The 9 Best Dog Shampoos For Shedding, Clarifying, and More

This is our review of the best dog shampoo for shedding, clarifying, and more.

Grooming a dog is not an easy task. However, it helps in removing dirt and make your pup fresh again. Fortunately, there are many dog shampoos in the market, but most of them promise more than they can deliver. Furthermore, finding the best one can be overwhelming too!

For that reason, we tried and tested several dog shampoos, and finally, Wahl Dry Skin & Itch Pet Shampoo for Dogs is our favorite choice. This is because it is suitable for dry and itchy skin. To add, it can clean dogs with sensitive skin as it does not contain harmful substances.

With that in mind, here are some e of the best dog shampoos in the market. But before going further, let’s find out why dogs smell bad after a bath.

Why Do Dogs Smell Bad Right after a Bath?

Nowadays, there’s a wide range of dog grooming products in outlets; and that’s why most pet parents love the smell after using the best dog shampoo. Unfortunately, some Pups tend to produce a foul smell right after a bath. This is because, during bathing, dogs secrete natural oils from the skin.

Regular baths get rid of the oils from the skin and coat. For this reason, glands tend to secrete more oils which attract dirt and odor, inducing bacteria. As a result, you’ll notice a fishy smell coming out from your four-legged buddy.

Overview of the Best Dog Shampoos on the Market

Name	Best for	Features
Wahl Dry Skin & Itch Pet Shampoo for Dogs	Dry Skin and Itch Relief	Contains Oatmeal Formula.Allergy-friendly.Refreshes dirty coats.
Burt’s Bees for Dogs 2 in 1 Dog Shampoo and Conditioner	Conditioning	High quality.Made with natural ingredients.Free of harsh chemicals.
Arm and Hammer Super Deodorizing Shampoo for Dogs	Eliminating Odor	Has high-quality ingredients.Contains Natural Ingredients.
Chris Christensen Clean Start Clarifying Dog Shampoo	Clarifying	Gently removes dirt.Pet-friendly.
All in one Super Cleaning and Conditioning Pet Shampoo	Cleaning and Conditioning	Safe for everyday use.Does not leave a residue.
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic and Antiseborrheic Medicated Shampoo for Dogs	Hydrating and Antifungal	Medicated shampoo.Effective due to healing properties.
Wahl 4 in 1 Calming Pet Shampoo	Conditioning and Detangling	High concentration of coconut.Calming formula.
Cleansing Dog Shampoo for Smelly Dogs	Dry Skin and Bathing	Contains deodorant.High quality.
TropiClean Shampoo for Pets	Reducing Shedding	Refreshing scent.Contains Natural Ingredients.

Reviewing the Best Dog Shampoos of 2021

Are you looking for the best dog shampoo for dogs? Check out the following list:

Wahl Dry Skin & Itch Relief Pet Shampoo for Dogs – Oatmeal Formula with Coconut Lime Verbena & 100% Natural Ingredients

Amazon’s Choice for “dog shampoo”

Best for Dry Skin and Itch Relief

General Description

If your dog has dry skin, then it’s time to upgrade to Wahl Dry Skin & Itch Relief Shampoo. Wahl has a higher amount of coconut-derived sodding agent, which means you only have to use a little bit of shampoo to get a rich lather that’s easy to rinse off.

Being the best dog shampoo for itchy skin, it has been serving professional vets and groomers for over 50 years – as it cleans, conditions fur and hair for a smooth, soft coat. This coconut-scented pet shampoo is also suitable for pets with allergies. In the end, your pet will achieve a fresh and clean look.

Made in the USA, the pet shampoo weighs 24 oz, is pH balanced, alcohol-free, paraben-free, and is available at an affordable price. With a star rating allocated by Groomers Land of  4.7 out of 5, customers love it for its ease of use and magic performance. If you are unsatisfied, you can return the product and get a refund or a replacement.

Other Ingredients

• Coconut.
• Lime.
• Aloe.
• Lemon verbena.

What We Like

• Easy to clean and refreshes dirty coats.
• Suitable for pets with allergies.
• Protects the skin and coat.
• Affordable.

What We Don’t Like

• The fragrance is a bit overpowering.

Burt’s Bees for Dogs 2 in 1 Dog Shampoo & Conditioner

Amazon’s Choice for” dog shampoo and conditioner”

Best for Conditioning

General Description

Burt’s Bees for Dogs 2 in 1 Shampoo and conditioner is suitable for all dogs and puppies, as it is pH balanced. In addition, it is safe because it is free of fragrances, sulfates, colorants, and harsh chemicals. It is made with natural ingredients, including buttermilk, which soothes skin, softens hair, and linseed oil, which deeply conditions your puppy’s coat.

To use it, apply it to the dog’s wet coat. Start from head to tail and rinse, carefully avoiding eyes. This shampoo has a light lather as this solution is made with only natural ingredients that are safe and effective for your pet. Store in a cool, dry place.

Apart from weighing 16 ounces, Burt’s Bees dog shampoo also comes at an affordable price. Being the best seller in pet supplies, we give it a star rating of 4.5 out of 5.

Other Ingredients

• Water.
• Coco Betaine.
• Coco-Glucoside.
• Glyceryl Oleate.
• Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate.
• Glycerin, Xanthan Gum.
• Honey.
• Beeswax.
• Colloidal Oatmeal.
• Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Oil.
• Buttermilk Powder.
• Potassium Sorbate.
• Sodium Benzoate.

What We Like

• Very affordable.
• Easy to use.

What We Don’t Like

• It does not Lather quickly as it’s too watery.

Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Shampoo for Dogs

Amazon’s Choice for “dog shampoo for smelly dogs”

Best for Eliminating Odor

General Description

Arm & Hammer Super Deodorizing Shampoo for Dogs eliminates foul odor leaving your dog fresh and clean. The shampoo is made with all-natural ingredients, resulting in a gentle yet effective formula.

It is also ideal for all puppies and dogs. Besides that, this pet odor remover is naturally derived; precisely, pH balanced for dogs and great for pets with sensitive skin. All you need to do is to use a wet coat. Then, apply Shampoo from the back of the ears to the tail and rinse, carefully avoiding eyes and ears.

Use a washcloth to clean the face gently. Dry thoroughly and brush out the coat. The good news is that it is currently transitioning to new packaging. Therefore, you may receive the same effective shampoo in a new, sleek bottle during your next purchase,

We decided to give this deodorizing shampoo a star rating of 4.6 out of 5.

What We Like

• Removes bad odor.
• Very affordable.
• It is made with natural ingredients.

What We Don’t Like

• Not gentle on dry skin.

Chris Christensen Clean Start Clarifying Dog Shampoo – Pro-Vitamin Formula That Won’t Strip The Coat! Removes Product Build-up, Waxes, Oil and Dirt

Best for Clarifying

General Description

Do you want something that will remove all the dirt and leave your pet sparkling clean? If so, then opt for Chris Christensen Clean Start Clarifying Dog Shampoo. With a start rating of 4.7 out of 5 from Groomers Land experts, this shampoo is safe for all dogs and puppies. In addition to that, it gently cleans delicate skin.

What’s more is the pro-vitamin, a pet-friendly formula that gently cleanses deep within your dog’s undercoat to enrich the follicles, making the fur more beautiful, shiny, and dandruff–free. Being the best seller in pet supplies, it is perfect for dogs with dry skin.

If you own a dog with sensitive skin, then this is the perfect product for you. Besides removing dirt, it maintains your pet’s healthy concentration of oils in their skin since it is pH balanced. Therefore, no harsh chemicals are used.

What We Like

• Protects sensitive skin.
• Remove dirt without damaging the coat.

What We Don’t Like

• Very expensive.

#1 All Systems Super Cleaning and Conditioning Pet Shampoo, 16-Ounce

Amazon’s Choice for “all systems dog shampoo”

Best for Cleaning and Conditioning

General Description

The #1 All Systems Super Cleaning and Conditioning Pet Shampoo is perfect for removing dirt without harsh detergents that might affect the skin. It is safe for puppies and kittens. While washing, it rinses out completely without leaving any residue on your pet’s coat.

Weighing 16 ounces, it does not limit you on usage as it is safe for daily use. In addition, the presence of low sudsing formula enhances gentleness when using.

Other Ingredients

• Deionized water.
• Ammonium lauryl sulfate.
• Cocamidopropyl Betaine.
• Cocamide.
• Propylene glycol.
• Glycerin.
• DM hydantoin.
• Fragrance.
• Citric acid.

What We Like

• Does not contain harsh detergents.
• Lathers easily.

What We Don’t Like

• Quite expensive.

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

Best for Hydrating and Antifungal

General Description

The Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic and Antiseborrheic Medicated Shampoo for Dogs contains coal tar, salicylic acid & micronized sulfur to help treat skin scaling caused by seborrhea and relieve infections.

This Shampoo is specifically formulated for dogs over 12 weeks of age and is pH balanced; hence ideal for your dog’s skin. It is created with veterinary-grade ingredients but is available at an affordable price.

The medicated dog shampoo is a  number one bestseller in pet shampoos and also contains coal tar, Salicylic Acid & Micronized Sulphur, Colloidal Oatmeal, and Allantoin.

What We Like

• It is perfect for sensitive skin.
• Affordable.

What We Don’t Like

• It may fail to work effectively if used for less than the labeled duration.

Wahl 4-In-1 Calming Pet Shampoo – Cleans, Conditions, Detangles, & Moisturizes with Lavender Chamomile

Best for Conditioning and Detangling

General Description

This lavender chamomile pet shampoo is pH balanced, alcohol-free, paraben-free, PEG-80 free, and is highly recommended for cleaning, conditioning, detangling, & moisturizing coats. On top of that, this lavender-scented pet shampoo is excellent for cleaning dirty coats, coat conditioning & detangling, & skin moisturizing short to long coats.

Having a high concentrate of coconut, it forms thick lather rinses off clean & keeps your pet looking and smelling clean. It is allergy-friendly and has been serving professional vets and groomers for more than 50 years.

What We Like

• Affordable.
• Suitable for dogs with allergies.

What We Don’t Like

• It contains compounds that might cause skin irritation.

Cleansing Dog Shampoo for Smelly Dogs – Refreshing Colloidal Oatmeal Dog Shampoo for Dry Skin and Dog Bath Soap – Moisturizing Dog Shampoo Oatmeal Lavender Formula for Great Smelling Dog Wash

Best for Dry Skin and Dog Bath

General Description

Cleansing Dog Shampoo is made with Oatmeal, thus suitable for cleansing and moisturizing dry skin. In addition, it has a deodorant, thus leaving it clean and fresh. We’ve allocated it a rating of 4.7 out of 5. Customers love it for its deodorizing properties.

Other Ingredients

• Water.
• Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate.
• Cocamidopropyl Betaine.
• Sodium Lauroamphoacetate.
• Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate.
• Sodium Lauryl Glucoside Carboxylate.
• Lauryl Glucoside.
• Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate.
• Acrylates Copolymer.
• Coco-Glucoside.
• Glyceryl Oleate.
• Caprylhydroxamic Acid.
• Glyceryl Caprylate.
• Glycerin.
• Sodium PCA.
• D-Panthenol.
• Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Oil.
• Colloidal Oatmeal.
• Lavandula angustifolia (Lavender) Oil.
• Phytokeratin.

What We Like

• It leaves the pet fresh and clean.
• It is affordable.

What We Don’t Like

• Not suitable for dogs with smell issues.

TropiClean Shampoos for Pets, Made in the USA – Naturally Derived Ingredients – Soap & Paraben Free – pH Balanced – Rich Lather – Fresh Fragrances

Best for reducing shedding

General Description

Tropiclean Shampoo for pets moisturizes your pet’s skin to reduce shedding and provide a deeply nourishing clean, leaving their skin and coat healthy. In addition, the long-lasting refreshing scent of lime and coconut leaves your pet smelling fresh.

Additionally, it is paraben-free and Dye Free. Made with natural ingredients and safe when used as directed on dogs and cats 12 weeks or older. The products are made in the USA, have high quality, and contain natural ingredients.

Other ingredients include

• Purified Water.
• Mild Coconut Cleanser.
• Sodium Chloride.
• Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein.
• Colloidal Oatmeal.
• Botanical Blend Of (Lime Extract, Pomegranate Extract, Chamomile Extract, Awapuhi Extract, Aloe Extract, Blueberry Extract).
• Omega 3 & 6.
• Alpha Hydroxy.
• Vitamin E.
• Vitamin B5.
• Fragrance.
• Preservative.

What We Like

• It leaves the Pets smelling fresh.
• Quite affordable.
• Does not contain harmful substances.

What We Don’t Like

• Strong scent when inhaled.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Dog Shampoo – Your Buying Guide

Dogs are good companions. However, they require total care, and this includes finding them the best Shampoo. Fortunately, there are many types of dog shampoos out there. But choosing the right one can be a hassle.

As a pet owner, you want something to protect their skin and coat and leave them sparkling clean, and fresh. So here are the basics to consider before buying one for your Pooch if you are one of them.

Odor Eliminating Capability

Topping the list of the essential thing to consider is getting a shampoo with excellent odor-eliminating capabilities. A foul smell can drive away visitors from playing with your canine. And as much as dogs are mischievous creatures, they can easily find their way into the garbage or access any other substances.

You need to be ready with a deodorizing shampoo to eliminate the odor rather than cover it for a shorter duration.

Effective Cleaning

Purchasing Shampoo from an outlet is one thing while producing excellent results on your pet’s coat is another thing. But, as mentioned earlier, the current market is filled with vast options of dog shampoos.

When making a purchase, ensure that you choose the one which has the capabilities of removing all the dirt and leaves your fur baby fresh. While shopping, don’t forget to watch out for the ones that only make your dog look sparkling clean but don’t remove all the dirt.

The Quality of the Ingredients

Ingredients play a vital role in every product, and this applies to pet shampoos as well. While shopping, you’ll find a range of products on the shelve. Each product is made with different ingredients and according to the customer’s specifications.

However, some are harmful to your dog’s skin, while others are natural and lack side effects. Therefore, before selecting a shampoo, ensure that you have read all the ingredients on the bottle label.

Most of all, avoid the ones with artificial ingredients such as dyes because they might harm your dog’s skin or eyes. On top of that, you can select the ones with a different flavor only if your dog likes them. Lastly, remember not to use human shampoos because our skin is different from that of dogs.

Getting the Right pH Level

Another critical factor is the right pH level. Dogs have different skin types, and that’s why each of them is associated with a specific Ph. For example, sensitive-skinned dogs tend to have a pH level ranging from 2.2 to 7.5. Therefore, purchase a shampoo that will take care of the skin but not alter the pH level.

Does the Product Protect Against Skin Sensitivity?

There are different types of dog species with varied skin. While some have normal and sensitive skin, some exhibit insensitive skin. If your dog has dry skin, you need a moisturizing shampoo. After washing the dog with Shampoo, ensure that you rinse them well to avoid itching and further damage.

On the other hand, get hypoallergenic shampoo for your Pupper’s sensitive skin. This is because they lack artificial ingredients or coloration, which might harm the skin. For better results, purchase a shampoo with natural ingredients to protect your dog regardless of the type of skin.

Intended Use of the Product

Different dogs have different needs and so do shampoos too. Therefore, before buying a shampoo, counter-check the original use. This means that you cannot buy a product intended for another purpose, as not all shampoos are created equally. For better results, buy the one meant to perform the original purpose.

Natural Fragrances

Shampoos are made from different ingredients. Some are natural, while others are artificial. Artificial ones tend to contain fragrances that are a mixture of different things. This array of ingredients might harm your pet’s skin and coat.

For better results, go for the one made with natural fragrances because of non-reactive properties, thus safe for your dog.

Paraben-Free

A lot of products in the market contain paraben, a chemical substance used as a preservative. Unfortunately, these compounds are harmful to the dogs’ skin and coat. For better results, purchase products that are paraben-free so that your dog will have a soothing bath.

Cruelty-Free

Some dog’s Shampoo reacts immediately after administration, while others are pet friendly. Before making your final decision, ensure that it contains safe ingredients that will not harm your four-legged baby.

Should not Wash off Any Flea and Tick Treatments Used Before and After Shampooing

A good dog shampoo should perform its task of cleaning the pet’s skin. Times, pets owners apply flea and tick treatments to their dogs. But after washing with Shampoo, the treatment is removed.

This is a disadvantage since dogs will remain clean but untreated. For this reason, get a shampoo that will clean but not remove the treatments administered. 

Why Should You Trust Groomers Land?

Having a nice smelling dog is what most owners yearn for. But this can only be possible with the best dog shampoo. Groomer’s land contains the best tips for washing your dog. Moreover, it contains the right products to protect your pet and keep the skin and coat fresh all day long.

FAQs on Dog Shampoo

How can I manage pet odor at home?

To manage pet orders in your home, you can clean the pet’s bed, use an air purifier, clean the floor and carpets and tackle super smelly spots.

How can I get that dog smell out of my car?

To get rid of the dog smell in your car, you can use baking powder. Place it in a bowl and put it in the car to absorb the fishy smell.

My dog hates water; what are my alternatives for shampooing?

If your dog hates water, other types of shampoos can clean your pet without including water. For example, dry Shampoo acts as a cleanser and moisturizer.

The Groomers Land Final Verdict

Dog grooming is the crucial aspect of providing good care for your pup. And that is only possible with the best dog shampoo. Finding the right quality will enable your Pup to have clean skin and a healthy coat.

As much as you can find an array of dog shampoos, opt for Wahl Dry Skin & Itch Pet Shampoo for Dogs because it is suitable for pets with dry and itchy skin. Furthermore, your dog will develop a fresh scent and enjoy every bathing hour.