Dogs are naturally playful creatures, brightening up the owner’s day and radiating an incredible amount of joy all day long.
It is, however, unfortunate that they can sometimes suffer from one thing or the other which jeopardizes the fun-life they should live. As of today, a leading concern faced by many dogs is the problem of dry skin.
Because of this condition, dogs will be found scratching and itching a lot of times. In the process, they might injure themselves and to avoid that be sure to get the best dog shampoo for dry skin.
Top 5 Dog Shampoos For Dry Skin (Summary)
| Image | Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | HONEYDEW |
| CHECK ON AMAZON |
 | Veterinary Formula Clinical Care |
| CHECK ON AMAZON |
 | Earthbath |
| CHECK ON AMAZON |
 | Burt’s Bees Oatmeal |
| CHECK ON AMAZON |
 | 4Legger |
| CHECK ON AMAZON |
11 Best Dog Shampoos For Dry Skin Reviewed
1. Natural Dog Shampoo with Colloidal Oatmeal – Lavender Essential Oil Itch Relief for Dogs
There’s nothing quite as effective for sensitive and dry dog’s skin as HONEYDEW Shampoo. The product is not only hypoallergenic but also soothing and nourishing as well.
This is made possible thanks to the natural ingredients such as colloidal oatmeal, jojoba and lavender oil. Each of the ingredients works in eliminating skin irritation your dog might have and nourishing its fur.
After the use of this item, your dog will smell fresh and its fur will be soft, silky and healthy-looking. The lavender essential oil has great calming effects and feels gentle and mild on the skin.
In addition to extra-strong cleanser formulation, this shampoo is also extremely effective in eliminating bad smells and keeping your dog happy and clean.
- Soothes flaky and dry skin
- Stops skin irritation and has calming effects
- Gets rid of unpleasant smells
- The bottle is rather small
2. Pro Pet Works All Natural Organic Oatmeal Pet Shampoo Plus Conditioner – Hypoallergenic and Soap Free Blend with Aloe Gel for Allergies & Sensitive Skin – 17oz
Natural and organic ingredients in Pro Pet Works Dog Shampoo for Dry Skin are specially formulated for sensitive and dry pet skin, making sure your dog smells fresh.
It also ensures that your pet’s skin and coat are soothed and soft. The product contains almond oil and aloe vera that are the main reason why it has so many amazing benefits.
On the other hand, it’s not made with alcohol, parabens, soaps, detergents and sulfates that could harm your dog or cause some allergic reaction.
This makes it safe for frequent use. Furthermore, with regular use, it’ll get rid of wet dog smell, help in detangling coat and ensure soft and clean skin at all times.
- Hydrates and soothes dog’s skin and fur
- Eliminates wet dog smell effectively
- Detangles dog’s fur for easier brushing
- The smell isn’t very pleasant
3. Veterinary Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Spray for Dogs and Cats – Medicated Topical Spray Treatment for Fungal and Bacterial Skin Infections
In case your dog has a rash, inflamed scalp itchiness or flakes, Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Shampoo for Dry Skin will make sure to promote healing.
The item works fast and relieves bacterial infections or any other similar medical condition your dog has. You’ll start noticing that your pet’s skin is more hydrated, calmer and less inflamed.
In addition, the itching will be under control and the only thing you need to do is to ensure that you shampoo your dog will it 2-3 times a week.
The product comes in a big, 16 oz bottle, so it’ll last you for a while. However, if your dog’s skin is sensitive, try to look at some other options since this item tends to be harsh.
- Treats dermatitis, seborrhea, parasites and bacterial infections
- Very affordable price
- Works fast in hydrating skin and promoting healing
- Harsh on sensitive skin
4. Wahl Dry Skin & Itch Relief Pet Shampoo for Dogs – Oatmeal Formula with Coconut Lime Verbena 24oz
Just a little bit of Wahl Dog Shampoo for Dry Skin will go a long way and provide a rich lather that cleans and makes your pet’s skin silky and smooth.
It provides instant itch relief even to the most delicate dog skin and ensures that your best friend’s coat is moisturized and hydrated.
The coconut lime verbena moisturizes dry skin and smells great. The formula is entirely free of any ingredients that could be harmful.
Coming in a huge bottle of 24 oz, this shampoo will last up to 70% longer than other similar products, which makes it an affordable option as well.
- Moisturizes dry skin and relieves itching
- Rich lather that’s easy to rinse off
- Conditions skin and makes coat smooth and soft
- Not for dogs prone to allergies
5. Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo, Vanilla & Almond
If you want your dog to smell nice and have a soft, plush coat with moisturized skin, Earthbath Shampoo might be the right fit.
Entirely natural, biodegradable and soap-free, this item is safe and gentle on the skin. Aloe vera and oatmeal combination eliminates skin irritation and heals your pet skin,
Additionally, the shampoo moisturizes sensitive and dry skin, ensuring it’s hydrated at any moment. Aside from cleaning your dog’s skin, the product also deodorizes it.
That way, besides feeling and looking clean, your pet also smells incredible, which is something you’ll also cherish.
- Makes skin and coat soft, smooth and deodorized
- Gentle, safe and biodegradable
- Fights skin infections and moisturizes
- Watery consistency
6. Burt’s Bees For Dogs Natural Itch Soothing Shampoo and Spray with Honeysuckle – Anti-Itch Dog Shampoo
Highest quality ingredients, including honeysuckle, enable Burt’s Bees Dog Shampoo to gently cleanse, soften and soothe your dog’s skin and coat.
In addition, this product eliminates itchiness and eases irritation. That makes it gentle and safe for all dog breeds, given that it’s also pH balanced.
Being mild also means the product doesn’t have any scent. It also doesn’t have a rich lather, which makes its consistency watery.
Some pet owners prefer shampoos with a richer lather and if this is the case with you, you might want to look elsewhere.
- Soothes and softens itchy skin
- No added fragrances and chemicals
- Eases irritation
- Doesn’t have a scent at all nor rich lather
7. Burt’s Bees All Natural Oatmeal Shampoo & Conditioner for Dogs – with Colloidal Oat Flour and Honey
The oatmeal formula of Burt’s Bees Shampoo for Dogs doesn’t only care for, cleans and moisturizes dry skin, but it also softens and soothes it.
You won’t need to worry about the itchiness your dog is experiencing since this product will eliminate it completely.
Your dog will smell nice since this item will get rid of all odors and deodorize its coat and skin. It’s safe even for pets with sensitive skin thanks to the highest quality ingredients used in making it.
Some of its ingredients work in ensuring that your dog’s hair is strong and help in reducing breakage while moisturizing and adding shine.
- Deodorizes and eliminates all odors
- Strengthens hair and reduces breakage
- Moisturizes and adds shine
- You need a large amount to wash your dog
8. Bodhi Dog All Natural Anti Itch Oatmeal Dog Shampoo and Conditioner – Treatment Wash Soothe Dry Itchy Skin
If you and your dog are fans of shampoos with pleasant smells, Bodhi Dog Shampoo, with its apple scent, will surely become your favorite.
The product has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antifungal properties, all while neutralizing odor and leaving the coat soft and shiny.
The formula is enriched with vitamins and it’s free from alcohol, so it’s safe for your pet and works in relieving dandruff. The result you’ll achieve after a few uses is moisturized and itch-free skin and coat.
This shampoo also offers instant relief to damaged or inflamed skin, while moisturizing and conditioning the fur.
- Instantly cools and calms inflamed and damaged skin
- Relieves itching and soothes irritated skin
- Leaves coat soft and shiny
- Might irritate dogs with sensitive skin
9. 4Legger USDA Certified Organic Dog Shampoo – All Natural and Hypoallergenic with Aloe and Lemongrass
All-natural, non-toxic and hypoallergenic 4Legger Dog Shampoo is plant-based and includes organic ingredients such as coconut oil, aloe vera and organic lemongrass essential oil.
All of these ingredients work in ensuring natural and non-toxic bath with rich lather your dog will enjoy immensely. Because it doesn’t contain synthetic or artificial chemicals, it’s entirely safe.
A little amount will go a long way since this product is water-based and adding more water actually creates richer lather.
The item removes wet dog smell and is great in moisturizing and keeping your dog’s coat soft and shiny.
- Moisturizes and maintains a soft and shiny coat
- Has rich lather
- Non-toxic and hypoallergenic
- Tends to cause flakes
10. Pet Oatmeal Anti-Itch Shampoo & Conditioner In One
Without causing tearing and dandruff, Pets Are Kids Too Dog Shampoo is gentle on the skin and its plant-derived formula ensures that your pet’s skin is always moisturized.
The formula is natural with vitamins A, E and D that work in preventing allergies and flea yeast. There are also oatmeal, baking soda and coconut.
Their role is to eliminate itchiness and offer relief from hot-spots. Your dog is sure to smell great all day long thanks to the oatmeal cookie scent this item provides.
The smell is light and not overpowering while lasting longer and providing a great way to remove wet dog odor.
- Provides instant relief from itching
- Long-lasting, pleasant smell and deodorizing effect
- Prevents allergies and dandruff
- Can cause problems to dogs with sensitive skin
11. Paws & Pals 5-In-1 Oatmeal Dog Shampoo, Conditions, Detangles, Moisturizes, Anti Itch, Odor Control – w/Medicated Clinical Vet Formula
If you want to bath your dog with dry skin with a product that has amazing hydrating, healing and protecting properties, Paws & Pals Shampoo should be your choice.
Its nourishing formula has multiple benefits your pet is going to love. Firstly, it soothes skin and relieves itchiness, while relieving allergies and hot spots.
Next, it deodorizes, cleans and softens your dog’s coat. Being tear-free means that it won’t cause any irritation.
The fresh scent it provides lasts for a very long time without inflaming the area around the dog’s eyes or nose.
- Soothes flaky and dry skin
- Stops skin irritation and has calming effects
- Gets rid of unpleasant smells
- Makes dog hair fall out a bit
Besides, because they are just but dogs, there is nothing they can do about it. Thus, the owner has some special responsibility in this case.
First, to recognize the signs that they are actually suffering from dry skin, and consequently devise means to provide the correct treatment for such. This is what the dog shampoo for dry skin offers.
Better put, it is expedient for dog owners to look out for the best dog shampoo for dry skin to cater to dry skin concerns in their pooch.
Benefits of Using Dog Shampoo for Dry and Flaky Skin
Dry skin shampoos help achieve the following:
- Some shampoos contain moisturizing agents to hydrate the skin to overcome dryness and flakiness
When you shampoo with the correct product, the sebaceous glands are stimulated to secrete the proper amount of natural oils that are required on the surface of the skin
With shampooing, parasitic infestations are gotten rid of. While some of the dryness and scaling are as a result of reaction towards the parasites’ saliva, removing them all at once can improve the pet’s condition
- Shampooing aids treatment of bacterial and fungal infections
This will also lead to a consequent improvement in the condition of the skin
Shampoos help restore the skin’s pH to the normal range because when this goes out of range, flakiness results
A specially formulated medicated shampoo can treat any ailment the dog has simply by soothing the scratching and itching.
How Does a Dog Shampoos For Dry Skin Work?
Dog shampoos are the traditional cleansing agents designed to maintain the dog’s regular hygiene.
They come in different formulations as likened to the human shampoos but with more careful consideration about the sensitive nature of the dog’s skin, and especially their responsiveness to harsh chemicals.
Dog shampoos for dry skin are specialty dog shampoos designed to combat itch, dry skin and dandruff problems in your pup.
Dog shampoos are effective in treating dry skin because they contain oatmeal or Aloe Vera. What oatmeal does is to provide relief from itching owing to its constituent chemicals like avenanthramides and phenols.
Oatmeal also helps balance the pH of the dog’s skin, relieving eczema and psoriasis symptoms. It is equally appropriate because of its grainy nature to help soften the dog’s coat and treat hot spots, allergies, and tick problems.
Aloe Vera, on the other hand, has healing and soothing properties. This contains many vitamins and minerals that enrich the dog’s skin and treats flea bits.
If you are not new to taking care of your dogs, you are probably familiar with the innumerable dog shampoos on the market. No doubt, shopping for a great and suitable one can be quite laborious.
This is why you need this guide to determine the top and best products in this category.
Why Some Dogs Have Dry Skin and The Symptoms
Dry skin, as common as it is, is not entirely attributed to all dogs. But many dogs do suffer from the condition.
The following are possible reasons for dry skin in some dogs:
Bacterial Infection
Often times, this could be as a result of the parasitic attack or termite bite.
Alopecia
This is an uncommon hereditary disease with symptoms of scaling and hair loss.
Canine Distemper
This is another possible cause of dry skin where the dog experiences thickening at the end of the nose and foot pads. Over time, dry, flaky and scaly skin would be birthed.
Castration Responsive Dermatitis
This is more applicable to unneutered puppies. The common symptoms here are darker skin, fading hair color, severe scaling across the body, hair loss cross the genital area.
Rabbit Fur Mite Mange
This is an infection of Cheyletiella mite. Its symptoms include severe itching and scaling.
Crushing’s Disease
Crushing’s disease is as a result of hormonal and glandular changes. Majorly, the reason is as a result of the imbalance in the production and regulation of corticosteroids.
Demodectic Mange
This is caused as a result of infection with the Demodex mite. It occurs easily when the dog has a low immune system efficiency.
Other possible causes of dry skin are when your dog lives in a low humidity region, improper diet and ingestion of unsuitable food.
And obviously, few of these problems are hereditary, genetic or caused due to many internal and external factors.
Since the configuration of the dog’s body differs from one to another, the symptoms might vary as well.
There are, however, some general and common symptoms to look out for if you feel your dog has dry skin problems.
Apart from itchiness and excessive scratching, these symptoms include: dandruff, flaking, hair loss, inflammation, increased bad odor, oily coat, pimples, scabs, and scaly skin.
While some might just experience itchiness, others might have all of these symptoms.
Therefore, you must keep a close eye on your pooch to look out for these issues. In case you are not sure what it is, visit your vet to ascertain that there are no complicated issues than dry skin.
Types of Dog Shampoos for Dry and Itchy Skin
Organic Dog Shampoos
This is a dog formula shampoo made from natural ingredients only. In other words, there are no elements of artificial additives or chemical ingredients.
Thus, they are safe to use on all dogs without any concern about allergic reactions. They are also contained of nourishing ingredients that soothe the dog’s skin and aids hydration.
In case your dog has some sensitive skin, or you would like to stay away from those chemical-based products, organic shampoos are a great choice.
Hypoallergenic Shampoos
In case your pet has allergies, hypoallergenic shampoo is the way to go because they are formulated with ingredients that have no link to allergic reactions.
Meanwhile, you must be careful to identify the right ingredients because they can also be natural or artificial, and contain certain chemical ingredients.
Features of a Great Dog Shampoo for Dry and Flaky Skin
A great dog shampoo must be one which satisfies certain conditions and has peculiar features that are beneficial to the dogs.
Watch out for ingredients that are beneficial and avoid some others that are of no benefit. Check if they have any additional benefits also.
Anti-parasitic properties
Some shampoos designed to combat dry skin may also have special ingredients that help get rid of parasites.
In case your dog’s dry skin has some link to a parasitic infection, this type of shampoo can alleviate your pet’s dry skin and eliminate parasites from their coat and skin.
Formula and Ingredients
The healing formulas for rashes or infections must be considered in any dog shampoo you intend to apply for dry skin.
In case of a rash from dry skin or some sort of infection, try to get a shampoo that can treat these two things well.
A good choice here would be medicated shampoo that is obtainable from your vet or better still, purchased with a guarantee that they offer these benefits.
Nourishing properties
Under the context of the nourishing properties, there are a couple of things to consider, and they range from the moisturizing effect (thanks to the content of oatmeal and Aloe Vera) to their capability to treat infections, to produce natural oils which keep the dog’s coat soft and healthy, and to heal severe skin conditions.
While there are quite a number of premium waterless dog shampoos, the ingredients contained in shampoo is a big factor when looking for a thing that can help alleviate their dry skin.
Basically, organic and hypoallergenic shampoos are the top pick you must look out for.
The combination of these two ensures you provide only natural ingredients on your dogs and to deal with allergic reactions.
In other words, it means you will be avoiding all sorts of chemical-based products that are not recommended.
Many shampoos that combat dry skin may also have certain ingredients that help get rid of parasites.
Good Ingredients To Look For
Ingredients to look out for: natural ingredients like oatmeal, Aloe Vera, and hypoallergenic content
Bad Ingredients To Avoid
Known problem-causing ingredients which you must avoid: commercial soap, paraben, and dye.
Besides, in making a decision to purchase a dog shampoo for dry skin, make sure you try as much as possible to do away with alcohol as they can dry out your dog’s skin and make it itchy as well as sensitive.
Shampoos that do not contain alcohol are much better for your dog’s skin and coat. In fact, they are less likely to cause bad reactions and won’t worsen your dog’s condition.
When shopping for the best dog shampoo for dry skin, look for shampoos that are alcohol-free. Stick to shampoos that are labeled safe for sensitive skin.
Does more spending mean more quality?
Actually, as you have with the biggest dog toys, in order to get the appropriate dry dog shampoo, you might need to spend few bucks but not necessarily one that you won’t be able to afford.
What is important is to choose a product that gives you value for your money no matter how high or low the price seems.
How To Use and Apply a Dog Shampoo for Dry Skin with Dandruff
Yes, your dog might have just dry skin. It is equally possible that they do not, and instead, are suffering from an allergic reaction.
Most often than not, allergies can cause dry skin and excessive scratching, and at the same time, oily coats.
Fundamentally, your dog can be allergic to certain ingredients in their food, shampoo or flea and tick treatment, allergens in the air, air freshener, carpet cleaner or perfume.
In case your dog is suffering from allergies and not only dry skin, but specific medication from your vet also becomes critical, plus topical care methods like shampoos.
Therefore, you must understand which is which before treating the dog on your own.
The application of your chosen dog shampoo in order to treat dry skin is dependent on the peculiarity of such a product and the manufacturer’s instructions.
Also, a lot of times, you might need to contact a vet to determine the proportion and frequency of usage.
Do’s and Don’ts of a Dog Shampoo for Dry Skin
If your dog is suffering from dry skin, now is the time to give them the love they give you on a daily basis. It’s your responsibility to hydrate their skin, and the best way to do that is to get them a suitable dog shampoo.
With that, you will get a significant amount of healing, moisturizing, and hydrating for your pup’s delicate skin.
As such, it is no longer news that shopping for the best dog shampoo for dry skin is not as easy as it seems.
In other words, when you shop for something, you would want some option you can afford, and one that suits your specific needs.
This is what you do with getting an indoor dog potty as well, and is okay as the normal approach.
But you can also endeavor to be more diligent with your search by relating with some of the best products served by the market as of today to treat your dog’s dry skin problems.
Further, since there are many reasons why a dog could have dry skin- ranging from humid climate to allergies, poor diet, vitamin deficiency, parasites, internal infection or weak immune system; your choice of dry dog shampoo will, among other things, require that you always seek veterinary consultation to get specific concerns about the health of your dog.
Other than seeking professional advice, the bulk of the decision and dos and don’ts is dependent on your choice as the pet owner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why Do Some Dogs Have Dry Skin?
Some dogs have dry or flaky skin because of parasitic infection. Over time, this would result to manage causing Demodex mite, canine scabies and walking dandruff (cheyletiellosis).
It could also be an indication that the dog has lice. Other reasons why some dogs have dry skin are: allergies, poor diet, irritating shampoos, cold weather, fungal and bacterial infections and thyroid diseases.
Some common allergens are fleas, mold, dust, pollen perfumes, smoke, medications, and food.
What can you do for a dog with dry skin?
One of the easiest and most effective treatments of a dog with dry skin is to give them a bath with the right and appropriate moisturizing shampoo.
Also recommended is brushing them 1-2 times per week to keep the flow of blood and stimulate the production of the skin’s natural oils.
You can equally add coconut oil to their food and moisturize their nose and paws. Generally, seek the advice of a vet for the current state of your dog’s well-being.
How often should you bathe dogs with dry skin?
Basically, dogs who spend the majority of their time indoors will not require much bathing. But for those with dry skin, the frequency of shampooing is expected to be once a week.
Again, there is no rule of thumb as to when you must bathe them because a normal skin dog shouldn’t be bathed more than once a month.
And if you must do more than once, only use a moisturizing shampoo.
Moreover, because some dogs’ coats will accumulate grease and oil quicker than others, a specific dog shampoo can be applied at regular intervals by simply following your vet’s recommendations.
DIY home remedies that can help dogs with dry skin
Like humans, dogs can develop an itchy and uncomfortable skin because of many reasons, and these may require that you visit a vet.
Meanwhile, there are other simple ones that can be treated with basic at-home remedies or DIY home remedies.
This draws from how some common causes of itchiness are food allergies or environmental-bound ones which cause discomfort around their ears, groin, and paws.
Occasional or mild itching isn’t always a sign of serious health troubles. But for other symptoms like depressed mood, severe itching, restlessness or loss of appetite, talk to your vet immediately.
Very importantly, first determine the underlying cause of the dry skin and treat accordingly.
Accordingly, some DIY quick-fix methods are colloidal oatmeal baths, 50% apple cider vinegar and 50% water combination, applying coconut oil, Chamomile and Green tea soak, use of Aloe Vera, and a meal rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and healthy carbs.
Conclusion
There are some natural ways to hydrate your dog’s skin. You may decide to change their food from dry to wet or natural to help hydrate their skin and increase their daily water intake.
You can also massage Vitamin E oil into their coat frequently to treat hot spots, calluses and warts.
Other things are: add electrolyte liquids to their diet, give your dog plain Yogurt or some probiotic supplements, grind oatmeal, and mix with water to treat the affected skin, give the dog licorice root in their water to relieve itchiness.
However, dog grooming transcends mere cleanliness. Spending quality time with them, and keeping them healthy is a top priority.
Moreover, making them feel as much love as required is largely essential to their well-being. To make life really enjoyable for our dogs an even more, we have come into the age where we have to give them the right treatment. One of such is giving them an elevated dog bowl to help them with their problems for neck, back, etc.
But because sensitive or dry skin can jeopardize these intentional attitudes and efforts to give them the best life, it is requisite that you get them the best dog shampoo that caters to all skin problems.
Photos from: edu1971 / depositphotos.com, Ulianna / depositphotos.com, hiindy22 / depositphotos.com, Chalabala / depositphotos.com.
Big pet lover and a dog training and behavior expert who loves to share his knowledge and experience. Happy owner of two amazing dogs Labrador Bela and Jack Russell Terrier Piksi and one cuddly cat Tom.
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