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A great dog shampoo is the key to keeping your four-legged friend looking and smelling fresh.
Choosing the correct shampoo for your dog is essential.
This will not only keep their coat in tip-top condition. But help deal with underlying dry and itchy skin conditions, dandruff, and even fleas.
There’s no single shampoo that is best for all dogs. Dog shampoos are as individual as the dogs themselves.
Points to consider when choosing the Best dog Shampoo
Type of Coat
Each dog’s coat is different and you need to treat them as such. Some shampoos are created for specific coat types
Sensitive Skin
For dogs with dry or itchy skin or prone to allergies, take a look at natural dog shampoos.
These are pH balanced and avoid adding harsh chemicals to their dog shampoos.
Foam
Dog Shampoos with reduced foam help speed up the rinsing time. This reduces the stress on the dog by speeding up the process.
The Best Dog Shampoo for 2023
1. Best Dog Shampoo overall
Groom Professional Baby Fresh Shampoo
We rate Groom Professional Baby Fresh as the best dog shampoo for most dogs. This is the best smelling with a gentle baby powder scent that lasts for several days. It also lathers gently on the skin and deep cleans.
Ideal for dogs who like to get dirty, as it contains aloe vera and is gentle enough for weekly baths.
It’s a great all-around shampoo for dogs that don’t have any specific needs or allergies. It works well on double coats and smelly dogs.
Specifications
- Coat Type – All
- Scent – Long Lasting
- Dilute – No
Good Points
- Amazing smell
- Great general shampoo
- Range of bottle sizes
- Great value
Bad Points
- Doesn’t cater for specific skin issues
- Needs work to lather
- MILD AND GENTLE FORMULA: The Baby Fresh Shampoo is specially formulated with a mild and gentle formula, making it ideal for puppies and pets with sensitive skin.
- SOFT AND FRAGRANT: Enjoy the soft baby powder fragrance that leaves your pet’s coat smelling clean and fresh after each bath.
- SOOTHING PROPERTIES: Contains Aloe Vera which soothes and heals, as well as acting as a natural conditioner.
- MOISTURISES AND CONDITIONS: The gentle formula of the Baby Fresh Shampoo helps moisturise and condition your pet’s fur, leaving it soft, shiny, and easy to manage.
- PROFESSIONAL QUALITY: Groom Professional is a trusted brand among professional groomers, ensuring that you’re using a high-quality product for your beloved furry friend.
2. Best Puppy Shampoo
WildWash Natural Puppy Shampoo
Designed for puppies to give a light lather and rinse. This reduces the stress on the puppy by reducing the bath time.
Puppies need a milder shampoo. This is also fragrance-free and PH balanced.
Specifications
- Coat Type – All types
- Scent – Subtle
- Dilute – Yes
Good Points
- + Mild for puppy coats
- + Easy to rinse
- + All natural
Bad Points
- – Needs diluting before use
- – Unscented
- Our WildWash Sensitive Shampoo for Itchy Allergy Skin and Puppies is vet approved and the no.1 go to shampoo for dogs with problem skin and coats. It is simple, mild and fragrance-free for extra sensitive skin, Aloe Vera and Evening Primrose oil combine to gently cleanse, soften, rehydrate and protect.
- This shampoo is very cost effective as it is super concentrated and can be diluted at a 32 to 1 ratio. This 300ml bottle is equivalent to 10 Litres when diluted. A 300ml bottle will give at least 10 washes for a big dog and up to 20 washes for a small dog. Our WildWash mixing bottle gives all our dilution rates and makes your shampoo last a long time! Mixing bottle not included please purchase separately.
- All our natural WildWash products contain No Parabens, No Phthalates, No Phosphates, No Petrochemicals, No Sulphates, No Palm Oils and No PEGs. We use 100% Pure Essential Oils. We guarantee there is No Animal Testing on any of our products, nor on any of the ingredients they contain. All our products are Made In England.
- Our natural products are used on all breeds of dogs and cats every day and give incredible results. We are the No.1 natural shampoo use by professional groomers, vets and pet owners worldwide and your pets will love you for it! We are proud to be Vet Approved.
- Our natural award winning products carry the Cruelty Free International Leaping Bunny logo and Ethical Certification.
3. Best Cockapoo Shampoo
Choca-Doodle 2-1 Shampoo by Groomers
Designed for Cockapoos, Labradoodles, Cavapoos or Poochons.
Developed for poodle-crosses which have super fluffy and dense coats. It rinses easily.
Leaves your dog with a chocolate-orange fragrance.
This can be diluted, so a little goes a long way.
Specifications
- Coat Type – Poodle type
- Scent – Long Lasting
- Dilute – Yes
Good Points
- Ideal for dense coats
- Easy to rinse
- Gorgeous scent
Bad Points
- Not suitable for dogs with double coats
Designed for Cockapoos, Labradoodles, Cavapoos or Poochons.
Developed for poodle-crosses which have super fluffy and dense coats. It rinses easily.
Leaves your dog with a chocolate-orange fragrance.
This can be diluted, so a little goes a long way.
4. Best Vegan-Friendly Dog Shampoo
Ouai Fur Bébé’ Pet Shampoo
This is one of the more expensive Shampoos on the market.
Vegan friendly. The formulation is full of gentle but effective ingredients to hydrate and moisturize.
Specifications
- Coat Type – All types
- Scent – Long Lasting
- Dilute – No
5. Best Dog Shampoo for Dandruff
The Healthy Dog Co. All Natural Shampoo
Formulated for matted fur or dandruff.
These shampoos work by softening the coat making it easier to brush through.
Specifications
- Coat Type – Matting prone
- Scent – Subtle
- Dilute – No
Good Points
- Great for dandruff
- All-natural
- Easy to rinse
Bad Points
- don’t use if your dog doesn’t have a dandruff issue
Formulated for matted fur or dandruff.
These shampoos work by softening the coat making it easier to brush through
6. Best Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin
Pro Pooch Hydrating Shampoo
If your dog suffers from allergies or itchy skin consider a natural dog shampoo.
It’s free from alcohol, perfumes, and enzymes. Contains oatmeal, pro-vitamin B5, and aloe.
Specifications
- Coat Type – All types inc. itchy skin
- Scent – Subtle
- Dilute – Yes
Good Points
- Ideal for sensitive skin
- Easy to lather and rinse
Bad Points
- Needs diluting before use
- GROOMER RECOMMENDED: Our pH balanced, hypoallergenic, puppy shampoo is cleverly formulated to heal, soothe & relieve itching. This powerful trifecta garners effective results on dandruff, whilst being gentle on your pup’s itchy, dry, sensitive skin.
- HYPOALLERGENIC: Our dog shampoo for smelly dogs is a potent combination of natural cleansers; colloidal oatmeal, pro vitamin B5, aloe vera & wheat proteins which naturally moisturise, cleanse & nourish. Our pet shampoo is also free from toxic nasties!
- THE SCIENCE BIT: We think Pro Pooch is the best dog shampoo because of our market leading 33:1 dilution ratio. Our natural dog shampoo also contains vegetable proteins which help build body & elasticity, which leaves coats smooth, silky & shiny.
- PEACE OF MIND: We’re committed to animal welfare, which is why we never test any of our products on animals. So, with your purchase of our hypoallergenic dog shampoo, you can feel safe in the knowledge that you’re dealing with a brand you can trust.
- TLC: Sometimes your favourite four-legged friend needs some TLC too! This oatmeal shampoo for dogs is safe & will leave your pup’s coat soft, thick, plush & beautifully salon fresh.
7. Best Dog Shampoo for Sensitive Skin
Vet’s Best Dog Shampoo
This is the best dog shampoo if your dog suffers from sensitive and dry skin. It is great at balancing the skin’s moisture levels
It’s PH-balanced pH balanced, and soap. Great for regular use.
Specifications
- Coat Type – Sensitive
- Scent – No
- Dilute – No
Good Points
- Vet formulated
- Use as often as you need
- Free from addatives
Good Points
- No lasting scent
- RELIEF FOR SENSITIVE SKIN – Vet’s Best Hypo-Allergenic Dog Shampoo for sensitive skin is a gentle, soap-free shampoo for dogs that relieves itching and helps to smooth dry, brittle coats
- NATURAL REMEDY- Veterinarian formulated blend of key natural, plant-based ingredients like Aloe Vera and Vitamin E to comfort sensitive skin and relieve your pet’s allergies.
- USE AS NEEDED – Vet’s Best Hypo-Allergenic Dog Shampoo may be used as often as necessary to remove allergens without drying out your dog’s skin
- WORKS WITH OTHER TREATMENTS – Our shampoo will not affect other dog treatments such as topical flea and tick control products
- TOTAL CARE- Vet’s Best Hypo-Allergenic Dog Shampoo is part of our complete treatment system for dry and sensitive skin. Use with Vet’s Best Moisture Mist and Vet’s Best Ear Relief Wash & Dry
8. Best Dog Flea Shampoo
Cooper & Gracie
This is a natural flea shampoo used in addition to one of your topical or tablet anti-flea treatments.
This uses natural ingredients (lavender, chamomile, avocado, coconut, almond, and oatmeal) to wash away fleas and ticks.
It can even help calm other insect bites. And continues to work between baths
Specifications
- Coat Type – All types
- Scent – Limited
- Dilute – No
Good Points
- Designed for fleas and ticks
- Repels fleas between washes
- Helps calm skin irritation
Bad Points
- No lasting scent
- Pricier than non-flea shampoos
- BEST DOG GROOMING FLEA SHAMPOO: Take Advantage of Our Proudly Cruelty Free and Vegan Flea Cleanser – We Use Only The Highest Quality Natural Essential Oils Blends and You Can Expect Superb Flea and Biting Insect cleanse and Itch Soothe from Our Product: Also Soothes and Calms Cracked Itchy Skin as a result of Flea Bites Resulting In No More Uncomfortable Dog Walks
- PUPPY SAFE FLEA SHAMPOO: Ensures The Very Best Biting Insect Cleanse And Itchy Skin Soothing For Dogs, No More Harmful Chemical Spray Treatments For Your Loved Dogs
- NON TOXIC NON IRRITANT ALWAYS NATURAL: No More Worries About Harmful Treatments, Our Products Are Always Cruelty Free Resulting In Naturally Fast Soothing Of Dog Coat And Skin: Our Unique Blend Contains Vitamin E Which Is Great For Moisturising Cracked Areas of Your Dog’s Coat And Skin As A Result Of Biting Pests
- HIGHLY ABSORBENT LOW LATHERING EASY APPLICATION PRODUCT: Absorbs Fast Into Your Dogs or Puppies Coat And Gets To Work Quickly With Ease. The Soothing And Soothing Qualities Of Our Product Cleanse Itchy Skin: Great Antibacterial and Antifungal Cleanser
- C&G SATISFACTION GUARANTEE: Our Dog Flea Shampoo Is Backed By Our Manufacturer 30day Money Back Guarantee
9. Best Dog Shampoo for White Dogs
Wahl Diamond White
Enhances lighter coats and removes staining.
Aims to regenerate the natural pigmentation of your dog’s coat. It helps to moisturize and leaves fur soft to the touch.
Specifications
- Coat Type – White coats
- Scent – Subtle
- Dilute – No
Good Points
- Ideal for white coats
- Ideal for tear-stains
- Great value
Bad Points
- Light scent
- SUITABLE FOR ALL ANIMALS – Wahl Diamond White Shampoo has been carefully formulated as a ready-to-use shampoo that can be used on all types of animals including dogs, cats, horses, cattle, goats, llama, alpaca, rabbits, ferrets.
- NATURAL FORMULA – Based on natural ingredients including Aloe Vera for extra sensitive skin, this pet shampoo is Paraben free, vegan friendly, gluten free, silicone free, phthalates free, alcohol free, sorbates free, phosphate free and DEA free
- BRIGHTENS COATS – A carefully balanced formula that will enhance, revitalise and refresh the natural white and light pigmentation within your pet’s coat
- CONCENTRATE 15:1 – To use Wahl Diamond White Shampoo, mix 15 parts warm water to one-part shampoo
- HOW TO USE – Shake bottle well before use. Saturate your pet’s coat with warm water. Apply the shampoo to the wet coat, work the shampoo into a foamy lather from head to tail, then rinse out thoroughly and towel dry. Repeat if necessary
10. Best Deep Cleaning Shampoo for Dogs
Animology Fox Poo
If your dog likes to roll in poo, then this is the shampoo for you
Removest the poo, and the bad smell.
Specifications
- Coat Type – All types
- Scent – Mild
- Dilute – No
Good Points
- Award-winning formula
- Great value
- Mild for sensitive skins
- Deals with Fox Poo!
Bad Points
- Scent not long-lasting
- Deep cleaning shampoo which helps to breakdown dirt and oily substances
- Deodorising to help remove bad odours, including Fox Poo
- Built in conditioners and pro-vitamin B5
- Easy rinse technology for a quicker wash time and reduced chance of irritation
- 100% vegan dog shampoo
- Packaging may vary
11. Best Dog Shampoo for Dog Groomers
Wahl Aloe Soothe Shampoo
Wahl Aloe Soothe Shampoo has been carefully formulated shampoo that can be used on all types of animals including dogs, cats, horses, cattle, goats, llamas, alpacas, and rabbits.
Based on natural ingredients this pet shampoo is Paraben free, vegan-friendly, gluten-free, silicone-free, phthalates-free, alcohol-free, sorbates-free, phosphate-free and DEA free
Wahl Aloe Soothe Shampoo is a carefully balanced formula developed to support your pet by conditioning their skin; calming any irritation and relieving any skin issues as it cleans
Specifications
- Coat Type – All types
- Scent – Mild
- Dilute – Yes
Good Points
- Great value
- Suitable for all Dog types
Bad Points
- Large bottle
- SUITABLE FOR ALL ANIMALS – Wahl Aloe Soothe Shampoo has been carefully formulated shampoo that can be used on all types of animals including dogs, cats, horses, cattle, goats, llama, alpaca, rabbits, ferrets
- NATURAL FORMULA – Based on natural ingredients this pet shampoo is Paraben free, vegan friendly, gluten free, silicone free, phthalates free, alcohol free, sorbates free, phosphate free and DEA free
- CONDITIONS PETS SKIN – Wahl Aloe Soothe Shampoo is a carefully balanced formula developed to support your pet by conditioning their skin; calming any irritation and relieving any skin issues as it cleans
- CONCENTRATE 15:1 – To use Wahl Aloe Soothe Shampoo, mix 15 parts warm water to one-part shampoo
- HOW TO USE – Shake bottle well before use. Saturate your pet’s coat with warm water. Apply the shampoo to the wet coat, work the shampoo into a foamy lather from head to tail, then rinse out thoroughly and towel dry. Repeat if necessary
Frequently asked questions
Can I use human shampoo on my dog?
Human shampoos are not formulated at the same pH level as dog shampoos. They will be too harsh for your dog’s skin and can cause itching and rashes.
How often should you wash your dog?
Once a month is ideal. They have sensitive skin and bathing them too often can dry their skin and irritate their skin.
How often should I bathe my puppy?
Puppies are no different from adult dogs. Bath once a month with gentle puppy shampoo.