Dog Shampoo: 3 Tips For Choosing The Best One

There are so many dog shampoos on the market and we'll be helping you choose the right one.
Dog Shampoo: 3 Tips For Choosing The Best One

Last update: 05 February, 2019

When preparing to give your dog a bath, you can find an endless number of products that promise you the best results. The market for pet products is constantly expanding. If you have a dog, you’ve surely already noticed. However, because there is so much variety, it can be difficult to pick. That’s why in today’s post we’ll give you tips to find the best dog shampoo for your dog’s needs.

1. Choosing dog shampoo based on their skin and fur

With the help of a veterinarian, you can choose the best dog shampoo for your pet. However, it’s important to take into account its skin type and the characteristics of its fur. For example:

A family giving their dog a bath.
  • Detangling shampoo for long-haired dogs. This product is designed so that you brush your dog easily after a bath.
  • Nutrient-rich shampoo for short-haired dogs.
  • Shampoo to enhance the shine of the fur in dark-colored animals.
  • Anti hair-loss shampoo for dogs that tend to shed a lot.
  • Shampoo for white dogs to prevent their coat from turning yellow.

When bathing your dog, you should only use specific products for dogs that are suitable for their skin type and hair, as directed by a veterinarian. Keep in mind the steps you need to follow to get your dog the best dog shampoo.

2. Check if your dog is allergic to the shampoo

The second thing you need to find out is if your dog is allergic to any of the components of the dog shampoo you’ve chosen. If your pet has a skin reaction after bathing, you should stop using the product and opt for a hypoallergenic one. If your dog has sensitive skin, we recommend oat-based, unscented products. Consult a vet to find out the best option in this case.

3. Take into account the reaction of the dog to the shampoo

It’s important that you observe how your dog reacts to the dog shampoo you’ve chosen. Keep in mind that some products, even though they might smell great to you, might not smell so good to your pet. Remember that your dog is an animal and you are a person. You don’t have to agree on everything! However, it’s important to avoid humanizing your pet and exposing him to smells he might not like.

In addition, dogs have a very developed sense of smell. Because of this, what might be a delicate, subtle fragrance to you, could be overpowering for him. Therefore, we recommend unscented shampoo if you observe any sensitivity.

A few tips for bath time

Keep these in mind when the time comes to bathe your pet:

A dog having a shower.
  • Cheap products can end up costing you more. Choose high-quality products to avoid causing any damage to your dog’s skin or using a product that doesn’t work at all.
  • Be patient. You might not find the perfect dog shampoo on the first trip to the pet store or even the fifth trip. You can always start using a generic product and then adjust as time goes by.
  • Consider bathing your dog with an antiparasitic dog shampoo every so often as well. This is important for eliminating ticks and fleas.
  • Don’t use human shampoo to bathe your dog. Even if it leaves your hair beautiful and silky, you have a different pH than your dog. Human shampoo can irritate a dog’s skin.
  • If you take your dog to a groomer, make sure they are using an appropriate dog shampoo.

Keep in mind that it never hurts to ask a veterinarian for advice on the best way to bathe your dog or for a recommendation for dog shampoo. You can also ask if you should apply any other products (detangler, conditioner, etc.)

Also, remember to brush your pet often to help maintain a healthy coat.


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.