Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin: 6 Options to Try

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When a dog starts scratching excessively, pet parents often start hunting for the best anti-itch shampoo for dogs. And there’s no shortage of them! Dog shampoo for itchy skin can be quite effective…if you use a product tailored to your dog’s specific needs. However, with so many options on the market, finding the best dog shampoo for itchy skin can seem like a daunting task.

Ready to simplify your search? To make your life easier, we reached out to trusted veterinarians for insights on what to look for in itchy dog shampoo.

Whether you’re searching for the best shampoo for dogs with allergies or solutions for general itchy skin, we’ve got answers. You’ll discover top product recommendations to discuss with your own vet, as well as tips on how to help your dog ditch that itch.

Can a Shampoo Soothe Your Dog’s Itchy Skin?

Itchy skin in dogs can range from irksome and irritating to downright agonizing. But before you bathe your pup with a dog shampoo for itchy skin, it’s worth a visit to the vet for a proper diagnosis.

Itchiness in dogs can materialize in different ways, says Dr. Anna Kaufman, DVM, a veterinarian with BondVet. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Licking or chewing paws excessively
• Chewing on different parts of the body
• Stopping to scratch themselves with their hind legs
• Rolling on the ground and rubbing their body back and forth
• Head-shaking
• Scooting the butt along the ground

But these classic itchy pet signs aren’t the only clue. You should also examine your dog’s skin and inside of the ears, says Dr. Jerry Klein, DVM, chief veterinary officer at the American Kennel Club.

“Any abnormal looking or questionable findings such as hair loss, redness, crusty skin, rashes, foul odor, or pustules could be indications of a skin condition or infection,” adds Dr. Klein. You’ll also want to look for evidence of fleas, such as flea dirt. 

Your vet is best suited to uncover the source of the scratching and what to do about it. The answer to the question, “Can a shampoo soothe your dog’s itchy skin?” often depends on what’s causing the itch. Using a random dog shampoo without understanding the cause of the itchiness will not help. And, in some cases, it can be harmful.

“Not all shampoos are appropriate for all situations, which is why it is important to consult your veterinarian before starting any medical treatments for your dog,” says Dr. Kaufman.

A dog shampoo for allergies, for example, is formulated differently than a dog shampoo for dry skin or a fungal infection.

Types of Anti-Itch Dog Shampoo

Dog shampoo for itchy skin comes in a variety of formulations. Some are designed to alleviate dryness or mild irritation. Others, like allergy shampoo for dogs or dog mite shampoo, target specific concerns or infections. 

However, keep in mind that even the most targeted anti-itch shampoos may not be enough to provide effective relief.

Depending on what’s causing the itchiness, your dog could need additional treatments, such as a new diet, antibiotics, or some other intervention. This is why it’s best to consult with your veterinarian if your dog is scratching intensely or excessively.

Here are a few types of anti-itch shampoo for dogs your vet may recommend:

Natural dog shampoo for itching

Natural anti-itch dog shampoo generally works by

• Removing surface allergens
• Hydrating the coat
• Soothing the skin

These formulas may contain natural ingredients, such as oatmeal extracts, known to alleviate itchiness.

Medicated shampoo for itchy dog skin

For scratching caused by a fungal or bacterial infection, your veterinarian may recommend a medicated shampoo. These formulas often contain ingredients like ketoconazole, chlorhexidine, or miconazole.

While most medicated shampoos are available over the counter, some that contain certain concentrations or combinations of ingredients may require a prescription from a veterinarian.

Forms of Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin

Just like human shampoos, anti-itch dog shampoos come in a variety of forms. This can be helpful if you need to tailor your treatment to your dog’s preferences.

For example, if your pup hates baths, you might have better luck with a powder or no-rinse foam.

Traditional anti-itch dog shampoo

Most dog shampoo for itchy skin comes in liquid form, which requires sudsing up and rinsing off your pup. 

Alternative anti-itch dog shampoo

Some dog shampoos for itchy skin are available in dry powder, mousse form, pads, and sprays, making them a good option to use in a pinch or between baths. Instead of lathering up and rinsing off your dog, you would typically apply the product, then brush it through the coat.

Best Dog Shampoo for Itching: 6 Options to Try

Ask your veterinarian if any of the following products might be a good fit for your dog. All our picks can be purchased without a prescription, but it’s best to get the OK from your vet before you buy.

DOUXO S3 CALM

This non-medicated shampoo is formulated for dogs with irritated or allergic skin. It contains ophytrium, a natural ingredient derived from a type of Japanese grass plant that supports the skin’s barrier.

Added ingredients like panthenol, jojoba, and niacinamide contain moisturizing and protective properties. Plus, this hypoallergenic shampoo features a pleasant coco-vanilla scent.

DOUXO S3 CALM is a top vet-recommended dog shampoo for itchy skin. Dr. Kaufman says she often discusses DOUXO Calm shampoo with clients as an option for itch management. She says it is a good pick for dogs “where there are no lesions and they are on proper oral prevention for ectoparasites (fleas, mites).”

Highlights

• Contains natural ingredients designed to protect the skin’s barrier and promote hydration.
• Formulated without sulfates, colorants, or other ingredients that can cause irritation.
• Available as both a traditional shampoo and a mousse.

Things to Consider

• It may take some time for the product to work. The best results typically occur after 21 days.
• This is a natural anti-itch dog shampoo and is not intended to treat infections.

DermAllay Oatmeal Shampoo

One of the key ingredients in this natural shampoo is oatmeal, which has anti-inflammatory properties that calm the skin.

DermAllay oatmeal dog shampoo also contains a ceramide complex, which acts as a protective barrier from external irritants. Added safflower oil (which is high in omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E) helps protect and moisturize the skin. Combined, these ingredients can help restore your dog’s skin to its natural glory. 

Highlights

• A natural, non-medicated oatmeal dog shampoo with a ceramide complex and added safflower oil to help protect and hydrate the skin.
• Designed for routine bathing, though we recommend first checking in with your veterinarian.

Things to consider

• It’s a natural shampoo, not intended for dogs with skin infections.

TrizChlor 4 Shampoo

The active ingredient in this medicated, soapless shampoo is chlorhexidine, used for its antifungal and antibacterial properties. This makes it a good choice for dogs whose itchiness stems from a skin infection.

It’s formulated as a cream shampoo that you rub into your dog’s skin, let sit for five to 10 minutes, then rinse. It can be used daily, though always confirm treatment details with your vet.

Highlights

• The main ingredient is chlorhexidine, which acts as an antifungal and antibacterial agent.
• Because this is a soapless shampoo, it’s less likely to irritate the skin.

Things to Consider

• It’s intended for dogs with fungal or bacterial skin infections.

Cerasoothe CHX Antiseptic Shampoo

Cerasoothe contains chlorhexidine, an antiseptic that works to provide relief from antibacterial and antifungal infections. Added ceramides help protect the skin barrier, while oat extracts (rich in avenanthramides) calm the skin and provide antioxidant support. 

Cerasoothe also has a pleasant, clean and fresh scent to make your dog’s bathing experience more enjoyable. 

Highlights

• The active ingredient is chlorhexidine, an antiseptic.
• Contains skin-protecting ceramides as well as avenanthramides, an anti-inflammatory compound found in oatmeal.
• Has a fresh, clean scent.

Things to Consider

• It’s a medicated shampoo intended for use on dogs with bacterial or fungal skin infections.

Allermyl Shampoo

This top vet-recommended medicated dog shampoo for allergies is designed to moisturize, soothe, clean, and relieve irritation and itching.

It contains “Vitamin” F, which is not a true vitamin, but a combo of essential fatty acids that helps hydrate, reduce inflammation, and improve skin texture.

It also contains the anti-fungal piroctone olamine, as well as L-Rhamnose, an ingredient with antibacterial properties. These ingredients work together to make it among the the best medicated dog shampoo for skin allergies.

Highlights

• A good option for dogs with allergies and dry skin.
• Contains skin-healthy ingredients, including “vitamin” F and L-Rhamnose.

Things to Consider

• It’s a medicated shampoo, designed for dogs with allergic skin conditions.

DOUXO S3 Pyo Shampoo

Another shampoo from the DOUXO line of dog shampoo for itchy skin, S3 Pyo is for dogs with itchiness due to a bacterial or fungal infection. Chlorhexidine works as an antiseptic, while ophytrium helps protect the skin’s barrier. The result is a soft, shiny, hydrated, itch-free coat.

“I typically rely on DOUXO S3 Pyo Shampoo when I am concerned about a bacterial or fungal infection, and shampoo is an appropriate part of the treatment for the patient,” says Dr. Kaufman.

Highlights

• A good option for dogs who are scratching themselves due to a bacterial or fungal infection.
• Also available as wipes and a mousse.

Things to Consider

• It’s not a shampoo intended for general bathing.

How to Choose the Best Shampoo for a Dog with Itchy Skin

The experts we spoke to stressed the importance of consulting with your vet before using any dog shampoo for itchy skin. They also offer the following tips. 

Find shampoo that works for your dog’s coat

The first step is finding a dog shampoo for itchy dogs that targets your pup’s condition. However, another important consideration is finding an option appropriate for your pup’s coat type.

“Certain shampoos work better on certain types of dog coats,” says Dr. Klein. And since dog coats can vary widely from breed to breed, what might work well for one dog might not for others.

If the shampoo treatment your vet recommends comes in different forms, ask a professional groomer what type might work best for your dog. And if you’re not seeing results, ask your vet if there’s another type of shampoo that might address your dog’s itchy skin.

Ingredients: What to look for and avoid

Natural anti-itch dog shampoos often contain skin-soothing ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, aloe vera gel, and safflower oil. Medicated shampoos can contain elements like chlorhexidine, ketoconazole, or miconazole.

While all of these may be beneficial, Dr. Kaufman cautions against shopping according to a specific ingredient.

What’s more important is to follow your vet’s treatment plan and use a shampoo that fits your dog’s condition. “I refer my clients to certain products based on the patient’s needs,” she adds

As for ingredients to avoid, Dr. Klein advises against essential oils, as many can harm dogs. However, some products, such as tea tree oil shampoo for dogs, may contain lower concentrations that are safe for dogs but ineffective at improving your dog’s skin condition. Always check with your vet before using these products.

Should you try DIY dog shampoo for itchy skin?

While homemade dog shampoo might seem cost-effective, veterinarians generally recommend against it.

“If not made properly in the correct balance, DIY dog shampoo can become messy and ultimately less effective,” Dr. Klein advises. DIY shampoos may also dry your dog’s skin out or cause skin irritation

How to choose shampoo for itchy puppy skin

Although puppies can handle many adult dog shampoos, Dr. Klein suggests opting for gentler formulas. “I tend to lean toward the milder aloe and oatmeal types of shampoo, or those designed specifically for puppies,” he says.

He also recommends reading labels carefully, especially when using medicated shampoos on puppies.

“Puppies move around a lot during baths, making it difficult to keep shampoo out of their eyes,” Dr. Klein says. So always look for shampoos formulated to avoid eye irritation. 

Dr. Kaufman cautions against bathing puppies too often, which can actually cause itchy skin.

Most puppies only need a bath every few weeks because they have natural protective oils on their skin. (But this frequency can vary, so confirm with your veterinarian.)

“For itchy puppies with no clear underlying condition, I typically recommend DOUXO Calm shampoo,” she adds.

Be patient, results take time

Managing itchy skin often involves trial-and-error and a combination of treatments, says Dr. Kaufman.

“It can take several weeks to see improvement in your dog’s skin,” she says. “This is why making a plan and touching base with your veterinarian is so important.”

Anti-Itch Shampoo for Dogs: Tips and Safety

Once you’ve found a good dog shampoo for itchy skin, here’s how to use it safely and effectively:

Work closely with your veterinarian

The most important tip is to follow your veterinarian’s guidance. Always reach out to your vet with any questions or if your dog’s condition worsens. This is especially important if your dog has parasites, a skin infection, or an allergic condition, says Dr. Klein. 

Never use human shampoos on your dog  

This holds true no matter what you read on the label. Even human shampoos labeled “gentle” aren’t suitable for dogs, says Dr. Klein.

“Dog skin has a different pH balance, so human products can often be drying and irritating,” he warns. “They can even make the problem worse rather than better.”

Use medicated anti-itch dog shampoo correctly

“Never use medicated or an anti-parasitic shampoo formulated for dogs unless directed by your veterinarian,” says Dr. Klein. He also recommends wearing gloves when handling medicated shampoo.

Follow product instructions carefully

Using shampoo incorrectly could cause it to work less effectively. So always follow the instructions on the label to get the best results.

These could include: using a very specific amount, shaking the bottle before use, leaving the product on your dog for a certain period of time, and rinsing thoroughly. 

Bathe your dog properly

When bathing your dog, avoid getting shampoo in your dog’s face, eyes, and ears, veterinarians caution. If shampoo does get into your dog’s eyes, Dr. Klein recommends rinsing them with lukewarm water for a full minute.

“Notify a veterinarian afterwards if the dog starts to blink, tear up, paw at the eye, or keep the eye closed,” he says. 

It’s also important to rinse your dog thoroughly, especially if using a medicated shampoo.

“In some cases, dry, flaky skin on a dog is a result of shampoo residue,” says Dr. Klein. “Rinse, rinse, and then rinse again. In many cases, the rinsing may take longer than the lathering,” he adds.

Look for signs of irritation

If your dog shows signs of severe scratching, hives, or redness after being bathed with a new shampoo, Dr. Klein recommends contacting a veterinarian immediately.