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Best Overall Dog Shampoo
Chewy
TropiClean Luxury 2 in 1 Papaya & Coconut Pet Shampoo and Conditioner, 20-oz bottle
What Dogs Love:
  • Detangles fur
  • no suds
  • less matting
What Humans Love:
  • delicious scent
  • conditioning properties
  • works on all dogs
Reviewers Say:

Pets will smell oh-so-fresh and clean with this nourishing dog shampoo and conditioner combo that is designed to replenish your pet's natural moisture balance. It's soap-free (i.e., no suds) and formulated with coconut and mango to detangle fur. Also, ingredients like kiwi and papaya nourish skin dryness and condition coats, and coconut oil gently cleanses f...

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Pets will smell oh-so-fresh and clean with this nourishing dog shampoo and conditioner combo that is designed to replenish your pet's natural moisture balance. It's soap-free (i.e., no suds) and formulated with coconut and mango to detangle fur. Also, ingredients like kiwi and papaya nourish skin dryness and condition coats, and coconut oil gently cleanses fur of dirt and excess oils.

Reviewers are obsessed with the smell of this shampoo, and say that it works on dogs of all ages.
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What Humans Love:
  • delicious scent
  • conditioning properties
  • works on all dogs
What Dogs Love:
  • Detangles fur
  • no suds
  • less matting
Reviewers Say:

Pets will smell oh-so-fresh and clean with this nourishing dog shampoo and conditioner combo that is designed to repleni...

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+
Pets will smell oh-so-fresh and clean with this nourishing dog shampoo and conditioner combo that is designed to replenish your pet's natural moisture balance. It's soap-free (i.e., no suds) and formulated with coconut and mango to detangle fur. Also, ingredients like kiwi and papaya nourish skin dryness and condition coats, and coconut oil gently cleanses fur of dirt and excess oils.

Reviewers are obsessed with the smell of this shampoo, and say that it works on dogs of all ages.
Best Budget Dog Shampoo
Chewy
Mane ‘n Tail Pet Shampoo, 32-oz bottle
What Dogs Love:
  • gentle
  • ph-balanced
  • softens
What Humans Love:
  • subtle fragrance
  • affordable
  • versatile
Reviewers Say:

This versatile dog shampoo is safe for use on horses, dogs, cats, and even humans! The pH-balanced formula is gentle and cleans your dog effectively, leaving their coat looking shiny and feeling soft. The apple blossom fragrance is subtle. 

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This versatile dog shampoo is safe for use on horses, dogs, cats, and even humans! The pH-balanced formula is gentle and cleans your dog effectively, leaving their coat looking shiny and feeling soft. The apple blossom fragrance is subtle. 
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What Humans Love:
  • subtle fragrance
  • affordable
  • versatile
What Dogs Love:
  • gentle
  • ph-balanced
  • softens
Reviewers Say:

This versatile dog shampoo is safe for use on horses, dogs, cats, and even humans! The pH-balanced formula is gentle and...

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This versatile dog shampoo is safe for use on horses, dogs, cats, and even humans! The pH-balanced formula is gentle and cleans your dog effectively, leaving their coat looking shiny and feeling soft. The apple blossom fragrance is subtle. 
Most Durable Dog Shampoo
Amazon
Ikaria IK Waterless Comfort Shampoo, Gallon
What Dogs Love:
  • waterless
  • quick bath
  • soothes skin
What Humans Love:
  • sweet smell
  • effective formula
  • eliminates spills
Reviewers Say:

Not only is this dog shampoo spa-inspired, but it's a completely waterless formula. This makes it a great choice for dogs who don't like baths or difficult to bathe on a regular enough basis. It lifts dirt and grime while healing and conditioning agents help calm dry, flaky, itchy skin and requires no rinsing. Plus, it is scented with sandalwood, vanilla, an...

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Not only is this dog shampoo spa-inspired, but it's a completely waterless formula. This makes it a great choice for dogs who don't like baths or difficult to bathe on a regular enough basis. It lifts dirt and grime while healing and conditioning agents help calm dry, flaky, itchy skin and requires no rinsing. Plus, it is scented with sandalwood, vanilla, and basmati rice water to keep your pet smelling their best. The gallon-sized dog shampoo bottle also offers a great value.
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What Humans Love:
  • sweet smell
  • effective formula
  • eliminates spills
What Dogs Love:
  • waterless
  • quick bath
  • soothes skin
Reviewers Say:

Not only is this dog shampoo spa-inspired, but it's a completely waterless formula. This makes it a great choice for dog...

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Not only is this dog shampoo spa-inspired, but it's a completely waterless formula. This makes it a great choice for dogs who don't like baths or difficult to bathe on a regular enough basis. It lifts dirt and grime while healing and conditioning agents help calm dry, flaky, itchy skin and requires no rinsing. Plus, it is scented with sandalwood, vanilla, and basmati rice water to keep your pet smelling their best. The gallon-sized dog shampoo bottle also offers a great value.
Our Other Favorites
Chewy
DERMagic Diatomaceous Earth Dog Shampoo Bar, 3.75-oz
What Dogs Love:
  • bar form
  • antibacterial
  • helps with allergies
What Humans Love:
  • Made in the U.S.
  • helps with skin irritation
  • eliminates mess
Reviewers Say:

A great solution for pets who have continually struggled with skin issues, this is one of the best dog shampoos for pets with allergies and sensitive skin. The long-lasting shampoo bar is easy to use and contains antibacterial properties as well as diatomaceous earth, an all-natural powder made of microscopic shells to help with exfoliation.

E...

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A great solution for pets who have continually struggled with skin issues, this is one of the best dog shampoos for pets with allergies and sensitive skin. The long-lasting shampoo bar is easy to use and contains antibacterial properties as well as diatomaceous earth, an all-natural powder made of microscopic shells to help with exfoliation.

Each bar is handmade in the U.S. with organic ingredients and no chemicals or sulfates. Chewy reviewers say it lathers well and that it's good to add to the rotation for dogs with itchy skin.
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What Humans Love:
  • Made in the U.S.
  • helps with skin irritation
  • eliminates mess
What Dogs Love:
  • bar form
  • antibacterial
  • helps with allergies
Reviewers Say:

A great solution for pets who have continually struggled with skin issues, this is one of the best dog shampoos for pets...

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A great solution for pets who have continually struggled with skin issues, this is one of the best dog shampoos for pets with allergies and sensitive skin. The long-lasting shampoo bar is easy to use and contains antibacterial properties as well as diatomaceous earth, an all-natural powder made of microscopic shells to help with exfoliation.

Each bar is handmade in the U.S. with organic ingredients and no chemicals or sulfates. Chewy reviewers say it lathers well and that it's good to add to the rotation for dogs with itchy skin.
Chewy
Zesty Paws Itch Soother Dog Shampoo with Oatmeal & Aloe Vera, for Skin Moisture & Shiny Coats, Vanilla Bean Scent
What Dogs Love:
  • soothing
  • moisturizing
  • itch-relieving
What Humans Love:
  • great scent
  • makes coat shiny
  • good for all breeds
Reviewers Say:

This dog shampoo is soothing, with ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, and vitamin E to moisturize your canine's coat. Your dog doesn't need to be itchy in order for you to use this shampoo, as it's good for dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes, Plus, it has a great vanilla bean scent for nice-smelling dogs.

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This dog shampoo is soothing, with ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, and vitamin E to moisturize your canine's coat. Your dog doesn't need to be itchy in order for you to use this shampoo, as it's good for dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes, Plus, it has a great vanilla bean scent for nice-smelling dogs.
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What Humans Love:
  • great scent
  • makes coat shiny
  • good for all breeds
What Dogs Love:
  • soothing
  • moisturizing
  • itch-relieving
Reviewers Say:

This dog shampoo is soothing, with ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, and vitamin E to moisturize your canine's coat. ...

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This dog shampoo is soothing, with ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, and vitamin E to moisturize your canine's coat. Your dog doesn't need to be itchy in order for you to use this shampoo, as it's good for dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes, Plus, it has a great vanilla bean scent for nice-smelling dogs.
Chewy
Buddy Wash Original Lavender & Mint Dog Shampoo & Conditioner, 16-oz bottle
What Dogs Love:
  • clean-rinsing lather
  • safe for regular use
  • soap-free
What Humans Love:
  • alcohol-free
  • made in the USA
  • not tested on animals
Reviewers Say:

This soap-free shampoo and conditioner lathers up nicely and rinses off cleanly, making it ideal for a dog-friendly bath. The dog shampoo is made from botanical extracts and natural conditioning ingredients like coconut, lavender, and mint. Wheat protein also helps deodorize dogs.

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This soap-free shampoo and conditioner lathers up nicely and rinses off cleanly, making it ideal for a dog-friendly bath. The dog shampoo is made from botanical extracts and natural conditioning ingredients like coconut, lavender, and mint. Wheat protein also helps deodorize dogs.
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What Humans Love:
  • alcohol-free
  • made in the USA
  • not tested on animals
What Dogs Love:
  • clean-rinsing lather
  • safe for regular use
  • soap-free
Reviewers Say:

This soap-free shampoo and conditioner lathers up nicely and rinses off cleanly, making it ideal for a dog-friendly bath...

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This soap-free shampoo and conditioner lathers up nicely and rinses off cleanly, making it ideal for a dog-friendly bath. The dog shampoo is made from botanical extracts and natural conditioning ingredients like coconut, lavender, and mint. Wheat protein also helps deodorize dogs.
Chewy
PetAg Fresh ‘N Clean Scented Dog Shampoo, Classic Fresh Scent, 18-oz bottle
What Dogs Love:
  • cleansing
  • moisturizing
  • soap-free
What Humans Love:
  • fresh scent
  • gentle but effective
  • ph-balanced
Reviewers Say:

This soap-free dog shampoo gently cleans your pet's coat, removing grime and debris. Conditioning ingredients like vitamin E and aloe leaf juice help soften your dog's fur or hair. Plus, the long-lasting floral scent keeps your dog smelling so fresh and so clean for up to two weeks.

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This soap-free dog shampoo gently cleans your pet's coat, removing grime and debris. Conditioning ingredients like vitamin E and aloe leaf juice help soften your dog's fur or hair. Plus, the long-lasting floral scent keeps your dog smelling so fresh and so clean for up to two weeks.
More Info
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What Humans Love:
  • fresh scent
  • gentle but effective
  • ph-balanced
What Dogs Love:
  • cleansing
  • moisturizing
  • soap-free
Reviewers Say:

This soap-free dog shampoo gently cleans your pet's coat, removing grime and debris. Conditioning ingredients like vitam...

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This soap-free dog shampoo gently cleans your pet's coat, removing grime and debris. Conditioning ingredients like vitamin E and aloe leaf juice help soften your dog's fur or hair. Plus, the long-lasting floral scent keeps your dog smelling so fresh and so clean for up to two weeks.
Amazon
Pro Pet Works All Natural Organic Oatmeal Pet Shampoo Plus Conditioner
What Dogs Love:
  • relieves irritated, itchy skin
  • smells good
  • hydrates
What Humans Love:
  • Made in the U.S.
  • high-quality ingredients
  • doesn't leave a “wet dog" smell
Reviewers Say:

Thanks to its special formula of aloe vera gel, almond oil, and vitamins A, D, E, and B12, this dog shampoo is especially ideal for pets with allergies or sensitive skin. But it can also be used by any pet. The blend of enriching ingredients keeps skin cells healthy and helps damaged skin repair itself quickly. Outside of its soothing, moisturizing formula, ...

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Thanks to its special formula of aloe vera gel, almond oil, and vitamins A, D, E, and B12, this dog shampoo is especially ideal for pets with allergies or sensitive skin. But it can also be used by any pet. The blend of enriching ingredients keeps skin cells healthy and helps damaged skin repair itself quickly. Outside of its soothing, moisturizing formula, it also detangles, is paraben-free, cruelty-free, sulfate-free, soap-free, and made in the U.S.

Reviewers love it. The product has more than 14,000 reviews on Amazon and an average 4.6-star rating. Customers especially appreciate that it also conditions while shampooing.
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What Humans Love:
  • Made in the U.S.
  • high-quality ingredients
  • doesn't leave a “wet dog" smell
What Dogs Love:
  • relieves irritated, itchy skin
  • smells good
  • hydrates
Reviewers Say:

Thanks to its special formula of aloe vera gel, almond oil, and vitamins A, D, E, and B12, this dog shampoo is especiall...

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Thanks to its special formula of aloe vera gel, almond oil, and vitamins A, D, E, and B12, this dog shampoo is especially ideal for pets with allergies or sensitive skin. But it can also be used by any pet. The blend of enriching ingredients keeps skin cells healthy and helps damaged skin repair itself quickly. Outside of its soothing, moisturizing formula, it also detangles, is paraben-free, cruelty-free, sulfate-free, soap-free, and made in the U.S.

Reviewers love it. The product has more than 14,000 reviews on Amazon and an average 4.6-star rating. Customers especially appreciate that it also conditions while shampooing.
Amazon
Arm & Hammer Ultra Fresh Shampoos, Conditioners, and Sprays for Dogs
What Dogs Love:
  • long-lasting scent
  • non-irritating
  • effective
What Humans Love:
  • spa-like scent
  • affordable
  • good ingredients
Reviewers Say:

Formulated with charcoal and rosemary, this dog shampoo is designed for deep but gentle cleansing. Its deodorizing properties that come from using Arm & Hammer baking soda as a premium ingredient make it one of the best dog shampoos for controlling tough odors. Plus, the fresh eucalyptus and mint scent will transport both you and your pet to a relaxed spa-li...

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Formulated with charcoal and rosemary, this dog shampoo is designed for deep but gentle cleansing. Its deodorizing properties that come from using Arm & Hammer baking soda as a premium ingredient make it one of the best dog shampoos for controlling tough odors. Plus, the fresh eucalyptus and mint scent will transport both you and your pet to a relaxed spa-like state.
More Info
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What Humans Love:
  • spa-like scent
  • affordable
  • good ingredients
What Dogs Love:
  • long-lasting scent
  • non-irritating
  • effective
Reviewers Say:

Formulated with charcoal and rosemary, this dog shampoo is designed for deep but gentle cleansing. Its deodorizing prope...

Read More
+
Formulated with charcoal and rosemary, this dog shampoo is designed for deep but gentle cleansing. Its deodorizing properties that come from using Arm & Hammer baking soda as a premium ingredient make it one of the best dog shampoos for controlling tough odors. Plus, the fresh eucalyptus and mint scent will transport both you and your pet to a relaxed spa-like state.
Amazon
Bodhi Dog Premium Gentle Shampoo | Soothing & Ultra Gentle Puppy Shampoo | Aloe Vera and Lavender Oil | Natural Moisturizing Pet Wash for Puppies, Dogs and Cats (17 Fl Oz)
What Dogs Love:
  • gentle
  • relieves itchiness
  • safe
What Humans Love:
  • made in the usa
  • free of parabens and alcohol
  • pleasant scent
Reviewers Say:

The plant-based formula in this dog shampoo breaks down dirt while gently cleansing and softening your dog's coat. This extra-gentle shampoo has no detergents, alcohol, harmful chemics, or parabens, making it an ideal pick for dogs with sensitive or irritated skin. The lavender scent is pleasant and long-lasting. Reviewers praise the way this shampoo soothes...

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The plant-based formula in this dog shampoo breaks down dirt while gently cleansing and softening your dog's coat. This extra-gentle shampoo has no detergents, alcohol, harmful chemics, or parabens, making it an ideal pick for dogs with sensitive or irritated skin. The lavender scent is pleasant and long-lasting. Reviewers praise the way this shampoo soothes skin and how it helps with seasonal itchiness.
More Info
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What Humans Love:
  • made in the usa
  • free of parabens and alcohol
  • pleasant scent
What Dogs Love:
  • gentle
  • relieves itchiness
  • safe
Reviewers Say:

The plant-based formula in this dog shampoo breaks down dirt while gently cleansing and softening your dog's coat. This ...

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+
The plant-based formula in this dog shampoo breaks down dirt while gently cleansing and softening your dog's coat. This extra-gentle shampoo has no detergents, alcohol, harmful chemics, or parabens, making it an ideal pick for dogs with sensitive or irritated skin. The lavender scent is pleasant and long-lasting. Reviewers praise the way this shampoo soothes skin and how it helps with seasonal itchiness.

What to Know About Dog Shampoo

Not all dog shampoo is created equal, which is why it's important to choose one that is safe on your dog and actually gets them clean. When looking for a formula that will work best for your pet, you need to consider a few things.

Beneficial Ingredients

Look for ingredients that will not only cleanse pets skin and coat, but will also help nourish, deodorize, and protect. Here are some key ones to be aware of:

- Aloe vera: Both antiseptic and moisturizing, aloe is a popular ingredient that can aid in cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting against future irritations.
- Vitamin E: Also moisturizing, vitamin E can nourish skin and detangle coats.
- Vitamin B: Common in oats or oatmeal, vitamin B penetrates deeply to deliver moisture.
- Coconut oil: Coconut oil cleanses and moisturizes skin and coats.
- Charcoal: This can be a powerful and natural cleansing agent for the skin

Types of Dog Shampoo

There are various dog shampoos to choose from ,including those specifically formulated for puppies, sensitive skin, medicated dog shampoos, hypoallergenic formulas, anti-dander shampoos, soap-free formulas, and more. Consider your pet's specific needs when deciding which is the best dog shampoo for them. If your pet suffers from dryness or allergies, it's a good idea to consult your vet and ask them for recommendations as well.

How to Wash Your Dog

Washing your dog at home can be a challenging task, no matter your pet's size. Keep in mind these tips:

1. Pre-fill your tube or sink so that your pet will be about ankle-deep in water. You can use paw fizz tablets to cleanse their paws while you wash their body.
2. Prepare the space with towels to line the floor and prevent slips.
3. Ensure water is lukewarm, never hot. Test the water before submerging your pet.
4. Avoid getting soap or water in their eyes. Use a suds-free formula if possible.
5. Use a handheld shower attachment to properly wet your dog's body and rinse after lathering.
6. Consider applying a dog conditioner after shampoo has been rinsed.
7. Allow your pet to shake off excess water. This will come naturally to them, so prepare to shield yourself with a towel.
8. You can towel-dry your pet or blow-dry them if it does not scare them. Just ensure the dryer is set to cool.

Dog Shampoo Safety

When shopping for a dog shampoo, consider your pet's age, as there are special formulations for puppies and some senior dogs. And if your pet is on a topical flea and tick treatment, you will want to bathe them with a soap-free formula, as these shampoos will be less likely to dilute the effectiveness of flea and tick preventatives. Further, if you notice that your dog is more itchy after a bath, consider switching formulas or calling your vet for a recommendation. Your dog may have an allergy or sensitivity that can be irritated by common ingredients.

You may also want to consider shopping for dog shampoos that are formulated to not harm your pet in case of ingestion and that are free of parabens, dyes, sulfates, phthalates, and alcohol.

Frequently Asked Questions
What dog shampoo is the safest?

Dog shampoos that are pH-balanced for pets in case of ingestion and that are free of additives like parabens, dyes, sulfates, phthalates, and alcohol are considered the safest dog shampoo options.

How do I wash my dog like a groomer?

Groomers have expertise, but they also have expert tools. While you may never get to groomer-quality, pick a pet shampoo that boasts a fresh scent. You can also invest in shower and bath attachments that groomers use.

How do I stop my dog from smelling between baths?

Choose a long-lasting dog shampoo and consider using a freshening spray in between baths. You may also want to consider switching their food to a high-quality blend formulated for skin and coat health. If pet smells persist, call your vet, as some odors could signal health issues like excess yeast.

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