How to Choose the Best Dog Shampoo

Take a stroll down the shampoo aisle of your local pet warehouse and you will soon become overwhelmed at the selection. It is seemly difficult to select the right one for your dog. The trial and error can be tedious and expensive. Selecting the best shampoo for your pooch is actually very easy if you take a little bit of time to think it through and do research before you shop. Dogs, much like humans, have individual skin and hair types and therefore may need specific care. Once you find the best type of shampoo, you and your dog will be thankful.

Instructions

    • 1

      Research the type of skin and fur your breed of dog has. The traits of a breed include different types of fur and skin. Some dogs have oily coats and skin, while others are dry and coarse.

    • 2

      Identify any special needs based on medical, climate or allergenic conditions. Your dog may be allergic to certain ingredients in the shampoos. Dogs that have been kept inside with a dry heating system during cold months will typically have dry skin. Some dogs have problems with biting "hot spots," and have irritated sections of skin that need a gentle shampoo.

    • 3

      Consider whether your shampoo will need to be part of your dog's flea and tick treatment. Speak with your veterinary professional about the treatment he has prescribed and whether it is enough to protect your dog without the need of a flea and tick shampoo.

    • 4

      Take the lifestyle of your pet into consideration. If the dog is an inside dog, you will not bathe him as much because he stays cleaner. If your dog is an outside dog or a dog that you take running or hiking, you will need to bathe him more often, which will dry out his skin faster.

    • 5

      Identify whether your dog is frequently held and carried (a lap dog) or if he remains on the ground and in pet-designated areas.

    • 6

      Select a type of shampoo based on the information and facts you have gathered.

    • 7

      Choose a gentle shampoo with oatmeal and aloe to moisturize the dry skin of a dog. If your dog has oily hair, use a shampoo with an anti-microbial agent to help cut the oil and cleanse the dog. A medicated shampoo works well on dogs with skin problems and allergies. If your dog has scratching problems, use an anti-itch formula. Select flea and tick shampoos that use pyrethin pesticides, which are effective and safe. If your dog is a lap dog, select a formula that has a smell that appeals to you, as you will be often holding him.