Best Dog Shampoos
Dogs get dirty, smelly and itchy — and a cheap shampoo can make the itch worse. The best dog shampoos clean without stripping natural oils, soothe sensitive skin, and actually get rid of the smell. These are the washes we'd use on our own dogs, from puppy-gentle to seriously stinky.
How to pick a dog shampoo
- Sensitive skin: look for oatmeal, aloe vera and hypoallergenic labels — avoid strong perfumes and SLS-heavy formulas.
- Itchy dogs: medicated or anti-itch formulas with ingredients like chlorhexidine or oatmeal.
- Smelly dogs: odour-neutralising washes rather than strong perfume that fades in a day.
- Puppies: tear-free, gentle formulas designed for young skin.
1. Best for sensitive skin: Johnsons Hypoallergenic Shampoo
~£7
A fragrance-free, hypoallergenic shampoo that's kind to dogs with allergies and sensitive skin. It cleans gently without stripping natural oils, rinses easily and leaves the coat soft. A vet-friendly basic that's perfect for frequent bathing and dogs that react to perfumed products.
2. Best for itchy skin: Bugalugs Medi Fresh Shampoo
~£10
A cooling, medicated-style shampoo for itchy, flaky and irritated skin. The natural safe formula soothes sore patches, calms redness and restores the coat's moisture barrier without harsh chemicals. Dogs with allergies, hot spots or seasonal itch usually settle quickly after a bath with this.
3. Best for stinky dogs: Bugalugs Stinky Dog Shampoo
~£10
An odour-neutralising shampoo that actually removes the smell instead of covering it with perfume. The vegan formula breaks down the oils and bacteria that cause that fox-poo aroma, and it's gentle enough for regular use. The one to keep by the shower for dogs that find every bad smell in the park.
4. Best de-shedding wash: Earth Rated Oatmeal Shampoo
~£11
A 3-in-1 de-shedding shampoo and conditioner with oatmeal that loosens dead undercoat while you wash, so brushing afterwards removes far more fur. The oatmeal soothes and hydrates the skin, and the conditioning element leaves the coat silky. Pair it with a de-shedding brush for maximum fur removal.
Bottom line
For everyday washing the Johnsons hypoallergenic is a solid budget staple, Bugalugs Medi Fresh is the one for itchy dogs, and Stinky Dog is unbeatable on odour. Shedders should add the Earth Rated wash-and-condition to their grooming routine.