Homemade Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin

Castile soap is made from an olive oil base.

Dogs often suffer dry, itchy skin that can cause hot spots, balding, and a host of other problems. Dogs with dry, itchy skin still need bathing, but it is important not to make their skin even more dry with harsh chemical shampoos. Making your own dog shampoo will help keep your pet clean, and it may even help stop excessive itching. Natural shampoos will help remove dander and dirt without drying your dog's skin.

Things You'll Need

• Liquid castile soap
• Aloe vera
• Vegetable oil
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Glass jar with lid
• Eucalyptus essential oil, or pennyroyal essential oil

Instructions

1. Pour 2 cups of water into a sterile jar. Add 2 teaspoons of liquid castile soap, which is a mild soap made from olive oil and sodium hydroxide. Castile soap does not contain any sulfates that can be drying. You can find castile soap in the health and beauty section of stores that specialize in natural living.

2. Add 2 tablespoons of aloe vera, and 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil. Put the lid on the jar and shake it well, so all the ingredients combine. Shake the mixture before each use.

3. Using an eyedropper, add 2 to 3 drops of eucalyptus essential oil, or pennyroyal essential oil to your natural dog shampoo if your dog has fleas. These essential oils will help get rid of the fleas without exposing your dog to harmful chemicals.

References

• "Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats"; Richard Pitcairn, Ph.D., DVM; 2005
• Working With Dogs: Making Natural Dog Shampoo and Soap