Best Dog Shampoos to Buy UK – 2025

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In 2025, the pet care product market is expected to experience significant growth, offering a diverse range of options for pet owners. Among these, the best dog shampoo and conditioner are crucial for maintaining the hygiene and well-being of dogs.

Choosing the right dog shampoo can be overwhelming due to the many options available on the market. To simplify this process, we have curated a list of the top eight dog shampoos to consider buying in 2025.

Whether you’re addressing sensitive skin, persistent odours, or specific coat types, our list includes products that cater to various needs. Find the perfect shampoo to keep your four-legged friend clean, healthy, and happy.

Wondering if cat shampoo is safe for dogs? Learn more in our Is Cat Shampoo Safe for Dogs?

How to Choose the Best Dog Shampoo

Choosing the best dog shampoo for your be­loved pet goes beyond simply keeping them cle­an. It’s about ensuring their overall health and well-being. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to make the right decision. This guide is here to provide detailed insights and help you make the best choice for your furry companion.

1. Understanding Your Dog’s Needs

Every dog has unique coat and skin needs. Consult a veterinarian for the right shampoo, especially if your dog has skin issues or allergies. They can recommend a product that promotes healthy skin and suits your dog’s specific requirements.

2. Avoiding Harsh Chemicals

When selecting a dog shampoo, avoid harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens that can irritate your dog’s skin. Instead, opt for shampoos containing natural ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, oatmeal, and tea tree oil, which are gentle and promote a healthy, shiny coat.

Opting for shampoos with natural ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, oatmeal, and tea tree oil. These ingredients are gentle on the skin and offer various benefits, ensuring your dog’s coat remains healthy and lustrous.

3. Considering Your Dog’s Coat Type

Dogs come in different breeds, each with distinct coat types—short, long, curly, or double-coated—requiring specific care. Long-haired dogs need conditioning shampoos to prevent tangles, while those with sensitive skin benefit from hypoallergenic or oatmeal-based shampoos to soothe irritation..

On the other hand, dogs with sensitive skin might require hypoallergenic or oatmeal-based shampoos to soothe any irritation and maintain their skin’s natural balance.

4. Choosing a Mild Fragrance or Fragrance-Free Shampoo

While a pleasant aroma can be delightful, it’s essential to consider your dog’s sensitive sense of smell. Strong fragrances can overwhelm dogs, causing discomfort. Choosing the best dog shampoos with mild or natural scents, or even fragrance-free options, can help prevent allergic reactions and skin irritation. This approach ensures that your dog’s bathing experience is both enjoyable and stress-free.

Opting for the Best Dog Shampoos with mild or natural fragrances, or even a fragrance-free option, can help prevent potential allergic reactions or irritation. This ensures that your dog’s bathing experience is pleasant and stress-free.

5. Looking for Anti-Allergenic Properties

Allergies are common in dogs and can cause skin issues. Hypoallergenic shampoos are gentle on sensitive skin and contain natural ingredients that are less likely to trigger allergies, ensuring a safe and soothing bathing experience for your dog. For more information on using human shampoo, check out our guide Is Human Shampoo Safe for Dogs?

6. Checking for pH Balance

Dogs have a different skin pH level than humans, so using human shampoo can disrupt their skin balance and cause problems. To maintain your dog’s skin health, choose a dog shampoo with a pH level around 7. A pH-balanced shampoo effectively cleanses without causing irritation or dryness, keeping your dog’s skin healthy and comfortable.

To maintain your dog’s skin health, choosing the best dog shampoo with a balanced pH level (around 7) is crucial. pH-balanced shampoos cleanse effectively without causing irritation or dryness, ensuring your dog’s skin remains healthy and comfortable.

7. Considering Medicated Shampoos for Specific Conditions

Some dogs have skin conditions, such as dermatitis or fungal infections, that require specialised care. Your veterinarian may recommend a medicated shampoo containing active ingredients such as ketoconazole or chlorhexidine. Always follow their instructions to ensure the best treatment for your dog.

These Best Dog Shampoos contain active ingredients like ketoconazole or chlorhexidine, which help treat these conditions effectively. Always follow your veterinarian’s advice and instructions when using medicated shampoos to ensure your dog receives the correct treatment.

8. Avoiding Shampoos with Insecticides

Some dog shampoos have insecticides to repel fleas and ticks, but they can be harsh on your dog’s skin and coat. It’s better to use a veterinarian-recommended flea and tick treatment to ensure your dog’s safety and effectively combat these pests.

9. Considering the Environmental Impact

Customer reviews are also invaluable. Before purchasing, read what other dog owners have experienced with the products to gain insights into their effectiveness and safety. For more details on how your dog’s coat grows, check out our Dog Hair Growth Rate guide.

This choice contributes to our planet’s well-being and ensures your dog is exposed to fewer harmful chemicals, enhancing their overall health.

In the digital age, customer reviews are invaluable sources of information. Before making a purchase, take the time to read customer reviews and ratings. Hearing about other dog owners’ experiences with specific products can provide valuable insights into a shampoo’s effectiveness and safety. For more details on how your dog’s coat grows, check out our Dog Hair Growth Rate guide.

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Our Top 8 Picks of the Best Dog Shampoo for 2025

1. The Healthy Dog Co Natural Dog Shampoo 

Why it’s a top pick

This UK-made 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner combines natural ingredients like chamomile and lavender to gently cleanse, soothe, and refresh your dog’s coat. The tear-free and soap-free formula makes it especially ideal for puppies or dogs with sensitive skin. It’s designed to reduce itching, nourish the coat, and eliminate odours without harsh chemicals.

Specifications

• Bottle Size: 500ml
• Scent: Mild chamomile & lavender
• Made in: United Kingdom
• Best for: Dogs with itchy, sensitive skin or puppies
• Additional Info: 2-in-1 shampoo + conditioner formula

✅ Reasons to Buy:

• Gentle formula ideal for sensitive skin and regular use
• Tear-free and soap-free – safe for young dogs and puppies
• Natural ingredients, including essential oils
• Subtle, refreshing scent that won’t overwhelm
• Made in the UK with high-quality standards

💬 Customer Feedback

“Loved the smell.” — Dog parent

“Pleased but not much scent.” — Verified purchaser

❌ Reasons to Avoid:

• Lavender scent is very light—some may find it too subtle
• Not ideal for owners expecting strong deodorising power
• Requires extra care when applying around the eyes

📝 Mini Verdict

A solid, natural option for owners seeking a gentle, UK-made shampoo for dogs with sensitive skin. It offers effective cleansing with minimal risk of irritation. While the fragrance may be too mild for some preferences, its safe, kind-to-skin formula makes it a dependable everyday grooming choice—especially for puppies.

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2. BUGALUGS Odour Neutraliser Shampoo

Why it’s a top pick

This UK-made, vegan-friendly shampoo is specially formulated to tackle the worst doggy smells—including fox poo and rolled-in muck—while nourishing sensitive skin. Its pH-balanced formula features panthenol (pro‑vitamin B5) to detangle, soften, and rejuvenate the coat. With a 10:1 dilution rate, it’s an economical choice, delivering more washes per bottle.

Specifications

• Volume: 500 ml
• Scent: Fresh, long-lasting fragrance
• Key Ingredients: Odour neutraliser, panthenol
• Formula Type: Vegan, paraben-free, sulphate-free
• Made in: United Kingdom
• Ideal for: Strong odours (fox poo, wet dog smell)

✅ Reasons to Buy:

• Excellent at removing strong odours like fox poo and mud
• 10:1 dilution ratio makes it highly economical
• Panthenol helps detangle and soften the coat
• Gentle on sensitive skin; free from harsh chemicals
• Long-lasting fragrance keeps dogs fresher for longer

💬 Customer Feedback

“It works—three weeks since her last bath and no smell. Coat still soft and shiny.”

— Dog parent

“Smells great and the scent actually lasts. Also helped reduce itching.”

— Verified purchaser

❌ Reasons to Avoid:

• Fragrance is strong and may not suit owners who prefer natural scents
• Higher initial price compared to standard shampoos

📝 Mini Verdict

If your dog rolls in everything from mud to muck, this shampoo delivers powerful cleaning. BUGALUGS Stinky Dog Shampoo is a concentrated, long-lasting, and gentle formula suitable for sensitive skin. The scent may be bold for some, but it’s incredibly effective where other shampoos fall short—a top pick for tackling persistent smells.

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3. PET HEAD Dog Coconut Shampoo

Why it’s a top pick

This vegan and hypoallergenic shampoo is specifically designed to soothe sensitive or itchy skin while leaving a mild tropical coconut scent. It combines natural extracts—like oatmeal, marula oil, aloe vera, calendula, and vegetable protein—to deeply cleanse, moisturise, and calm delicate coats, making it perfect for both puppies and adult dogs.

Specifications

• Volume: 300 ml
• Scent: Delicate coconut with fruity and vanilla undertones
• Key Ingredients: Oatmeal, marula oil, calendula extract, aloe vera
• Skin Profile: pH-balanced; free from parabens, sulfates, dyes, gluten, and nuts
• Formula Type: Vegan, cruelty-free, hypoallergenic
• Suitable For: Sensitive skin, puppies and all breeds

✅ Reasons to Buy

• Soothes delicate or itchy skin with natural, calming ingredients
• Gentle coconut fragrance that’s pleasant without overwhelming
• Hypoallergenic, free from harsh chemicals, and vegan-friendly
• Rinses clean to leave coat soft, shiny and manageable

💬 Customer Feedback

“Delightful coconut scent and didn’t irritate my pup’s skin.”— Verified purchaser

“Left her coat soft and shiny, though takes a bit to rinse.” — Dog parent

❌ Reasons to Avoid:

• The texture is somewhat thick, which may require extra water to lather
• Not as foamy—some users prefer richer lather

📝 Mini Verdict

Pet Head Sensitive Soul Shampoo is an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive or reactive skin. Its nourishing formula and mild coconut aroma make it both effective and enjoyable. If you don’t mind taking a bit more time to work it into a lather, its gentle, moisturising benefits shine through.

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4. WildWash Sensitive Shampoo for Dogs

Why it’s a top pick

This UK-made, concentrated natural shampoo is crafted for sensitive dogs and puppies. With aloe vera, evening primrose oil, and essential oils, it gently cleanses without harsh chemicals, rinses out easily, and leaves coats feeling soft, shiny, and residue-free. Its low-sudsing formula also speeds up dry time and stretches a small 300 ml bottle to as much as 10 litres of bathing solution.

Specifications

• Volume: 300 ml concentrate
• Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, evening primrose oil, natural essential oils (~1.5%)
• Formula: Soap-free, low-foaming, easy-rinse
• Free From: Parabens, sulphates, PEGs, petrochemicals
• Origin: Made in the UK
• Suitable For: Puppies (from 6 weeks) and dogs with sensitive or itchy skin

✅ Reasons to Buy

• Cost-effective—serves up to 10 L when diluted
• Naturally gentle: no harsh chemicals, with added soothing oils
• Low-suds formula rinses quickly, cutting drying time by ~25%
• Leaves coat clean, soft, shiny, and easy to groom
• Fragrance from pure essential oils, no artificial scent

💬 Customer Feedback

“Best dog shampoo so far… mild on the skin but cleans well and leaves a great scent.” — Verified purchaser

“With 7 dogs, this seems expensive until you dilute—it’s mild, cleans and smells lovely.” — Dog parent

❌Reasons to Avoid:

• Subtle scent may disappoint those looking for strong fragrance

📝 Mini Verdict

WildWash PRO Sensitive Coat & Puppy Shampoo is a standout for owners of sensitive-skinned dogs seeking a natural, cost-effective grooming solution. It cleans thoroughly, conditions naturally, and its after-bath scent is pleasant but understated. The dilution process makes small bottles go far—and it’s gentle enough to use often, even for puppies.

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5. Faith In Nature Natural Coconut Dog Shampoo

Why it’s a top pick

A natural and organic shampoo formulated specifically for dogs, this coconut-scented wash gently cleanses and conditions without harsh chemicals. Trusted by pet owners for its mild aroma and ability to soften long coats, it offers great value in a generous 400 ml bottle.

• Volume: 400 ml
• Scent: Coconut
• Suitable For: All life stages (puppies to adults)
• Free From: Parabens, sulfates—made with natural/organic ingredients
• Made In: UK (Available on Amazon.com; likely UK/EU origin)
• Packaging Dimensions: ~21 cm tall, 6 cm diameter

✅ Reasons to Buy

• Gentle, creamy wash that suits sensitive skin and long-haired breeds
• Natural coconut scent is pleasant and mild—not overpowering
• Clean ingredients formula, botanic and organic-based
• Large bottle offers excellent value for frequent baths

💬 Customer Reviews

“Great quality dog shampoo. Works on long coat and makes her a lot softer.” — Happy Dog Parent (UK/US review)

“Gentle, soothing and excellent value… even removed cooking oil with ease.”— Verified Purchaser, UK

❌ Reasons to Avoid

• Coconut scent may be too mild for those wanting a lasting fragrance
• Creamy texture might require extra effort to lather thoroughly

📝 Mini Verdict

The Faith in Nature Coconut Dog Shampoo is a top choice for owners seeking a natural, gentle wash with a pleasing coconut aroma. It cleans effectively, softens coats beautifully, and offers strong value in a large bottle. While the scent is understated, its soothing formula and easy rinse-off make it a reliable everyday grooming essential.

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6. WAHL Diamond White Shampoo

Why it’s a top pick

This ready-to-use whitening shampoo is formulated to brighten and revitalise white or light-coloured pet coats. Infused with natural extracts such as aloe vera, cucumber, passionflower, lemon, and lime, it gently removes dirt, grease, stains, and odours—leaving coats silky, shiny, and healthy-looking.

Specifications

• Volume: 2 × 250 ml bottles
• Scent: Mild lemon
• Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, cucumber, passionflower, citrus extracts
• Formula: Paraben‑free, vegan, gluten‑free, silicone‑free, phosphate‑free
• Made In: UK/EU manufacturing origin
• Ideal For: White and light-coloured coats, all small animals

✅ Reasons to Buy

• Specially designed to brighten and enhance white/light coats
• Natural botanical extracts gently cleanse and condition
• Ready-to-use—no dilution needed
• Free from harsh chemicals and artificial additives
• Highly rated by customers with glowing reviews

💬 Customer Feedback

“Dog is clean, white fur is bright and fluffy again. The smell of the product itself is nice, but after the wash… the smell is not very evident on the fur.” — verified purchaser (UK)

“Great product… my white dog… sparkling white! Not overly keen on the smell.” — verified purchaser (UK)

❌ Reasons to Avoid

• Subtle fragrance—won’t mask strong odours
• Suitable only for light-coloured coats—not for general coat use

📝 Mini Verdict

Wahl Diamond White Shampoo is a top choice for owners of white or light-coloured pets looking to enhance brightness. Its botanical-infused, ready-to-use formula lifts stains and adds shine without harsh chemicals. Although the scent is subtle, it delivers impressive results. Excellent value and easy to use, especially for small animals and spot-cleaning needs.

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7. Choca-Doodle 2 1 Conditioning Shampoo

Why it’s a top pick

Made in the UK and dermatologically tested, this pH-balanced 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner is built for dogs (and puppies 8+ weeks) with sensitive or itchy skin. It cleans gently without stripping natural oils, while added pro‑vitamin B5 moisturises, softens, and detangles the coat—plus, it’s both easy-rinse and economical with dilution up to 20:1.

Specifications

• Volume: 500 ml
• Scent: Fruity pink apple & watermelon
• Key Benefits: Built-in conditioner, pro‑vitamin B5
• Dilution: Up to 20:1 — cost-effective
• Skin Profile: pH‑balanced, suitable from 8 weeks
• Made In: United Kingdom
• Ideal For: Sensitive or dry skin, all breeds, puppies

✅ Reasons to Buy

• Gentle and non-drying—perfect for sensitive skin
• Conditioner included saves time and helps detangle
• Pleasant fruity scent removes doggy odours
• Dilution option makes it economical for frequent use
• UK-made and dermatologically tested for quality

💬 Customer Feedback

“Dermatologically tested… suitable for all dogs from 8 weeks.” — Verified purchaser

“Effective cleanser, easy rinse for sensitive and dry skin.” — Dog parent

❌ Reasons to Avoid

• Requires dilution—adds prep time
• Fruity scent may be too sweet for some

📝 Mini Verdict

Poochiful All Pawpose offers a thoughtful, sensitive-skin formula with built-in conditioner and cost-saving dilution. It’s gentle, easy to rinse, and leaves a fresh fruit scent, though dilution prep and sporadic availability may not suit everyone. Excellent value for sensitive or regularly bathed dogs and puppies.

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8. GROOM PROFESSIONAL Baby Fresh Dog Shampoo

Why it’s a top pick

A gentle, ready-to-use shampoo formulated for puppies or dogs with sensitive or itchy skin. Enriched with soothing aloe vera and a comforting baby powder scent, it cleanses, moisturises, and leaves your pup smelling fresh without causing irritation.

Specifications

• Volume: 1 L (also available in larger sizes)
• Scent: Classic baby powder
• Key Ingredient: Aloe vera for calming and hydration
• Dilution: None—ideal for quick, fuss-free use
• Suitable For: Puppies (from around 12 weeks), dogs with sensitive or itchy skin
• Ideal For: Frequent bathers, pet owners seeking a mild, soothing wash

✅ Reasons to Buy

• Soothing formula ideal for sensitive or itchy skin
• Pleasant baby powder fragrance that lingers after bathing
• Aloe vera nourishes and conditions the coat
• Large 1 L bottle offers excellent value
• Ready to use with no dilution required

💬 Customer Feedback

“Long-lasting powder scent, gentle on skin.” — Dog parent

“Lathers well, rinses clean, and keeps coat soft.” — Verified purchaser

❌ Reasons to Avoid

• Some users have reported that the scent is too strong or overpowering
• Not concentrated. A larger bottle may be bulky for storage

📝 Mini Verdict

Groom Professional Baby Fresh offers a gentle, soothing shampoo experience perfect for puppies and dogs with sensitive skin. With aloe vera, a calming baby powder scent, and a large ready-to-use bottle, it’s ideal for routine bathing. A great all-rounder that’s kind, mild, and effective.

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Step-by-Step Bathing Process

Step 1: Getting Your Dog Wet

Start by gently wetting your dog’s coat. Use a handheld showerhead or a cup to pour water over them. Begin from the neck and work your way down, ensuring the entire body is damp.

Step 2: Applying Shampoo

Apply a small amount of the shampoo to your hands and create a lather. Gently pat or massage the shampoo into your dog’s coat. Avoid their eyes, ears, and mouth. Use a damp cloth to clean their face separately.

Step 3: Rinsing Thoroughly

Rinse your dog completely to remove all the shampoo. Leftover shampoo can cause skin irritation. Make sure to rinse until the water runs clear. Be gentle around their face and ears while rinsing.

Step 4: Drying Your Dog

After rinsing, gently pat your dog dry with soft towels. Avoid rubbing vigorously, as it can tangle the fur. If your dog is comfortable with it, you can use a hairdryer on a low and calm setting. Keep the dryer at a safe distance from their skin to prevent burns.

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Tips for a Stress-Free Bathing Experience

1. Positive Reinforcement: Encourage your dog with kind words and treats throughout the process. Positive reinforcement makes them feel safe and loved during bath time.
2. Consistency: Establish a regular bathing routine tailored to your dog’s specific needs. Some dogs need baths more often than others. Consult your vet for the best bathing schedule for your furry friend.
3. Gentle Approach: Be patient and gentle. If your dog seems nervous, speak in a soothing voice and reassure them with gentle touches. This helps them relax and enjoy the experience.
4. Ear Care: While cleaning their ears, be extremely careful. Use a damp cloth for the outer ear. Avoid putting anything into the ear canal which could hurt them.
5. Post-Bath Rewards: After the bath, reward your dog with extra cuddles, playtime, and their favourite treats. This positive experience helps them associate baths with good things.
6. Consider Professional Help: If you find it challenging to bathe your dog at home, consider taking them to a professional groomer for assistance. Groomers are experienced in handling dogs and can make the process easier for you and your pet.

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Conclusion

As our belove­d dogs become cherishe­d members of our families, it is crucial to prioritise­ their well-being. A key aspect of their overall health and happiness lies in sele­cting the appropriate shampoo. With a wide array of options in 2025, pet owners can now choose from various specialised formulas tailored to their furry friends’ needs.

Whether your dog has sensitive skin requiring a hypoallergenic option or you want to nourish their coat with a luxurious ble­nd, a product is designed specifically for them. By investing in the best dog shampoo, you not only ensure that your furry companion re­mains clean and fresh but also promote optimal skin health and maintain a lustrous coat.

Remember, a happy and healthy dog brings lifelong joy, and selecting the right shampoo can make all the difference in their comfort.

Maintaining your dog’s coat isn’t just about regular washing; using the best dog clippers is equally vital for a well-groomed appearance. Don’t miss our comprehensive guide on the top clippers to pair with your favourite dog shampoo for the perfect grooming routine. Discover the best grooming techniques and coat care tips from VCA Animal Hospitals.

Frequently Asked Questions