Dogs are man’s best friend, and we love them unconditionally. But what happens when they start to smell? It can be hard to get past that, and it can make your house feel like a smelly den of iniquity. There are reasons a dog would have smelly fur.
For example, they might be allergic to something in their food or just need more frequent baths. It can be frustrating when you take your pup for a walk and he smells like an old wet sock. Dogs with smelly coats can be very hard to live with. Thankfully, many shampoos on the market are designed specifically for dogs who smell bad.
Buyers guide
When searching for the best shampoo for smelly dogs, it’s important to consider the individual needs of your pup. With many options available on the market, there is sure to be a perfect formula for every pet. If your dog has an oily coat, consider using a shampoo that contains tea tree oil or citrus extracts. These ingredients remove excess oils from the skin and fur, leaving behind a fresh scent.
If your pup struggles with bacteria-related odors, try using a shampoo that contains antibacterial agents such as lavender oil or eucalyptus oil. These ingredients work to get rid of smells caused by bacteria growing on the skin. If your puppy has stains, try using a shampoo with whitening agents such as vitamin C or hydrogen peroxide.
When these additives contact dirt and debris stuck in the fur, they will remove discolorations while leaving behind a fresh scent. Try using this best shampoo for smelly dogs recommended shampoos the next time you need to bath your puppy friend, and see how much better they smell afterward.
1) Earthbath All Natural Pet Shampoo
This product is one of the best shampoos for smelly dogs with sensitive skin. It has been specially formulated to gently coat and leave pets smelling fresh. It can also help prevent dryness, dandruff, and itching caused by allergies or hot spots. This shampoo contains all-natural ingredients.
This product is made using essential oils, which are known to positively affect the skin and coat of dogs with allergies or dryness issues. The shampoo does not contain any preservatives or chemicals that can be harmful to pets in large doses. Owners looking for products free from harsh chemicals will love this option. This all-natural shampoo can also be used on cats, making it an excellent choice for those with multiple pets.
Pros:
- Gentle on skin and coat.
- Leaves pets smelling fresh.
- All-natural ingredients.
- Can be used on cats.
- Oat proteins are used to treat dryness and itchiness caused by skin problems.
- Eucalyptus oil leaves a pleasant scent and helps reduce allergens.
- No harsh chemicals or parabens
Cons:
- May not be effective on dogs with severe odor issues.
- Some users report that the scent does not last long
2. The Honest Company Dog Shampoo
The Honest Company Dog Shampoo is another excellent choice for those looking for a product free from harsh chemicals. This shampoo is designed from plant-based ingredients and contains no sulfates, phthalates, parabens, or other harmful chemicals.
It also comes in a biodegradable formula that can be easily washed away. Owners looking to reduce environmental impact may find this product perfect for them. It also comes in a variety of scents, which can be great if you’re trying to match your shampoo with other things like bedding or leashes that are scented as well! The Honest Company Dog Shampoo is gentle enough to use on dogs who suffer from allergies or dry skin.
Pros:
- Helps fight bad bacteria and fungus, which can cause smells.
- It is made with all-natural ingredients.
- Lathers up well and rinses cleanly, leaving your dog’s coat smelling fresh and clean.
- pH balanced, which means it won’t strip away your dog’s natural oils and cause them to become dry and flaky.
- The bottle is recyclable.
- Gentle on skin and coat.
- No sulfates, phthalates, parabens, or other harmful chemicals
Cons:
- Some users report that the scent does not last long.
- It can be more expensive than other brands of shampoos.
- It can be tough to find in stores
- Luxury Pet Shampoo & Leave In Conditioner - Two lush dog grooming products for one great price!
- Clean, Exfoliate, & Hydrate with Exfoliating Butter Wash - This premium shampoo hydrates your canine’s skin and coat with premium ingredients, such as Jojoba beads and botanical extracts for a healthy shine.
3 Burt’s Bees Natural Dog Shampoo
This shampoo is made from natural ingredients like oatmeal and honey, which help soothe and protect the skin. The Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Shampoo also has a light lavender scent which will leave your dog smelling fresh and clean.
This shampoo is also made with all-natural ingredients, but it contains no sulfates or parabens. It is designed to cleanse the dog’s fur and leave a light scent behind. This shampoo is applicable to dogs of any age, and it is safe for both short- and long-haired breeds.
Pros:
- Enhances the luster of the fur, while colloidal oat flour moisturizes the skin.
- Tear-free and pH-balanced, making it good for both puppies and dogs.
- Works well even for the dogs that have susceptible skin.
- No harsh chemicals are utilized to making it PEG-80 free.
Cons:
- The smell is quite unimpressive.
- Harder to use.
- DID YOU KNOW DOG SKIN DIFFERS FROM HUMAN'S - Dogs' skin is less acidic than human skin, so human shampoos destroy a dog's skin protective barrier, leaving your pet vulnerable to itchy flaking
- NO. 1 PET GROOMING BRAND IN THE USA*-See why millions of pet parents entrust their pet's health and hygiene to Burt's Bees for Pets. This natural shampoo for dogs is no exception
4. Pet Head Oatmeal Shampoo
The Pet Head oatmeal shampoo is a great option for dogs with sensitive skin that can be easily irritated by other shampoos or detergents. It contains natural ingredients, such as aloe Vera and olive oil, which help to moisturize your dog’s coat while also providing a pleasant scent.
Saponins and lipids contained in the oatmeal act as natural cleaners. They have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that act as a protective layer for their skin. The oatmeal in the shampoo helps relieve itching and irritation on your pup’s skin.
Pros:
- Antibacterial
- Certified organic.
- Help to cleanse your dog’s coat without being too harsh on sensitive skin.
- Reduces skin redness.
- Relieves itchy skin
Cons:
- Smells more like pancakes and syrup than “oatmeal.”
- Not as creamy as other shampoos.
- No plastic covering on the lid which makes it more difficult to pour.
- 3 12-ounce bottles of Natural dog shampoo
- Leaves your dog's soft coat with a yummy oatmeal scent
5) Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Medicated Dog Shampoo
The Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Medicated Dog Shampoo is designed to remove tough dirt and odors from your dog’s coat. The product contains powerful cleaning agents, such as sodium lauryl sulfate and Cocamidopropyl betaine, which work together to break down oils and grease that can cause unpleasant smells. The shampoo also has a refreshing citrus scent that helps to neutralize bad odors.
Pros:
- Suitable for cleaning up after the dirtiest and stinkiest pets.
- Wheat protein, shea oil, aloe Vera, and vitamin E are all included.
- With a bright green apple and white tea aroma, it keeps your coat cleaner for longer.
Cons:
- The scent does not last for long
- Not good for long-haired dogs
- GENTLE SOOTHING – Helps promote a healthy skin and coat free of flaky, dry, or overly oily skin that may be caused by environmental stressors.
- FAST ACTING – Works fast with powerful ingredients that help shed dry skin and hydrate your pet's skin. Wash and soak on skin and coat for 10-15 minutes. Repeat 2-3 times weekly.
6) Paws & Pals 5-In-1 Oatmeal Dog Shampoo
This is a highly-rated option that is made with natural ingredients and oatmeal to help make your dog’s coat healthier and more moisturized than ever before. The deep cleaning formula will deodorize the dirtiest of dogs and leave them smelling fresh for days after washing.
If your furry friend has skin irritations or allergies, this shampoo may be able to provide some relief as well since the product contains vitamin E. This antioxidant reduces itchiness in many cases. Plus, its non-greasy design means there won’t be any residue left behind on your pup’s fur once they’re clean again.
Pros:
- Deodorize your pup naturally with no chemicals or artificial fragrances added to remove any bad smells.
- Soothes any irritation on the surface level while nourishing below the coat’s outer layer.
- Leaves your furry friend silky soft and smelly fresh.
- Get rid of pests such as ticks, fleas, and lice.
Cons:
- It can cause dry skin.
- May leave your dog’s coat looking slightly dull.
- Proudly Made in USA - Vet formulated and manufactured in Los Angeles, CA USA without sacrificing vegan and organic principles or quality
- 6-in-1 Oatmeal Pet Shampoo & Conditioner - reduced shedding – anti itch, smelly odor control, moisturizes dry skin, conditions & detangles
7) Fresh ‘n Clean Scented Shampoo
This shampoo is an excellent choice if your dog has a thick coat of fur. The Fresh ‘n Clean formula contains conditioners that will help detangle and soften your pup’s hair.
It contains a light, refreshing scent that will leave your dog smelling clean and fresh. Plus, the formula is soap-free and pH balanced to be gentle on your dog’s skin. It aids in repelling fleas and ticks. It comes in three different varieties – Original, Hypoallergenic, and Oatmeal & Aloe.
Pros:
- Contains a special conditioner that helps to get rid of any bad smells and leaves your pet’s coat looking and smelling great.
- Available at pet stores and online retailers at cheaper than some of the other high-end shampoos on the market.
- The shampoo also has no phosphates or parabens which are known skin irritants that can cause allergies.
- This product works great on all types of coats, whether they belong to hair, short hair, or somewhere in between like terriers.
- This shampoo doesn’t leave residue behind when you rinse out the suds meaning less time spent washing dirt and odors away after your dog’s bath.
Cons:
- Sometimes the dogs don’t like the smell.
- Some consumers have complained they’ve received bottles containing more water than actual shampoo which makes them question its effectiveness in reducing doggy odor.
- SOAP-FREE DOG SHAMPOO - Fresh ’n Clean Scented Shampoo is a natural, soap-free, plant-based cleanser that gently washes away dirt and grime.
- LOCKS IN MOISTURE - With vitamin E and soothing aloe vera, this pH-balanced formula is designed specifically for dog’s sensitive skin. Plus, it locks in moisture for a soft, strong, manageable coat.
8) Wahl Dog Shampoo
This shampoo is a great choice for dogs with sensitive skin. It’s made with natural ingredients like chamomile lavender and aloe Vera, which help soothe and protect the skin. Has no alcohol or parabens, making the dog’s skin gentle with no irritations.
It is favorable for dogs that are prone to allergies. It is highly concentrated with coconut sodding agents, which means you don’t have to use a large volume when compared to other dog shampoos. The Wahl Dog Shampoo also has a light lavender scent which will leave your dog smelling fresh and clean.
Pros:
- Alcohol-free and pH balanced.
- Long-lasting scent.
- Good for dogs prone to allergies.
- Suitable for puppies.
- PEG-80 free, making it safer for most breeds
- Contains tea tree oil to help control odor.
- Leaves a refreshing lemon verbena scent.
- Gentle enough for everyday use on all breeds of dogs over six weeks old.
Cons:
- Not good for dogs that have susceptible skin and canines.
- Made in the USA - Our oatmeal formula pet shampoo is pH balanced, alcohol free, paraben free, PEG-80 free and is highly recommended for moisturizing dry skin & providing itch relief
- Oatmeal Formula – This coconut lime verbena scented pet shampoo is great for moisturizing dry skin, cleaning dirty coats, & itch relief. The thick lather rinses off clean & keeps your pet looking and smelling clean
9. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
It smells pretty nice and comes in an easy-to-apply pump bottle so it’s totally travel-friendly as well. This cleanser is a great choice for dogs with sensitive skin. It’s made with gentle ingredients that help to cleanse the coat without irritating or drying out the skin. The Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser also has a light cucumber scent which will leave your dog smelling fresh and clean.
Pros:
- It nourishes the skin and coat, leaving your pup soft and shiny without any residue.
- Can be used on all dogs including puppies (over 12 weeks).
- A non-comedogenic formula doesn’t block pores, making this a great choice for pets with sensitive skin or allergies.
- Will protect your puppy’s hair from damage caused by other shampoos.
- Safe to use even for pets with skin conditions like dermatitis.
Cons:
- The scent doesn’t last for a longer time quite expensive.
- CETAPHIL GENTLE FOAMING CLEANSER: Effortlessly removes dirt, oil and makeup without leaving skin feeling dry or tight
- SOFTENS AS IT CLEANS: Infused with hydrating glycerin and essential vitamins B5 & E to help maintain skin natural moisture balance
10. Vermont Soap pet shampoo
This was the first organic topical product that met USDA organic food regulations. It is a safe, natural, and non-toxic alternative to the detergent chemical shampoos that nearly all other pet shampoos are created from.
This is a great all-natural shampoo that helps eliminate odors and leave your dog smelling fresh and clean. The soap is also gentle on your dog’s skin, making it ideal for use every day.
It contains organic coconut, organic aloe Vera and essential olive oils and jojoba oils Its gentle composition gently cleans your dog’s coat and relieves dry skin, leaving it smelling lemony fresh. It’s a touch pricey, but aficionados of the shampoo swear by it, and you will too.
Pros:
- No chemical detergents, colors, or antimicrobial preservatives are used.
- Gentle and does not dry out hands.
- Eradicates dandruff.
- Aids in repelling fleas.
Cons:
- The scent does not last long.
- Can be more pricey than other shampoos.
- INFUSED WITH ORGANIC OLIVE OIL & COCONUT: Vermont Soap dog shampoo for sensitive skin is made from organic coconut, olive and jojoba oils, organic aloe vera, a combination of natural and organic essential oils and natural roasemary extract. These nutrients help keep dog's skin moisturized and well-nourished.
- SUITABLE FOR DOGS WITH SENSITIVE SKIN: Vermont Soap USDA organic dog shampoo is made of a gentle yet effective formula that can be used on dogs with sensitive skin. The extraordinarily milk based castile soap also keeps our pet dogs free of allerges
11. Rocco & Roxie Oatmeal Shampoo
This is made with natural ingredients like oatmeal and lavender oil, which work together to neutralize bad smells and leave your dog smelling fresh and clean. Plus, it’s pH-balanced so it won’t dry out your pup’s skin.
It is available in three potent compositions, cleanse and soothe your dog’s dry, inflamed, and itchy skin. This dog shampoo is designed with oat extract, rich shea butter, and aloe vera to keep your dog’s coat looking its best. It is absolutely free of drying alcohol, parabens, and artificial fragrance, making it both safe and natural.
Pros:
- Deep cleaning that removes dirt, grease, and build-up
- Safe for all coat types
- Relieves itchy, dry skin
- Contains natural ingredients like oatmeal, aloe extract, and lavender oil that soothe the skin and leave your dog smelling fresh
Cons:
- Can be more costly compared to other options.
- Not always easy to find in stores.
- Doesn’t lather up very well and can be difficult to rinse out of dog hair.
- Baby Your Baby - For tender new puppy skin or dogs with sensitive dermal conditions, our kindest shampoo is formulated to cleanse while being extra gentle. No tears or angry allergies allowed!
- Nature's Best Ingredients - Made with aloe vera extract, which smoothes the cuticle surface and seals in moisture for skin and coat; restorative rosemary, to stimulate follicle growth; and gentle chamomile.
12. Legger Certified Organic Oatmeal Dog Shampoo
Is a natural, organic shampoo that is perfect for dogs with sensitive skin. It uses all-natural ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut lemongrass, olive, jojoba, and oatmeal oils to soothe irritation and itching while getting rid of dander, dirt & odors.
Alcohol, artificial perfumes, parabens, sulfates, PEG, artificial colors are not present. Instead, it has an antioxidant complex to moisturize the coat and shine without drying out their skin like other shampoos tend to do. Plus, this brand makes you feel good about using something on our furry friends (and not just because they also make human products).
Pros:
- Organic shampoo.
- Good for all types of dogs.
- Can remove ticks and fleas naturally.
Cons:
- The scent can be strong to some people
- TRUE ORGANIC DOG SHAMPOO - 4legger is the first and only aloe based natural dog shampoo approved by the National Organic Program to use the USDA Seal to relieve itchy skin, moisturize dry skin, and soothe inflamed and irritated skin
- HYPOALLERGENIC DOG SHAMPOO - Safe and non-toxic organic dog shampoo for dogs with ultra sensitive skin, are aroma sensitive, or when you want to add your own essential oils. Concentrated - a little and it goes a long way
13. DakPets One Wash Natural Oatmeal Dog Shampoo And Conditioner
It is made with all-natural ingredients and is free from harsh chemicals. It is made with a veterinary-grade product, making it ideal for treating sensitive skin and your dog’s coat. Every ingredient used to make this product, including coconut oil, palm oil, and aloe, is sourced organically. It is also beneficial in cases of fleas, dryness, and dander.
This anti-itch, tear-free dog shampoo offers a superb blend of emollients and natural oils that can assist to hydrate the canine’s coat. The shampoo is not only dog-friendly, but is also non-allergenic, which can assist avoid irritating or inflaming the dog’s nose, skin, and eyes. This product must be used on a regular basis to help restore your dog’s matted or damaged coat’s healthy luster.
Pros:
- All in one product.
- Tear and odor-free formula.
- Can treat Itching issues
- Good for dogs with sensitive skin
Cons:
- Scent doesn’t last for long
- Doesn’t lather as much as compared to other shampoos
- Dog Oatmeal Shampoo - Try our popular dog shampoo formulas handcrafted to cleanse and moisturize dry skin and fur for a pet shampoo for dogs that’s a dog grooming supplies and pet bath staple
- Deodorizing Dog Shampoo - You can trust our dog body wash and oatmeal shampoo for dogs for a pet deodorizer that removes dirt and odors thanks to potent lavender oil for dogs in our dog odor shampoo
Conclusion
Our recommendation is Wahl’s 4-In-1 Calming Pet Shampoo. It is extremely effective at eliminating bad smells from dogs. If your dog has been rolling in something smelly or just generally has an unpleasant odor, this shampoo will take care of the problem quickly and easily.
It also contains ingredients that help to soothe and calm anxious pets, making bath time less stressful for both you and your puppy. This shampoo is pH balanced specifically for dogs, meaning it won’t dry out their skin or cause any other irritation. If you’re looking for a high-quality dog shampoo that can take care of all your smelly pet needs, Wahl’s calming pet shampoo is an excellent choice.
