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Best Overall Dog Shampoo
Amazon
Pro Pet Works All Natural Organic Oatmeal Pet Shampoo Plus Conditioner
What Dogs Love:
  • relieves irritated, itchy skin
  • smells good
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 too with more than 11,000 reviews on Amazon and a 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
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 too with more than 11,000 reviews on Amazon and a 4.6-star rating. Customers especially appreciate that it also conditions while shampooing.
Best Budget Dog Shampoo
Amazon
Burt’s Bees All Natural Oatmeal Shampoo for Dogs
What Dogs Love:
  • Tearless formula
  • soothes sensitive skin
  • pH balanced
What Humans Love:
  • affordable
  • high-quality
  • natural ingredients
Reviewers Say:

This nourishing dog shampoo doesn't compromise quality for price. Formulated with colloidal oatmeal, honey, and (of course) beeswax, Burt's Bees Oatmeal shampoo soothes skin and softens your dog's coat. Suitable for dogs with sensitive skin, this veterinarian-recommended formula is free of fragrances, sulfates, colorants, and harsh chemicals. And it is pH ba...

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This nourishing dog shampoo doesn't compromise quality for price. Formulated with colloidal oatmeal, honey, and (of course) beeswax, Burt's Bees Oatmeal shampoo soothes skin and softens your dog's coat. Suitable for dogs with sensitive skin, this veterinarian-recommended formula is free of fragrances, sulfates, colorants, and harsh chemicals. And it is pH balanced so all dogs, even puppies can use it.

Earning a 4.5-star rating from more than 11,000 Amazon reviews, shoppers love that it's a low-cost way to solve skin issues.
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What Humans Love:
  • affordable
  • high-quality
  • natural ingredients
What Dogs Love:
  • Tearless formula
  • soothes sensitive skin
  • pH balanced
Reviewers Say:

This nourishing dog shampoo doesn't compromise quality for price. Formulated with colloidal oatmeal, honey, and (of cour...

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+
This nourishing dog shampoo doesn't compromise quality for price. Formulated with colloidal oatmeal, honey, and (of course) beeswax, Burt's Bees Oatmeal shampoo soothes skin and softens your dog's coat. Suitable for dogs with sensitive skin, this veterinarian-recommended formula is free of fragrances, sulfates, colorants, and harsh chemicals. And it is pH balanced so all dogs, even puppies can use it.

Earning a 4.5-star rating from more than 11,000 Amazon reviews, shoppers love that it's a low-cost way to solve skin issues.
Most Durable Dog Shampoo
Amazon
Ikaria IK Waterless Comfort Shampoo, Gallon
What Dogs Love:
  • waterless
  • quick bath
What Humans Love:
  • sweet smell
  • effective formula
  • no rinse
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 are bath adverse 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...

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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 are bath adverse 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
  • no rinse
What Dogs Love:
  • waterless
  • quick bath
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 are bath adverse 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
  • anti-bacterial
  • helps with allergies
What Humans Love:
  • Made in the U.S.
  • helps with skin irritations
  • plant trees with pruchase
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 anti-bacterial properties as well as diatomaceous earth, an all-natural powder made of microscopic shells to help with exfoliation. It also boasts ...

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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 anti-bacterial properties as well as diatomaceous earth, an all-natural powder made of microscopic shells to help with exfoliation. It also boasts a proprietary blend of essential oils to gently cleanse and calm skin.

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 irritations
  • plant trees with pruchase
What Dogs Love:
  • bar form
  • anti-bacterial
  • 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 anti-bacterial properties as well as diatomaceous earth, an all-natural powder made of microscopic shells to help with exfoliation. It also boasts a proprietary blend of essential oils to gently cleanse and calm skin.

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
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 cleanses fur of di...

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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 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 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.
Chewy
Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Dog & Cat Shampoo, 16-oz bottle
What Dogs Love:
  • Helps relieve itchy skin
  • no smell
What Humans Love:
  • Free of harmful chemicals
  • soap-free
  • soothing ingredients
Reviewers Say:

This is a great option for pets with dry, itchy skin. This dog shampoo is formulated with colloidal oatmeal and organic aloe vera, which help combat skin irritation, promote healing, and re-moisturize sensitive skin. It is soap-free and pH-balanced to clean and deodorize safely without the use of parabens, dyes, sulfates, phthalates, or alcohol.

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This is a great option for pets with dry, itchy skin. This dog shampoo is formulated with colloidal oatmeal and organic aloe vera, which help combat skin irritation, promote healing, and re-moisturize sensitive skin. It is soap-free and pH-balanced to clean and deodorize safely without the use of parabens, dyes, sulfates, phthalates, or alcohol.

With more than 1,000 Amazon reviews and a 4.7-star rating, reviewers love this shampoo for its minimal scent and soothing properties.
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What Humans Love:
  • Free of harmful chemicals
  • soap-free
  • soothing ingredients
What Dogs Love:
  • Helps relieve itchy skin
  • no smell
Reviewers Say:

This is a great option for pets with dry, itchy skin. This dog shampoo is formulated with colloidal oatmeal and organic ...

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+
This is a great option for pets with dry, itchy skin. This dog shampoo is formulated with colloidal oatmeal and organic aloe vera, which help combat skin irritation, promote healing, and re-moisturize sensitive skin. It is soap-free and pH-balanced to clean and deodorize safely without the use of parabens, dyes, sulfates, phthalates, or alcohol.

With more than 1,000 Amazon reviews and a 4.7-star rating, reviewers love this shampoo for its minimal scent and soothing properties.
Chewy
John Paul Pet Sensitive Skin Formula Oatmeal Dog & Cat Shampoo, 16-oz bottle
What Dogs Love:
  • cruelty-free
  • luxurious
What Humans Love:
  • Made in the U.S.
  • salon-quality
  • good smell
Reviewers Say:

A dog shampoo so luxurious that you may want to use it yourself, John Paul's Oatmeal Dog Shampoo is made by the same Paul Mitchell who creates salon-quality hair care products for humans. It is formulated to clean away dirt and odor without stripping the skin. Plus, pets with dryness or who are prone to skin itchiness will get relief with nourishing ingredie...

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A dog shampoo so luxurious that you may want to use it yourself, John Paul's Oatmeal Dog Shampoo is made by the same Paul Mitchell who creates salon-quality hair care products for humans. It is formulated to clean away dirt and odor without stripping the skin. Plus, pets with dryness or who are prone to skin itchiness will get relief with nourishing ingredients like aloe, chamomile, sweet almond oil, and hydrolyzed oat protein.

Chewy reviewers say that after just one wash they've noticed a serious improvement in the shininess and softness of their dog's coat.
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What Humans Love:
  • Made in the U.S.
  • salon-quality
  • good smell
What Dogs Love:
  • cruelty-free
  • luxurious
Reviewers Say:

A dog shampoo so luxurious that you may want to use it yourself, John Paul's Oatmeal Dog Shampoo is made by the same Pau...

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A dog shampoo so luxurious that you may want to use it yourself, John Paul's Oatmeal Dog Shampoo is made by the same Paul Mitchell who creates salon-quality hair care products for humans. It is formulated to clean away dirt and odor without stripping the skin. Plus, pets with dryness or who are prone to skin itchiness will get relief with nourishing ingredients like aloe, chamomile, sweet almond oil, and hydrolyzed oat protein.

Chewy reviewers say that after just one wash they've noticed a serious improvement in the shininess and softness of their dog's coat.
Amazon
PetAg Fresh ‘n Clean Lambert Kay Scented Dog Shampoo, 18 Oz
What Dogs Love:
  • controls matting
  • nice scent
What Humans Love:
  • Great long-lasting smell
  • odor control
  • reliable
Reviewers Say:

Vitamin E, aloe vera, and extra conditioners in this shampoo keep pets clean and their coats silky smooth. Loved by pet owners and groomers alike, it will leave your dog smelling great for up to two weeks. This simple, odor-control shampoo has earned an impressive 4.8-star rating from more than 7,000 Amazon reviews. Why? Because it actually works.

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Vitamin E, aloe vera, and extra conditioners in this shampoo keep pets clean and their coats silky smooth. Loved by pet owners and groomers alike, it will leave your dog smelling great for up to two weeks. This simple, odor-control shampoo has earned an impressive 4.8-star rating from more than 7,000 Amazon reviews. Why? Because it actually works.
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What Humans Love:
  • Great long-lasting smell
  • odor control
  • reliable
What Dogs Love:
  • controls matting
  • nice scent
Reviewers Say:

Vitamin E, aloe vera, and extra conditioners in this shampoo keep pets clean and their coats silky smooth. Loved by pet ...

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Vitamin E, aloe vera, and extra conditioners in this shampoo keep pets clean and their coats silky smooth. Loved by pet owners and groomers alike, it will leave your dog smelling great for up to two weeks. This simple, odor-control shampoo has earned an impressive 4.8-star rating from more than 7,000 Amazon reviews. Why? Because it actually works.
Amazon
Arm & Hammer Ultra Fresh Shampoos, Conditioners, and Sprays for Dogs
What Dogs Love:
  • smell fresh for longer
  • non-irritating
What Humans Love:
  • spa-like scent
  • lasting smell
  • 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 mint scent will transport both you and your pet to a relaxed spa-like s...

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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 mint scent will transport both you and your pet to a relaxed spa-like state.
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What Humans Love:
  • spa-like scent
  • lasting smell
  • good ingredients
What Dogs Love:
  • smell fresh for longer
  • non-irritating
Reviewers Say:

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

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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 mint scent will transport both you and your pet to a relaxed spa-like state.
Chewy
Gerrard Larriett Aromatherapy Pet Care De-stress Lavender & Chamomile Aromatherapy Shampoo & Conditioner For Pets, 16-oz bottle
What Dogs Love:
  • Nourishing formula
  • relaxing
What Humans Love:
  • Made in the U.S
  • free of parabens and dyes
  • 100 percent biodegradable
Reviewers Say:

With premium ingredients and a formula designed to deliver deep moisture, this dog shampoo is anything but basic. Essential oils, including lavender and chamomile, calm both the body and mind for a more relaxing bath. While aloe vera soothes and rehydrates dry, irritated skin and nourishing vitamin E oil delivers rich moisture.

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With premium ingredients and a formula designed to deliver deep moisture, this dog shampoo is anything but basic. Essential oils, including lavender and chamomile, calm both the body and mind for a more relaxing bath. While aloe vera soothes and rehydrates dry, irritated skin and nourishing vitamin E oil delivers rich moisture.
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What Humans Love:
  • Made in the U.S
  • free of parabens and dyes
  • 100 percent biodegradable
What Dogs Love:
  • Nourishing formula
  • relaxing
Reviewers Say:

With premium ingredients and a formula designed to deliver deep moisture, this dog shampoo is anything but basic. Essent...

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With premium ingredients and a formula designed to deliver deep moisture, this dog shampoo is anything but basic. Essential oils, including lavender and chamomile, calm both the body and mind for a more relaxing bath. While aloe vera soothes and rehydrates dry, irritated skin and nourishing vitamin E oil delivers rich moisture.
Chewy
Pet Head Dirty Talk Deodorizing Shampoo
What Dogs Love:
  • coat looks fuller
  • safe to lick
What Humans Love:
  • Made in the U.S.
  • reliable hair care brand
  • eco-friendly
Reviewers Say:

Made by the makers of Bed Head hair products, this dog shampoo really puts the pet first with an eco-friendly formula. It's pH balanced for dogs so that it is safe if licked or swallowed. It's deodorizing blend has a refreshing spearmint lemongrass scent, so it's great for smellier pets. Made in the U.S., it's also free of parabens, sulfates, and DEA.

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Made by the makers of Bed Head hair products, this dog shampoo really puts the pet first with an eco-friendly formula. It's pH balanced for dogs so that it is safe if licked or swallowed. It's deodorizing blend has a refreshing spearmint lemongrass scent, so it's great for smellier pets. Made in the U.S., it's also free of parabens, sulfates, and DEA.
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What Humans Love:
  • Made in the U.S.
  • reliable hair care brand
  • eco-friendly
What Dogs Love:
  • coat looks fuller
  • safe to lick
Reviewers Say:

Made by the makers of Bed Head hair products, this dog shampoo really puts the pet first with an eco-friendly formula. I...

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+
Made by the makers of Bed Head hair products, this dog shampoo really puts the pet first with an eco-friendly formula. It's pH balanced for dogs so that it is safe if licked or swallowed. It's deodorizing blend has a refreshing spearmint lemongrass scent, so it's great for smellier pets. Made in the U.S., it's also free of parabens, sulfates, and DEA.

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: Cleanses and moisturizes skin and coats at the same time.
- Essential oils: Lavender, chamomile and rosemary can cleanse, moisturize, and calm anxious pets. Plus, they smell good.
- Charcoal: 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 blow 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.

Things to Know
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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 most safe 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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