Best Dog Shampoos of 2025

Janie Foster Avatar
Janie Foster
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Dog shampoos are specially formulated to clean and moisturize a dog's coat, while also addressing any skin issues or irritations they may have. Many dog shampoos are made with natural ingredients such as oatmeal, aloe vera, and coconut oil, which can soothe and nourish a dog's skin. Some shampoos are also designed to target specific issues, such as flea and tick prevention or allergies. It's important to choose a shampoo that is specifically made for dogs, as human shampoos can be too harsh and strip their skin of natural oils. With a wide variety of dog shampoos available on the market, pet owners can find the perfect one to keep their furry friend clean and healthy.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic & Antiseborrheic Medicated Dog Shampoo Cover #TOP 1
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic & Antiseborrheic Medicated Dog Shampoo
ftb score rating icon 9.9
4Legger Organic Dog Shampoo: Natural Ingredients for Sensitive Skin Cover #TOP 2
4Legger Organic Dog Shampoo: Natural Ingredients for Sensitive Skin
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Richard’s Organics Flea and Tick Shampoo for Dogs Cover #TOP 3
Richard’s Organics Flea and Tick Shampoo for Dogs
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Dog Shampoos

Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic & Antiseborrheic Medicated Dog Shampoo

FG01315
White
16 Oz
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic & Antiseborrheic Medicated Dog Shampoo Cover
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic & Antiseborrheic Medicated Dog Shampoo, 16 oz – Paraben, Dye, Soap Free – Hydrating and Antifungal Shampoo for Dogs, White

Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic and Antiseborrheic Medicated Shampoo for Dogs is a fast-acting solution for relieving skin scaling caused by seborrhea, mange, and other parasitic infections. This paraben, dye, and soap-free shampoo is specifically formulated for dogs over 12 weeks of age, and is pH balanced to be gentle on your pup's skin. Customers report that this shampoo is effective in relieving symptoms such as inflamed scalp, greasy or waxy skin, red skin rashes, bald spots, itch, and flaky skin.

What We Like
Effective against itching
Improves coat shine
Gentle on sensitive skin
Affordable and accessible
Quick visible results
What We Don't Like
Medicated smell
May be hard for impatient dogs

4Legger Organic Dog Shampoo: Natural Ingredients for Sensitive Skin

646437951340-ROCKY
Clear
4Legger Organic Dog Shampoo: Natural Ingredients for Sensitive Skin Cover
4-Legger Certified Organic Dog Shampoo - All Natural and Hypoallergenic with Aloe and Lemongrass, Soothing for Normal, Dry, Itchy or Allergy Sensitive Skin - Biodegradable - Made in USA - 16 oz

4Legger Organic Dog Shampoo is a true, natural dog shampoo handcrafted in small batches using real plants, not synthetic chemicals. It is USDA certified organic, sustainably sourced, and vegan-friendly. This concentrated dog shampoo is made with soothing aloe vera and lemongrass essential oil, making it perfect for itchy skin and dandruff. It is also a great choice for eco-conscious pet parents, as it is free of detergents, petrochemicals, and other harmful ingredients. 4Legger has won the EcoExcellence Award for Best Grooming Product 3 times and has been trusted by pet parents, holistic vets, and natural groomers since 2015.

What We Like
Natural, non-toxic ingredients
Effective for sensitive skin
Long-lasting and concentrated
Pleasant, subtle scent
Excellent lather and easy rinse
What We Don't Like
Inconsistent scent in recent batches
Some found it watery in consistency

Richard’s Organics Flea and Tick Shampoo for Dogs

FG00440
Blue
12 Fl Oz
Richard’s Organics Flea and Tick Shampoo for Dogs Cover
Richard’s Organics Flea and Tick Shampoo for Dogs – 100% All-Natural Actives Kills Fleas, Ticks and Repels Mosquitos – Gentle, Won’t Dry Skin, Great Smelling Essential Oils (12oz bottle),FG00440

Richard's Organics Flea and Tick Shampoo for Dogs is a 100% all-natural shampoo that kills fleas, ticks, and repels mosquitos. It is formulated with 5 pure essential oils, making it gentle on your dog's skin and leaving them smelling great. It is fast-acting, pH balanced, and specifically formulated for dogs 12 weeks and older. Customers have reported that it works well and is effective and affordable.

What We Like
Effective flea removal
Pleasant peppermint scent
Natural ingredients
Softens dog's coat
No skin reactions
What We Don't Like
Short-lasting effectiveness
Strong scent for some

Burt's Bees for Puppies Natural Tearless 2 in 1 Shampoo and Conditioner

Burt's Bees for Puppies Natural Tearless 2 in 1 Shampoo and Conditioner Cover
Burt's Bees for Pets Tearless Puppy 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner with Buttermilk and Linseed Oil, 95% Natural Origin Formulas, Shampoo for Puppies - Gentle Puppy Shampoo Tear Free, 16 oz

Burt's Bees for Puppies Natural Tearless 2 in 1 Shampoo and Conditioner is a natural puppy shampoo for dogs made with buttermilk and linseed oil to soothe skin and soften hair. This formula is free of fragrances, sulfates, colorants, and harsh chemicals, making it safe for all dogs and puppies of all ages. Customers have praised the product for its lathering ability, lack of overpowering scent, and ability to leave their pup's coat soft and shiny.

What We Like
Gentle on sensitive skin
Leaves fur soft and shiny
No harsh chemicals
Long-lasting bottle
Good value for the price
What We Don't Like
Thin consistency
No fragrance

Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Shampoo for Dogs

FF10159
White
Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Shampoo for Dogs Cover
Arm & Hammer Deodorizing Dog Shampoo for Smelly Dogs & Puppies with Baking Soda - Tearless, Moisturizing Dog Shampoo for Sensitive Skin - Dog Odor Shampoo - Kiwi Blossom Scent, 20 Fl Oz

Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Shampoo for Dogs is a natural dog shampoo that effectively eliminates odors and keeps your pet's coat clean. It contains cucumber mint and baking soda to naturally control and remove dog odors, and adds a hint of kiwi blossom scent after every wash. Customers have found it to be effective in getting rid of odors and lasting for weeks, and it is safe to use with topical products.

What We Like
Pleasant, light fragrance
Leaves coat soft and smooth
No irritation for pets
Affordable price
Easy lather and rinse
What We Don't Like
Fragrance fades quickly
Possible packaging leakage

Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Shampoo, 16oz

FG01320
White
16 Fl Oz (1-Pack)
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Shampoo, 16oz Cover
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Medicated Shampoo for Dogs & Cats, 16 Fl Oz – Helps Alleviate Scaly, Greasy, red Skin – Paraben, Dye, Soap-Free (1 Pack)

Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Shampoo is a vet-recommended, pH balanced, and paraben-free shampoo for dogs and cats over 12 weeks old. It helps soothe red, scaly, greasy, or smelly skin that may cause your pet discomfort, and works fast to alleviate sensitive skin affected by environmental stressors. The product is easy to use and comes with clear directions on the bottle.

What We Like
Effective for skin conditions
Improves healing process
Good for yeast infections
No strong odor
Value for money
What We Don't Like
Small bottle size
Frequent replenishment needed
#TOP 7

OUAI Fur Bébé Dog Shampoo

FG-0138-A-00
OUAI Fur Bébé Dog Shampoo Cover
OUAI Fur Bébé Pet Shampoo, Mercer Street Scent - Dog Shampoo and Coat Wash for Hydrating, Cleansing and Adding Shine to Pet Hair - Pet Supplies by OUAI (16 Fl Oz)

OUAI Dog Shampoo is the ultimate solution for keeping your pet's coat clean and shiny. With its delightful Mercer Street scent, featuring notes of Italian lemon and jasmine, your dog will smell fresh and inviting. This shampoo also includes aloe vera to nourish the fur, ensuring it feels soft and conditioned. Additionally, rambutan seed extract protects against pollution while hydrating the skin, making bath time easier for you and your furry friend. The hydrolyzed vegetable protein improves the strength and elasticity of your dog's coat, reducing breakage and promoting a healthier appearance.

What We Like
Long-lasting pleasant scent
Leaves fur soft and shiny
Easy to lather and rinse
Gentle on sensitive skin
High-quality results
What We Don't Like
Pricey compared to others
Strong initial scent
#TOP 8

Fresh 'n Clean Dog Shampoo

LK21566
No Color
1 gal
Fresh 'n Clean Dog Shampoo Cover
Fresh 'n Clean Pet-Ag Scented Shampoo, Classic Fresh Scent - 1 Gallon - Moisturizes with Vitamin E & Aloe Vera - Strengthens & Repairs Coats - Soap Free

Fresh 'n Clean Shampoo is a gentle, soap-free formula that effectively cleans your dog's coat without harsh chemicals. It contains vitamin E and aloe vera, which help to moisturize and soothe sensitive skin, ensuring your pet's coat stays soft and healthy. The shampoo also features a delightful long-lasting floral scent, leaving your dog smelling fresh for days. Using this product is simple: just wet your dog's coat, apply the shampoo, lather, and rinse. This convenient process makes bath time easier for both you and your furry friend.

What We Like
Amazing fresh scent
Long-lasting effect
Soft and shiny coats
Good lather
Great value
What We Don't Like
Not as great as competitors
Smell lasts a few days
#TOP 9

Oliver's Choice Dog Shampoo with Oatmeal and Aloe. Shea Butter for Smelly Dogs, Puppy Shampoo 14 oz

OLIVER'S CHOICE
OC01
clear
Oliver's Choice Dog Shampoo with Oatmeal and Aloe. Shea Butter for Smelly Dogs, Puppy Shampoo 14 oz Cover
Dog Shampoo with Oatmeal and Aloe. Shea Butter for Smelly Dogs, Puppy Shampoo by Oliver's Choice 14 oz

Oliver's Choice Dog Shampoo is a specially designed pet shampoo that aims to deodorize and restore your dog's coat. Infused with a blend of Oatmeal, Aloe, and Shea Butter fragrance, this shampoo not only leaves your dog smelling amazing but also provides various benefits. The formula is safe for all dogs and puppies. It is biodegradable, which means it is environmentally friendly. Made in the USA, this shampoo is clinically designed and free from parabens and cruelty. It is effective for any breed and color of dog, leaving your pup feeling and looking incredible after their bath. Additionally, Oliver's Choice offers a manufacturer's guarantee, ensuring your satisfaction or your money back, no questions asked.

What We Like
Gentle on sensitive skin
Leaves coat shiny and soft
Light, pleasant scent
Effective lather and cleansing
Cost-effective with long-lasting use
What We Don't Like
Strong shea butter scent
#TOP 10

PetAg Fresh 'n Clean Shampoo

22582
No Color
32 Ounce
PetAg Fresh 'n Clean Shampoo Cover
Pet-Ag Fresh ’n Clean Scented Shampoo, Classic Fresh Scent - 32 oz - Moisturizes with Vitamin E & Aloe Vera - Strengthens & Repairs Coats - Soap Free

PetAg Dog Shampoo is a gentle, soap-free cleanser designed specifically for your dog's sensitive skin. It effectively removes dirt and grime while ensuring that moisture is locked in, thanks to the nourishing vitamin E and soothing aloe vera. This pH-balanced formula helps keep your dog's coat soft, strong, and easy to manage. Additionally, it features a long-lasting Classic Fresh scent that will leave your dog smelling delightful for days. Using this shampoo is simple—just lather, rinse, and repeat if needed, making bath time a breeze for you and your furry friend.

What We Like
Soap-free formula
Moisturizes and nourishes
Long-lasting fragrance
Easy to use
What We Don't Like
Requires gloves for sensitive skin
Availability issues at local stores
Best Dog Shampoos Feature Image

Guidelines for Choosing the Right Dog Shampoos

Choosing the best dog shampoo is essential for you and your dog. To help you buy the best shampoo suitable for your dog, we have listed things to consider before making a purchase. They are:

Shampoo Ingredients

When shopping for shampoo for your dog, the first thing to do is go through the ingredients. Ensure it is free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, dyes, mineral oils, and other detrimental ingredients that can cause health problems. Also, look out for mineral oils in place of artificial fragrances.

Even if the label says "natural," don't be tempted to not read the label. You could put your dog's health at risk by such oversight.

Skin Sensitivity

The sensitivity of your dog's skin is another essential factor. Getting regular shampoos for your dog isn't a good idea. Appropriate shampoos for sensitive skin are those with Aloe Vera and Oatmeal as ingredients. Aloe Vera has a cooling effect and antibacterial qualities that help with skin irritation and itching.

Skin Type and Dog Breed

To get the best dog shampoo for your dog, ensure you know its skin type. Is it dry, normal, or oily? Your answer would determine the kind of shampoo to get. Shampoos are formulated to satisfy specific skin types; therefore, using the wrong type can cause problems.

For white-colored breeds of dogs like an American Eskimo, whitening shampoos should be your pick to remove stains or unusual coloring.

Allergies to Specific Ingredients

It is essential to know if your dog is allergic to particular ingredients present in shampoos. Allergic reactions can have extreme results. To avoid such effects, you might have to carry out certain tests to certify that they are safe to use. One of such tests is a patch test, where the product is used on a small area of the dog's coat to check for reactions.

This is another reason you should always go through the ingredients mentioned on a shampoo label before purchasing.

Dog Age

Most shampoos in the market are suitable for grown dogs and puppies above eight weeks old. However, medicated shampoos aimed at flea and ticks elimination are not recommended for puppies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use human shampoo on a dog?

You can only use human shampoo on your dog on a short-term basis. Unless your dog has extremely sensitive skin, it wouldn't hurt.

However, you shouldn't use it more than twice. The pH level of human shampoo is too low for dogs; therefore, continuous use may cause harm to your dog. So, we recommend you get a dog shampoo instead; there's a reason it's called "dog shampoo."

How often should I bathe my dog?

The answer is dependent on various factors. But most importantly, you should know that dogs are not to be bathed regularly. Dogs have natural oils in their fur that keep them clean.

If your dog is an indoor dog, it would have less contact with things that get it soiled. But a dog that spends the most time outside will most likely get dirtier and would need a more regular bath than the one that spends more time inside.

In conclusion, you should give your dog a bath when it appears dirty.

Conclusion

Dog shampoos are different, and selecting one out of the many for your dog can be tricky. However, this article should help. Our overall best choice is Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Pet Shampoo. It contains Oatmeal and Aloe Vera and is suitable for most dogs.

Whichever shampoo you choose for your dog should be based on its needs. Ensure you follow our guide; we're confident you'll get the best dog shampoo with it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do dogs need special dog shampoo?

Yes, dogs need special dog shampoo because they have different skin pH levels than humans. Our soaps can be harmful to their skin as they are more acidic. Dogs have sensitive skin to chemicals, and puppies require even more protection. Using specially formulated dog shampoos and skin and coat products ensures that their skin and coat are properly cared for.

2. Can I use Dawn dish soap to wash my dog?

While Dawn dish soap can be used in rare circumstances to bathe your dog, it is not recommended as a regular shampoo. Dogs have different skin pH levels and can be sensitive to allergies and different coat conditions. The strong soap can be irritating to their skin and cause discomfort.

3. Is Dawn soap safe for dogs?

No, Dawn dish soap is not safe for dogs. It is a detergent and can cause poisoning if they lick it off their fur. Even small amounts, over time, can lead to gastrointestinal upset in your pet. Symptoms of detergent poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive drooling. It is best to use specially formulated dog shampoos that are safe for their skin and coat.

4. How often should dogs be bathed?

Most healthy dogs should be bathed every one to three months to minimize odor and oil buildup. However, the frequency can vary depending on factors such as the breed and coat type. Dogs with oily coats, like Retrievers, may need more frequent baths, while regular brushing can help distribute oils for other breeds. It is essential to find a bathing schedule that works best for your dog's specific needs.

Editor's Notes

During our dog shampoo research, we found 27 dog shampoo products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 746,733 customer reviews through our big data system to write the dog shampoos list. We found that most customers choose dog shampoos with an average price of $12.60.

The dog shampoos are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of dog shampoos, including Veterinary Formula, 4Legger, SynergyLabs, BURT'S BEES FOR PETS, Arm & Hammer. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Janie Foster Avatar

Janie Foster is a writer & pet blogger from Los Angeles, she enjoys living with her two cats and three dogs. She owned her first dog 10 years ago and then started her personal blog to record her dog's daily life. Throughout her personal life, she has developed specialized knowledge in pet care, pet nutrition, feeding habits, and more.

Dog Shampoos Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Veterinary Formula 4Legger SynergyLabs BURT'S BEES FOR PETS Arm & Hammer Veterinary Formula OUAI Fresh 'n Clean OLIVER'S CHOICE PetAg
Scent Coconut Lemongrass & Aloe Cedarwood, Peppermint, Rosemary Unscented Kiwi Blossom Citrus Mercer Street Classic Shea Butter, Aloe Vera, Oatmeal Classic Fresh
Product Benefits Anti-Itch Soothing - Cleansing Cleansing Anti-Fungal Hydrates, cleanses, adds shine, and protects fur and skin with natural ingredients and a pleasant scent. Soothing Soothing,Nourishing Soothing
Recommended Uses For Product Rashes Itchy - Grooming Grooming Dermatitis Moisturizing Conditioning Nourishing Hydrating
Item Form Shampoo Liquid (Unscented Aloe Vera), Liquid (Oatmeal Lavender), Liquid (Aloe Vera Lemongrass), Liquid (Cedar Peppermint) Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid - Liquid - Liquid
Material Type Free paraben, dye, soap synthetic materials, chemicals, parabens, sulfates, artificial fragrances - Sulfate Free;Paraben Free Sulfate Free;Paraben Free Dye Free, Sulfate Free, Paraben Free Gluten-free, Paraben-free, Phthalate-free, SLS-free, SLES-free Soap Free Paraben Free -
Target Species Dog Dog Dog Dog Dog Dog - Dog - -
Item Weight 1 pounds 1 pounds 14.4 ounces 1.13 pounds 1.45 pounds 1.15 pounds - 8.26 pounds - -
Item Package Dimensions L x W x H 7.99 x 2.4 x 2.28 inches 8.03 x 2.28 x 2.2 inches 7.64 x 2.01 x 1.97 inches 8.35 x 2.44 x 2.4 inches 9.13 x 5.35 x 5 inches 8.94 x 3.5 x 3.27 inches - 11.89 x 6.1 x 6.02 inches - -
Item Dimensions LxWxH 2.38 x 2.28 x 8 inches 2.5 x 2.5 x 8.5 inches 2 x 2 x 7.5 inches 2.38 x 2.38 x 8.25 inches 2.08 x 3.27 x 8 inches 2.38 x 2.28 x 8 inches - 12 x 6 x 6 inches - -
Brand Name Veterinary Formula 4Legger SynergyLabs BURT'S BEES FOR PETS Arm & Hammer Veterinary Formula - Fresh 'n Clean - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
Where to Buy