The 12 Best Dog Shampoos of 2024, According to Veterinarians and Pet Parents
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Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Shampoo washed the competition with silky, itch-free results
People / David Hattan
Every dog owner knows the trials and tribulations of bath day. While some products make the bathing process easier on your pooch, the shampoo you use is the most important factor to consider. Just like human shampoos, dog shampoo formulas target specific concerns to ensure shiny hair and healthy skin.
PEOPLE caught up with veterinarian Dr. Hunter Finn, founder of Pet Method Animal Hospital, for tips. "Not every dog is the same, and some may require different shampoos and frequency of bathing," says Dr. Finn. But generally, he recommends pet-safe formulas, ideally from veterinarian-developed brands.
With this in mind, we surveyed 27 pet parents and five veterinarians to see what formulas worked best for a range of dogs, factoring in itchy and sensitive skin, age, coat color and length, and even certain medical conditions.
These are the picks PEOPLE consider the best dog shampoos of 2024.
Things to Consider Before Buying Dog Shampoo
Your Dog’s Skin Type
While you might see the results of shampoo more clearly in the texture and appearance of fur, it’s the skin that the formula is really working to clean. That’s why your dog’s skin type and any skin conditions are important to factor in when choosing a dog shampoo. With general dryness, you can look for hydrating formulas such as Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Shampoo and Buddy Wash Original Lavender & Mint Dog Shampoo & Conditioner. For particularly itchy dogs, you might want an even more soothing formula like Douxo S3 CALM Soothing Itchy, Hydrated Skin Dog Shampoo.
Dr. Finn recommends “a product that contains antimicrobial and antifungal properties” for skin issues like fungal infections — for instance, Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Shampoo. He adds that dogs with mild skin infections involving yeast or bacteria will often have a distinct smell, which is a good indicator of something more than just general dryness. It’s also important to rule out allergies which is a different issue than just sensitive skin. Senior Tail Waggers director and veterinarian Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, DVM tells PEOPLE that while shampoos can “soothe irritated skin and may aid in reducing the allergen load in the fur,” a shampoo alone will not cure allergies.
That’s why it’s always important to speak to your vet: "Your best bet is to speak with your veterinarian about which shampoo is best for your pet if you believe your dog has any skin concerns,” Zoetis veterinarian Heather Berst, VMD tells PEOPLE.
Your Dog’s Hair Type and Coat Length
Not all dogs are made the same and their fur and skin have different needs. If you have a long-haired dog with a double coat you might deal with more tangles than someone with a short-haired breed. Conversely, short-hair breeds tend to have slightly more textured fur and skin exposure, and therefore, need a little TLC with gentle ingredients.
If you have a short-haired breed, you might consider a moisturizing shampoo that soothes skin such as the Isle of Dogs Silky Oatmeal Shampoo, whereas, for a long-haired dog, a detangling shampoo like the Oster Oatmeal Essentials 4-in-1 Shampoo or one to create a shiny coat like the OUAI Pet Shampoo might be better choices. And in terms of shedding, specific shampoos won’t fix this: "Frequent brushing and bathing as needed will remove the loosening hair that is being shed and can reduce the amount of hair left behind in your house,” says Dr. Whittenburg.
Your Dog’s Age
Puppies require more delicate ingredients than adult dogs, so there are certain dog shampoos geared toward this age group. If you have a new puppy, consider trying the Wahl USA Gentle Puppy Shampoo Concentrate. Some brands have adult-only shampoos, and some have hybrid formulas, but most of the brands on our list have adult and puppy options, so you can start with the puppy formula and upgrade as your dog grows.
Best Overall: Burt's Bees Oatmeal Shampoo with Colloidal Oat Flour & Honey for Dogs
Pros
This shampoo uses a gentle oatmeal-based formula that works well for most dogs.
Its moisturizing ingredients particularly target and soothe itchy skin and other irritations.
It’s recommended by pet parents and veterinarians alike.
Cons
It’s not intended for puppies, but there is a puppy version you can buy.
There’s no question the most popular dog shampoo is Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Shampoo and for good reason — veterinarians and pet parents both love this gentle formula for a variety of dogs. Dr. Finn recommends a “soothing and non-medicated product [like Burt’s Bees] for general cleaning and removing things like pollen, dirt, and debris.”
This shampoo is particularly ideal for dogs with dry skin since it uses colloidal oat flour to soothe itchiness and irritation. It also contains coconut-based cleansers and honey. “When a dog is very itchy or has dry flaky skin this is one of my go-to shampoos to recommend,” veterinarian Dr. Sara Ochoa, DVM tells PEOPLE. “The oatmeal will help moisturize your dog’s skin and coat and make it soft and shiny.”
Our pet parents agreed. The dogs who used this shampoo both have a double coat and itchy skin. One is younger with long hair and allergies, while the other is older with a short coat and some skin infections. The shampoo creates a good lather and washes out well. Both pet parents found that the Burt’s Bees shampoo left their dogs with clean, soft fur and overall, less itchiness. One said it even got the dirty water smell out of her dog’s fur following an impromptu swim in the Central Park Conservatory pond.
The Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Shampoo works well for most dogs, is available at many retail locations, and is extremely budget-friendly. Though the shampoo is intended for adult dogs only, there is a puppy version as well.
Amount: 16 ounces | Scent: Oatmeal-honey | Key Ingredients: Oatmeal, honey, coconut cleansers, glycerin | Intended Use: Adult dogs
Best Value: Buddy Wash Original Lavender & Mint Dog Shampoo & Conditioner
Pros
The Buddy Wash is a two-in-one shampoo and conditioner that cleans and conditions your dog with smooth, soft results.
The wash can be rinsed out easily even when dealing with squirmy dogs.
The hydrating ingredients like aloe vera and botanical extracts moisturize dogs with dry and itchy skin.
You can buy a 16-ounce or gallon size if you need a larger, more economical option.
Cons
If you don’t like scented products for your dog, this one does have a prominent lavender fragrance.
If you’re on the hunt for a good value, the Buddy Wash Original Lavender and Mint Shampoo and Conditioner is a quality product for a low price. You can grab the 16-ounce size for $15 or the gallon size for $72 — the equivalent of eight bottles but with a $50 discount.
One pet parent we surveyed has used the Buddy Wash for over four years for her two middle-aged dogs. The dogs have smooth, long double coats, and their mom appreciates how well the wash lifts dirt from their fur and reduces seasonal itchiness. One dog is particularly squirmy, but it’s still easy to rinse this wash out of the dog’s long fur. The dogs’ mom said she loves its natural ingredients and wouldn’t change anything about this wash.
Amount: 16 ounces, 1 gallon | Scent: Lavender, mint | Key Ingredients: Coconut base, aloe vera, tea tree oil, chamomile extract | Intended Use: Puppies and adult dogs
Best for Shiny Coat: Ouai Fur Bébé Pet Shampoo
Pros
The Ouai Fur Bebe Pet Shampoo produces soft, shiny, and smooth fur for your dog.
The fragrant scent of rose, jasmine, and lemon lasts for hours post-bath.
Our pet parent said that no other shampoo has made her dog’s fur feel as soft.
It creates a nice lather and is easy to rinse out.
Cons
It’s a little costly compared to other dog shampoos we tried.
Whether your dog has long or short hair, it’s always nice to see a little shine after a bath. The Ouai Fur Bebe Pet Shampoo is packed with nourishing ingredients like aloe vera and rambutan seed extract which produces soft, smooth fur.
The pet parent who recommended this shampoo has used it for her dog, Beau, for around three years. She likes the fragrant scent and how easy the formula is to rinse out. Plus, the hydrating ingredients don’t leave the dog’s fur feeling dried out after cleaning. Beau’s mom said his short coat feels and looks so nice when she uses this shampoo, and no other shampoo has made the fur feel as soft. Plus, the signature Ouai scent of lemon, rose, and jasmine lasts so your dog will smell great all day.
Amount: 16 ounces | Scent: Lemon, rose, jasmine, white musk | Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, rambutan seed extract, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, panthenol | Intended Use: Doesn’t clarify, so we would just recommend for adult dogs
Related: The 8 Best Cooling Dog Beds of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Best for Itchy Skin: Douxo S3 CALM Soothing Itchy, Hydrated Skin Dog & Cat Shampoo
Pros
According to one pet parent, this shampoo worked to soothe her dog’s itchy skin, reducing redness and lessening irritation.
It uses the active ingredient Ophytrium which helps soothe and strengthen the skin barrier.
The formula creates a good lather, is easy to rinse, and leaves behind no residue, just hydrated, clean skin.
Cons
Our survey respondents couldn’t find any cons, but if you prefer a cheaper dog shampoo, this one might be a little expensive.
Itchy skin is a constant annoyance that dogs can experience for all kinds of reasons. You should always check with your vet first to understand the cause of your dog’s itchiness, but some common reasons include allergies, environmental changes, the food they’re eating, and certain skin infections.
We’ve found that the Douxo S3 Calm Soothing Itchy Hydrated Skin Shampoo soothes itchy skin. The pet parent we surveyed who uses it has a middle-aged dog with a short, wire-haired coat and lots of skin issues (allergies, frequent itchiness, and some skin infections). The dog’s mom says the shampoo is easy to rinse and never leaves behind residue. It does have a light, sweet fragrance, but that didn’t seem to affect the dog’s skin at all. The formula uses the active ingredient Ophytrium, which works to equally soothe and strengthen the skin barrier.
The results were impressive because the shampoo reduced most of the redness on the dog’s skin and seemed to hydrate it. It removed excess oils while also soothing irritation. Our respondent tells PEOPLE that when she uses this shampoo, she’s able to bathe her dog less frequently because now the dog isn’t itching as much in between baths. The price is mid-range among those we’re recommending, but this pet parent says it’s worth the cost because it “actually works”.
Amount: 6.7 ounces | Scent: Coconut, vanilla | Key Ingredients: Ophytrium 0.75% (active) | Intended Use: Adult dogs
Best for Puppies: WAHL Puppy Shampoo
Pros
Though puppies are usually soft to begin with, the pet parent we surveyed found this shampoo made their puppy “ridiculously soft.”
It has a gentle formula made from cornflower and aloe that is delicate on puppies’ skin.
The shampoo lathers well so it’s easy to make sure it’s all rinsed out.
Cons
The bottle doesn’t come with a pump.
As mentioned, puppies require a more delicate touch when it comes to ingredients, and the Wahl USA Gentle Puppy Shampoo is so gentle. One pet parent tells PEOPLE they bought this shampoo for their newly adopted puppy and love it. Originally, they chose it for the natural ingredients, gentle formula, and fragrant scent. The puppy has a smooth, short coat, but is quite soft to begin with, yet this shampoo makes him “ridiculously soft” after baths.
His owner says the Wahl dog shampoo lathers well so it’s easy to make sure it’s all rinsed out. The puppy is quite squirmy in the sink during baths, so his owner thinks it would be better if the bottle came with a pump to more easily grab product without getting too much since it is a concentrated formula. That said, when rinsed out, it doesn’t leave any residue behind. It also significantly reduced the dandruff this puppy’s owner noticed when the dog was first adopted.
While this product is designed for puppies, Wahl also has an adult dog shampoo that one of our teammates uses for her dog, Cleo. “I was looking into different dog shampoos because my dog's breed (a pittie mix) is prone to skin issues like allergies and she had been especially itchy as of late (hello, winter),” PEOPLE senior commerce editor Erika Reals says. “I saw this shampoo was highly rated and a best seller in the category, so I dove into reviews and was convinced this could actually be the product to relieve her itchy skin.”
“We've used it on her twice now and can confidently say it has reduced how much she has itched and I have also noticed a lot less flakes stuck on her coat on a day-to-day basis,” says Reals. “Plus, it makes her smell so good and her coat is extra soft after drying. And you can't beat the price!”
Amount: 24 ounces | Scent: Cornflower aloe | Key Ingredients: Cornflower, aloe | Intended Use: Puppies
Related: The 6 Best Dog GPS Trackers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Best Moisturizing: Isle of Dogs Silky Oatmeal Shampoo
Pros
The Isle of Dogs Silky Oatmeal Shampoo has extremely moisturizing ingredients like coconut and jojoba oils, as well as oatmeal.
It has a lovely scent of jasmine and vanilla that makes your dog smell amazing.
The formula hydrates your dog’s skin and softens their fur.
It got one dog so clean that the bathtub was filled with dirty water afterward.
Cons
There weren’t any cons reported by the pet owner who’s used the shampoo for several years.
Oatmeal is such a wonderfully moisturizing ingredient and it works in this shampoo’s formula with coconut and jojoba oils to thoroughly hydrate your dog’s skin and fur. We surveyed one dog owner who has used this shampoo for a few years for her young dog, Gwennie. This dog gets bathed every other week to reduce dirt and common dog smells, and her owner says this shampoo gets her so clean that they “end up with a bath full of dirty water afterward,” — a clear indicator of a bath well done.
Despite Gwennie’s double coat, her owner found this shampoo was easy to rinse out and didn’t leave behind any residue. The dog’s skin feels hydrated and her fur feels so soft after baths. Plus, according to Gwennie’s owner, the formula smells lovely. She uses the brand’s conditioner and detangling spray in tandem with this shampoo for the best results.
Amount: 16 ounces, 1 gallon| Scent: Jasmine, vanilla | Key Ingredients: Coconut oil, jojoba oil, oatmeal, jasmine, vanilla | Intended Use: Doesn’t clarify, so we would just recommend for adult dogs
Best Detangling: Oster Oatmeal Essentials 4-in-1 Shampoo
Pros
The Oster Oatmeal Essentials shampoo has built-in conditioners to help with detangling fur and knots after baths.
It includes oatmeal extract which softens fur and hydrates your dog’s skin.
It cleans very effectively, removing dirt and unwanted oils from your pet’s fur.
Cons
The packaging claims the shampoo has a fruity scent, but our surveyed pet parent said there’s no fragrance.
The key to detangling knots in fur and hair is a good conditioner, but most people just use dog shampoo. That’s why the Oster Oatmeal Essentials shampoo solves this issue with built-in conditioners to help loosen tangles so you can brush them out after your dog’s bath. The formula uses natural oatmeal extract which hydrates the fur and skin, leaving it smelling fresh.
The dog owner who reported this shampoo on our survey has used it for over four years for their older dog. The dog has a smooth coat and gets bathed monthly to clean general dirt and oils from its coat. The dog’s veterinarian recommended the shampoo. Interestingly, the packaging suggests the shampoo has a mango-peach scent, but our dog parent says there’s no fragrance. So, that could be a pro or con, depending on how you view scent in regards to pet products.
That said, the shampoo leaves the dog feeling very hydrated and cleans effectively, according to our survey. The conditioning element can also make a huge difference with detangling fur after each bath. The dog’s owner tells PEOPLE they wouldn’t change anything about this product.
Amount: 18 ounces | Scent: Mango, peach | Key Ingredients: Natural oatmeal extract, vitamin B5, built-in conditioners | Intended Use: Doesn’t clarify, so we would just recommend for adult dogs
Best for Whitening: BioSilk Therapy Whitening Dog Shampoo
Pros
The BioSilk Therapy Whitening Dog Shampoo delivers on its whitening claims, proven by four years of use by a dog owner we surveyed.
It not only whitens dog fur and cleans it effectively, but it also brightens the shade of white.
The formula also has ingredients that soften dog fur and make it feel silky.
Cons
The bottle’s shape makes it hard to squeeze as it starts to run low on product.
For pet owners with white dogs, keeping their fur looking pristine can be a challenge. One pet parent we surveyed swears by the BioSilk Therapy Whitening Dog Shampoo because it keeps their dog’s coat “so white” and “feeling extra soft and silky.” After using this shampoo for over four years in weekly baths (in combination with a Johnson and Johnson product), the dog’s owner says this shampoo never irritates the dog’s sensitive skin.
They note that it’s easy to rinse out and brightens the dog’s hair — he’s a Havanese, so he has hair and not fur. Though the dog has both black and white areas of hair, the white sections tend to get the dirtiest as they are the most exposed, and this shampoo cleans them effectively. The only complaint is the shape of the bottle — it’s curvy and thin so it becomes harder to squeeze once the shampoo runs low.
Amount: 12 ounces | Scent: Unscented | Key Ingredients: Hawaiian white ginger, papaya leaf extract, lemon extract, silk protein | Intended Use: Any dog eight weeks old or older
Best for Sensitive Skin: Dandylion Soothe Gentle Cleansing Dog Shampoo
Pros
This Dandylion dog shampoo is especially moisturizing and gentle for dogs with sensitive skin.
It has natural ingredients like aloe vera juice and cucumber fruit extract that give it a fresh scent without any added fragrance.
The hydrating formula moisturizes skin and fur and is easy to rinse out.
Cons
This pet owner didn’t report any cons about this dog shampoo.
If your dog has sensitive skin, finding products that won’t irritate it can be daunting. One dog parent relies on the Dandylion Soothe Gentle Cleansing Dog Shampoo for this reason. Her young dog has a smooth, short, double coat and gets a bath every few months to remove dirt and various oils. She chose this shampoo because of the natural ingredients like aloe vera juice and cucumber fruit extract but loves it because of the results.
There’s no added fragrance and the alcohol-free formula doesn’t cause her dog’s skin to dry out or flake. It gently cleans the dog, leaving his skin moisturized and his coat “fluffy” and “glossy.” This dog mom loves how easy it is to rinse out, as well as the natural scent: A mix of botanical fragrances derived from its natural ingredients. The dog’s owner tells PEOPLE it’s the “best dog shampoo I’ve ever used”, considering her dog’s sensitive skin.
Amount: 16 ounces | Scent: Unscented | Key Ingredients: Aloe vera juice, cucumber fruit extract, coconut oil, glycerin | Intended Use: Doesn’t clarify, so we would just recommend for adult dogs
Related: The 12 Best Pet Hair Vacuums of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Best for Dandruff: Douxo S3 SEB Odor-Control Seboregulating Dog & Cat Shampoo
Pros
The Douxo S3 SEB Shampoo targets dandruff and successfully reduces skin irritations.
It uses ingredients to restore microbes that prevent this condition while also building up the skin barrier.
It helps control odors with a nice fragrance.
Cons
Since it’s a medicated shampoo, it costs a little more than common drugstore options.
Dandruff, or as it’s formally called seborrheic dermatitis, is a condition that causes scaly patches and flaky skin, according to The Mayo Clinic. While there’s not always a direct cause, it can be caused by excess oils or a certain type of yeast. If you think your dog has dandruff you should check with your veterinarian before trying any medicated products.
The same pet parent who used the other Douxo product also uses the S3 SEB Odor-Control Seboregulating Shampoo and found it to be super effective at targeting seborrheic dermatitis. The formula is designed to combat dandruff by restoring the microbes that prevent this skin condition. One of the key ingredients, ophytrium, helps build up the skin barrier and lessen any excess oils and other buildup. In tandem with the other Douxo product, the pet owner has seen a drastic improvement in their dog’s skin — with less redness and irritation overall.
Amount: 6.7 ounces | Scent: Coco, vanilla | Key Ingredients: Ophytrium, seboliance | Intended Use: Adult dogs
Best for Fungal Dermatitis: Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Medicated Shampoo for Dogs & Cats
Pros
The Veterinary Formula Clinical Care shampoo is specially formulated to target fungal infections.
It is fragrance-free and easy to rinse out.
If you have to use it as a treatment for a while, you can choose between a 16-ounce or one-gallon size.
Cons
It’s not as hydrating as other formulas on our list, so you might want to follow it up with a conditioner.
Fungal Dermatitis might sound intimidating, but it’s a treatable skin fungus. One pet owner we surveyed has a middle-aged dog that often suffers from allergies, itchy skin, and skin infections. The dog also has a long, double coat with a curly fleece. The dog’s owner has been using this shampoo weekly for a few months and has seen good results.
The formula is fragrance-free, easy to rinse out, and being used as an ongoing treatment for the dog’s skin infections. It’s not as hydrating of a formula as others on our list, since it’s a medicated shampoo designed to target fungus. That said, the dog’s owner uses a conditioner right after to ensure the skin stays hydrated. She adds that it would be great to use a bigger bottle, so we want to note that it is available in a one-gallon size, too.
Amount: 16 ounces, 1 gallon | Scent: Unscented | Key Ingredients: Active benzethonium chloride, aloe vera, ketoconazole, lanolin | Intended Use: Any dog 12 weeks of age or older
Best Splurge: Aesop Animal Pet Wash
Pros
The Aesop Animal Wash provides a luxurious bathing experience with soothing ingredients like lemon rind, tea tree leaf, and spearmint leaf.
It creates a good lather yet can be rinsed out with ease.
Since it’s a concentrate, you don’t have to use much at a time so it lasts longer (which helps justify the price).
Cons
At $41, it’s the most expensive of any dog shampoo on our list and not a feasible option for every budget.
If you want to pamper your pooch with a spa-like grooming treatment, we suggest the Aesop Animal Wash. It includes ingredients like lemon rind, tea tree leaf, and spearmint leaf for a truly aromatic experience. The pet owner who suggested this product uses it for their middle-aged dog, Penny. She has a double coat, yet her owner can get a good lather going with this shampoo, and it didn’t leave behind any residue.
Penny’s owner says it thoroughly cleans her and leaves her fur “so soft and shiny” with a smooth texture. Since it’s a concentrate product, a little goes a long way, so you won’t use as much as you might with a drugstore find — which helps alleviate the higher price point a little.
Amount: 16.9 ounces | Scent: Lemon, fresh | Key Ingredients: Lemon rind, tea tree leaf, spearmint leaf | Intended Use: Doesn’t clarify, so we would just recommend for adult dogs
Other Dog Shampoos We Tried
DOG By Dr. Lisa Natural Gentle Cleanser: The shampoo comes in a sleek minimalist bottle that looks good on any shower shelf. While it’s a bit pricey, you’re paying for a cleaner formula (in addition to being a celebrity line of products) that will last you a long time. One of our editors bathes her dog with this formula in a rotation with Burt’s Bees. “What I love about this formula is how fluffy my Golden’s fur feels after her bath,” says PEOPLE senior commerce writer Madison Yauger. “You can definitely smell the lavender and chamomile notes, which I love because it makes me feel like I’m giving my dog a spa bath, but the natural fragrance might be too much for those who prefer unscented products.”
Veterinary Formula Hypoallergenic Shampoo: This universal pet shampoo is gentle enough for dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages — even puppies. It’s a favorite of Dr. Ochoa’s for its sensitivity. “This is great for dogs with allergies and skin infections,” she says, including bacterial infections. She adds that if your dog has dry, flaky skin, it can also help moisturize it, too.
Zesty Paws Dog Shampoo: When your fur baby can't stop scratching, Zesty Paws Itch-Soother is another good anti-itch dog shampoo, according to Dr. Ochoa. This dog shampoo soothes and moisturizes the skin with a calming blend of oatmeal, aloe vera, and vitamin E. “If your dog is itching from seasonal allergies or fleas, this shampoo can help,” says Dr. Ochoa. Though it’s great for adult dogs, this shampoo is not suitable for puppies.
Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo: “If your dog has fleas and ticks this is a great shampoo that can help,” says Dr. Ochoa. “While many times your dog may also need flea and tick medications, this can be used for small dogs and kittens who are not yet old enough for the medications." While there are several hard-to-pronounce ingredients designed to kill fleas and flea eggs, this shampoo is quite gentle on dogs (even those with sensitive skin) and includes soothing aloe, oatmeal, and coconut extract.
On Bath Days You’ll Also Need
Before you bathe your dog, you should brush them to remove any excess fur. The FURminator Undercoat Deshedding Tool is up to the task, per our extensive testing. This dog brush is easy to hold, moves gently through fur, and has an eject button to expel the hair from the brush when you’re finished. It received perfect scores on every test, and it comes in multiple sizes to work for a variety of dogs.
Unless you want your home to look like a waterpark, you’ll need a good towel nearby to dry your pooch before they run rampant and do the post-bath shakes. Your dog towels will go through a little more wear than those in your guest room, so we suggest the West Elm Everyday Textured Organic Towel as a durable and affordable option. In our bath towels test, this towel won points for its nice design, quick-drying capabilities, and budget-friendly price.
As vets will tell you (and they do below), you shouldn’t bathe your dog too often. That’s why a good set of wipes like these from Earth Rated can keep your dog smelling fresh in between baths. These are an editor-tested favorite both for regular paw cleanings and for a general refresh when our pups get a little stinky before bath day arrives. They have soothing ingredients, and a nice lavender scent, and are compostable for an eco-win.
How We Gathered Insights
To determine the best dog shampoos, we reached out to our network of pet experts: veterinarians and pet parents. We interviewed the veterinarians to gauge their recommendations for this product category and sent out surveys to 27 pet owners to learn about the tried-and-true dog shampoos they use at home. We chose winners based on:
Ingredients: We looked for gentle formulas with natural and hydrating ingredients such as oatmeal, botanical extracts, and aloe vera. We also considered whether fragrance added to or impeded a shampoo’s intended purpose, and judged each accordingly.
Function: In our survey, we asked pet parents to share the primary function they needed from their pet’s shampoo. While some just needed general cleaning to lift dirt and debris from the skin and coat, others had specific concerns like shedding, itchy skin, fungal infections, and more.
Effectiveness: Our team considered how well each shampoo lathered and cleaned, as well as how easily it was washed out from a variety of dog fur types — long hair, short hair, double coat, etc. We also asked our respondents how long they had been using the various shampoos to gauge long-term effectiveness, and those that had been used for several years with consistent results were favorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you bathe your dog?
Every vet has a slightly different opinion on this, but the consensus is: not as often as you think. “Of course, you do need to bathe your dog when they get dirty or smelly, but in general, I say not to give them a bath more than one to two times a month,” says Dr. Berst. Since dogs’ skin is more sensitive than ours, Dr. Berst says “overbathing can cause it to dry out and cause irritation.”
Celebrity veterinarian Dr. Lisa Chimes agrees, telling PEOPLE you should rarely wash your dogs because their skin is designed to self-clean. So the less you wash them, the cleaner their fur will stay. Pet wipes also provide a good refresh between baths.
For pets with skin infections, Dr. Finn sometimes recommends an every-other-day bath routine for up to three weeks. "On the other hand, some dogs may only need to be bathed once or twice a year, and of course, many dogs fall somewhere in between," he says. There are no set rules when it comes to dog baths, so we recommend you ask your veterinarian about your specific dog.
What shampoo do vets recommend?
All of our experts agree that a gentle formula is the way to go unless you’re addressing a specific medical concern. "The biggest deal to me is to use a pet-safe shampoo," says Dr. Finn. In other words, don't use your shampoo or whatever soap you have lying around at home. "I am a huge fan of veterinary-founded pet product companies," Dr. Finn adds. "But always discuss with your vet if you have questions about how you can optimize your pet's skin and coat health."
Should I use conditioner on my dog?
You can use a conditioner for extra hydration, especially if your dog is prone to dry skin. That said, the other part of grooming that leads to a silky coat is brushing your dog’s hair. Dr. Berst advises brushing your dog’s coat “before the bath to get out any hair mats or excess dirt.”
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Madison Yauger is a senior commerce writer for PEOPLE who’s tested hundreds of lifestyle products across all categories. With a background in news and lifestyle journalism, she has a wide network of expert sources and a penchant for accuracy. For this story, PEOPLE spoke to Dr. Heather Berst, VMD, Dr. Sara Ochoa, DVM, Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, DVM, Dr. Hunter Finn, DVM, and celebrity veterinarian Dr. Lisa Chimes. Madison utilized our survey’s insights, veterinarian recommendations, and her own experience as a pet parent to determine the best dog shampoos of 2024.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Hunter Finn, DVM is a veterinarian and the founder of Pet Method Animal Hospital based in Mckinney, Texas. He has a TikTok following of 2.1 million and frequently gives advice answering common questions from pet parents.
Dr. Sara Ochoa, DVM is an associate veterinarian at the Animal Hospital of West Monroe in Louisiana. She is also a veterinary consultant for Scruffy Paws Nutrition.
Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, DVM is the veterinarian director at Senior Tail Waggers and the director of Kingsgate Animal Hospital in Lubbock, Texas.
Dr. Lisa Chimes, better known as Dr. Lisa, is a celebrity veterinarian based in Australia. She’s starred in the TV shows Bondi Vet and Dr. Lisa to the Rescue and is the founder of DOG By Dr. Lisa and CAT By Dr. Lisa.
Dr. Heather Berst, VMD is a veterinarian based in Asheville, North Carolina, and the senior medical lead at Zoetis, an animal health company.
What Is PEOPLE Tested?
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