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The 11 BEST Dog Shampoo Choices (2024 Update)

Pet parents often ensure they keep their dogs in the best health and cheer possible. To do this, they provide a wholesome and nutritious diet, regular exercise, mental stimulation, and grooming.

However, they tend to overlook the importance of a good bath. A thorough bath with the right products helps maintain a healthy coat, contributing to the dog’s overall health.

As dog experts writing for millions of dog owners every year, we get asked all the time about which specific products are best. It is normal to want to find budget-friendly products but ALSO look after your dog’s coat like a pro. Below we detail 9 commercial and 2 DIY options in detail. Just want the best? Here are the best dog shampoos for 2023.

Best All Round
Natural and Skin Safe
Tick and Flea Winner
Famous and Puppy Friendly
Buddy Wash 2-in-1 Dog Shampoo and Conditioner for Dog Grooming, Lavender & Mint, 16 oz. Bottle
4Legger Organic Dog Shampoo USDA Certified Organic, All Natural Hypoallergenic Dog Shampoo with Oatmeal, Lavender, and Coconut Oil - Organic Oatmeal Shampoo for Dogs - Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin 16 oz
SENTRY Oatmeal Flea and Tick Shampoo for Dogs, Rid Your Dog of Fleas, Ticks, and Other Pests, Hawaiian Ginger Scent, 18 oz
Burt's Bees for Pets Natural Oatmeal Shampoo with Colloidal Oat Flour and Honey| Oatmeal Dog Shampoo, 4 Ounce Dog Shampoo to Soothe and Cleanse Dogs Skin and Coats
Buddy Wash 2-in-1 Dog Shampoo and Conditioner for Dog Grooming, Lavender & Mint, 16 oz. Bottle
4Legger Organic Dog Shampoo USDA Certified Organic, All Natural Hypoallergenic Dog Shampoo with Oatmeal, Lavender, and Coconut Oil - Organic Oatmeal Shampoo for Dogs - Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin 16 oz
SENTRY Oatmeal Flea and Tick Shampoo for Dogs, Rid Your Dog of Fleas, Ticks, and Other Pests, Hawaiian Ginger Scent, 18 oz
Burt's Bees for Pets Natural Oatmeal Shampoo with Colloidal Oat Flour and Honey| Oatmeal Dog Shampoo, 4 Ounce Dog Shampoo to Soothe and Cleanse Dogs Skin and Coats
Best All Round
Buddy Wash 2-in-1 Dog Shampoo and Conditioner for Dog Grooming, Lavender & Mint, 16 oz. Bottle
Buddy Wash 2-in-1 Dog Shampoo and Conditioner for Dog Grooming, Lavender & Mint, 16 oz. Bottle
Natural and Skin Safe
4Legger Organic Dog Shampoo USDA Certified Organic, All Natural Hypoallergenic Dog Shampoo with Oatmeal, Lavender, and Coconut Oil - Organic Oatmeal Shampoo for Dogs - Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin 16 oz
4Legger Organic Dog Shampoo USDA Certified Organic, All Natural Hypoallergenic Dog Shampoo with Oatmeal, Lavender, and Coconut Oil - Organic Oatmeal Shampoo for Dogs - Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin 16 oz
Tick and Flea Winner
SENTRY Oatmeal Flea and Tick Shampoo for Dogs, Rid Your Dog of Fleas, Ticks, and Other Pests, Hawaiian Ginger Scent, 18 oz
SENTRY Oatmeal Flea and Tick Shampoo for Dogs, Rid Your Dog of Fleas, Ticks, and Other Pests, Hawaiian Ginger Scent, 18 oz
Famous and Puppy Friendly
Burt's Bees for Pets Natural Oatmeal Shampoo with Colloidal Oat Flour and Honey| Oatmeal Dog Shampoo, 4 Ounce Dog Shampoo to Soothe and Cleanse Dogs Skin and Coats
Burt's Bees for Pets Natural Oatmeal Shampoo with Colloidal Oat Flour and Honey| Oatmeal Dog Shampoo, 4 Ounce Dog Shampoo to Soothe and Cleanse Dogs Skin and Coats

A good bath does not just clean dirt; it also moisturizes the skin, making it healthy. Also, like human shampoos, different doggy shampoos are available on the market, formulated for special needs.

These include shampoos to get rid of ticks and fleas, whitening shampoos for white-furred dogs, and shampoos for puppies with sensitive skin.

Keep reading this article to know what to look for when buying a dog shampoo and our top 11 picks.

best dog shampoo
The 11 Best Dog Shampoo Choices

Things To Consider When Buying A Dog Shampoo

Not all shampoos are alike, and the one best for your dog will depend on several factors. 

Let’s take a look at them below:

Puppyhood 

If you have a puppy, it is better to have a shampoo specifically designed for them. The best dog shampoos are not just gentle on the fur and skin, many are also made with a no-tear formula, so they are gentle on the eyes too. 

puppy looks curious around the surroundings
A puppy looks curious around the surroundings.

Breed 

Different dog breeds have different grooming needs. The Kennel Clubs suggest shampoos formulated for specific breeds to make grooming easier and keep your pup in good health.

different dog breeds
Different dog breeds posing together.

Coat Type

Grooming needs like brushing and bathing differ for varying coat types. While a single-coated dog will have fewer grooming needs, a double-coated dog will need more intensive grooming. 

three Labradoodles
Three Labradoodles with different types of coats.

Skin Conditions 

If your dog has skin issues like dry, flaky, or itchy skin, you will need to opt for hypoallergenic or moisturizing shampoos available on the market. Use shampoos with natural ingredients and avoid the ones with chemicals. However, consult a veterinarian if your dog’s sensitivity seems to worsen despite all the precautionary measures.

dog irritated skin
Dog having neck rashes due to allergy.

Fleas And Ticks

If your dog has flea and tick issues, you can supplement your other preventive measures with flea and tick shampoo. Although shampoo alone cannot help eliminate these pests, you can use it in conjugation to help effectively remove them. 

Schnauzer scratches his ear
Dog’s excessive scratching can cause more shedding.

Shampoo Ingredients

Many shampoos have harsh ingredients like dyes, parabens, and alcohol. They can affect the skin and lead to dehydration, itching, and other skin conditions. It is always better to use shampoos with natural ingredients like honey, aloe, and oatmeal. 

shampoo bottle
Getting shampoo in an orange bottle.

Odor 

Dogs can find their way to the nastiest stuff, making it unpleasant to be around them. So it is important to use deodorizing shampoos. However, ensure you avoid synthetic odors as they may cause allergic reactions. 

bathing a French Bulldog
Bathing a French Bulldog regularly keeps a healthy coat and skin.

Shine 

A lustrous coat is pretty and also a sign of a healthy dog. Often, a poor diet or health condition can take a toll on the dog’s coat. Choose a nourishing shampoo packed with proteins, minerals, and vitamins to nourish your dog’s coat.

Afghan Hound stands
Beautiful Afghan Hound standing proud.

Color

If you have a white or light-colored dog, you might want to try specialty shampoos designed for whitening and brightening. These shampoos help prevent the coat from yellowing and add shine and luster. 

dog enjoy chasing the bubbles
A white dog enjoy chasing the bubbles!

Tangles 

If your dog’s hair gets easily tangled, consider shampoo and conditioner for frizzy and dry hair. Try moisturizing shampoos that will restore moisture and conditioners. These will aid in detangling and help replenish natural oils.

what does a Poodle look like without a haircut
What does a Poodle look like without a haircut?

11 Best Dog Shampoos

To help you choose the best shampoo for your fur baby, we have compiled a list of market-available and homemade shampoos that will clean and soothe your pet’s skin and coat.

Market-Available Shampoos

1. Buddy Wash 

This 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner comes in various scents like lavender and mint, rosemary and mint, and green tea and bergamot. So you can choose the scent that you are most comfortable with.

Buddy Wash Dog Shampoo & Conditioner for Dogs, Lavender & Mint, 16 ounce
$14.99 $13.89
  • 2-in-1 shampoo + conditioner cleans and moisturizes your dog’s coat
  • Gentle formula provides a soothing bath time experience
  • Made in the USA with natural herbs and oils and free of harsh ingredients
  • Calming effects of lavender and mint
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11/01/2023 10:10 pm GMT

The two best qualities of the shampoo are that it is alcohol and soap-free. So you do not have to worry about dehydrating your dog’s skin. The shampoo is very gentle, with a coconut base, so you can use it on dogs with sensitive skin.

The shampoo lathers up easily, is easy to wash off, and leaves the fur soft and silky.

The shampoo-conditioner formula contains aloe vera, essential oils, botanical extracts, and other ingredients that make bathing a soothing and relaxing experience for the dog. Certainly one of the best dog shampoos available.

Husky puppy bath time
Siberian Husky puppy having a bath with a foamy shampoo!

2. 4-Legger Dog Shampoo

This USDA-certified organic dog shampoo is made using natural ingredients. The shampoo is prepared in small batches and does not use chemicals. 

4Legger Organic Oatmeal Dog Shampoo with Aloe and Lavender Essential Oil - All Natural Safely Soothe, Condition and Moisturize Normal to Dry, Itchy Sensitive Skin - Made in USA - 16 oz
$16.98
  • NATURAL INGREDIENTS THAT MAKE SENSE: 4Legger usda certified organic dog shampoo is a true all natural dog shampoo handcrafted in small batches using real plants, not synthetic chemicals. A dog oatmeal...
  • GREAT FOR ITCH RELIEF AND SENSITIVE SKIN: The perfect itchy dog shampoo without artificial synthetic thickeners, 4-Legger dog shampoo contains lavender, known for its calming effects can reduce...
  • THE CHOICE FOR ECO-CONSCIOUS PET PARENTS: 4-Legger dog shampoo is made from sustainably sourced, all natural ingredients. Our goal is to help our furry family members live longer lives through natural...
  • MAKE THE SWITCH TO A TRUE ORGANIC DOG SHAMPOO: Only 2% of dog shampoos are certified organic. Synthetic shampoo can build up on a dog’s fur, whereas a natural gentle dog shampoo like 4-Legger...
  • TRUSTED, AWARD WINNING PRODUCTS: Since 2015, pet parents, holistic vets, and natural groomers have trusted 4Legger dog shampoo. 4Legger products have won the EcoExcellence Award for Best Grooming...
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02/11/2024 04:31 am GMT

With ingredients like coconut oil, lemongrass, and aloe vera, the shampoo soothes irritated skin, deep cleans, and imparts a pleasant smell. It also contains organic oils that make the fur healthy and is perfect for dry and flaky skin. 

 The shampoo is ideal for both white-furred dogs and dogs with colored coats. It brightens white furs and adds shine to colored coats. 

Besides relieving skin issues, the shampoo also gets rid of the wet dog smell. 

different shampoos
Different shampoos to choose from for dog fleas.

3. Sentry Flea And Tick Shampoo

If you are unable to free your dog of nasty pests, try the Sentry flea and tick shampoo. You can use this shampoo on dogs over 12 months of age. This product’s conditioning formula makes it ideal for dogs with skin sensitivities.

SENTRY Oatmeal Flea and Tick Shampoo for Dogs, Rid Your Dog of Fleas, Ticks, and Other Pests, Hawaiian Ginger Scent, 18 oz
$9.91 $7.84
  • CLEANS AND CONTROLS: SENTRY oatmeal shampoo cleans, deodorizes and conditions your dog's coat, and is also pH balanced. It can be used on dogs and puppies 12 weeks of age and over.
  • IDEAL FOR DOGS: This rich, conditioning formula with oatmeal kills pests that can harm your pet. Ideal for dogs with sensitive skin. Not recommended for use on cats or kittens.
  • RID YOUR DOG OF FLEAS: SENTRY Flea and Tick Oatmeal Shampoo for dogs and puppies has a great Hawaiian ginger fragrance. This tried-and-true formula kills fleas and ticks for up to ten days. It even...
  • FLEAS: Fleas are insects that can start your pet scratching with one bite. They have exceptional jumping skills, leaping vertically up to seven inches to hop on a host to feed and lay their eggs —...
  • TICKS: Ticks are parasites that belong to the arachnid family (like spiders and mites) and live in wooded or grassy areas where they attach themselves to pets walking by. Female ticks find hosts to...
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05/17/2023 08:36 am GMT

The shampoo has oatmeal and not only cleans but also conditions and deodorizes the dog’s coat. It is also pH-balancing, so you do not have to worry about itchy skin.

It is a tried-and-true formula that gets rid of ticks and fleas in under 10 days, including the ones that cause Lyme disease. 

One notable feature of the shampoo is the soothing Hawaiian ginger fragrance that most dog parents love. 

choose a dog shampoo
Choosing the right shampoo is essential for your dog’s healthy-looking coat.

4. Pure And Natural Pet

The dog shampoo is organic and hypoallergenic and USDA-certified. The natural shampoo has no additives or preservatives and is free of chemicals, chemical foaming agents, and dyes.

Pure and Natural Pet - Fragrance Free Hypoallergenic Organic Shampoo Fragrance Free 16 oz.
$15.99
  • Hypoallergenic, Fragrance-Free
  • Safe & gentle on your dog’s coat
  • Will not affect flea & tick treatments
  • Relieves itching
  • Great for dogs with seasonal allergies
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04/21/2023 09:24 am GMT

It has ingredients like aloe water, jojoba oils, calendula, and organic Castile soap that soothes irritated skin and is gentle and safe for your dog’s skin. It is great for dogs with seasonal allergies and is also perfect for puppies.

The shampoo is pH balanced and free from formaldehyde, sulfate, and paraben. It is ideal for puppies and dogs with allergies or itchiness. The shampoo moisturizes the skin, does not strip it of its natural oils, and soothes irritated skin, all while making the fur soft and shiny.

bathing Papillon
Papillon dog breed having a bath.

5. Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Shampoo For Dogs

The shampoo is great for dogs with sensitive skin and is reasonably priced. The shampoo is gentle with natural ingredients like beeswax and colloidal oatmeal that clean, nourish, and moisturize the dog’s skin and leave a pleasant oatmeal scent. However, it does not cover the doggy smell. 

Burt's Bees for Dogs Natural Oatmeal Shampoo with Colloidal Oat Flour and Honey| Oatmeal Dog Shampoo, 4 Ounce Dog Shampoo to Soothe and Cleanse Dogs Skin and Coats
$10.11
  • #1 PET GROOMING BRAND IN THE USA*- Join the millions of pet parents who can't get enough of Burt's Bees for Pets by using America's #1 pet grooming brand
  • SOOTHES AND SOFTENS - Burt's Bees Oatmeal Shampoo cleans, soothes, softens, and conditions your dog's dry skin and coat
  • MADE WITH THE HIGHEST QUALITY INGREDIENTS - This gentle formula includes ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, honey, and beeswax for sensitive skin
  • SUITABLE FOR ALL DOGS AND PUPPIES - This mild tearless shampoo is pH balanced especially for all dogs and puppies
  • SAFE AND GENTLE - This formula is free of fragrances, sulfates, colorants, and harsh chemicals
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11/01/2023 10:15 pm GMT

The shampoo also has honey that moisturizes the skin and makes the fur soft and silky. It is pH balanced and retains the skin’s natural oils. The shampoo does not contain any harsh chemicals and does not wash away topical flea and tick treatments.

It is ideal for dogs with minor skin problems like eczema. 

a cute dog having a shampoo
A cute dog having a bath. Keep that smell under control!

6. Earthbath Oatmeal And Aloe Pet Shampoo

Another shampoo that is perfect for dogs with sensitive skin, it is made from natural ingredients. It is hypoallergenic and addresses itchy, flaky, and dry skin. It will take care of all minor skin issues like brittle and dry coat and skin, bacterial dermatitis, dandruff, and skin allergies.

earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Pet Shampoo - Vanilla & Almond, Itchy & Dry Skin Relief, Soap-Free, for Dogs & Cats, 100% Biodegradable & Cruelty Free, Give Your Pet That Heavenly Scent -...
$25.95
  • BRILLIANTLY CLEAN & SOFT - This luxurious shampoo is soap free & pH-balanced to clean & deodorize safely & thoroughly, leaving your pet's coat & skin plush & smelling better than ever before
  • NATURAL & ORGANIC INGREDIENTS - Blended with only the finest ingredients, like renewable plant-derived cleansers & conditioners, colloidal oatmeal, organic shea butter, & organic aloe vera
  • SAFE & EFFECTIVE - Our pet shampoos are designed with the health of your beloved, furry friend in mind. Our products are always non-toxic, paraben, sulfate, phthalate, phosphate, dye, & soap free
  • HAPPINESS GUARANTEE - We are so sure you will love our oatmeal dog shampoo that we will refund your money if you are not satisfied for any reason. What do you have to lose? Your doggo deserves this
  • CRUELTY-FREE SINCE 1995 - earthbath has a genuine love for pets & the environment. These passions have been at the heart of everything we do, so we can give you the very best dog bathing supplies
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02/11/2024 01:32 am GMT

It is one of the best shampoos for dogs with sensitivities and puppies. 

The shampoo is pH-balanced, soap-free, and chemical free. So, you can be sure you are not subjecting your dog to synthetic dyes, paraben, perfume, DEA, gluten, and phosphates. 

Its ingredients, like oatmeal, aloe, vanilla, and almond, will soothe the skin and moisturize it to make it more supple. The shampoo lathers well, is easy to wash off, and imparts a refreshing smell that does not overwhelm.

A miniature Labradoodle after showering
A miniature Labradoodle puppy after a shower

7. Furminator deShedding Shampoo 

The shampoo is very moisturizing, and its natural ingredients promote a healthy coat and skin and reduce shedding. It has omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from sunflower, safflower seed oils, and cranberry. It also contains vitamin E, proteins, and aloe vera. All these ingredients make the shampoo non-irritating and hypoallergenic.

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02/19/2024 01:26 am GMT

The non-drying formulation keeps the skin moisturized and supple. The key is to apply the shampoo and leave it on for 5 to 10 minutes. After you wash your dog, you will notice tufts of hair in the bathtub, and later when you brush the coat, the remaining dead hair will also come loose.

You can complement the shampoo with the company’s conditioner for better results. 

bathing a Great Dane
A dog groomer baths a Great Dane.

8. Begley’s Waterless Pet Shampoo

If a full bath is not possible or the dog is averse to bathing, this no-rinse waterless shampoo is perfect. Made from natural ingredients, the shampoo is safe to use and readily biodegradable. 

Begley’s Natural No Rinse Waterless Pet Shampoo, Bathless Cleaning, Deodorizing, and Odor Removal for a Shiny, Fresh Smelling Coat - Effective for Dogs, Puppies, and Cats - Fresh Lavender Scent
$11.98 ($0.75 / Fl Oz)
  • ALL-NATURAL FORMULA. Safe to use and readily biodegradable, this 16-ounce bottle of pet shampoo is developed using natural ingredients. There are no caustics, dyes, synthetic fragrances, parabens,...
  • WATERLESS SHAMPOO. Saving time and cleaning efficiently, this waterless shampoo is the perfect way to furnish your pet with a fresh-smelling, shiny coat without having to deal with water. It’s a...
  • EASY TO USE. Simply spray your pet’s coat liberally and wipe treated area with damp cloth, working well into fur. To avoid getting in your pet’s eyes, spray onto damp cloth and apply to head and...
  • CHOICE OF SCENTS. To accommodate everyone’s taste, Begley's Natural Waterless Pet Shampoo is available in four wonderful scents – lavender, citrus, oatmeal mango and tee tree. All scents come from...
  • ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY. Actor, author and environmentalist Ed Begley, Jr. – working with industry leader Lab Clean LLC – set out to develop natural household products that are plant-based,...
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07/05/2023 08:16 am GMT

It does not contain harsh chemicals like parabens, caustic, formaldehyde chlorine, phosphates, or other synthetic ingredients that are bad for the skin. 

The shampoo cleans and deodorizes and, at the same time, moisturizes the skin. It won’t cause any allergic reactions or skin irritation, either. 

Spray the shampoo on the dog’s coat and wipe it with a damp cloth. The shampoo has enzymes and biosurfactants that work on proteins, starch, and fats. 

The shampoo comes in 4 amazing scents—citrus, lavender, tea tree, and oatmeal mango. So, you can decide on the one that suits your taste. The shampoo is beneficial when a dog has undergone surgery, and the treated area has to be kept dry. 

French Bulldog with foamy bathtub water
A French Bulldog with foamy bath.

Dog Shampoo Substitutes

If you ever run out of dog shampoo or do not trust the market products, here are 3 alternatives to help you clean your dog thoroughly and more naturally.

9. Dish Soap 

You might wonder how a product that is designed to eliminate grease can be gentle for your pup. However, the age-old technique is used because it is not harsh on animals. It is why wildlife rescue organizations use dish soap to clean up after spills and other disasters. 

However, opt for dish soaps that are designed to “not harm hands,” like Dawn. Also, do not use concentrated soap. Dilute it with water and white vinegar, ideally using ¼ cup soap, ½ cup white vinegar, and 2 cups water. 

Apply the solution to your dog’s coat and lather it gently. Wash off thoroughly. It is a safe shampoo; however, avoid getting it in the eyes, nose, and mouth.

dish soap and sponge
A dish soap can help remove dog smell on your couch.

10. Baking Soda 

Another pantry ingredient that you can use to clean your dog is baking soda. It will wash away dirt and grime and remove the bad doggy odors, leaving the coat smelling fresh.

You can use it as a dry shampoo and rub it over your dog’s coat, or create a shampoo with oatmeal. To prepare the shampoo, you will need 1⁄2 cup baking soda, 1 cup raw ground oatmeal, and 4 cups of water. Apply the mixture to the coat and gently work it until it spreads all over the skin.

Rinse it off with clean water.

baking soda
Does baking soda helps remove dog urine odor?

11. Cornstarch 

As already mentioned, baking soda is an excellent dry shampoo. However, there is one more alternative—cornstarch.

Just sprinkle it on the dog’s coat until you have a ghost version of your dog. Now, brush thoroughly so it spreads evenly and the excess comes off.

a bowl of cornstarch with corn kernels
A cornstarch can be used to clean dog’s coat instead of a regular shampoo!

Conclusion 

Bathing is an important part of your defense arsenal against illnesses, foul odors, and fleas and ticks on your dog. Regular bathing is necessary to keep your dog in optimal health.

But what if it does more harm than good? With the market flooded with chemical products, you need to be cautious when buying products for your fur baby.

We hope this list of 11 best dog shampoos will help you keep your dog clean without causing any side effects.