelling fantastic. As it uses all naturally derived ingredients, you can be sure it is a safe solution for your dog. What's more, the formula does not have any parabens or soap and is pH balanced.
This product feels a little watery or at least not as thick as other dog shampoos, but it still lathers well. Also, the leaky bottle issues are often a result of poor shipping.
Pros:
- Cleanses, conditions, and moisturizes
- Pleasant scent lingers long
- Safe solution with naturally-derived ingredients
- Balanced pH and no soap or parabens
Cons:
- A little watery
- Leaky bottle
6. Best for Dry Skin: John Paul Pet Oatmeal Shampoo
- Size: 16 fluid ounces & 1 gallon
- Scent: Oatmeal & Almond
- Fits for: All life stages
The John Paul Pet Oatmeal Shampoo is one of the best dog shampoos for itchy skin on our list. It soothes, moisturizes, and cleanses dry skin and fur, leaving the pet comfortable with no irritations or constant scratching.
Since it has a highly concentrated formula, you only need a little of it, making it more economical. The formula includes both almond oil and oatmeal to ensure the shampoo leaves a more pleasant smell. Also, this is an eco-friendly product that does not have any parabens.
A thicker texture would have been better, but this shampoo still works fine enough. Additionally, the scent does not linger long, but it is still amazing.
Pros:
- Very ideal for dry skin
- Pleasant scent
- A little goes a long way
- Eco-friendly formula
Cons:
- Texture could be thicker
- Scent does not last long enough
7. Best for Itchy Skin: Pets Are Kids Too Anti-Itch Shampoo & Conditioner
- Size: 17 fluid ounces
- Scent: Oatmeal
- Fits for: All life stages
Pets Are Kids Too Anti-Itch Shampoo is the best product on our dog shampoo review for itchy pets. The dog shampoo has a unique formula that combines oatmeal, aloe vera, and baking soda to provide instant itch relief. This formula is also effective at neutralizing odors by giving the pet a fantastic oatmeal cookie smell.
On top of being our best dog shampoo for itchy skin, this product is hypoallergenic and made with all-natural plant-derived ingredients to make it safe for all pets. When you buy it, you also get a lifetime money-back guarantee that should assure you of the quality.
The only notable drawback is that the bottle tops' quality is not the best as they seem to break easily, but this is still not a deal-breaker.
Pros:
- Provides instant itch relief
- Safe for dogs with allergies
- Natural plant-derived ingredients
- Eliminates odor with a fantastic scent
- Lifetime money-back guarantee
Cons:
- Bottle tops need improvement
Other Good Recommendations
8. Nature's Specialties Plum Silky Dog Shampoo
Nature's Specialties Plum Shampoo is a 2-in-1 dog shampoo that cleans and conditions the dog's fur and skin in just one step. Moreover, it has silk proteins that add texture and body, leaving the pet looking amazing.
Additionally, the shampoo has a pleasant, long-lasting scent that lingers long after the bath. It also uses non-toxic, biodegradable ingredients, making it safe for the pet, owner, and environment.
Key Features
- Cleans and conditions in one step
- Non-toxic, biodegradable ingredients
- Silk proteins for added texture and body
- Long-lasting fragrance
9. Wahl Pet-Friendly Waterless No Rinse Shampoo
You never need to rinse your pet when using the Wahl Pet-Friendly Waterless Shampoo, making it highly convenient when you do not have a lot of time to spare. Better still, it uses an oatmeal formula that moisturizes and soothes dry, itchy skin.
This shampoo is ideal for all pet types and life stages. It is pH-balanced and does not contain alcohol or paraben, and will not trigger allergies. Additionally, it has a pleasant coconut lime verbena scent and comes with an easy-to-use bottle pump.
Key Features
- No rinsing required
- Oatmeal formula moisturizes dry skin
- Easy-to-use pump
- pH-balanced and alcohol-free
- Pleasant coconut lime verbena scent
10. Bexley Labs Curaseb Antifungal & Antibacterial Shampoo
With its broad-spectrum formula, the Bexley Labs Curaseb Shampoo effectively eliminates yeast, fungus ringworms, and various other bacteria and parasites that can inflict dogs. Therefore, it is handy at keeping your pet clean and healthy.
When it comes to cleaning the pup, it gently cleanses and deodorizing the skin to leave it clean without drying out. What's more, it has a refreshing cucumber melon scent and does not contain any paraben or soap.
Key Features
- Broad-spectrum formula
- Refreshing cucumber melon scent
- Gently cleanses and deodorizes skin
- Paraben and soap-free
11. Nature's Miracle Natural Oatmeal Shampoo
With Nature's Miracle Oatmeal Shampoo, you get a highly effective odor neutralizer that can deal even with the roughest pet coat odors. The oatmeal formula is effective at soothing and hydrating the dog's skin.
There is also cocoa surfactant on the shampoo that cleans and conditions the pet's skin and coat while keeping the hair clean and soft longer. Additionally, this product has a fresh honey safe scent that leaves the pet smelling amazing.
Key Features
- Odor neutralizer for tough coat odors
- Cocoa surfactant cleans and conditions
- Oatmeal formula soothes and hydrates the skin
- Fresh honey sage scent
12. Fresh 'n Clean Scented Shampoo
Fresh 'n Clean Scented Shampoo is protein-infused to ensure besides cleaning your pet, it helps repair and strengthens its coat. You can also be sure it will moisturize the pet's skin to prevent drying out as it has aloe vera and vitamin E.
Besides the scent being fresh, it lingers for up to 2 weeks, which is longer than most others out there. Pet owners can be sure the shampoo is safe as it does not include any soap and is biodegradable.
Key Features
- Protein infused to repair and strengthen the coat
- Moisturizing vitamin E and aloe vera
- Scent lasts up to 2 weeks
- Soap-free and biodegradable
13. Veterinary Formula Solutions Snow White Shampoo
For dogs with an unsightly yellowing coat, the Veterinary Formula Solutions Shampoo is a perfect choice. It removes the stains without bleaching by using patented optical brighteners.
With this product, you get to clean and deodorize your pet's coat fast and in just one step. What's more, it has a pH-balanced formula and no harsh chemicals, making it safe for all pets. Your dog always smells fantastic when using this shampoo, thanks to the long-lasting blue coral citrus fragrance.
Key Features
- Safe stain removal with no bleach
- Cleans and deodorizes pet coats
- Long-lasting blue coral citrus fragrance
- pH-balanced formula
14. Strawfield Pets Store Chlorhexidine Shampoo
Good dog shampoo should do more for the pet besides cleaning it, such as the antibacterial and antiseptic Strawfield Pets Store Chlorhexidine Shampoo. It cleanses and treats the skin to get rid of dermatitis, acne, and various other conditions.
The shampoo is non-sting and ideal for canines with sensitive skin. There is also an odor eliminator for smelly dogs, and it offers anti-itch relief. Moreover, you can use this dog shampoo for all dogs.
Key Features
- Safe antibacterial and antiseptic formula
- Suitable for sensitive skins
- Contains dog odor eliminator
- Anti-itch relief
- Works for all dog breeds and life stages
15. Buddy's Best Natural Dog Shampoo
Buddy's Best Natural Dog Shampoo is both a conditioner and shampoo. Many pet owners also seem to love that it is hypoallergenic, making it ideal for sensitive pets and those with allergies.
As this shampoo includes aloe vera and shea butter, it soothes and effectively moisturizes the pet's skin. Also, the formula contains oatmeal to provide instant itch relief. What's more, this is a non-toxic product with no harsh chemical ingredients.
Key Features
- Hypoallergenic to ensure it never triggers allergies
- Soothes and moisturizes dog's skin
- Oatmeal for fast itch relief
- Free of toxic chemicals
How to Buy the Best Dog Shampoos
1. Type of Skin and Coat
As you shop for the best shampoos for dogs, you should start by understanding your pet's skin and coat type.
While there are mild dog shampoos with a universal formulation that can work for all skin and coat types like the Burt's Bees Natural Shampoo, most others are for specific ones.
You need to consider whether your pet has a long or short coat, dry or oily skin and if the skin is sensitive and prone to allergies. For example, pets with long fur and double coats need a shampoo with a conditioner, but the same is not ideal for those with oily skins.
2. Dog Age
Any shampoos you choose for your dog also needs to be suitable for their age. What works for adult dogs will not necessarily be safe for puppies.
Puppies have more delicate coats and skin that require something milder. The good news is most manufacturers indicate the life stage suitability of their products in the package.
A good example is the Honeydew Natural Dog Shampoo that is gentle enough for puppies and senior dogs.
3. Ingredients
The ingredients used to make the dog shampoo matter a lot as they determine its effectiveness and safety.
The best ones use natural ingredients that do not have any adverse effects on the pet's health or even the pet parent or environment.
Avoid products that use artificial colors or preservatives and other harsh chemicals. Also, make sure what you buy has a clear list of all the ingredients.
4. pH Level
One of the most significant benefits of dog shampoo is balancing the dog's coat and skin pH. However, for any product to be effective here, it first needs to have the right pH level.
A dog's skin is highly sensitive, and most will typically have a pH o between 5.5 and 7.5 depending on factors like breed, age, and health status. Any shampoo you choose needs to maintain the pH at the correct level.
5. Skin-Protecting Additives
Besides just cleaning and nourishing your pet's coat, a good shampoo should help protect the skin by including special additives for this.
An antiparasitic and antiseborrheic like the Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Dog Shampoo should offer enough protection for the dog's skin. What's more, those containing ingredients like oatmeal, colloidal, and beeswax are also protective enough.
6. Odor
Just like human shampoos, those meant for pups should have a pleasing odor to ensure they always leave your pet smelling nice after grooming.
The scent should also last long enough, like the sweet papaya odor you get with the TropiClean Shampoos for Pets, which lingers for many hours and sometimes even days.
7. Safety
You need to check whether the dog shampoo you choose is safe or not. While the ingredients list should give you a clear idea of this, check for other things like FDA approval and certifications from relevant authorities to prove it is organic.
Q&A
How Often Should I Bathe My Dog?
A: This varies from one dog to the other. The healthy ones with no coat issues and have healthy skin require a bath just once a month. But, for those with underlying problems, you may need to bathe them more frequently. All in all, it is advisable not to clean your pup more than once a week to ensure you do not dry out its skin.
What Happens if You Don't Bathe a Dog Often Enough?
A: Besides smelling and looking filthy and unkempt, failing to bathe your pup often enough can causeskin problems. Dogs can absorb the allergens through the skin, which leads to skin irritation, scratching, or even lesions in some severe cases.
How to Wash Your Dog Properly?
A: Always start by brushing the dog to get rid of any loose and matted hair. Once you do this, you can start washing it, but remember to use lukewarm water and not hot. As you clean the pet, remember to talk to it as this calms it down. Also, use a good quality shampoo and make sure you rinse it well before allowing the pet to air dry. After the wash, give the dog some treats so that it looks forward to the next one.
Is It Okay to Use Human Shampoo On Dogs?
A: No, although some pet parents swear it works fine for their dogs, you should not follow suit. Remember the human body has a pH between 5 and 5.6, which is more acidic. Therefore, using shampoos meant for humans on dogs can leave the pet vulnerable to bacteria, viruses, and parasites as it disrupts its acid mantle. Also, human shampoo can leave dogs with dry and flaky skin that can be itchy.
Buy on Etsy
Burt's Bees for Dogs 2 in 1 Dog Shampoo & Conditioner, Puppy Supplies, Dog Grooming - Walmart Link
Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Oatmeal Shampoo for Dogs, Colloidal Oat Flour & Honey - - Walmart Link
PetAg Fresh 'n Clean Scented Dog Shampoo - Classic Fresh Scent - For Manageable & Shiny - Walmart Link
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic & Antiseborrheic Medicated Dog Shampoo - Walmart Link
TropiClean Shampoos for Pets, Made in USA - Naturally Derived Ingredients - Soap & - Walmart Link
Paws & Pals Dog Shampoo, Conditions, Detangles, Moisturizes, Anti Itch, Odor Control - - Walmart Link
Dog Shampoo with Oatmeal and Aloe. Shea Butter for Smelly Dogs, Dry Itchy Skin, Puppy - Walmart Link
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Shampoo - Walmart Link
Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Spray - Walmart Link
Honeydew Natural Dog Shampoo - Walmart Link
the Burt's Bees Natural Shampoo - Walmart Link
TropiClean Shampoos for Pets - Walmart Link
The John Paul Pet Oatmeal Shampoo - Walmart Link
Pets Are Kids Too Anti-Itch Shampoo - Walmart Link
Nature's Specialties Plum Shampoo - Walmart Link
the Wahl Pet-Friendly Waterless Shampoo - Walmart Link
the Bexley Labs Curaseb Shampoo - Walmart Link
Nature's Miracle Oatmeal Shampoo - Walmart Link
Fresh 'n Clean Scented Shampoo - Walmart Link
the Veterinary Formula Solutions Shampoo - Walmart Link
Strawfield Pets Store Chlorhexidine Shampoo - Walmart Link
Buddy's Best Natural Dog Shampoo - Walmart Link
the Honeydew Natural Dog Shampoo - Walmart Link
the Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Dog Shampoo - Walmart Link
the TropiClean Shampoos for Pets - Walmart Link
the Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Shampoo - Walmart Link
the Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Spray - Walmart Link
Buy on eBay
Burt's Bees for Dogs 2 in 1 Dog Shampoo & Conditioner, Puppy Supplies, Dog Grooming - eBay Link
Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Oatmeal Shampoo for Dogs, Colloidal Oat Flour & Honey - - eBay Link
PetAg Fresh 'n Clean Scented Dog Shampoo - Classic Fresh Scent - For Manageable & Shiny - eBay Link
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic & Antiseborrheic Medicated Dog Shampoo - eBay Link
TropiClean Shampoos for Pets, Made in USA - Naturally Derived Ingredients - Soap & - eBay Link
Paws & Pals Dog Shampoo, Conditions, Detangles, Moisturizes, Anti Itch, Odor Control - - eBay Link
Dog Shampoo with Oatmeal and Aloe. Shea Butter for Smelly Dogs, Dry Itchy Skin, Puppy - eBay Link
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Shampoo - eBay Link
Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Spray - eBay Link
Honeydew Natural Dog Shampoo - eBay Link
the Burt's Bees Natural Shampoo - eBay Link
TropiClean Shampoos for Pets - eBay Link
The John Paul Pet Oatmeal Shampoo - eBay Link
Pets Are Kids Too Anti-Itch Shampoo - eBay Link
Nature's Specialties Plum Shampoo - eBay Link
the Wahl Pet-Friendly Waterless Shampoo - eBay Link
the Bexley Labs Curaseb Shampoo - eBay Link
Nature's Miracle Oatmeal Shampoo - eBay Link
Fresh 'n Clean Scented Shampoo - eBay Link
the Veterinary Formula Solutions Shampoo - eBay Link
Strawfield Pets Store Chlorhexidine Shampoo - eBay Link
Buddy's Best Natural Dog Shampoo - eBay Link
the Honeydew Natural Dog Shampoo - eBay Link
the Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Dog Shampoo - eBay Link
the TropiClean Shampoos for Pets - eBay Link
the Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Shampoo - eBay Link
the Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Spray - eBay Link
Conclusion
Finding the best dog shampoo is vital if you want to groom the pet and leave it with healthy and great smelling fur. But, with all the options on our list, finding the ideal one should be a breeze.
To help narrow down your choices, the Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Shampoo is our best overall option as it is a veterinary-recommended product with antiparasitic & antiseborrheic properties.
That said, if you are a pet parent shopping on a tighter budget, go with the Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Spray as it is more budget-friendly.
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About Tom Ken
Tom has worked with many veterinary surgeons as a nurse at different veterinary clinics throughout his life.
There, he provides care for sick animals; such as: dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, hamsters, guinea pigs, and sometimes reptiles.
He has good work ethics and gentle hands; hence, the doctors as well the pet owners have come to love his presence alot.
With this site, he aims to help the readers ensure their pets' wellbeing, learn how to care, and proivide medical treatment as needed.
Joshua received Veterinary Technician Degree at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN.
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