Choosing the right antifungal shampoo for dogs is essential for maintaining your pet’s health. These specialised shampoos soothe itchy skin and combat infections from bacteria and fungi. With numerous options, selecting the best antifungal shampoo for dogs can feel overwhelming.
Have you ever wondered if human shampoo is safe for dogs? Learn more about the risks and alternatives in our article on using human shampoo on dogs.
In this article, we review five top-rated antifungal shampoos for dogs, highlighting their unique benefits. Whether your dog has skin irritations or you want to prevent future issues, these shampoos cater to various needs. Let’s explore the best choices to keep your dog’s coat healthy and vibrant.
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How Do I Know if My Dog Needs Antifungal Shampoo?
Pet owners often wonder about the signs or symptoms that indicate their dog may need an antifungal shampoo. Common indicators include persistent itching, which may lead to excessive scratching or biting at the skin. If you notice these signs, an antifungal shampoo can help alleviate discomfort and manage the fungal infections affecting your dog’s skin.
Redness, irritation, flaky or scaly patches, and unusual odours emanating from the coat can signal a fungal infection. Additionally, hotspots or bald patches may develop due to ongoing irritation.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. They will then be able to advise on the best medicated dog shampoos.
Looking for the best way to get rid of fleas on your dog? Check out our guide on the best flea shampoo for dogs to keep your pet pest-free.
Our Top 5 Picks for Best Antifungal Shampoos for 2025
1. DOUXO S3 PYO Shampoo | Antibacterial & Anti-Yeast
- Veterinary-Approved Formula: 3% Chlorhexidine and Ophytrium help reduce yeast, bacteria, and skin inflammation.
- Gentle & Hypoallergenic: Free from parabens, sulphates, and artificial colourants—ideal for sensitive skin.
- Hydrating & Detangling: Leaves coat soft, smooth, and easier to manage with skin-soothing agents.
- Clinically Tested: Frequently prescribed by vets to treat bacterial and yeast infections in dogs and cats.
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5)
Why it’s a top pick
Douxo S3 Pyo is one of the most vet-trusted antifungal shampoos in the UK, formulated specifically for pets prone to yeast infections, bacterial skin conditions, or allergy-triggered itching. Its use of chlorhexidine and Ophytrium makes it a powerhouse for balancing the skin microbiome while being gentle enough for repeated use. It’s a prescription-grade formula that works fast, yet is soothing and non-irritating — even for pets with sensitive skin.
Key Features:
- Bottle Size: 200ml
- Scent: Light vanilla-coconut (fragrance-free option)
- Made in: France (vet-distributed across UK)
- Best for: Dogs and cats with fungal, bacterial, or mixed skin infections
- Additional Info: Dermatologist-recommended for Malassezia dermatitis
✅ Reasons to Buy:
- Clinically proven to reduce yeast and bacterial skin infections
- Non-drying and safe for repeated use on sensitive skin
- High-performance formula backed by UK vets
- Doesn’t sting or irritate wounds or broken skin
- Trusted across vet surgeries and specialist pet retailers
🗨️ Customer Feedback
“Cleared up my Frenchie’s skin within a week!” — Dog owner
“Recommended by my vet for chronic yeast and it’s the only one that worked.” — Verified purchaser
❌ Reasons to Avoid:
- A prescription may be required in some cases
- Higher price point than general-purpose shampoos
- Not scented — may not appeal to owners wanting a stronger fragrance
Mini Verdict
If your dog suffers from persistent itching, hot spots, or yeast-based skin issues, Douxo S3 Pyo is a top-shelf solution that delivers clinical results. While it’s pricier and less “fragranced” than cosmetic shampoos, its therapeutic effect and vet backing make it worth every drop. One of the strongest antifungal shampoos available without compromise.
2. Cooper & Gracie Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin (500 ml)
- 100% Natural & Cruelty‑Free Formula: Made in the UK using organic essential oils like peppermint, spearmint, tea tree and clove—free from chemicals or preservatives and safe for frequent use.
- Antibacterial & Antifungal Action: Designed to soothe itchy, irritated skin and support healing of minor grazes using naturally-derived antiseptics from essential oils.
- Puppy‑Safe & Gentle: Low-lather, fast-absorbing and hypoallergenic—ideal for puppies and dogs with sensitive skin.
- Trustworthy UK Brand: Offers a 90‑day money-back guarantee and responsive UK-based customer support.
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)
Why it’s a top pick
Cooper & Gracie’s shampoo is a natural, UK-formulated solution ideal for dogs with sensitive or itchy skin. With essential oils like tea tree, peppermint, spearmint and clove, it soothes inflammation, hydrates the skin and offers mild antimicrobial action—without any harsh chemicals. While it’s not veterinary-grade, many dog owners report relief from scratching and improved coat condition after just a few washes. Their 90‑day guarantee and responsive UK customer service further underscore their trustworthiness.
Specifications
- Bottle Size: 500 ml
- Scent: Herbal-clove blend with peppermint and spearmint notes
- Made in: United Kingdom
- Best for: Dogs with dry, itchy or sensitive skin; minor skin irritations or inflammation
- Additional Info: Vegan, essential-oil based, low-foam, cruelty-free, money-back guarantee
✅ Reasons to Buy:
- Soothes itching and calms irritated skin naturally
- Moisturises and softens coat using natural oils
- Hypoallergenic (chemical-free) formula suitable for puppies
- Easy to rinse with minimal sudsing
- Backed by a 90-day satisfaction guarantee and UK support
🗨️ Customer Feedback
“This shampoo has been an absolute lifesaver for my dog… alleviated yeast symptoms and sensitive skin issues.” — Trustpilot user
“The smell is herbal and really pleasant… it DOES both soothe and lessen the desire to scratch.” — Amazon reviewer
❌ Reasons to Avoid:
- Lacks clinical trials or vet endorsement (not a prescription product)
- Some users feel the scent too mild or inexpensive for long-term use
- Spray or bottle sometimes lacks a trigger nozzle, making application fiddly
Mini Verdict
An affordable, natural shampoo for reducing itchiness and soothing sensitive skin. While it’s not a prescription-strength antifungal, many dog owners praise its calming herbal formula and moisture benefits. Ideal for milder skin conditions or as part of a grooming routine for sensitive pups.
3. BUGALUGS Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin (500 ml)
- Natural Antibacterial & Antifungal Formula: Packed with colloidal oatmeal, aloe vera, and tea tree plus essential oils to soothe and support minor skin irritations.
- Fast‑Absorbing & Cooling: Low‑lather, quick rinse formula that helps calm itchy or “pawly” areas without residue.
- Puppy‑Safe & Gentle: 100% vegan, cruelty‑free, ph‑balanced, and suitable for frequent use—even on young or sensitive-coated dogs.
- UK‑Made & Value‑Focused: Dilutable concentrate in a convenient pump bottle, offering excellent cost-per-wash for at-home skin care.
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
Why it’s a top pick
BUGALUGS Medi Fresh shampoo offers a natural, petrochemical-free alternative for dogs with mild to moderate itching, dryness, or sensitivity. While not veterinarian-prescribed, it contains soothing botanicals and tea tree oil combined with colloidal oatmeal—ingredients widely regarded for their calming, antimicrobial benefits. Ideal for home grooming routines or as supportive care post-bug bites, grazes, or minor skin breakdowns. It’s affordable, UK-made, and backed by ethical credentials.
Specifications
- Bottle Size: 500 ml
- Scent: Herbal-fresh from tea tree, pine, basil, cedarwood, citronella, rosemary & more
- Made in: United Kingdom
- Best for: Dogs and puppies (8 weeks+) with itchy, dry, or irritated skin and minor skin blemishes
- Additional Info: Vegan, cruelty-free, diluted concentrate for extended use; pump dispenser
✅ Reasons to Buy:
- Natural antiseptic and soothing action from oatmeal and tea tree oil
- Fast-absorbing and mild – safe for frequent use on sensitive or paw skin
- Concentrated for great value – lasts longer than many standard shampoos
- Vegan, ethically tested, and cruelty-free from a UK-based brand
- Recommended by grooming professionals for calming irritated skin
🗨️ Customer Feedback
“Reduced itching dramatically after the first wash—noticeably calmer skin.” — Verified user via Amazon / eBay listings
“Loved the pump bottle and herbal scent—works as described, gentle on coat.” — UK pet store reviews
❌ Reasons to Avoid:
- Not clinically tested or vet-prescribed; limited to anecdotal and customer feedback
- Essential oils (like tea tree) can potentially irritate ultra-sensitive dogs or those allergic to natural essences
- Light herbal scent may not appeal to those preferring strong fragrance or perfumed odour control
Mini Verdict
BUGALUGS Medi Fresh is a solid, budget-friendly pick for everyday relief from mild itching and dry skin. While not on par with prescription shampoos, its natural formula and calming essential oils give visible results for many owners. It’s vegan, UK-made, and designed for safe repeated use—particularly good as a supportive wash for healing skin or gentle maintenance baths.
4. Aqueos Antibacterial, Antiviral & Antifungal Dog Shampoo (200 ml / 1L / 5L)
- Lab-Tested Antimicrobial Protection: Proven to kill viruses, bacteria and fungi according to UK EN standards—effective yet gentle on skin.
- Versatile & Deodorising: Ideal for dogs that roll in mud or badger/fox smells—neutralises odour instead of masking it.
- Gentle & Biodegradable: Fragrance-free, alcohol- and bleach-free, pH neutral, <1% chemical content; suitable for all ages including puppies.
- Great Value Sizes: Available in 200 ml, 1 L, and 5 L formats; dilutable up to 20:1 for budget-friendly use.
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.4/5)
Why it’s a top pick
Aqueos offers an impressive, lab-tested antimicrobial shampoo that bridges the gap between everyday care and veterinary-level hygiene. Its unique combination of virucidal, bactericidal and fungicidal action—while remaining extremely mild—makes it suitable for dogs with itchy skin, rolled-in muck, or general skin discomfort. Because it’s UK-manufactured, vegan-friendly, biodegradable, and endorsed by professional groomers, it serves as a reputable, no‑prescription alternative for routine cleansing or pre- and post‑grooming care.
Specifications
- Bottle Sizes Available: 200 ml, 1 L, 5 L
- Scent: Fragrance-free / very mild fresh scent
- Made in: United Kingdom
- Best for: All coat types, smelly or itchy dogs, minor skin irritations, muddy or odorous coats
- Additional Info: Dilutable up to 20:1; safe for puppies; professional household and kennel use; biodegradable packaging
✅ Reasons to Buy
- Independently validated antimicrobial (virus, bacteria, fungi tested) efficacy
- Gentle enough for all ages and lots of use; suitable post-muddy walks
- Effective deodoriser—removes strong odours, not just covers them
- Great value—especially in litres or bulk sizes
- UK-based, cruelty-free, vegan, pH neutral, biodegradable formula
🗨️ Customer Feedback
“Excellent shampoo, soothes itching, leaves the coat beautifully clean and shiny, and only a delicate scent.” — Verified purchaser on VioVet
“Does what it says it does! Used on a teacup yorkie with skin problems… coat was soft and gleaming and skin settled within the hour.” — Amazon/eBay reviewer feedback
❌ Reasons to Avoid
- Not prescription-strength—won’t treat ringworm, mites, Demodex or serious infections (vets may recommend medicated shampoos instead)
- Lacks moisturising or hydrating agents—less suited for very dry or flaky skin
- Low or no lather may feel unfamiliar to some users
- Fragrance‑free may not appeal to owners wanting a stronger scent
Mini Verdict
Aqueos stands out as a highly ethical, lab-certified antimicrobial shampoo that delivers both cleanliness and deodorisation in one mild, no-fuss formula. Extremely well-priced and safe for frequent use, it’s a standout choice for dogs that roll in muck, suffer mild itch or odour issues—or need a hygienic wash after hikes. Not a replacement for vet-prescribed antifungals, but excellent as a supportive, everyday antimicrobial shampoo.
5. ICF Zincoseb Dog Shampoo (250 ml)
- Veterinary‑Formulated Antifungal & Antibacterial: Contains salicylic acid, colloidal sulphur, chlorhexidine digluconate and zinc gluconate for deep skin cleansing and fragrance‑neutralising action without harsh stripping.
- Keratolytic & Odour‑Controlling: Salicylic acid exfoliates scaly skin and unclogs pores, while zinc gluconate helps rebalance oily or flaky skin and reduce malodour.
- Soothes & Moisturises: Enriched with lanolin, lactic acid and betaine to hydrate and soften itchy, irritated coat and skin.
- Clinically Proven Dermatitis Support: Studied in dogs with seborrhoeic dermatitis—100 % tolerability at 2 weeks and 80 % owner satisfaction at 4 weeks.
- Puppy Safe & Usage : Apply 0.5 ml/kg to damp coat, leave for 5–6 minutes before rinsing; use 1–2 times weekly for at least 3–4 weeks.
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)
Why it’s a top pick
ICF Zincoseb is a trusted veterinary-grade shampoo frequently recommended in UK clinics for managing dry, itchy, flaky or oily skin conditions. Its combination of antifungal, antibacterial, and keratolytic ingredients makes it ideal for treating yeast dermatitis, seborrhoea, and skin odour issues. Rich in moisturising agents and effective cleansing compounds, it’s robust enough for therapeutic use yet gentle enough for puppy skin.
Specifications
- Bottle Size: 250 ml
- Scent: Light scent to mask odours from skin flaking
- Made in: Typically Italy or EU, distributed in UK veterinary supply chains
- Best for: Dogs (and cats) with flaky, oily, itchy or odorous skin; Seborrhoeic dermatitis; Malassezia overgrowth
- Additional Info: Safe for puppies (3 months+), use 1–3 times weekly for 3–4 weeks or as directed by a vet. Leave shampoo on for 5–6 minutes before rinsing
✅ Reasons to Buy:
- Proven antifungal, antibacterial and exfoliating action for persistent skin conditions
- Hydrating formula—lanolin and lactic acid soothe and restore moisture balance
- Excellent vet and customer ratings in UK pet‑care networks
- Suitable for puppies, safe with regular use under vet supervision
- Effective at controlling odour, oil buildup and visible flaking
🗨️ Customer Feedback
“This shampoo works!! My little dog’s skin condition is now well under control. I use Zincoseb once a week… no more itching & …” — Amazon UK feedback
“A great product at a great price … Highly recommended … Super smooth—it’s the best” — UK buyer review on eBay
❌ Reasons to Avoid:
- Requires a prescription or a veterinary supply in some regions
- A stronger medicated approach may be unnecessary for mild or cosmetic-only skin issues
- It may feel harsh to use too frequently on dry skin without a follow-up moisturiser
Mini Verdict
ICF Zincoseb is an excellent choice for dogs experiencing dermatological issues such as dandruff, yeast overgrowth, and oily or flaky skin. Prescribed by vets, backed by positive reviews, and designed to cleanse and restore deeply, it outperforms general grooming shampoos in therapeutic efficiency—ideal where effective antifungal and antibacterial care is needed.
Buying Guide for Antibacterial and Antifungal Shampoo for Dogs
When selecting the right antifungal shampoo for dogs, consider several key factors to ensure you choose a product that meets your pet’s specific needs. Choosing the wrong product can lead to ineffective treatment or worsen your dog’s skin condition. Here’s a concise buying guide to help you make an informed decision:
1. Ingredients:
Look for antifungal ingredients like chlorhexidine and ketoconazole, which are known for their effectiveness. Natural ingredients such as aloe vera can soothe sensitive skin. Always check for any allergens that may irritate your dog. Select a shampoo that strikes a balance between efficacy and gentleness.
2. pH Balance:
Dogs have different skin pH levels than humans, typically around 6.2 to 7.4. To maintain skin health, select a shampoo specifically formulated for dogs. A pH-balanced shampoo helps prevent irritation and dryness, which is crucial for keeping your dog’s skin healthy and comfortable.
3. Purpose and Conditions:
Identify your dog’s specific skin issues before choosing a shampoo. Some are designed for mild irritations, while others target severe infections. Tailor your selection to your dog’s needs for better results. This ensures that you address the root cause effectively.
4. Scent and Fragrance:
Consider your dog’s sensitivity to scents when selecting a shampoo. Some products have pleasant fragrances, while others may have a medicinal smell. Strong fragrances can irritate sensitive skin, so choose accordingly. Opt for a scent that is agreeable for both you and your pet.
5. Brand Reputation:
Research brands specialising in pet care with good reputations for safety and quality. Look for products backed by veterinary recommendations. Reading customer reviews can also help ensure you select a trusted product. A reputable brand usually prioritises transparency in ingredient sourcing.
6. Ease of Use:
Choose a shampoo that is easy to apply and rinse, making bath time less stressful. Convenient bottle designs and clear instructions can simplify the process. A shampoo that lathers well will help cover your dog’s coat evenly. Ease of use is vital for a positive grooming experience.
7. Price:
While considering your budget, remember that price doesn’t always equate to quality. Effective antifungal shampoos are available at various price points. Evaluate the size and value of the product before making a purchase. Investing in quality may save you money in the long run.
8. Vet Recommendations:
If your dog has ongoing skin issues, consult your veterinarian for personalised recommendations. They can suggest suitable antifungal shampoos tailored to your dog’s needs. Professional guidance ensures you choose a safe and effective product. Following vet advice can enhance your dog’s skin health.
Learn proper techniques for bathing your dog with medicated shampoo from VCA Animal Hospitals.
Final Words
Selecting the right antifungal shampoo for dogs is vital for promoting skin health and comfort. Each of the five shampoos reviewed offers unique benefits to address various skin issues, ensuring your pet feels their best.
Investing in a quality antifungal shampoo for dogscan effectively soothe irritations and prevent future infections. Consider your dog’s specific needs and preferences when choosing, and enjoy a healthier, happier pup with the right grooming product.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do antifungal shampoos work for dogs?
Yes, antifungal shampoos can be effective in treating fungal infections on dogs’ skin, but it’s essential to consult a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment recommendations.
What shampoo is good for dogs with yeast infections?
A good shampoo for dogs with yeast infections is one containing chlorhexidine, ketoconazole, or miconazole. Look for products with these ingredients. Always consult a vet before use.
What shampoo is good for ringworm in dogs?
A shampoo containing ketoconazole or chlorhexidine is effective for treating ringworm in dogs.
Which shampoo kills fungus in dogs?
Shampoos containing ketoconazole, miconazole, or chlorhexidine are effective in killing fungus in dogs.
Is there an antiseptic, antifungal, medicated shampoo for dogs?
Yes, there are several antiseptic antifungal medicated shampoos available. Always consult a healthcare professional before using medicated products.
