5 Best Natural & Organic Dog Shampoos (Tested on Real Dogs)

When it comes to keeping our beloved pets clean and healthy, choosing the right shampoo is essential.

There has been a growing demand for organic shampoo in recent years due to its numerous benefits.

Being a dog owner all my adult life, I've used my fair share of pet shampoo. This experience, coupled with my dogged (pun intended) approach to research and testing, came in handy for this article (as did the expert input from our family Labradoodle, Mille, and her cousin Dexter).

Read on as I dig deep into the benefits of going organic and offer advice on choosing the best organic dog shampoo for your mucky pup!

Top 5 Natural Dog Shampoos for a Clean and Fresh Pup

• Ingredients: Saponified Organic Vegetable Oils (Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, Castor Oil, Sunflower Oil, Jojoba Oil, Rice Bran Oil), Cocoa Butter, Rosemary Essential Oil, Lavandin Essential Oil, Vitamin E, Organic Bran, Organic Aloe Vera

My favorite eco-friendly shampoo (for humans) is solid, so it stands to reason that one of my favorite shampoos for dogs is also solid.

I loved using this bar. No more spills, messes, or wasted shampoo. It works wonders and does an excellent job of keeping Millie clean and flake-free.

Infused with rosemary oil (known for its inherent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties) this shampoo washes gently and provides relief without any irritation.

The solid format of this bar means that no unnecessary water is being shipped. In fact, this one bar can outlast a 16 oz bottle of liquid shampoo...nice!

• Ingredients: Saponified Organic Oils (Coconut, Olive, Jojoba), Organic Lemongrass Essential Oil, Rosemary Essential Oil, Organic Aloe Vera, Rosemary Extract

Crafted in small batches with real plants (not synthetic chemicals), this certified shampoo is a seriously natural way to keep your pup clean.

Say goodbye to detergents, petrochemicals, and other harmful ingredients found in typical pet shampoos. This safe and effective formula works wonders for dogs, cats, and even humans!

This shampoo is concentrated, so a little goes a long way. It also means that some of the unnecessary water has been removed...reducing the cost and environmental impact of shipping.

Only 2% of shampoos for dogs are certified organic. Since 2015, 4Legger organic dog shampoo has been trusted by pet parents, holistic vets, and natural groomers. Its products have won the EcoExcellence Award for Best Grooming Product three times and are USDA-certified by the National Organic Program.

That's an impressive resume for an impressive shampoo!

• Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Lauryl Glucoside, Coco-Glucoside, Sorbitan Oleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer, Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (and) Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract, Prunus Persica (Peach) Fruit Extract, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Fruit Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Phytate, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Oil, Citric Acid

If your furry friend has a coat that sheds, this shampoo will be a game-changer for you.

This shampoo is not organic, but it is clean, safe, and non-toxic. The formula contains the goodness of coconut oil and argan oil while consciously leaving out sulfates, parabens, silicones, and dyes. All finished off with a refreshing natural coconut scent that's just right (not too sickly sweet).

I love that Rowan has partnered with a veterinarian dermatologist to ensure that the human-grade ingredients used are ideally suited to the unique needs of a dog's skin and coat.

This shampoo is specifically designed for breeds (and breed mixes) that experience frequent shedding of their coat, such as:

• French Bulldogs
• Golden Retrievers
• German Shepherds
• Labradors
• Chihuahuas
• Corgis

If you're unsure if The Fur Wash is suitable for your pup, you can take a quick quiz.

If you've been visiting TheRoundup.org for a while, you'll know that I love a bulk buy or subscription discount...and Rowan doesn't disappoint in that department either!

You can set up an automatic delivery every 30, 60, or 90 days and save a cool 15%. Plus, you'll never run out of shampoo again. Win-Win!

This shampoo might not be organic, but it is expertly formulated to be gentle and effective for your dog.

• Ingredients: Water, Organic Castille Soap, Organic Aloe Vera Extract, Organic Chamomile Extract, Organic Glycerin, Organic Guar Gum, Organic Jojoba Oil, Organic Olive Oil, Organic Colloidal Oatmeal, Organic Calendula Oil, Organic Niaouli Oil, Organic Neem Oil, Organic Citric Acid, Organic Sea Buckthorn Fruit Oil, Organic Goldenseal Extract, Organic Green Tea Extract

If you or your dog is sensitive to potent smells, opting for a fragrance-free shampoo is advisable.

This fragrance-free and hypoallergenic shampoo has been thoughtfully crafted without any scents or allergens that may affect your sensitive dog (or you).

I'm impressed with the cleaning power of this shampoo. It might be gentle, but it still packs a punch when washing grime from a mucky pup.

Millie's cousin Dexter suffers from summer allergies, and my sister-in-law swears by this shampoo for him. She says it's the only thing she's tried that helps relieve his symptoms and reduce scratching.

• Ingredients: Water, Coco Betaine, Coco Glucoside, Glyceryl Oleate, Colloidal Oatmeal, Disodium Cocyl Glutamate, Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Green Tea Extract, Honey, Beeswax, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate

Dexter suffers from seasonal allergies for around six weeks at the start of summer. During this period, he loves a quick weekly wash in the shampoo mentioned above to help relieve the itch.

However, his mom uses Pupper Shampoo every six weeks for the rest of the year.

It's not organic, but my sister-in-law is so impressed with it that I thought it was worth a test...and I can now see why she likes it!

Millie appeared to appreciate the soothing and natural benefits of the oatmeal and beeswax (especially after a swim in an especially dirty and fly-infested lake).

The pH-balanced formula effectively combats irritation, moisturizes, and promotes healing without harmful parabens, phthalates, or sulfates that could strip the fur of its natural oils.

There's a subscription option available that ensures you never run out...and save 20%!

Treat your beloved pet to the perfect balance of cleanliness, softness, and a refreshing fragrance with this high-quality shampoo. It might not be organic, but it's still an excellent option.

Benefits of Using Organic Shampoo

Benefits for Your Dog

Using organic shampoo can have many advantages for our canine companions:

• It's made with natural ingredients which are gentle on the skin and coat.
• It's great for dogs with sensitive skin and is less likely to cause irritations and allergies.
• It does not contain harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances that can strip away the natural oils from your dog's skin, leaving it dry and itchy.
• It's often enriched with beneficial ingredients like aloe vera, coconut, and essential oils. These ingredients can help moisturize and soothe the skin, leaving your dog's coat soft, shiny, and healthy.

Benefits for The Environment

Using organic shampoo not only benefits our furry friends but also the environment.

Organic dog shampoo is made with natural and biodegradable ingredients, which means they have a minimal environmental impact. They also do not contain harmful chemicals that can contaminate water systems or harm aquatic life.

By choosing organic, you're making a conscious decision to protect the planet and reduce your pet's carbon footprint.

Buyers Guide: How To Choose the Perfect Natural and Organic Dog Shampoo

Ingredients to prioritize

When selecting a shampoo for your dog, there are certain ingredients you should prioritize:

• Aloe Vera: A popular ingredient that helps to moisturize and soothe the skin.
• Coconut Oil:  Another popular ingredient. It can help nourish the coat and promote a healthy shine.
• Oatmeal: Known for its calming properties. Great for dogs with itchy skin or allergies.
• Essential Oils:  Lavender and rosemary oils can provide additional benefits, such as a calming effect and a pleasant scent.
• Shea Butter: A natural moisturizer that can help lock in hydration and promote a healthy coat.
• Rosemary: Rosemary is known for its antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. It can help keep your pet's skin clean and healthy.
• Almond Oil: Almond oil is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which promote a soft and supple coat.
• Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil helps to balance pH levels, making it an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive skin.
• Castor Oil: Castor oil is known for reducing inflammation and moisturizing skin. It can also help rid your pup of dandruff.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil is an excellent source of healthy fats and antioxidants. It can help to nourish and protect your pup's skin from environmental damage.

Ingredients to Avoid

Just as there are ingredients to prioritize, there are also ingredients to avoid:

• Parabens: Common preservatives linked to health issues such as suspected endocrine disruption
• Sulfates: Harsh detergents that strip away natural oils and can be drying
• Artificial Fragrances: Synthetic fragrances are not only unnecessary but can also cause skin irritation

Certifications

Look for a shampoo that carries reputable certifications.

For example, if you see the USDA Organic seal of approval, you know that the shampoo contains at least 70% certified organic ingredients.  

Certifications help you avoid greenwashing and give you peace of mind that the products meet specific standards and criteria.

However, it's worth noting that some outstanding organic products might not be officially certified as organic. This is usually due to the expense of certification that some smaller companies can't afford.

Ask the manufacturer for clarification if you're ever in doubt about a product's organic status.

Consider Your Dog's Needs

Consider your dog's specific needs. This might sound obvious, but you'd be amazed how often it's overlooked.

• Skin: If your dog has sensitive skin, look for a specially formulated shampoo to soothe itchy, irritated skin (anything labeled as hypoallergenic is a good place to start).
• Breed: You should also consider the breed of your dog. For example, Labrador retrievers possess naturally oilier coats that aid in repelling water, and washing too often (or using conditioner) can lead to excessive oil production.
• Age: You should also consider the age of your dog. Puppies should use a specially formulated shampoo since their skin is much thinner and more sensitive than adult dogs.

Organic vs. Natural

While the terms organic and natural are often used interchangeably, there is a difference between the two when it comes to dog shampoo and conditioner.

Organic shampoos are made with ingredients that are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. They undergo strict regulations and certifications to ensure their organic status.

On the other hand, natural shampoos are made with natural ingredients, but they may not necessarily be organic or certified as such.

Organic shampoos provide an additional assurance that the ingredients used are of the highest quality and are free of harmful chemicals.

How I Tested

When conducting my tests, several factors were taken into consideration:

• The performance of the shampoo in terms of cleaning, odor control, and coat health
• The ingredients used in the shampoos and their efficacy
• How much Millie enjoyed (or not) the overall bathing experience

DIY Pet Shampoo

If you prefer a more hands-on approach and want complete control over what goes into your pups shampoo, try making your own with high-quality ingredients (such as organic coconut oil and oatmeal).

There are lots of recipes on YouTube to get you started. This homemade moisturizing shampoo is one of my favorites.

If you see a recipe you like that uses non-organic ingredients, switch them out for organic ones.

Also, be careful when using essential oils. They can cause harm if not diluted properly. The American Kennel Club has further advice on the subject. 

A Step-by-Step Guide to Bathing Your Pooch

It's not rocket science, but with a bit of method, you can hopefully avoid some wet dog madness.

So grab your rubber ducky. It's time for a splash course in the patented Miller dog wash system...guaranteed to leave your dog smelling fresh as a daisy!

Step One: Prep Your Pup

Before you even think about water, give your dog a good brush.

This detangles their fur and removes any loose hair.

Step Two: Make a Splash

Now for the 'fun' part...introducing your pooch to the water!

Whether you're using a tub, sink, or hose, remember to keep the water lukewarm. You're giving your dog a bath, not cooking pasta!

Step Three: Shampoo Shuffle

This is where our star player (the organic shampoo) enters the game.

Apply it from the neck down (I'll get to the head later) and massage it in. Remember, you're aiming for a day at the spa (not a wrestling match), so be firm but gentle.

Step Four: Heads Up

Time to clean that adorable face.

Use a washcloth dampened with water and a little bit of shampoo. Avoid the eyes and inside of the ears (unless you want to turn bath time into a soap opera).

Step Five: Rinse and Shine

Rinse thoroughly, ensuring no shampoo is left behind.

Any residue can irritate your dog's skin, turning your squeaky-clean success into an itchy disaster.

Step Six: Dry Off Dance

Towel dry your dog as best as you can, then let them shake off the rest.

If your dog tolerates it, a blow dryer on the cool setting works wonders (just be prepared for a fur storm!).

More Ways to Indulge Your Beloved Canine Companion

Does your dog enjoy bath time? Or is it a fight every time?

If it's the latter, you might need to spoil them to get back into their good books.

Here are some of the ways I like to treat the lovely Millie:

• A fancy new sustainable collar
• Make bath time less of a chore with delicious dog treats
• Help them forget the trauma of bath time with a strong and sustainable dog toy
• Give the gift of shiny, clean teeth (to go with a shiny, clean coat) with non-toxic dog toothpaste
• Let your fur baby indulge in the utmost comfort with a luxurious new dog bed
• Do your part to protect the environment and wrangle your furry friend's business with biodegradable poop bags
• Elevate your beloved pet's dining experience by choosing eco-friendly dog food options that minimize waste.

Is it safe to use human shampoo to wash my dog?

No, human shampoo is not safe to use on dogs. It can irritate their skin and lead to other problems. Instead, use a specially formulated pH-balanced shampoo for canine skin and fur.

How often should I wash my dog?

Bathing every six to eight weeks during regular grooming is usually sufficient for non-shedding breeds without health concerns. Dogs with a dense undercoat will benefit from a bath in either spring or fall when they experience seasonal shedding.

What do dog groomers use to shampoo dogs?

Most groomers use a combination of shampoos to suit the individual needs of their canine clients. A mild shampoo is usually used as a general cleanser, followed by one for odor or de-shedding treatments. In some cases, medicated shampoos are used to address skin conditions, fleas, and allergies.

Can I use dish soap to bathe my dog?

Dish soap (even an eco-friendly brand) is much harsher than needed to clean a dog's skin and fur.

How do I get rid of the smell of skunk from my dog?

The best product I've found for skunk smell is Skunk-Off® Shampoo. It's not organic, but it does the job.

What's the best tick shampoo?

You can read more about flea and tick shampoos and treatments in my natural flea repellent remedies article.

The Final Word

Choosing the right shampoo for your dog is essential for maintaining the health and well-being of their fur and skin.

All the shampoos recommended in this article are gentle on your dog and the planet.

By selecting the best shampoo for your pet, you can ensure that bath time is a pleasant and safe experience while promoting a healthy and shiny coat.

So give your dog the best care possible and consider switching to a better pet shampoo today!

Get In Touch

How well do you pamper your pooch? Do you insist on USDA certified organic coconut scrubs and shampoos? Or do you grab the first one you see in Target? Drop me a line and let me know.