Dogs often get itchy, dry skin as winter sets in, which doesn’t make them feel too great. A good shampoo can really help ease that discomfort. Dive into our guide to discover the best shampoos for dogs with dry skin and watch your furry friend wag with joy!
When looking for a shampoo for your dog, it’s important to consider the ingredients. Some shampoos contain harsh chemicals that can strip the skin of its natural oils, exacerbating dryness. Look for shampoos that contain natural, moisturizing ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, and coconut oil.
Another factor to consider is the pH level of the shampoo. Dogs have a different skin pH level than humans, and using a shampoo with the wrong pH level can cause irritation and dryness. Look for shampoos specifically formulated for dogs with a pH level between 6 and 7.
When choosing the best shampoo for dogs with dry skin, it’s important to keep in mind your dog’s specific needs and skin type. Some dogs may require a more gentle shampoo, while others may benefit from a shampoo with added fragrance to combat odor.
In the next section, we will review the top shampoos for dogs with dry skin, taking into consideration their ingredients, pH level, and effectiveness.
Best Shampoos for Dogs with Dry Skin
As dog owners, we know how important it is to keep our furry friends clean and healthy. However, some dogs are prone to dry skin, which can be uncomfortable and even painful for them. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various shampoos to bring you the best options for dogs with dry skin. Our roundup includes shampoos that are gentle, moisturizing, and effective at relieving dryness. Read on to find the perfect shampoo for your pup.
1. Wahl USA Dry Skin & Itch Relief Pet Shampoo for Dogs
If you’re looking for a shampoo that provides excellent moisturizing and itch relief for your dog’s dry skin, then Wahl’s Oatmeal formula shampoo is a great choice. We recommend this product for its plant-derived ingredients that are gentle on your dog’s skin and coat.
Pros
- The shampoo is pH balanced, alcohol-free, paraben-free, and PEG-80 free, making it a safe and healthy choice for your dog.
- The thick lather rinses off clean and leaves your pet looking and smelling clean.
- The shampoo is highly concentrated, which means you don’t have to use as much as other dog shampoos. A little bit of shampoo goes a long way and provides a rich lather that’s easy to rinse off.
Cons
- Some pets may be sensitive to certain plant oils used in the product, so it’s important to talk to your vet and do a small spot test on your pet at least 24 hours before using any new product.
- The coconut lime verbena scent may not be appealing to all pet owners.
- While the shampoo is easy to clean, it’s important to thoroughly rinse your dog after shampooing to leave no residual shampoo behind.
We have used this shampoo on our dogs and found that it provides excellent moisturizing and itch relief for their dry skin. The coconut lime verbena scent is refreshing and not too overpowering. The shampoo is also easy to rinse off, leaving our dogs’ coats looking clean, silky, and smooth.
Wahl’s Oatmeal formula shampoo is highly recommended for pet owners who want to avoid harsh chemicals for their dog and themselves. It’s a great choice for owners of dogs with dry skin who want to provide their pets with gentle care. If you’re looking for a shampoo that will leave your dog’s coat looking and feeling great, then Wahl’s Oatmeal formula shampoo is definitely worth considering.
2. Pet Honesty Chlorhexidine Dog Shampoo
If you’re looking for a shampoo that can help treat your dog’s dry skin issues, Pet Honesty Chlorhexidine Dog Shampoo may be the perfect solution.
Pros
- This shampoo is made with Chlorhexidine and Ketoconazole, which are effective in treating skin issues.
- The shampoo has a light cucumber melon scent that helps combat smelly skin issues.
- The addition of soothing aloe helps calm bothered skin issues brought on by an array of unwanted nuisances.
Cons
- You may need to use the shampoo frequently to see significant results.
- The shampoo may not work for all dogs, depending on the severity of their skin issues.
- The price point may be higher than other dog shampoos on the market.
Pet Honesty Chlorhexidine Dog Shampoo is a vet-recommended, veterinary strength formula that promotes healing and smells great. The shampoo is effective in treating skin and coat health, as well as supporting skin-related issues associated with shedding, seasonal allergies, skin infections, itchiness, and dandruff. It’s also great for irritated and sensitive skin.
This 16 oz shampoo bottle comes with a cap and pump insert to make dispensing and use easy. You can use 4-6 pumps of this skin and coat treatment shampoo per washing to help effectively remove dirt and give your pets fur a clean scent while soothing their skin and providing purifying and hydrating properties.
Pet Honesty products are made in the U.S. with U.S. and globally sourced ingredients and are produced in a GMP certified facility that meets the highest safety standards, so you can rest assured you’re giving your pet the best quality product possible.
Overall, Pet Honesty Chlorhexidine Dog Shampoo is a great option for dog owners looking to treat their dog’s dry skin issues. It’s effective, smells great, and is made with high-quality ingredients to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort.
3. Lillian Ruff Calming Oatmeal Pet Shampoo for Dry Skin & Itch Relief with Aloe & Hydrating Essential Oils
We highly recommend the Lillian Ruff Calming Oatmeal Pet Shampoo for dogs with dry skin. This shampoo is gentle, effective, and made with natural ingredients that soothe and moisturize dry, sensitive skin.
Pros
- The shampoo is free of harsh chemicals, including sulfates, parabens, and dyes, making it ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitive skin.
- The lavender coconut scent is pleasant and not overpowering.
- The shampoo lathers well and is easy to rinse off, leaving your dog’s coat soft, shiny, and moisturized.
Cons
- The shampoo may not be suitable for dogs with extremely oily skin.
- The bath brush that comes with the shampoo may be difficult to use when wet.
- The price is slightly higher compared to other dog shampoos in the market.
We found the Lillian Ruff Calming Oatmeal Pet Shampoo to be extremely effective in soothing and moisturizing our dog’s dry skin. The shampoo lathers well and is easy to rinse off, leaving our dog’s coat soft, shiny, and moisturized. The lavender coconut scent is pleasant and not overpowering, which is a plus. We also appreciate that the shampoo is free of harsh chemicals, making it ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitive skin.
We did notice that the shampoo may not be suitable for dogs with extremely oily skin, as it may not provide a deep clean. Additionally, the bath brush that comes with the shampoo may be difficult to use when wet, which can be a bit of a hassle. However, overall, we highly recommend the Lillian Ruff Calming Oatmeal Pet Shampoo for dogs with dry, sensitive skin.
4. TropiClean Medicated Dog Shampoo for Allergies and Itching
If you’re looking for a dog itch relief shampoo that’s gentle and effective, TropiClean Medicated Dog Shampoo for Allergies and Itching is a great option. We’ve used this shampoo on our furry friends and have found it to be a reliable solution for dry, irritated skin.
Pros
- Provides effective itch relief with a comforting oatmeal and tea tree scent
- Formulated with beta hydroxy, an anti-inflammatory agent, for long-lasting relief
- Derived from natural ingredients such as moisturizing oatmeal and calming aloe
Cons
- Some users have reported that the shampoo has a strong chemical smell
- The consistency of the shampoo may not lather as well as other brands
- The packaging may not be as secure as it could be, leading to leaks during shipping
This dog shampoo is a great choice for pet parents who want to avoid harsh chemicals and opt for natural ingredients to soothe their dog’s dry skin. The oatmeal and tea tree scent is pleasant and provides a calming effect during bath time. Additionally, the formula is gentle enough to use on both dogs and cats 12 weeks or older.
One downside of this product is that some users have reported a strong chemical smell. While this may not be a dealbreaker for some, it’s worth noting if you’re sensitive to strong fragrances. Additionally, the shampoo’s consistency may not lather as well as other brands, which could make it difficult to distribute evenly throughout your dog’s coat.
Overall, TropiClean Medicated Dog Shampoo for Allergies and Itching is a great option for pet parents looking for a natural and effective solution for dry, irritated skin. While there are some minor drawbacks to this product, we believe the pros outweigh the cons, making it a worthwhile purchase.
5. Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Dog Shampoo with Oatmeal and Tea Tree Oil, 16 oz
If you’re looking for a dog shampoo that effectively treats dry, flaky skin, then the Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Colloidal Oatmeal and Tea Tree Oil Infuser Shampoo for Dogs is worth considering. This vet-recommended shampoo is formulated with high-quality ingredients, including colloidal oatmeal and tea tree oil, that help to hydrate and promote normal skin health for your dog. It is also paraben, dye, and soap-free, doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances, and is excellent for dogs with sensitive skin.
Pros
- Soothes and hydrates dry, flaky skin
- Fast-acting formula provides quick and effective results
- Affordable price for a high-quality product
Cons
- Not suitable for use on cats due to tea tree oil content
- May cause hives or other allergic reactions in dogs with extremely sensitive skin
- May not be effective for all types of skin issues
We recently tried this shampoo on our dog who was experiencing dry, itchy skin. After just one use, we noticed a significant improvement in the condition of her skin. The shampoo lathered well and had a pleasant scent. We also appreciated that it didn’t contain any harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances.
It is important to note that this shampoo should not be used on cats due to its tea tree oil content. Additionally, while it may work well for some dogs, it may not be effective for all types of skin issues. If your dog’s skin issues persist, it is important to consult with your veterinarian.
Overall, we would recommend the Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Colloidal Oatmeal and Tea Tree Oil Infuser Shampoo for Dogs to any pet parent looking for an effective and affordable treatment for dry, flaky skin.
6. Honest Paws Dog Waterless Shampoo
If you’re looking for a waterless shampoo that can help keep your dog’s skin and coat clean and healthy, Honest Paws Dog Waterless Shampoo might be worth considering.
Pros
- The waterless formula makes it easy to clean your pet quickly without using water.
- It can help cleanse, hydrate, and nourish the skin and coat, which may help decrease shedding, itch, and allergies.
- The subtle Oatmeal and Lavender fragrance can help calm your pet.
Cons
- It may take a bit more than you would like to get a good lather.
- The scent may not be appealing to everyone.
- You may need to use more than you would like to wash your pet’s body.
We used this waterless shampoo on our dog, and it worked pretty well. The foaming formula made it easy to apply, and it didn’t leave any residue. Our dog’s coat smelled fresh and looked shiny after using it. However, we did have to use a bit more than we would have liked to get a good lather, and the scent was a little overpowering for our taste.
Overall, if you’re looking for a waterless shampoo that can help keep your dog’s skin and coat clean and healthy, Honest Paws Dog Waterless Shampoo might be worth trying. Just be aware that you may need to use more than you would like to get a good lather, and the scent may not be appealing to everyone.
7. Burt’s Bees for Pets Itch Soothing Shampoo
If you’re looking for a natural and effective solution to soothe your furry friend’s itchy skin, then Burt’s Bees for Pets Itch Soothing Shampoo is worth a try.
Pros
- Made with natural ingredients like honeysuckle to soothe and nourish your dog’s skin and coat.
- pH balanced for dogs and puppies of all ages, making it safe for sensitive skin.
- Free of sulfates, colorants, and harsh chemicals, making it a natural and gentle option for your pet.
Cons
- The formula doesn’t have a strong scent outside of the main ingredients or a strong lather due to the absence of artificial fragrances or chemicals.
- The shampoo may not be as effective for severe skin conditions or allergies.
- The bottle design may make it difficult to dispense the shampoo evenly.
Burt’s Bees for Pets Itch Soothing Shampoo is a natural and gentle option for pet owners who want to soothe their dog’s itchy skin. The shampoo is made with natural ingredients like honeysuckle, which helps to ease irritation, soothe dry skin, and encourage a wagging tail. As a bonus, the shampoo is pH balanced for dogs and free of sulfates, colorants, and harsh chemicals, making it a natural and gentle option for your pet.
We found that the shampoo was easy to apply and rinse off. While the formula didn’t have a strong scent outside of the main ingredients or a strong lather due to the absence of artificial fragrances or chemicals, it still left our dog’s coat feeling soft and clean. However, the shampoo may not be as effective for severe skin conditions or allergies.
Overall, we recommend Burt’s Bees for Pets Itch Soothing Shampoo for pet owners who want a natural and gentle option to soothe their dog’s itchy skin.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best shampoo for dogs with dry skin, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve compiled a list of factors to keep in mind to help you make an informed decision.
Ingredients
First and foremost, take a look at the ingredients list. Opt for shampoos that contain natural, gentle ingredients such as oatmeal, aloe vera, and coconut oil. Avoid shampoos that contain harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens, as these can further irritate dry skin.
pH Level
Dogs have a different pH level than humans, so it’s important to choose a shampoo that is specifically formulated for dogs. Look for shampoos with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5, as this is the ideal range for a dog’s skin.
Moisturizing Properties
Dry skin can benefit from a shampoo that has moisturizing properties. Look for shampoos that contain ingredients like shea butter and vitamin E, which can help soothe and hydrate dry skin.
Fragrance
While a pleasant scent is nice, it’s important to choose a shampoo that is fragrance-free or has a mild scent. Strong fragrances can irritate a dog’s sensitive skin, so it’s best to opt for a gentle formula.
Coat Type
Consider your dog’s coat type when choosing a shampoo. If your dog has a thick coat, look for a shampoo that can penetrate deep into the fur to effectively clean and moisturize the skin. If your dog has a short coat, a gentle, moisturizing shampoo may be all that is needed.
Overall, when choosing a shampoo for dogs with dry skin, it’s important to look for gentle, natural ingredients, a pH level that is appropriate for dogs, and moisturizing properties to soothe and hydrate dry skin. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find the best shampoo to keep your dog’s skin healthy and happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients should we look for in a dog shampoo for dry skin?
When looking for a shampoo for dogs with dry skin, it is important to look for ingredients that will help moisturize and soothe the skin. Some ingredients to look for include oatmeal, aloe vera, coconut oil, and vitamin E. These ingredients can help to hydrate and soothe dry, itchy skin.
How often should we bathe our dog if they have dry skin?
It is important not to over-bathe your dog if they have dry skin, as this can actually make the problem worse. We recommend bathing your dog no more than once a month, or as directed by your veterinarian. Over-bathing can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to further dryness and irritation.
Are there any home remedies for treating a dog’s dry skin?
There are some home remedies that can help to soothe a dog’s dry skin. For example, adding a tablespoon of olive oil or coconut oil to your dog’s food can help to moisturize their skin from the inside out. You can also try giving your dog a bath with a mixture of oatmeal and water, or applying aloe vera gel directly to their skin.
What are the signs that a dog’s shampoo is effectively treating dry skin?
If a dog’s shampoo is effectively treating dry skin, you should see an improvement in their skin and coat. The skin should be less dry and itchy, and the coat should be shinier and healthier-looking. Additionally, your dog should be less prone to scratching and biting at their skin.
Can diet affect a dog’s skin health, and how does it relate to choosing a shampoo?
Yes, diet can have a significant impact on a dog’s skin health. Feeding your dog a high-quality, balanced diet can help to keep their skin healthy and moisturized. When choosing a shampoo for your dog, you may want to consider one that is specifically formulated for their dietary needs, such as a grain-free or hypoallergenic shampoo.
What do professionals say about treating canine dry skin and dandruff?
Veterinarians and professional groomers recommend using a gentle, moisturizing shampoo for dogs with dry skin and dandruff. They also advise against over-bathing and recommend using a conditioner or leave-in treatment to help moisturize the skin and coat. If your dog’s dry skin persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as hair loss or open sores, it is important to consult with your veterinarian.
