Lather to Goodness: The Best Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin

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You know, for sure, how it feels like to have itchy skin. Scratching can be overwhelming. However, it is not recommended as it can cause irritation. Your last resort is to reach out for a cream to help relieve the itchiness and irritation.

Just imagine what itchy skin feels like with your furry buddies. And worse, the only way they deal with the condition is to scratch occasionally, bite their fur, or lick their paws. This is very unpleasant, thus keeping both you and your dog awake at night. 

The next thing in your mind? To look for ways on how to get rid of or reduce the suffering. And this is where an excellent anti-itch dog shampoo can be of great help!

Read on as we discuss the possible causes of skin problems in dogs as well as the best dog shampoo for itchy skin.

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Top 9  Shampoo for Dog with Itchy Skin

Editor's Picks

Product​​​​ Name

Price

Best Choices

Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Pet Shampoo Plus Conditioner

Best Waterless Shampoo for Itching

Wahl Pet-Friendly Waterless No Rinse Shampoo

Most Budget-Friendly Dog Shampoo for Itchy and Dry Skin

Burt's Bees All Natural Oatmeal Shampoo and Conditioner

Best Medicated Dog Shampoo for Itchy and Dry Skin

Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Dog Shampoo

Best Dog Shampoo for Allergies

Vet's Best Hypoallergenic Shampoo

Best Dry Skin Shampoo for Dogs

Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Shampoo

Best Organic Shampoo for Sensitive Skin

4Legger USDA Certified Organic Dog Shampoo

Best Deodorizing Dog Shampoo

TropiClean Aloe and Coconut Deodorizing Shampoo

Best Oatmeal-Based Dog Shampoo for Itchiness

"Pets Are Kids Too" Premium Pet Oatmeal Shampoo

Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Pet Shampoo Plus Conditioner - Best Dog Shampoo for Dry Itchy Skin

Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Pet Shampoo Plus Conditioner is formulated with a balanced pH to perfectly suit dogs suffering from allergies to food, flea bites, and grass. 

This coconut-based and oatmeal product is made with organic and natural ingredients to ensure the dog's safety, even with frequent use. It does not contain any alcohol, sulfates, fragrance, colorants, and other harsh chemicals that may cause harm, especially on dogs with dry, itchy, and sensitive skin.

Its formulation features a blend of aloe extracts, almond oil, essential oils, and vitamins for a soothing and therapeutic effect on your pet's coat. As a soapless dog solution, it prevents any eye, nose, and skin irritation when bathing.

Moreover, the addition of a conditioner helps nourish your dog's coat and makes brushing and detangling easier. It's deodorizing properties ensure that your dogs will feel and clean even after several days after bathing.

Overall, Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Pet Shampoo Plus Conditioner is an all-natural shampoo for dogs that lathers and rinses easily, leaving your pet's coat clean while reducing the amount of scratching brought about by itchy skin.

Pros
  • Nourishes and moisturizes dog’s skin
  • Relieves dry and itchy skin
  • Removes tangles and deodorizes coat
  • Safe for sensitive dog’s use
Cons
  • A bit pricey

Wahl Pet-Friendly Waterless No Rinse Shampoo - Best Waterless Shampoo for Itching

Wahl Pet-Friendly Waterless No Rinse Shampoo is a waterless formula that does not require rinsing, thus enabling you to shampoo your dog between baths. 

Its plant-derived recipe uses oatmeal and coconut lime verbena as its main ingredients to ensure suitability for sensitive skin.

The formulation also offers cleansing, conditioning, moisturizing, and detangling properties, especially on dry and itchy skin.

This also features a pH balanced, paraben-free, alcohol-free, and PEG-80 free formulation, which is recommended to gently clean and freshen your dog's coat even without rinsing. Instead, the product contains lavender and chamomile fragrance to ensure a long-lasting and pleasant smell.

Other than its efficiency in cleaning and conditioning the skin, it is guaranteed safe, effective, and allergy-friendly as this waterless formulation does not leave skin stripped of their natural oils.

Truly, Wahl Pet-Friendly Waterless No Rinse Shampoo is an excellent option if you want to clean and freshen up your dogs for only a few minutes. Simply lather the foam on the coat, wipe off any excess, and brush them out for a quick bathing experience.

Pros
  • No-rinse dry shampoo
  • Plant-derived formulation
  • Alcohol and paraben-free
  • Safe to use and allergy-friendly
Cons
  • The cleansing effect does not last long

Burt's Bees All Natural Oatmeal Shampoo and Conditioner - Most Budget-Friendly Dog Shampoo for Itchy and Dry Skin

Burt's Bees All Natural Oatmeal Shampoo and Conditioner provides a gentle bathing experience while nourishing your pet's skin and coat. 

This product is made with high-quality ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, honey, avocado, beeswax, and lavender. All of which are blended to provide a natural cleansing and moisturizing strength that soothes and softens sensitive and dry skin.

The mild formulation of this tearless shampoo offers balance pH, which is suitable for all dogs and puppies. It is designed not only to add softness and shine on your dog's coat but also to remove the stinky smell. Thus, this can be used regularly without worrying about losing the oils on your dog's skin or fur.

Moreover, this highly economical shampoo with conditioner is 100% safe to use as its formula is free from any parabens, petroleums, fragrances, colorants, sulfates, and harsh chemicals.

Overall, Burt's Bees All Natural Oatmeal Shampoo and Conditioner is a pet-friendly and nature-friendly solution that naturally cleanses and nourishes your dog's dry skin and coat with its light lather and mild scent.

Pros
  • Simple and gentle ingredients
  • Naturally free from harsh chemicals
  • Suitable for all dogs
  • Very affordable
Cons
  • May cause skin rashes in some dogs

Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Dog Shampoo - Best Medicated Dog Shampoo for Itchy and Dry Skin

Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Dog Shampoo is a medicated dog product that effectively and quickly relieves skin problems brought about by bacterial and yeast infections. 

This formulation contains coal tar, micronized sulfur, salicylic acid, along with colloidal oatmeal and allantoin to hydrate the skin and promote gentle healing of several dog conditions.

As a fast-acting remedy, it can help relieve skin scaling, rashes, and itch associated with seborrhea, mange, dermatitis, parasitic, fungal, and bacterial infections.

Moreover, this is specially formulated to offer a balanced pH treatment, which is ideal for sensitive and allergic skin. This can effectively reduce any symptoms related to skin itching and inflammations.

Being veterinary recommended, it uses only high-grade ingredients to ensure efficiency. This solution does not contain any dye, paraben, soap, and other harmful chemicals to keep your dogs safe, even with continuous use.

At a very reasonable price, Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Dog Shampoo is a premium medicated product that you can use to hydrate your dog's skin while promoting the healing of their skin infections.

Pros
  • Works for a variety of skin conditions
  • Relieves itching and inflammation
  • pH balanced formulation
  • Free from dyes and parabens
Cons
  • Too strong scent

Vet's Best Hypoallergenic Shampoo - Best Dog Shampoo for Allergies

Vet's Best Hypoallergenic Shampoo offers great relief to your dog's itchy skin and allergies while keeping them clean, moisturized, and well-nourished.

It uses plant-based and all-natural ingredients like aloe vera, allantoin, Vitamin A, and Vitamin E to ensure the right combination of smoothness, comfort, and relief to your dog's condition.

The product is a good remedy against itching as it also helps in improving smooth, dry, and brittle coats.

Veterinarians formulate this gentle yet effective shampoo for dogs without using any soap, parabens, sulfates, fragrance, and harsh chemicals that can cause tears and harm to your furry friends.

As a bonus, this dermatologically approved product works entirely with other treatments such as topical flea and tick control products. Its hypoallergenic property allows you to use it as often as necessary to remove the allergens without even worrying about drying out your dog's skin.

The use of Vet's Best Hypoallergenic Shampoo definitely promotes total care and relief for your dogs as it can instantly become part of the complete treatment system for sensitive and dry skin.

Pros
  • Great for sensitive dogs
  • Helps reduce itchiness and irritations
  • Dermatologically tested and approved
  • Good value for money
Cons
  • Strong perfume-like smell

Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Shampoo - Best Dry Skin Shampoo for Dogs

Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Shampoo offer a specialized formulation efficiently intended to cater to the needs of dogs suffering from dry and itchy skin.

This provides maximum care of sensitive skin and coat due to its rich oatmeal and aloe vera components, which moisturizes and hydrates the skin to relieve itching and irritation.

It also helps remove dirt and neutralize odor to keep your dog smelling fresh in between baths without losing any body oils.

The balanced pH of this product guarantees it to be a safe choice that won't cause any irritation or inflammation. It is 100% biodegradable and free from paraben, soaps, and phosphates, making it a cruelty-free pack.

Other than rehydrating the skin and fighting off inflammation, this solution nourishes the coat and leaves a pleasant smell of almond and vanilla.

It also works well with other treatments, thus leaving you worry-free about washing it off and reducing its efficiency.

Overall, Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Shampoo is an effective shampoo formulated to relieve the dog's itch and allergies while keeping their coat soft and with a lovely scent.

Pros
  • Maximum care for sensitive skin
  • Moisturizes and hydrates skin
  • Comes with balance pH
  • 100% biodegradable
Cons
  • A bit oily

 4Legger USDA Certified Organic Dog Shampoo - Best Organic Shampoo for Sensitive Skin

4-Legger USDA Certified Organic Dog Shampoo offers a holistic approach with its beneficial formulation that gently cleans, moisturizes, and conditions your dog's skin and coat. 

This shampoo is made using certified organic and plant-based vegan ingredients, making it 100% non-toxic and hypoallergenic. It is handcrafted in small batches using coconut oil, lemongrass essential oils, and aloe vera to ensure only the best concoctions for your dogs.

As a holistic product, it does not contain any synthetic or harmful components, which adds to the toxicity of your dog's bath. Instead, all its ingredients are approved to food standards. This makes it a dependable choice among veterinarians, especially in relieving dry and itchy skin.

Moreover, this lemongrass citrus solution offers an easy lather and rinse formulation, which naturally cleans and moisturizes using the natural oils to maintain a soft and shiny coat.

Overall, 4-Legger USDA Certified Organic Dog Shampoo doesn't compromise your dog's health no matter what age they may be. It is guaranteed safe for newborn puppies, senior dogs, and even for humans.

Pros
  • Gentle on sensitive dog’s skin
  • All-natural and vegan formulation
  • Safe to use and non-toxic
  • Biodegradable and sustainably sourced
Cons
  • Thinner consistency

 TropiClean Aloe and Coconut Deodorizing Shampoo - Best Deodorizing Dog Shampoo

TropiClean Aloe and Coconut Deodorizing Shampoo offer an enhanced formula that effectively exfoliates, moisturizes, and conditions your dog's skin and coat. 

This shampoo contains beta-hydroxy, which helps provide long-lasting itch relief. It is designed to soothe dry, itchy, and irritated skin while maintaining the natural oils in your dog's skin.

As a safe solution for your dog's use, the product is made with naturally derived ingredients with only the highest quality. These components are either naturally occurring raw materials or adapted from naturally occurring plant or mineral-based raw materials.

Moreover, it does not contain any soap, paraben, and dye that can cause harm on sensitive skin, but instead comes with a soothing blend perfect for itchiness. This is also perfect for smelly dogs as it gently removes dirt while deodorizing and freshening your dogs in between baths.

Bathing your dogs with TropiClean Aloe and Coconut Deodorizing Shampoo guarantees a soothing and medicated itch relief as well as deodorizing effects to keep your dog smelling fresh and clean.

Pros
  • Long-lasting itch relief
  • Comes with deodorizing and freshening effects
  • Naturally derived ingredients
  • Free from toxic chemicals
Cons
  • Not 100% organic

"Pets Are Kids Too" Premium Pet Oatmeal Shampoo - Best Oatmeal-Based Dog Shampoo for Itchiness

"Pets Are Kids Too" Premium Pet Oatmeal Shampoo is an organic and all-natural formula intended to clean and condition your dog's dry and itchy skin, without any compromise.

As a natural-based product, it contains ingredients like oatmeal, aloe vera, coconut, and baking soda to provide instant relief for itchiness. Its revolutionary formulation guarantees soothing effects, especially on sensitive skin and coats.

The light yet amazing oatmeal cookie scent offers an incredible and long-lasting way to eliminate the odor of your dog, no matter what size or breed they may be. Also, its gentle formulation provides a moisturizing effect on the paws and nose, thus making it a tear-free and dandruff-free solution.

Moreover, the dog allergy-friendly feature of this shampoo is brought about by its all-natural and hypoallergenic composition. In fact, it does not have any harmful chemicals that can cause itching, shedding, and other allergies on your pets.

Overall, "Pets Are Kids Too" Premium Pet Oatmeal Shampoo is made to be safe, effective, and cruelty-free to ensure only the best for your fur baby.

Pros
  • 100% natural and organic ingredients
  • Stops itching effectively
  • Comes with moisturizing effects
  • Tear-free and dandruff-free
Cons
  • Overpowering smell for some dogs

Dog Shampoo for Itchy and Dry Skin: Buying Guide

When it comes to itchy skin, there is probably a lot of misinformation out there. While others claim that regular bathing using the right shampoo is the key to relieving the condition, some believe that its frequent use can make itchy skin worse. 

1. Causes of Itchy Skin in Dogs

best shampoo dogs itchy skin

Dog itching may be due to a variety of reasons. These could possibly deal with biological issues, environmental issues, or a combination of both. Some of the common causes of dog itching include:


2. Effects of Dog Shampoos on Itchy Skin

best dog shampoo for itchy allergy skin

Dog shampoos are specially formulated to cater to the needs of your dog's skin, which is different from humans.

Usually, their pH is on the alkaline side, which is highly recommended in maintaining and protecting the balance of the topmost skin layer against bacteria and viruses. 

They also have a milder structure that effectively cleanses the skin and coat. Dog shampoos are designed to lather quickly and retain moisture of the skin, thus preventing dryness, scales, and dandruff.

Moreover, the shampoo's formulation can target different skin-related problems such as tangles, shedding, flea and tick control, odor, and other skin infections.


3. Choosing Shampoos for Itchy Skin

best dog shampoo for dry and itchy skin

There are many options when it comes to dog shampoos. So how do you choose the best dog shampoo for itchy skin? Here are some of the features to look for:

  • Hypoallergenic
    Dog shampoos with a hypoallergenic property have lower risk triggering an allergic reaction. Since dogs can be allergic to different things, be sure to use and stick with an all-natural product without any harsh chemical and artificial additives.
  • Natural Ingredients
    The use of natural ingredients has beneficial factors that are less likely to cause any adverse reactions to your dog's skin. Avoid harmful ingredients that can strip off the natural oils as well as drying components that can make the problem worse.
  • Moisturizers
    Dog shampoos for itchy skin should come with natural moisturizers like shea butter, coconut oil, aloe vera, tea tree oil, and oatmeal. You can also use other options that contain skin-supporting nutrients such as Vitamin E, omega fatty acids, and biotin.
  • pH Balance
    Since your dog's skin has a different pH than humans, their shampoos should come with a balanced pH to prevent making the skin problems worse.
  • Medicated
    Itchiness caused by bacterial or yeast infection should have medicated properties to help treat the underlying health problem. However, a diagnosis from your vet is essential before choosing the shampoo with the right ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Can I Bathe My Dog in to Stop Itching?

best dog shampoo for dry skin and itching

Dog shampoos can relieve itching the same way that they can reduce the itching sensation of your dogs. They are usually formulated with certain chemicals that can attack the cause of the itch and help remove itching.

Bathing your dog in cool water can also relieve itchiness. Avoid using hot or warm water as this can make the condition worse.

The addition of baking soda, colloidal oatmeal, or Epsom salt into the water can also help reduce itching. 


How Often Should You Bathe a Dog With Itchy Skin?

the best shampoo for dogs with itchy skin

The frequency of bathing dogs depends mainly on several factors, such as the dog's breed, activity, and health. Bathing is necessary if dirt, grease, and debris are present on the hair or if there is an unpleasant odor.

Those who spend more time outside are more likely to need baths more often than dogs who spend their time indoors. 

Dogs who are suffering from itchiness, allergies, and other skin irritations may require frequent baths. It is best to seek help from your veterinarian to ensure all the necessary information as well as the best bathing schedule.

Final Thoughts

There are many choices for an effective product for your dogs. Among the best dog shampoo for itchy skin we reviewed, Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Pet Shampoo Plus Conditioner is our top pick. 

This two-in-one dog shampoo moisturizes and soothes dry, itchy skin. It is naturally formulated with coconut oil, aloe vera, almond oil, and vitamins to keep your pet's skin clean and fresh.

Oatmeal Dog Shampoo & Conditioner 17oz [USA] 5 in 1 Plant-Based Organic Sulfate-Free...*
  • 【All Natural Plant-Based Patented Formula for Your Furry Friend】Discover our exclusive dog shampoo and conditioner blend, perfect for sensitive pet skin. Made with Organic Aloe Vera Gel, Almond Oil, Oatmeal, and essential Vitamins (A, D, E, B12). It's a safe, effective solution for easy detangling and daily use. Say goodbye to wet dog odors and soothe hot spots and itching with our patented puppy shampoo & conditioner. Treat your pet to the care they deserve!
  • 【Premium Pet Care for Your Dog Wellness - Made in USA】This professional pet shampoo and conditioner is created with the finest ingredients, our formula is top-notch, free from parabens, cruelty, sulfates, alcohol, and soap. Our Aloe Vera Gel provides 20 out of the essential 22 amino acids your pets need, usually found in their diet. Formulated for DOGS, CATS, FERRETS & RABBITS 8 weeks and older.
  • 【One Wash, Endless Benefits: 5-in-1 Grooming Marvel at Your Fingertips】This innovative dog wash is more than just a grooming product; it simplifies the grooming routine, providing a single solution that cleans, deodorizes, conditions, detangles, and moisturizes your dog's coat and skin, ensuring they stay impeccably soft and clean. It's a complete answer to all your dog's grooming needs, making them look, feel, and smell fantastic, all achieved with the simplicity of a single wash.
  • 【Nurture, Nourish, & Renew with Unique Ingredients】What makes our blend genuinely exceptional is the carefully selected ingredients we incorporate. The dynamic duo of Soothing Aloe Vera Gel and Nourishing Almond Oil join forces, providing remarkable relief for your pet's skin issues while maintaining essential hydration. Witness the transformation as our formula even aids in deshedding, resulting in a lustrous and healthier coat for your loyal friend!
  • 【Advanced Deshedding Formula for a Healthier, Happier Pet】Experience the magic of our hypoallergenic deshedding shampoo and conditioner, designed to keep your pet's skin in the best condition. This formula goes beyond the surface by promoting healthy skin cell maintenance, safeguarding against UV damage, and efficiently tackling undercoat shedding. The rich infusion of Fatty Acids in our blend ensures your pet's skin retains essential moisture while gently eliminating loose and brittle hair.

Thus, making it an excellent skin irritation solution to stop your dog's scratching and licking.

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