We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Dog Shampoos 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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 (2 Pack)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,188
Skin Type
Medicated Shampoos
Fragrance

Most important from
45079 reviews

Skin Type
Effectively clears up hotspots, promoting hair regrowth on irritated areas.
Medicated Shampoos
Controls yeast overgrowth and stops relentless itching, leaving pets smelling fresh.
Fragrance
Has a pleasant, mild orange scent that isn’t overpowering but helps mask odors.
Ingredients
Lathers well and rinses cleanly, making the bathing process smoother for pets.

The Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Medicated Shampoo is designed to help pets with irritated, scaly, or greasy skin. It’s a medicated shampoo suitable for both dogs and cats over 12 weeks old, making it versatile for households with multiple pets. This shampoo is pH balanced, which means it matches the natural acidity of your pet’s skin, helping avoid dryness or irritation. It’s free from parabens, dyes, and harsh soaps, so it’s gentle yet effective against fungal and bacterial skin problems. The shampoo contains soothing ingredients like aloe vera and lanolin to calm redness and discomfort.

A key feature is the recommended 5-10 minute soak time, allowing the active ingredients to work effectively. It also comes in a two-pack, offering good value for regular use. The scent is present but not overpowering, which some may appreciate to help mask odor without strong perfumes. Users should apply and rinse the shampoo carefully to prevent pets from licking the product, and it is specifically for topical use only. It is most effective when used twice a week initially, which requires a bit more grooming effort.

For pets with sensitive or problematic skin, this shampoo provides targeted relief and supports healing without harsh chemicals. Pets without skin issues might find a regular mild shampoo simpler. This product is well suited for owners managing fungal or bacterial skin conditions who need a medicated, veterinarian-recommended solution.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,188
Skin Type
Medicated Shampoos
Fragrance

Most important from
45079 reviews

Skin Type
Effectively clears up hotspots, promoting hair regrowth on irritated areas.
Medicated Shampoos
Controls yeast overgrowth and stops relentless itching, leaving pets smelling fresh.
Fragrance
Has a pleasant, mild orange scent that isn’t overpowering but helps mask odors.
Ingredients
Lathers well and rinses cleanly, making the bathing process smoother for pets.
#2

FURminator Ultra Premium deShedding Dog Shampoo, Reduces Excess Shedding, 1 gal

Rating
9.7
Skin Type
Coat Type
Fragrance

Most important from
17819 reviews

Skin Type
Formulated without parabens or chemical dyes, making it ideal for dogs with sensitive skin.
Coat Type
Noticeable reduction in shedding after just a couple of washes, leading to less hair around the house and on furniture.
Fragrance
The shampoo’s scent is strong initially but fades quickly after rinsing, balancing efficacy with a gentle fragrance.
Ingredients
Formulated without parabens or chemical dyes, making it ideal for dogs with sensitive skin.

The FURminator Ultra Premium deShedding Dog Shampoo is designed to help reduce loose hair that dogs typically shed. It is enriched with vitamins and omega fatty acids to support both the skin and coat, promoting overall health. Free from parabens and chemical dyes, and unscented, this shampoo is gentle and less likely to irritate sensitive skin, making it suitable for dogs of all life stages and various coat types, especially those prone to shedding.

This shampoo is pH balanced to prevent drying out the skin, helping to maintain the natural oils and avoid itchiness or dryness. Available in a large gallon size and dilutable, it is practical for frequent use or for households with multiple dogs. Although it is not medicated and does not treat skin conditions like infections or allergies, its gentle, scent-free formula is ideal for owners seeking a product free from harsh chemicals.

For best grooming results, pairing this shampoo with the matching conditioner from FURminator can enhance coat health and shedding control, making it an effective choice for maintaining a healthy skin and coat.

Rating
9.7
Skin Type
Coat Type
Fragrance

Most important from
17819 reviews

Skin Type
Formulated without parabens or chemical dyes, making it ideal for dogs with sensitive skin.
Coat Type
Noticeable reduction in shedding after just a couple of washes, leading to less hair around the house and on furniture.
Fragrance
The shampoo’s scent is strong initially but fades quickly after rinsing, balancing efficacy with a gentle fragrance.
Ingredients
Formulated without parabens or chemical dyes, making it ideal for dogs with sensitive skin.
#3

Wahl USA Dry Skin & Itch Relief Pet Shampoo for Dogs – Oatmeal Formula with Coconut Lime Verbena Scent - 64 Oz - Model 821004-050

Rating
9.4
Fragrance
Skin Type
Coat Type

Most important from
39445 reviews

Fragrance
The shampoo has a wonderful, fresh scent that is clean and not overpowering, leaving dogs smelling great without being too strong.
Skin Type
It effectively soothes dry, itchy skin while leaving coats soft, silky, and shiny after each wash.
Coat Type
It effectively soothes dry, itchy skin while leaving coats soft, silky, and shiny after each wash.

The Wahl USA Dry Skin & Itch Relief Pet Shampoo is designed mainly for dogs with dry, itchy skin. Its oatmeal-based formula is gentle and moisturizing, making it a solid choice if your dog struggles with irritation or dryness. The shampoo is pH balanced specifically for dogs, which helps maintain healthy skin without causing further dryness or discomfort. It’s free from alcohol, parabens, and PEG-80, reducing the chance of irritation or allergic reactions, which is great if your pet has sensitive skin. The coconut lime verbena scent offers a fresh, pleasant smell without being overpowering.

This shampoo works well for all coat types and breeds, providing cleansing while moisturizing. It is not a medicated shampoo, so it won't treat serious skin conditions but is ideal for regular use to soothe mild dryness and itching. The large 64-ounce size makes it a cost-effective option for frequent baths.

If your dog has severe skin issues, you might need a specialized medicated formula, but for everyday relief and hydration, this Wahl shampoo is a reliable, gentle option.

Rating
9.4
Fragrance
Skin Type
Coat Type

Most important from
39445 reviews

Fragrance
The shampoo has a wonderful, fresh scent that is clean and not overpowering, leaving dogs smelling great without being too strong.
Skin Type
It effectively soothes dry, itchy skin while leaving coats soft, silky, and shiny after each wash.
Coat Type
It effectively soothes dry, itchy skin while leaving coats soft, silky, and shiny after each wash.

Buying Guide for the Best Dog Shampoos

Choosing the right dog shampoo is essential for maintaining your pet's health and hygiene. The right shampoo can help keep your dog's coat clean, shiny, and free of parasites, while also being gentle on their skin. When selecting a dog shampoo, it's important to consider your dog's specific needs, such as their skin type, coat type, and any existing skin conditions. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing a dog shampoo and how to navigate them to find the best fit for your furry friend.
Skin TypeDog shampoos are formulated for different skin types, such as sensitive, dry, oily, or normal skin. This spec is important because using the wrong type of shampoo can cause irritation or exacerbate existing skin issues. Sensitive skin shampoos are usually hypoallergenic and free from harsh chemicals, making them suitable for dogs with allergies or easily irritated skin. Dry skin shampoos often contain moisturizing ingredients like oatmeal or aloe vera to soothe and hydrate. Oily skin shampoos help control excess oil and prevent greasiness. To pick the right one, consider your dog's skin condition and choose a shampoo that addresses their specific needs.
Coat TypeDifferent dog breeds have different coat types, such as short, long, curly, or double coats. This spec is important because the right shampoo can help maintain the coat's health and appearance. Shampoos for long or curly coats often contain detangling agents to make brushing easier and prevent matting. Shampoos for short coats may focus on enhancing shine and smoothness. Double coat shampoos are designed to clean both the topcoat and undercoat effectively. To pick the right one, consider your dog's breed and coat type, and choose a shampoo that caters to their specific grooming needs.
Medicated ShampoosMedicated shampoos are formulated to treat specific skin conditions such as dermatitis, fungal infections, or parasites like fleas and ticks. This spec is important because it can provide relief and treatment for dogs with medical issues. These shampoos often contain active ingredients like chlorhexidine, ketoconazole, or pyrethrin. To pick the right one, consult with your veterinarian to determine if your dog needs a medicated shampoo and which type would be most effective for their condition.
FragranceFragrance in dog shampoos can make your pet smell pleasant, but it's important to choose a scent that won't irritate your dog's sensitive nose or skin. This spec is important because strong or artificial fragrances can cause allergic reactions or discomfort. Natural fragrances derived from essential oils are often gentler and safer. To pick the right one, consider your dog's tolerance to scents and opt for a mild, natural fragrance if your dog has a sensitive nose or skin.
IngredientsThe ingredients in dog shampoos can vary widely, and it's important to choose a product with safe and beneficial components. This spec is important because harmful chemicals or allergens can cause skin irritation or other health issues. Look for shampoos with natural, gentle ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, and coconut oil. Avoid products with sulfates, parabens, and artificial dyes. To pick the right one, read the ingredient list carefully and choose a shampoo with high-quality, natural ingredients that are safe for your dog.
pH BalanceDogs have a different skin pH than humans, so it's important to choose a shampoo that is pH-balanced for dogs. This spec is important because using a shampoo with the wrong pH can disrupt the skin's natural barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, or infections. Dog shampoos are formulated to match the natural pH of a dog's skin, which is typically more neutral than human skin. To pick the right one, ensure the shampoo is specifically labeled as pH-balanced for dogs to maintain their skin health.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now