Dog Shampoo - Analysis and Buying Guide - 2023
Some dog owners believe that the quickest way to make their pet disappear is to get out the hose and the shampoo. Although most dogs clean themselves, there are times when owners need to take the grooming relationship to the next level and give their fur children a proper bath. This process often begins with finding the ideal dog shampoo to meet your pet's specific needs.
There are a surprising number of commercial dog shampoos on the market today, and it can be challenging to find the perfect match for your pet. At Real Indian, we want to help take the sting out of this important grooming task.
Most human and dog shampoos are not interchangeable, so responsible owners should consult a veterinarian, professional groomer, or other experienced pet owner before purchasing. If you're looking for a quality dog shampoo, our handy shopping guide has all the details you need.
Dog Shampoo vs. Human Shampoo
As tempting as it may be to use a shampoo formulated for humans on a dog, most professional groomers and veterinarians advise against it. This rule applies even to mild or organic products. There are fundamental differences between human and dog shampoos, so they are not considered interchangeable.
Dog shampoo has a higher pH level. An important difference is the pH (normally indicated on the label). Human skin is more acidic than a dog's, so human shampoos tend to have a lower pH level to match. Using a human shampoo on a dog's more alkaline skin could cause irritation or even generate more odor-causing bacteria after use. Dog shampoos are formulated with higher pH levels and typically omit the harsh detergents commonly found in human shampoos.
Dog shampoo has a different chemical composition. While human shampoo may contain additives for common conditions like dandruff or eczema, a medicated dog shampoo may contain chemicals to combat fleas, ticks, mange, fungal infections, and bacteria. A human shampoo without those active ingredients would not solve any of these common canine problems.
Types of Dog Shampoos
When it comes to buying the right dog shampoo, there is no “one size fits all” solution. The right shampoo is one that meets the specific needs of a particular dog, and this may require the recommendation of a professional dog groomer, experienced dog owner, or veterinarian. Below are some of the most common types of dog shampoo sold in pet stores, department stores, or on the Internet.
- Non-Medicated/General Purpose :
Many dog shampoos fall into this broad category. The emphasis is on deodorizing, shining and detangling a pet's coat, not treating specific skin conditions or parasites. Some non-medicinal formulas may use organic ingredients with purported medicinal qualities, but these shampoos are intended for complete cleansing.
- Antimicrobial/Antifungal :
These medicated dog shampoos include ingredients designed to treat skin problems like mange or "hot spots." Some dog owners use antibacterial shampoos to reduce the number of odor-causing bacteria on the animal's skin.
- Flea and Tick :
These medicated shampoos are often used in combination with other flea and tick products to completely rid a pet of these unwanted pests. A flea and tick shampoo may also contain other active ingredients that treat dry skin, dandruff, or other problems.
- Anti-itch/anti-seborrheic :
If a dog spends an excessive amount of time scratching and biting his skin, an anti-itch or anti-seborrheic shampoo might do the trick. If the itching is not caused by fleas or other parasites, it may be the result of dry skin. These medicated shampoos provide extra moisture, especially when combined with a hydrating conditioner.
- Puppy :
A “puppy” shampoo is the canine equivalent to a human “ no tears” baby shampoo. It is formulated to be extremely gentle on the skin and non-irritating to the eyes. We recommend the use of puppy shampoos for dogs younger than eight months, but the products can be used on older dogs with extremely sensitive skin.
- Lighten/Bleach :
A brightening shampoo is typically non-medicated and includes organic ingredients designed to revive a dull coat. Many small breeds with long, luxurious coats tend to benefit from a bleaching shampoo, especially when bathing is followed by thorough brushing.
Dog Shampoo Factors to Consider
When shopping for a new dog shampoo, it's important to compare labels and research ingredients. Using the wrong type of medicated shampoo, for example, can make a pet's skin or coat problems worse. Consulting a veterinarian or an experienced groomer is never a bad idea. Here are some important things to consider when shopping for the right dog shampoo.
- Dog Breed :
Different breeds respond differently to shampoos. What might be acceptable for a 95-pound bull mastiff might not work as well for a teacup-sized Yorkie. Short-coated dog breeds may not perform as well as long- or double-coated breeds. Check the label or check product reviews to see if a particular shampoo is right for your type of dog.
- Skin Chemistry :
Just like humans, a dog's skin can be relatively acidic, neutral, or alkaline compared to other dogs. A veterinarian can determine a specific pet's natural pH level and make recommendations for appropriate shampoo formulas. Using a shampoo with an incompatible pH level can damage a dog's skin over time or strip vital natural oils from the skin and coat.
- Medical Conditions :
Some mid-range medicated shampoos claim to treat several common skin and coat conditions at the same time, which might be enough preventative care for the average dog. However, some dogs with more serious medical problems may require a high strength medicated shampoo.
Tips
Always use warm water, not hot. A dog's skin is much more sensitive than a human's, and hot water can easily burn and cause other damage. Test the temperature of the prepackage water and rinse on your own skin before applying to your pet.
Allow at least five to ten minutes to pass before rinsing off the suds. The cleansing and medicinal ingredients in dog shampoos take time to be effective. Once the pet is completely lathered up, you should keep your dog calm and distracted for at least five to ten minutes. Some shampoos are designed to loosen embedded dirt or treat "hot spots" deep in the coat.
Start at the back of the pet's head, work your way down the body, ending with the face. Washing a dog in this direction will deter fleas from congregating on the pet's head during the washing and rinsing process. Many groomers fold the dog's ears or gently insert cotton balls to prevent water and suds from entering the ear canal. Applying the shampoo to the face requires a more delicate touch, so it should be left for last.
Detangling and deburring should be done before soaking or lathering. It is much easier to deal with matting and other hair problems while the dog's coat is dry. Removing mats with a detangling comb or brush is nearly impossible once wet.
Dilute shampoo with water before applying to long-haired breeds. Applying a dog shampoo straight from the bottle to a long-haired breed...a dog's coat can create uneven results. By slightly diluting the shampoo with water, you should be able to avoid creating areas of heavier and lighter coverage.
Do not rush to rinse. Medicated dog shampoos can be especially harsh on a dog's skin if not rinsed thoroughly. Any residue on the skin or hair can also dull the shine or create problems if ingested. Continue the rinsing stage until the dog's fur squeaks between your fingers.
FAQ
Que. I just adopted a black lab puppy. Do I need to use a special type of dog shampoo for this breed?
Ans : Yes and no. There are several shampoos on the market that are formulated for black-haired dogs, regardless of breed. These specialized products should be able to restore the shine to the coat associated with darker breeds. However, any other brand of dog shampoo that treats your pet's other skin issues (dandruff, fleas, hot spots) should be fine too. Puppies under the age of eight months generally require a milder shampoo formulation, regardless of color.
Que. I have noticed that my dogs smell worse after giving them a shampoo bath. Should I try switching to a brand with more fragrance?
Ans. You can certainly experiment with different brands of dog shampoo, but keep in mind that the most important element is addressing your pet's specific skin conditions. Some medicated shampoos can be very effective against parasites or dandruff, but they don't have the most appealing scent. Sometimes using the wrong type of dog shampoo can make a dog smell worse because the shampoo's ingredients don't adequately address issues like bacterial growth.
Que. My husband is allergic to dogs, but he allows me to have one in our house. Should I make life easier by bathing my dog once a week?
Ans. What might make life easier for human owners might not make life easier for their pets. Most breeds of dog do not require frequent bathing, and using the mildest dog shampoo will eventually take its toll on the dog's delicate skin. It might help to determine the true trigger of your husband's pet allergy and find a shampoo that treats that specific condition, such as dander or flea dirt.
Que. Are there any safe alternatives to commercial dog shampoos? Sometimes I have an emergency situation and there is no shampoo available.
Ans. There are some popular dog shampoo recipes that should be safe for emergencies, but should not replace commercial brands on a regular basis. One suggestion is to mix equal parts mild dishwashing liquid and apple cider vinegar. However, do not use dishwashing liquids that contain antibacterial agents. You may also consider giving your dog a dry shampoo with baking soda or cornstarch, which you brush out after a few minutes.
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