How to Select Dog Shampoo

Different dogs need different shampoos--and there's a huge variety of dog shampoos available on the market to suit every dog. Looking at all these different products can be confusing, but knowing what to look for before you go to the store can help tremendously.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

How to Select Dog Shampoo

1. 
   Dry Skin Relief Shampoo by Dermaplex

   Decide what you want the shampoo to accomplish. If your dog has dry skin you might choose a moisturizing shampoo. If you deal with fleas and ticks on a regular basis you might choose one that controls them either separately or in combination with the shampoo.

2. 
   Natural Oatmeal Anti-Itch Shampoo by Bio-Groom

   Pay attention to your dog's behaviors. If he scratches a lot, you should choose a shampoo that will relieve itchy skin. Shampoos that contain Aloe vera are great for this, but you want to make sure it's actually dry skin and not an allergy that's causing the itchiness.

3. 
   John Paul Oatmeal Pet Shampoo for Sensitive Skin

   Diagnose the condition of your dog's skin properly. You might assume your dog has dry or sensitive skin based on certain things they do. If they have sensitive skin you want to be sure the shampoo you choose will not irritate it.

4. 
   Easy Comb Detangling Spray by True Blue

   Choose a dog shampoo that focuses on conditioning if your dog has long hair that tends to tangle easily. You can choose de-tangling shampoo in combination with a conditioning shampoo to help restore her beautiful coat of fur.

5. Select a shampoo according to your dog's age. There are separate shampoos available for puppies as well as for dogs. Each is specially formulated to care for a dog's skin at a certain time of life.

6. If your dog experiences allergies make sure you choose a shampoo that is hypo-allergenic or perfume and scent free to avoid affecting their allergies.

7. Choose a shampoo based on the previous Steps, not on price. Dog owners that have bought expensive shampoo and compared it to inexpensive shampoos have found no difference.

Tips & Warnings

• Many people have strayed from fragrant dog shampoos because of the added unnecessary chemicals so you might choose to avoid highly fragranced shampoos.
• If you feel you are not having luck choosing a shampoo that is right for your dog, consult your vet. She can recommend something specifically for your dog.
• Only use shampoos designated for dogs and not your own shampoo or any human shampoo. It could irritate their skin and could create a more serious condition.

Resources

• Video on caring for your dog's coat