Best dog shampoo: Keep your pup clean and comfortable

The best dog shampoo delivers an easy way to keep your pooch looking their best with a clean coat. Along with washing off dirt, and dislodging debris, a proper bath also prevents bacteria and yeast buildup on their skin, removes dust and pollen, and can mitigate the formation of mats and tangles.

Much like choosing the best dog food best dog food, choosing a shampoo for your pup can feel a little overwhelming at times with so many products lining the shelves. The good news is, armed with a little bit of knowledge, selecting the right shampoo for you and your dog doesn't need to be a time consuming process.

The first thing to consider with a dog shampoo, is your pup's activity level. While silky coated breeds may be easy to brush off, double-coated breeds can easily pick up mud, twigs, leaves, and other odds and ends. If you have an active dog, picking a shampoo with baking soda can help penetrate into their coat to remove grime, and keep your dog smelling sweet.

Next, you'll wanna consider your dog's skin type. If you have an itchy canine, then a shampoo for sensitive skin may be helpful. Ingredients like honey, oatmeal, Shea butter, or coconut oil, are all helpful for reducing inflammation or soothing irritated skin. 

While you can absolutely invest in one of the best dog conditioners to use in conjunction with your pup's new shampoo, if you're on a budget, look for a 2-in-1 formula that contains both shampoo and conditioner in the same bottle. Not only can this save you money, but it will save you time too as you won't have to worry about applying the conditioner separately. 

When it comes to the question of can you use human shampoo on a dog?, it's important to note that the answer to this is a definite no. A dog's skin has a different pH level than we do, so a human shampoo will disrupt the outer layer of skin called the acid mantle. Washing a dog with a human shampoo will simply prove too harsh, leaving your pooch open to viruses, yeasts and bacteria. 

To help you find the best dog shampoo for your canine companion, we've spoken with Dr. Rebecca MacMillan for her advice on choosing a shampoo, and rounded up our favorite picks to help you make an informed choice. 

Dr. Rebecca MacMillan

Rebecca MacMillan is a companion animal vet who has always had a passion for writing and client communication. Since her graduation from the Royal Veterinary College in 2009 she has gained a wealth of experience in first opinion small animal practice, in both clinical and managerial roles. She currently works in the South West and deals with a variety of routine and emergency appointments, but particularly enjoys medicine cases. She has recently gained her postgraduate certificate in small animal medicine!

We spoke with Dr. Rebecca MacMillan for a few tips when choosing a dog shampoo, and she had this to say:

"Choosing a dog shampoo can feel a bit overwhelming, and with so many to pick from, it can be hard to know where to start! It’s important not to base your decision solely on the scent of the shampoo, or a pretty bottle. The main things to consider are your dog’s coat and their skin type. Dog breeds vary so much, with silky coats, short coats, double coats, and wiry coats. Different shampoos are available for various coat colors too, reducing staining in white fur or bringing out their natural shine in darker fur.

So, a shampoo that suits your pet’s coat type is always a good starting place, but you should also think about their skin. Do they have sensitive or allergy-prone skin? Is their skin dry or flaky? If so, you might also want to think about a product that helps manage this, like a hypoallergenic shampoo. For most dogs, it is a good idea to avoid artificial scents and ingredients where possible anyway. Naturally derived tea tree or oatmeal-based shampoos tend to be more soothing on their skin, which is particularly helpful in itchy, sensitive dogs."

PetsRadar's pick of the best dog shampoo

Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Natural Pet Shampoo is a classic dog shampoo that owners have been using and loving for years. That's why it's our best overall dog shampoo to buy for your furry friend - it's stood the test of time. 

The ingredient list in Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Natural Pet Shampoo is simple and full of clean ingredients that are biodegradable, phosphate-free, paraben-free, and soap-free. Plus, it's not tested on animals, so you can rest easy knowing no animal cruelty was involved in creating this shampoo. While the almond and vanilla scent isn't groundbreaking, it's simple and fresh and won't be too overpowering for those who may not love a strong-smelling pooch. 

Those who have bought Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Natural Pet Shampoo report that it helps dogs with skin allergies, dandruff, and bacterial dermatitis, which can seriously bother your pooch and cause them to incessantly itch. If you don't keep on top of your pup's skin issues, they can easily irritate their skin further or make the problem worse by scratching until they injure themself, so getting a product like Earthbath will certainly help. 

And Earthbath is great even if your dog has great skin, as it lathers well for especially dirty pooches or those with long coats, which helps clean and detangle impressive manes. The quality of the lather also means this product will last you a long while, as you won't need to use tons to get your dog clean. 

If you happen to own a cat as well, you'll get even more bang for your buck, as Earthbath can be used on cats as well! 

Burt's Bees 2 in 1 Shampoo and Conditioner is a great value for the price point, with clean and transparent ingredients you'll feel comfortable putting on your pup's skin. It's great for dogs and puppies, and great for owners with sensitive skin too! 

This 2 in 1 formula is fragrance-free but will leave your pup smelling clean and fresh. The ingredients are simple and free from harsh chemicals and sulfates, and include soothing and softening ingredients such as oatmeal and cocoa. Its formula is veterinarian recommended, so you can be sure it's safe for your dog (or your puppy, as it's gentle enough for young pooches, too). 

Whether you're looking for a shampoo that will clean your Golden Retriever's luxurious coat or a gentle shampoo for your Pit Bull's sensitive skin, you can't go wrong with this dog shampoo formula. While the lather will be somewhat lighter than other dog shampoos, that's to be expected considering it's a natural shampoo, so don't fret if you don't see a ton of suds when you start scrubbing, as it's perfectly normal (and healthier). The conditioner will also leave your dog's mane silky soft, making it much easier to brush and will keep it from tangling between washes. 

With a great price point, gentle ingredients that soothe even the most irritated skin, and vets' approval, Burt's Bees 2 in 1 Shampoo and conditioner is one of the best value dog shampoo on the market.

With the heavenly scent that you'd expect from TropiClean, this shampoo has been specially formulated to suit the needs of dogs with thick, double coats such as German Shepherds, Pomeranians and Siberian Huskies. 

Made using a range of natural botanical extracts, it gently penetrates double coats to loosen and remove trapped dirt and debris, helping to promote natural deshedding. As it loosens the undercoat to reduce excess shedding, it exfoliates the skin and strengthens the hair follicles.

Suitable for dogs 12 weeks and over, this shampoo leaves fur feeling soft and silky, eliminating the need for conditioner. It has a thick texture and lathers well, plus the light and refreshing scent will leave your dog feeling like they've just had a professional grooming session. 

If have multiple dogs, this brand also has specific formulas for a variety of dog coats, meaning you can find the right formula for your fluffy friend. 

The 4-Legger Certified Organic Dog Shampoo is a fantastic choice for those pooches who have sensitive skin. You have to be extra careful when buying shampoo for your sensitive dogs, as the wrong type can easily irritate their skin further, making them uncomfortably itchy. All-natural shampoos are the safest option for dogs with seasonal allergies or itchy, scratchy skin, and this shampoo is the perfect option. 

The 4-Legger Certified Organic Dog Shampoo is the best sensitive skin dog shampoo because all of its ingredients are USDA-certified hypoallergenic, free from synthetic or chemical ingredients, and organic. The ingredients include recognizable things like coconut oil, aloe vera juice, olive oil, lemongrass essential oil, rosemary extract, and jojoba oil, which are all great things for a pup with sensitive skin! It's also widely approved by vets and groomers, so you know it's good.

This shampoo lathers easily and rinses off well, and has a strong lemongrass scent (which might be too much for some people who are sensitive to strong smells) that acts a natural flea deterrent. 

Those who have used the 4-Legger Certified Organic Dog Shampoo report it does wonders for their dog's skin, especially those who have incredibly sensitive skin that's prone to flare-ups. If you have a dog with sensitive skin (like Greyhounds or Pit bulls) or a dog who has suffered from demodex mange or other skin issues, this is absolutely the best dog shampoo for you and your canine.

Have a stinky doggy on your hands? Then it’s time to unleash the power of baking soda and natural botanicals to have your hound clean and smelling sweet once more. 

This powerful advanced odor control formula from Arm & Hammer effectively gets rid of unwanted smells from the coat and skin, with the baking soda particles penetrating deeply to dissolve and remove odor.

Infusions of honey, rose, kiwi, and white tea extracts are used to neutralize odors and reduce shedding and the beautiful blossom scent rests lightly on the coat after washing, leaving your hound smelling heavenly. 

Suitable for all dogs over the age of eight weeks, this shampoo is also safe to use in conjunction with topical flea and tick treatments. While it’s not a tearless formula, it’s been designed to be gentle and non-harmful around sensitive areas. 

We'd recommend avoiding this product if your dog has very dry skin due to the baking soda, but other than that, this is a powerful shampoo. Free from harsh chemicals and containing no parabens or Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) this natural dog shampoo is gentle on the skin and coat but tough on those strong and unwanted doggy odors.

This divine smelling dog shampoo is pH balanced, alcohol free, paraben free, PEG-80 free and does a fantastic job of moisturizing dry skin, cleaning dirty coats & providing itch relief. 

Infused with coconut, lime and verbena, a little goes a long way with this shampoo and it has a rich lather that will leave your dog looking and smelling their best. It also contains aloe vera, which is great for soothing skin that's become inflamed through regular scratching. 

The plant derived ingredients and lack of harsh chemicals makes this shampoo an ideal choice for allergy sufferers and because it's highly concentrated and priced so affordably, it's perfect for any pet parent on a budget. 

Not only is Buddy Wash Original Lavender and Mint Dog Shampoo and Conditioner a great price, but it's a fantastic product for your pooch, too.

It's made from natural and pure ingredients that naturally clean and condition your dog's fur and skin, including sage, aloe vera, rosemary, green tea, and chamomile. The liquid is coconut-based with no alcohol in it, and natural deodorizers like wheat protein for a gentle, great-smelling wash that will last at least a week, according to reviews. 

Since Buddy Wash is soap-free, it won't harm your dog's eyes or upset their stomach if it gets in their mouth, but it still lathers easily and rinses off quickly for an effective wash. 

Some owners even suggest that the lavender scent helps soothe their dogs during bath time, which can often be a stressful experience for your pup (especially if they aren't too fond of water). Many report their dogs' coats felt smooth, incredibly soft, and tangle-free after using the Buddy Wash, and that's likely because it's both shampoo and conditioner! 

For such a low price and with such simple and effective ingredients, Buddy Wash Original Lavender and Mint Dog Shampoo is a great purchase for your pooch, whether you've got a big old Husky or a tiny Chihuahua. 

If your pooch is dealing with some skin problems, you'll need a shampoo that's vet-approved. Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Medicated Shampoo is a fantastic option for any pet dealing with bacterial or yeast infections.

The shampoo has benzethonium chloride, an anti-bacterial that can treat skin infections like pyoderma, and ketoconazole, an anti-fungal which will treat yeast infections. Despite all the medicated ingredients, this shampoo is free of soaps and parabens, and won't remove spot-on flea or tick treatments.There's also aloe vera in the formula, which will help soothe irritations, and lanolin, which will moisturize and help decrease itching and flaking issues, both of which are side effects of allergic dermatitis. 

Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Medicated Shampoo is for both dogs and cats, so the fairly cheap bottle will go a long way. It's safe for dogs and cats over 12 weeks of age, and you can use it twice a week while fighting off a skin condition, then once a week to keep all those skin nasties at bay. 

Veterinary-grade dog shampoo can be expensive or difficult to get without a prescription, and that's why Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Medicated Shampoo is so great. You can help take care of your pet's needs without breaking the bank, which we can all appreciate.

The only downside is that this may not be the right formula for your dog's skin conditions, which is why you should consult your vet before using this shampoo and reach out again if it seems like your pup's condition isn't improving. 

If your dog has sensitive skin or is prone to itching, the Vet’s Best Hypo-Allergenic Shampoo is a must-have. It’s specially formulated with natural, plant-based ingredients such as aloe vera and vitamin E. Designed to moisturize and soothe dry skin, it also relieves itching to keep your pooch content after bathtimes. Best of all, it’s free from harmful parabens, dyes or sulphates. 

Simply lather and massage for 3-5 minutes to get the full benefits of the quality ingredients. Rinse well and repeat if necessary. However, it acts quickly and gives great results. While it doesn’t have a strong fragrance, it does have subtle hints of tea tree and essential oils. 

What’s more, the shampoo can be used alongside other treatments like the best flea treatments for dogs. So you won’t have to worry about your pup missing out on a revitalizing bath! It’s worthwhile noting that the consistency is rather watery, so you may need to use more. However, you won’t be disappointed with the excellent results!

If you're looking for the best dog shampoo for scent that's also a gentle, moisturizing formula then look no further than TropiClean Luxury 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner.

This luxurious lather features a bright tropical scent without being too overpowering with coconut. Even once bathtime is over, you're still likely smell a subtle hint of fresh coconut on your dog's fur, although some pet owners may find the strength of the scent is affected by factors such as the length of type of your pet's hair and environmental conditions. It's pleasant enough for owner without being too strong for pet. 

The shampoo features a conditioner built in, which is a great timesaver for dogs who hate baths, but also it allows the product to detangle the hair as well as clean. The formula is pH balanced and is free of soap, parabens and dye so expect a formula that's kind to your dog's skin but you'll want to avoid around the face and eyes as it's not specifically tear free.

This shampoo does typically work well for dogs with dry, itchy sensitive skin, helping to soothe the skin and create shine in the fur, however you may choose the brand's medicated Oatmeal option instead if this is a particular problem with your pooch. 

If your dog hates baths, then Bodhi Dog Waterless Shampoo is simply a must-have investment. This convenient spray comes in three gorgeous scents: Lavender, Lemongrass and Oatmeal that not only cleans, but works as a detangler too.

You'll likely be pleasantly surprised by the results on their coat, even without lathering it in. The shampoo features a long-lasting smell that will linger even after a few days and their coat looks soft and shiny. Added bonus is the fact it  dries quickly and can work well on dogs that have sensitive skin. 

Many pet owners appreciate that the shampoo's ingredient list features no alcohol, detergents, parabens, sulphates or dyes making it a great option to reach for even with dogs who have allergies.

The product is generally very easy to use as a spray formula, but the design could be updated to allow for better coverage over a dog's body. Sometimes, when you spray it, it comes out in one hard stream. Some pet owners may also find that it doesn't completely replace a bath entirely, rather that it's a light refresher between baths depending on how dirty your dog gets. 

As well as ensuring your dog ends up smelling sweet and fresh, this shampoo will get deep within your pooch's coat for a great clean. Not only that, it has been designed with safety in mind with the maker going to great lengths to ensure the product is as gentle as it can be.

To that end, it will soothe, calm and nourish irritated skin. It also moisturizes and softens while tackling dry, itchy and flaky skin. What's more, since Oliver's Choice contains oatmeal, it can help to relieve symptoms of allergies. The addition of Aloe Vera also means the shampoo has anti-inflammatory properties and the maker has ensured the product is paraben free. 

All of this ensures that the shampoo can be safely used on puppies as well as adult dogs. Indeed, the shampoo is cruelty-free and tear-free which makes it ideal for sensitive pooches, and, because the formula is biodegradable, it results in less pollution too! It adds up to a great buy – one that many users swear by.

If you have a Poodle, Doodle, Old English Sheepdog, Bichon Frise or any breed with high-volume fur, then this will prove to be a great shampoo. It has been specially formulated for dogs with thick, curly and wavy hair, working fast to smooth the follicles so that you can work on detangling and unmatting any troublesome patches.

Made with naturally derived ingredients and free of soap, paraben and dye, this shampoo has also been created to be gentle although you should, as always, keep it away from your dog's eyes. After bathing with it for around five minutes, it should leave your dog's fur feeling silky, smooth and soft. Since it's moisturizing, you could also get away with not using a conditioner.

The shampoo also absorbs excess water while helping to break water surface tension and this makes drying your dog quick and easy. It has been formulated for added lift, too, which will give a dog's coat maximum volume and shape. No wonder it's going down well with doggy parents.

With over 3,000 5-star reviews on Amazon, this ultra-concentrated dog shampoo is proving to be a huge hit. Although it appears expensive at first glance, with each bottle of concentrate being able to make 24 bottles of shampoo, you'll definitely be saving money in the long run.

Containing silk proteins that add texture and body and Aloe Vera to soothe sensitive skin, this shampoo has a light and clean scent and comes with vitamins and essential oils to condition the coat. 

Non-oily, it won't weigh your pup's fur down or make it greasy and it's available in multiple sizes, so depending on the breed of your dog or how many canine companions you have, you can always go with a smaller size if you'd rather just make up a few bottles. 

How to choose the best dog shampoo

Whether you need all-natural shampoo, extra-clean shampoo, or a special medicated shampoo, there's a ton of options for you and your canine – and make sure you check the ingredients! There isn't a single brand out there that is best across the board. Instead, you'll want to consider what your budget is, and what your dog needs from a shampoo.

With that in mind we have a few more tips for choosing the right dog shampoo for you & your pooch!