Skip intro? See Top 5 Rated dog shampoos
In between visits to a dog groomer, you may want to give your dog a bath just so you can make sure he stays clean at all times. Not only will this help your dog avoid dealing with fleas and ticks, it can also help keep your home cleaner for a longer period of time. But when it comes to picking out a shampoo that your dog can use, is baby shampoo for dogs a good option?
You may have heard from other pet owners that they used baby shampoo to bathe their dogs and this has prompted you to wonder whether or not it is safe to use. Among the most commonly mentioned baby shampoo products is Johnson & Johnson's Baby Shampoo; which is a product I've used on my own child. This makes you wonder whether or not it's safe to use on a dog.
Using Baby Shampoo on Dogs
While there are some veterinarians that would approve using Johnson & Johnson's Baby Shampoo on a dog, the general rule is that you should always use a dog shampoo if you can. Intentionally, baby shampoos are designed to be mild enough to be used on human babies. Because of the mild ingredients it contains, it can be considered as a safe product to use on dogs.
Should You Use Baby Shampoo Always?
Just because there are veterinarians that would approve the use of baby shampoo on your dog doesn't necessarily mean that you should stock up on baby shampoo for your dog. You'll find a number of better options specifically formulated for dogs as long as you look for them. Usually, you'll find these products at a local dog groomer or dog spa. You can even ask your veterinarian on what shampoo he would recommend for your dog to use.
The reason why you need to use the right shampoo for your dog is because it pertains to his pH levels. Since your dog's pH levels are not the same as ours, you have to find a product that matches it. When you do, you'll be able to make your dog's coat shine and look lustrous.
Using Normal Human Shampoos on Your Dog
Even though it is okay to use baby shampoo on your dog (occasionally), you should refrain from using normal human shampoos; particularly the ones that are ideal for adults. And even if you use baby shampoo on a dog, you shouldn't use it too much as this could dry out your dog's coat. For a dog to have a dry coat, it could be bad for his health.
At the same time, adult shampoo has been specifically designed to suit the acidity on the scalp of a human being. As humans, our skin is considered more acidic than a dog's. Because of this, our shampoos contain a stronger pH balance agent which may be too harsh to use on a dog. Contrary to adult shampoos, baby shampoos have been formulated to be gentler on the skin.
This is because a baby's skin is much more sensitive compared to an adult's. It is for this same reason why baby shampoo is considered a safer product to use on a dog. Only use baby shampoo if you do not have access to the right product intended for your dog. With the vast number of options available today, you'll be sure to find one easily.
How Often to Bathe Your Dog
Unlike humans, dogs do not need to be given a bath regularly. As a matter of fact, Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan advises that you only bathe your dog once a month (if he has normal skin). But if you wish to give your dog a bath more often, you can do so with the help of a moisturizing or a soap-free shampoo. Using these products will help prevent your dog's skin from being too dry.
Millan also advises that you refrain from giving your dog a bath more than once a week. But if it has been recommended by your vet, you should follow the instructions so you are sure your dog has healthy skin.
Why It’s Bad to Give Your Dog Frequent Baths
As mentioned, giving your dog frequent baths tend to dry out your dog's skin. Regardless of what type of shampoo you are using, bathing him too frequently will strip off the natural oils from his coat. And once your dog's skin starts to become dry, it will itch often.
The immediate response of your dog to this is that he will start scratching the skin. This will then lead to skin abrasions, inflammation, and maybe even bacterial growth. As a recommendation, it is good to bathe your dog no more than every 3 to 4 weeks.
As much as you can, try to use the right shampoo for your dog. Here are some of the most recommended dog shampoos that you can use:
Five Star Natural Dog Shampoo & Conditioner
The Five Star Natural Dog Shampoo & Conditioner contains an all-natural formula specially formulated to help treat sensitive, itchy, or dry skin on dogs. Unlike other dog shampoo products, this shampoo product promises to leave a gentle, fresh scent without that annoying wet dog smell.
Pros:
- Contains all natural ingredients
- No wet dog smell
- Best for sensitive or dry skin
Cons:
- It does not lather well (because it contains all natural ingredients)
- Not recommended for ticks and fleas
- Expensive
- Complaints from other dog owners that their dogs have itched more
Out of all the reviews, however, the dog shampoo does what it promises and gives no wet dog smell after his bath. It's worth a try for those who are looking for an all-natural dog shampoo and conditioner.
Gerrard Larriett Aromatherapy Pet Care Aromatherapy Shampoo & Conditioner for Pets Dog Shampoo
Gerrard Larriett Aromatherapy Pet Care Aromatherapy Shampoo & Conditioner is one product that contains natural ingredients such as lavender oil, grapefruit oil, peppermint oil, aloe vera, and vitamin E oil.
Pros:
- Specially formulated for sensitive dog skin
- Does not contain any dye or parabens
- Safe to use
Cons:
- Does not lather too well
- Smell does not last too long
- Allergic reactions have been reported
- Unpleasant smell
Rocco & Roxie Supply Co Grooming & Spa Dog Shampoo
The Rocco & Roxie Supply Co Grooming & Spa Dog Shampoo contains natural ingredients such as oatmeal, olive oil, shea butter, aloe vera, and chamomile. These ingredients promise to help deal with dogs who suffer from irritated, itchy, or dry skin. It also promises to restore your dog's natural oils to his coat.
Pros:
- Contains natural ingredients
- Good for dogs with itchy, dry or irritated skin
- Rich and fresh smell
- Easy to lather
- Easy to rinse off
Cons:
- Few reports of itchy and scratching after using the shampoo
OxGord Organic Oatmeal Dog Shampoo & Conditioner
OxGord's Organic Oatmeal Dog Shampoo & Conditioner works pretty much like a baby shampoo. This is because it comes with a tear-free soapless formula, which assures pet owners that their dog will have a comfortable time in the bath. Not only does it contain natural ingredients, the product is also committed to uphold the ethical treatment of animals and their habitat; which is why they make use of recycled materials on their packaging.
Pros:
- Large container
- Helps relieve itchiness and sensitive skin
- Contains rosemary, which helps keep fleas away
Cons:
- Contains SLS
- Not completely all-organic
Earthbath All Natural Pet Shampoo
Earthbath All Natural Pet Shampoo is one of the popular dog shampoo brands available in the market. This is because it has been around for several years and has been able to help dog owners give their furry friends an enjoyable experience when taking a bath.
Many praise the product since it does not contain any strong perfume smell and enlists natural ingredients namely Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera. Because of these two ingredients, it is able to help lessen the scratching of dogs.
Pros:
- No strong perfume smell
- Contains natural ingredients
- Active ingredients include Tea Tree Oil and Aloe Vera
Cons:
- May cause allergies on certain dog breeds
It is also important to remember that All Natural or Natural does not always guarantee that it comes "Certified Organic". It may be best to look out for these things on the packaging of the dog shampoo you purchase.
With so many different products to choose from, you'll be able to spot a dog shampoo that will work with your dog.
From the reviews on these dog shampoos, the Rocco & Roxie Supply Co Grooming & Spa Dog Shampoo as well as the OxGord Organic Oatmeal Dog Shampoo & Conditioner look to be the ones most recommended by other pet owners; although it still is a good idea that you ask your vet what he would recommend specifically for your dog's skin type.
Just remember that while baby shampoo is okay for dogs to use, it is still always best to stick with one that's for your dog.
If you have any questions about chocolate toxicity of your dog, make sure to leave behind a comment.
