In 2022, I jumped at the chance to visit Shenee’s dog farm, Triple B Farms, in Claude, Texas. We had been friends since college. After years apart, I wasn’t just excited to see them again; I was also interested. I thought I knew everything there was to know about caring for dogs because I worked at a dog farm in Ozark, Missouri. But as we walked through her rows of happy dogs with wiggling tails, I noticed something: each dog’s fur and skin seemed to tell its own story. When Shenee talked about how she groomed each dog differently based on its needs, it hit me: knowing your dog’s skin and coat type isn’t just “nice to know,” it’s essential for keeping them healthy, happy, and looking their best.

That 8-day stay changed the way I choose and use dog shampoo. In this post, I’ll tell you what I learnt so you can care for your dog the same way I do.

The Warm Welcome and First Impressions

When I got to Texas, I was ready to see some sights. The first thing that hit me about Triple B Farms was how big and open it was. There were different kinds of dogs on the farm, and each had its own skin and hair. There were many dog breeds to look at, from sleek short-haired types to fluffy long-coated dogs. When I walked up to Shenee, she smiled and gave me a tour of the farm right away.

On the first day, we met some of her dogs. There was a Labrador Retriever with a short, shiny coat, a Poodle with thick, curly fur, and a Rough Collie with a long, thick mane. Since I’ve groomed dogs before, I could tell right away the changes in their coats. It was easy for me to understand the different kinds of dog coats, like short, long, curly, scratchy, and double coats. I learnt how important it is to know how to care for a dog’s skin and coat, because each dog has its own cleaning needs and traits.

What Are the Different Dog Coat Types?

A dog’s coat type is simply the texture, length, and structure of its fur, and it plays a big role in how you care for them.

Short Coat

A short coat is easy to care for because it is smooth and flat. Some dog breeds, like the Labrador Retriever, shed a little and don’t require much cleaning. A quick brushing a few times a week keeps the skin and hair healthy and shiny.

Long Coat

You have to care for your long coat every day because it’s beautiful and flows beautifully. If you don’t brush your Rough Collie’s hair often, it can get tangled and matted. Long coats dry slowly, too, so it’s important to pay extra attention to keeping the skin from getting itchy.

Curly Coat

A curly coat, like the Poodle’s, is dense and springy. It traps dirt and mats quickly without regular brushing. These coats can also be sensitive to weather changes, which sometimes makes the skin itchy or dry.

Wiry Coat

The fur on animals with wiry bodies feels rough and bristly. I’ve worked with Schnauzers before, but I didn’t see one at Triple B Farms. Hand-stripping is a special way to clean them that preserves their fur’s texture and prevents skin problems.

Double Coat

A double coat has two layers: a soft undercoat for warmth and a coarser topcoat for protection. Huskies and Border Collies have them. They shed heavily during seasonal changes, so brushing is essential to keep the coat healthy and prevent pests from hiding in the fur.

What Is the Normal Appearance of a Dog’s Skin and Coat?

A healthy dog’s skin is smooth, soft, and free from redness, flakes, or bald spots. Their coat should feel full and look shiny when you run your hand through it. It shouldn’t be stiff, have knots, or shed too much.

When I spent time with the dogs at the Farms in the evening, every hair on them showed they were well cared for. With its shiny sheen and smooth waves, the Labrador’s hair looked like it was alive. It helped me remember how important it is to use the right shampoo and take care of myself. If a dog doesn’t get enough, their skin can become dry, itching, or irritated, even if they’re happy and well-fed. This is especially true for breeds with long or wavy hair.

Learning About Common Skin Problems and Their Solutions

The most common dog skin problems are dryness, redness, and excessive shedding. Each has its own causes and solutions, and many are linked to coat type and grooming habits.

A small group of dogs had clear skin problems on my second day at Triple B Farms. Some of them had flaky spots, and others were scratching more than normal. It made me think right away of when I worked at the dog farm in Ozark and saw the same problems happen over and over again.

Dry Patches

When skin is dry, it feels rough and can leave flakes in the fur. Long-haired breeds are more likely to get it because their fur holds more dirt and moisture. In cold, dry weather, even dogs with smooth coats, like Labradors, can get skin problems. Moisturising shampoos and regularly brushing hair help keep the face comfortable.

Red or Inflamed Skin

Redness is often the body’s way of showing an allergic reaction. It can come from shampoo ingredients, food sensitivities, or even contact with certain grasses. When I spot redness, I always think about what the dog has eaten, where they’ve been, and which products were used during grooming.

Excessive Shedding

Some shedding is natural, but heavy, sudden shedding can signal trouble. Skin infections, stress, or sensitivity to a new product may cause it. Watching a dog’s shedding pattern closely can help catch problems early, before they turn into bigger issues.

How to Keep Your Dog’s Skin and Coat Healthy?

The best way to keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy is through regular grooming, a balanced diet with omega fatty acids, and early detection of any skin problems. These habits prevent dryness, reduce shedding, and keep your dog comfortable year-round.

During my visit to Triple B Farms, I saw how Shenee put these steps into action every day. Her dogs not only looked great, but they were relaxed, happy, and itch-free. It inspired me to bring some of her methods back home.

Regular Grooming

Once a week, brushing is good for short-haired dogs because it removes loose fur and lets the skin breathe. Brushing long-haired or curly-coated breeds every day will help keep their fur from matting, tangling, or getting dirty. When you groom your dog, you can get to know it better and check for any secret problems.

Omega Fatty Acids

Healthy fats are just as important for dogs as they are for us. Shenee adds a small amount of fish oil to her dogs’ meals to boost coat shine, reduce shedding, and support skin health. It’s a simple addition that makes a big difference.

Early Skin Checks

Catching problems early can save your dog from discomfort. Look for redness, flakes, bald patches, or unusual scratching. If something doesn’t seem right, adjust grooming products or visit a vet before the issue gets worse.

Grooming Tips for Different Dog Coat Types

Different coat types need different grooming to stay healthy and comfortable. Shenee showed me how she tailors her routine to each dog’s unique fur, and it opened my eyes to the details that make a difference.

Short Coat: Brushing your dog once a week should be enough for dogs with short fur, like Labradors. It keeps their face healthy and removes loose hair. Bathing regularly is still important because it removes dirt and natural oils that accumulate over time.

Long Coat—Dogs with long hair, like the Rough Collie, need special care more often. If you brush your hair every day, you can avoid tangles and mats that can hurt your skin. It’s also important to trim their fur so that it stays manageable and so that painful hot spots from trapped wetness or debris don’t form.

Curly Coat—Conditionally groomed curly coats, like those on Poodles, stay smooth. If you don’t brush and trim them regularly, their thick curls can mat quickly, which can be painful and lead to skin problems. Keeping the coat clipped helps it keep its shine and bounce.

A Deep Dive into Dog Shampoo Ingredients

Within three days, I had become used to living on a farm. I started to pay more attention to the dogs’ health and cleaning needs since they had become my friends. By this time, I had a good idea of how Shenee took care of dogs, and we talked for a long time about something very important to me: “dog shampoo.”

After taking a bath, Shenee saw that one of her dogs, a Golden Retriever, was scratching a lot. It made me think of similar things that happened at the dog farm in Ozark. After some investigation, we realised that the dog’s itching was likely due to the shampoo she was using. This led to a more in-depth discussion of the main ingredients in dog shampoo and the importance of choosing the right products.

What Ingredients to Look For in Dog Shampoo?

The best dog shampoos have gentle, natural ingredients that soothe skin and keep coats healthy. During my walk around the farms, Shenee shared her favourite ingredients, many of which I’ve seen work wonders for dogs with sensitive or irritated skin.

Aloe Vera is a top choice because it helps calm itching and reduce inflammation. Its moisturising power helps dogs with irritated skin feel comfortable again. Oatmeal is another superstar ingredient, especially for pups with dry or sensitive skin. It restores moisture and eases that itchy, scratchy feeling.

Tea tree oil can fight bacteria and fungus, but it needs to be used carefully since some dogs are sensitive to it. Coconut oil is a natural moisturiser with antibacterial properties and a scent that dogs seem to love.

Seeing these ingredients in action at the farm made me appreciate how much a shampoo’s formula matters. After all, a well-chosen shampoo isn’t just about cleanliness; it’s about comfort, health, and happy skin.

Read here our ultimate dog shampoo ingredients explanation.

What Are the Main Ingredients to Avoid in Shampoo?

Harsh chemicals like sodium lauryl sulfate, parabens, artificial fragrances, and propylene glycol can cause dryness, irritation, or allergic reactions in dogs. I had to ask Shenee if she’d ever had a problem with any particular ingredients in shampoos. She told me that she had used a shampoo on her dog that had harsh chemicals that made the skin dry and itchy. This made me understand how important it is to read labels carefully.

Shampoos often contain sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) to make them foamier. However, SLS strips the skin of its natural oils, making the coat dry and the skin sensitive. People use parabens to keep things fresh, but they can irritate the skin and can even mess with hormones over time.

Artificial fragrances sound nice, but they can trigger allergies and itching, especially in dogs with sensitive skin. It’s better to choose shampoos scented naturally, using gentle essential oils. Propylene glycol is meant to moisturise, but it can backfire by irritating dogs prone to allergies.

From what I’ve seen, avoiding these ingredients makes a big difference in keeping a dog’s skin calm and their coat healthy.

How to Test Dog Shampoo?

The best way to test if a dog shampoo works is to start small, watch for reactions, and see how the coat responds over time. As we chatted more, Shenee asked a great question: “How can you test if a dog shampoo is working?” To make sure I use the right shampoo for each dog, I shared some tips I learnt from this problem on my farm:

Put a little shampoo on a small part of your dog’s skin to do a patch test first. After 24 hours, look for any puffiness or itchy skin. It’s usually okay to take a full bath if the face looks good.

Keep a close eye on your dog after the bath. If they scratch a lot or if their skin turns red or flakes, the shampoo might not be right for them.

After you wash the coat, keep an eye on how it looks and feels for a few days. When you wash your pet’s fur, it should be soft, shiny, and healthy, not stiff and brittle.

What Ingredients in Shampoo Can Cause Itching?

Sulfates, alcohol, artificial fragrances, and dyes are some of the main shampoo ingredients that can cause itching in dogs. When Shenee’s Golden Retriever started scratching after a bath, she traced it back to a shampoo containing sulfates, which dry out the skin by stripping away natural oils.

Alcohol in shampoos also dries the skin and can lead to irritation and itching. Artificial fragrances may smell nice to us, but they often trigger allergic reactions in dogs, especially those with sensitive skin.

Dyes and colourants aren’t just unnecessary; they can cause redness, itching, or even more serious skin problems.

Knowing what to avoid helps keep your dog comfortable and itch-free after every bath.

What Is 3-Ingredient Homemade Shampoos?

On Day 4, Shenee and I decided to try a 3-ingredient homemade shampoo recipe for her dog that had been itching. It was a simple, natural solution that I’ve used before with great success. Here’s the recipe:

Ingredients:

1. Oatmeal (1/2 cup): Known for its soothing properties, it can help alleviate dry skin.
   
2. Coconut Oil (2 tablespoons): Moisturises and hydrates the skin.
   
3. Aloe Vera Gel (2 tablespoons): Soothes and cools the skin.
   

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients into a paste.
   
2. Apply to your dog’s wet coat, massaging gently.
   
3. Leave it on for 5-10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
   

The dog’s skin was really itchy, but this recipe helped a lot and made him feel calm and relaxed. Making natural remedies at home has always interested me, and seeing them work reminded me of how powerful simple items can be when grooming dogs.

The Medicated Shampoo Dilemma

By Day 5 at Triple B Farms, I had gotten into a routine with the dogs. The morning started with me helping Shenee care for some of the dogs that had skin issues, which brought up the topic of medicated vs. regular dog shampoo. Shenee had a couple of dogs with dry, flaky skin, and one of them, a sweet Beagle, had developed hot spots from excessive scratching.

She asked me about medicated shampoo and whether it was necessary. Having worked in dog care for so long, I knew the answer wasn’t always clear-cut, so we spent some time discussing when and how to use it properly.

Should You Use Medicated Shampoo Before or After Regular Shampoo in Dogs?

Medicated shampoo should be used before regular shampoo to get the best results. Shenee was interested in this order, so I told her that medicated shampoos contain active ingredients designed to help treat certain skin problems, such as infections or dryness. Washing your hair with regular shampoo first can remove the treatment’s main ingredients, making it less effective.

Medicated shampoo is usually the first thing you use. Let it sit for a few minutes so it can get into the skin and help with the problem. After washing, use a regular shampoo to remove any remaining residue gently. And it doesn’t hurt the skin; the coat stays soft and smells good.

At the farm, we used a Beagle to test this method. It took a few minutes for the medicated shampoo to work, so we used a gentle, normal shampoo afterward. I kept a close eye on the Beagle to make sure it stayed comfy and didn’t get any new sores.

Does My Dog Need Medicated Shampoo?

Your dog needs medicated shampoo if they have persistent itching, skin infections, hot spots, flaky skin, or unusual odours. At the dog farm in Ozark, I often saw dogs with irritated skin, and deciding to use medicated shampoo usually depends on these symptoms.

Shenee’s Beagle had chronic itching and a stubborn hot spot that didn’t heal with regular grooming. In cases like this, medicated shampoos with ingredients like chlorhexidine or miconazole can make a big difference.

If you notice your dog scratching more than usual or see infections, scaly patches, or strange smells, it’s a good idea to check with your vet. They can recommend whether medicated shampoo is right, and may even prescribe one tailored to your dog’s needs.

How Often Should You Use Medicated Shampoo on a Dog?

How often you use medicated shampoo depends on the severity of your skin condition. Shenee and I talked about this, and I told her that antibiotic shampoo is usually used once or twice a week until the skin problem goes away. After that, using a mild, normal shampoo on the dog’s skin helps keep it healthy.

Vets usually recommend using it daily for a short time to treat sudden problems like hot spots or fungal diseases. However, using medicated shampoo too much can dry out or irritate the skin. We agreed that after a few washes, Shenee should closely watch the Beagle’s skin and decide when it’s time to return to regular shampoo.

What Are the Disadvantages of Medicated Shampoo?

Medicated shampoos can cause dryness, irritation, and may not suit all dogs’ skin types if overused. I have always been careful with these shampoos because they can help with some skin problems, but if you use them too often or incorrectly, they can hurt your hair more than help.

Some medicated soaps have strong ingredients that can dry out your skin if you use them too often. These items could irritate or cause allergic reactions in dogs with sensitive skin. Overusing medicated shampoos can also cause resistance, making them less effective over time, just as overusing medicines can.

Because of this, I told Shenee to use the medicinal shampoo on her Beagle only when really necessary and to keep a close eye on the dog’s skin.

What Happens If I Use Regular Shampoo on a Dog?

Dogs can get dry, irritated, and have other skin problems if they use regular shampoo, especially shampoo made for people. Shenee thought it would be fine to use shampoo made for people on her dog one time. However, dogs’ skin is lighter and more sensitive than ours, so shampoos made for people often take away their natural oils.

This can leave their skin dry and itchy, cause dandruff or flakes, and trigger allergies like redness or swelling. While occasionally using a mild, unscented, hypoallergenic human shampoo might not cause serious harm, it’s always safer to use shampoos made specifically for dogs. These products keep their skin balanced and comfortable.

Can We Use Regular Shampoo for Dogs?

It’s not a good idea to use regular shampoo on dogs, but a small bit can work in a pinch. Someone asked me this, and I told her that a mild normal shampoo might work once if you run out of dog shampoo and need to clean your dog quickly.

Still, you shouldn’t make it a habit. For dogs with sensitive skin, regular baths can be drying or irritating over time.

Buying shampoo made just for dogs is the best option. This keeps their skin wet, their fur healthy, and helps keep skin problems from getting worse.

See our best regular dog shampoo detailed review

Understanding Seasonal Dog Shampoo Needs

By Day 5, I felt like I was really a part of that farm. More importantly, I learnt a lot about how dog shampoos need to change with the seasons. It seemed like the hair of one dog, a Golden Retriever, was changing. Her hair was falling out more than normal because it was fall and getting cooler. This seasonal shedding was a great example of why you should think about getting your dog shampooed every once in a while, or just when the need arises, for better skin and hair care.

Shenee was telling me how she had noticed her dogs shedding heavily with the change of seasons, and she asked me for advice on how to handle the extra grooming demands. I’ve experienced similar seasonal challenges at my farm in Ozark, Missouri, so this was a perfect opportunity to dive deeper into the subject.

Seasonal Changes and Dog Shampoo

Most hair that dogs shed is in the autumn and spring. This happens because as the temperature changes, their bodies change how their undercoats grow and fall off. Golden Retrievers and other dogs with double coats feel this the most.

When autumn comes around, and the weather gets cooler, these dogs’ coats get thicker and heavier to keep them warm. They shed that undercoat in the summer to make room for lighter hair that keeps them cool. During this normal cycle, a lot of hair falls out. If you don’t take care of it, it can cause mats, skin irritation, and other issues.

When I went to Shenee’s farm that morning, her Golden Retriever was shedding a lot. The best way to deal with yearly shedding, as we talked about, is to groom your pet. When you’re losing, I suggested using shampoos made just for that. Natural oils and moisturisers in these shampoos help loosen and remove dead hair from the coat while keeping the skin healthy and refreshed.

Seasonal or Occasional Dog Shampoo Needs

Shampoos with Omega-3 fatty acids and coconut oil can help keep coats healthy and stop pets from losing too much during shedding seasons. There is less moisture in the air in the autumn and winter, so shampoos with oatmeal or aloe vera help keep the skin from flaking and drying out.

Another thing to worry about in the spring and summer is fleas and ticks. During the colder months, flea and tick shampoos are especially important, especially for farms in Texas like Shenee’s that deal with many of these pests. We made sure to have plenty of these shampoos on hand to protect the dogs during those times.

How Often Should You Use Seasonal Shampoos?

The skin and hair of your dog will tell you. If your dog sheds a lot, like Shenee’s Golden Retriever, use a shedding-control shampoo about once a week when shedding is heavy. A moisturising shampoo every two weeks can help keep your dog’s skin soft and healthy if it tends to get dry in winter.

It is best to follow the directions on the bottle when using flea and tick shampoos, especially when it is warmer outside and bugs are more active.

Shenee liked this advice, and we worked together to create a grooming plan for her dogs that will keep them comfortable and their coats in great shape year-round.

Tackling Occasional Shampoo Needs

Day 6 was a great continuation of what we had learned about seasonal shampoo needs, but it was also a time to discuss occasional dog shampoo needs. Shenee mentioned a dog on the farm, a Shih Tzu, who had developed an unusual skin irritation. This was an excellent example of how occasional dog shampoo needs can arise due to something specific, such as allergies, skin infections, or even unusual outdoor conditions like dirt, mud, or chemicals.

What Are Occasional Dog Shampoo Needs?

Occasional dog shampoo needs arise when a dog faces a specific issue that isn’t part of their regular grooming routine. I explained this to Shenee as situations that require special shampoos tailored to unexpected problems or events.

Allergies or Skin Sensitivities

Sometimes dogs develop allergies from food, seasonal allergens like pollen or dust, or even contact with chemicals or plants outside. When this happens, red, itchy patches or rashes can appear. In these cases, anti-itch or hypoallergenic shampoos work best because they calm irritated skin and reduce inflammation.

Skin Infections

Dogs can develop bacterial or fungal skin infections from environmental exposure. Medicated shampoos with ingredients like chlorhexidine or miconazole are often prescribed by vets to treat these infections. From my experience, using these shampoos early can make a huge difference in healing and comfort.

Dirty or Muddy Coats

One day, Shenee’s Shih Tzu had rolled in the mud, leaving its coat oily and grimy. Regular grooming just wasn’t enough. That’s when a deep-cleansing shampoo is necessary; these are specially formulated to break down oils and dirt for dogs who love outdoor play or tend to get messy.

Can Regular Shampoo Be Used for Occasional Needs?

Regular dog shampoo can clean them in general, but it’s not always enough to solve specific problems. Shenee asked me about this on Day 6. I told them that for rare issues like allergies or infections, they usually need specific shampoos with formulas like anti-itch, deep cleansing, or medicated types that get to the root of the problem.

Say a dog has a sensitive rash. A normal shampoo won’t help the skin feel better. Hypoallergenic shampoos with oatmeal or aloe vera, on the other hand, are made to soothe and heal the skin during allergy reactions.

When Should You Use Medicated Shampoo for Occasional Needs?

Medicated shampoo may be needed temporarily to treat skin infections or fungal issues. But, as I’ve said before, overusing medicated shampoos can dry out your dog’s skin. They should only be used when necessary, usually for a few washes until the condition improves.

What Happens if I Use Regular Shampoo for Occasional Issues?

If you have allergies or an infection, normal shampoo might not help and could even make things worse. Regular shampoos can be harmful to dogs with sensitive or dry skin, especially if they are already feeling unwell. Using products made just for your skin problem is best if you have a certain skin problem.

Exploring DIY Dog Shampoo Options

Day 7 at Triple B Farms was my favourite day. I liked the routines and the challenges of taking care of the dogs. There was a small rash on Shenee’s Schnauzer’s belly when she and I spent some time brushing him that morning. Shenee asked me a great question: “Can I make my own dog shampoo?” We were talking about the best ways to take care of his skin.

This is a question I’ve encountered before, both at my farm and in casual dog care discussions. People are often drawn to DIY dog shampoos because they feel more natural and customizable to their dog’s needs. After all, many store-bought shampoos can have chemicals or ingredients that might not agree with every dog. So, I shared my thoughts with Shenee about DIY vs. store-bought dog shampoos, drawing on my experience in both areas.

Can I Make My Own Dog Shampoo?

Yes, you absolutely can make your own dog shampoo! It’s a great way to avoid harsh chemicals and tailor the ingredients to your dog’s skin and coat needs. I shared some simple DIY recipes with Shenee that are gentle and effective, as long as you know what to use and what to avoid.

Basic Oatmeal Dog Shampoo Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup oatmeal (finely ground)
  
• 1/4 cup baking soda
  
• 1/2 cup warm water
  

Instructions:

• Grind the oatmeal into a fine powder using a blender or food processor.
  
• Mix the oatmeal powder with baking soda and warm water until it forms a paste.
  
• Apply the mixture gently to your dog’s coat, massaging it in.
  
• Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
  

This oatmeal shampoo is especially good for dogs with dry, itchy skin. The oatmeal helps soothe and moisturize, while the baking soda cleans the coat and neutralises odours.

What’s the Best Substitute for Dog Shampoo?

When Shenee’s Schnauzer had a mild rash, we looked for a gentle alternative. Unscented baby shampoo can be a good substitute if you don’t have dog shampoo on hand. It’s not perfect for regular use, but in emergencies, it’s a safer option. Just make sure it doesn’t contain fragrances, dyes, or harsh chemicals that could irritate your dog’s skin.

I also mentioned Castile soap as another effective substitute. It’s plant-based and free from harsh chemicals, making it gentle on sensitive skin. Plus, it doesn’t strip away natural oils, which helps keep your dog’s skin healthy.

Do I Need to Buy Dog Shampoo?

Shenee wondered if she really needed to buy dog shampoo or if DIY versions would always work. I explained that while homemade shampoos are great for occasional use, regular grooming calls for a store-bought dog shampoo. These products are formulated to match a dog’s unique skin pH, which is different from humans and is more neutral.

For everyday grooming, it’s best to invest in a shampoo made with safe, high-quality ingredients. Dog shampoos clean thoroughly without drying out or irritating the skin, which is why I always keep a reliable supply on my farm.

What Is the Best Natural Dog Shampoo?

The best natural dog shampoo is one that doesn’t have any strong chemicals and soothes your dog’s skin. I suggested shampoos with gentle, skin-friendly ingredients that are great for sensitive dogs when Shenee asked about natural choices.

This is one that I recommend a lot: Vet’s Best Allergy Itch Relief Shampoo. It contains aloe vera, chamomile, and vitamin E, all known to soothe sensitive or itchy skin. This makes it perfect for dogs with allergies or dry skin.

Another favourite is Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo. Its oatmeal and aloe formula helps relieve itching and irritation while moisturising, making it perfect for sensitive skin.

I also mentioned Burt’s Bees for Dogs, which uses natural ingredients like honey, beeswax, and vitamin E. It’s gentle enough for regular use and keeps the coat healthy without causing irritation.

These natural shampoos are effective and safe, making them great choices for keeping your dog’s skin and coat in top shape.

How to Wash a Dog if I Don’t Have Dog Shampoo?

Quick Cleaning with a Damp Cloth or Sponge

If you don’t have dog shampoo, you can still keep your dog clean with just a damp cloth or sponge. This works especially well when your dog isn’t too dirty and just needs a quick wipe-down. Warm water helps loosen dirt and dust from their fur, and gently rubbing with a cloth can freshen them up without a full bath. I often use this method when time is short or during colder months when frequent baths aren’t ideal.

What You Should Know Before Bathing Your Puppy In 2025

Using Dry Shampoo or Cornstarch as a Substitute

If you don’t want to use water or can’t give your dog a full bath, dry shampoo made just for dogs is a great option. It removes odors and excess oils, leaving your dog’s coat looking clean. Cornflour works fairly well as dry shampoo if you don’t have any on hand. Lightly sprinkle it on your dog’s hair, rub it in gently to absorb the oils, and then brush it out thoroughly. I’ve used this easy hack when I was stuck on the farm.

DIY Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse for Odour and Detangling

In an emergency, a homemade rinse of apple cider vinegar mixed with water in equal parts can help clean your dog’s coat. This rinse is excellent for removing odours, detangling fur, and balancing the skin’s pH, which is important for healthy skin. Just be cautious to avoid your dog’s eyes when applying it. I shared this tip with Shenee after noticing some dogs had a slight odour but didn’t need a full wash. It’s a gentle, natural alternative that works surprisingly well.

What to Look for When Buying Dog Shampoo?

Choose Natural, Gentle Ingredients

The first thing you should look at when shopping for dog shampoo is the list of chemicals. Natural ingredients like coconut oil, oatmeal, and aloe vera are great because they keep the face moist and soothe it. Shampoos containing harsh chemicals, fake fragrances, or artificial dyes can irritate a dog’s skin, so it’s best to avoid them. To keep my skin healthy, I always look for gentle products that don’t strip my skin of its natural oils.

Match Shampoo to Your Dog’s Skin Type

Different dogs have different skin needs. If your dog has sensitive skin, hypoallergenic shampoos are usually the safest bet. Dogs with oily skin might benefit from a shampoo that controls excess oils, while those with dry or flaky skin need moisturising formulas. I often remind Shenee that understanding your dog’s skin type is key to choosing the right product, as the wrong shampoo can make problems worse.

Pick a Shampoo That Addresses Specific Needs

Some dogs have special requirements. Allergies, dry skin, flea infestations, or recurring infections call for shampoos formulated to target these issues. For example, anti-itch shampoos can calm irritated skin, while flea and tick shampoos help protect against pests during warmer months. Shenee found it helpful to have different shampoos on hand depending on the season and her dogs’ health.

Trust Reputable Brands for Quality and Safety

Last but not least, buying from well-known names gives you peace of mind. Some famous brands are Earthbath, Vet’s Best, and Burt’s Bees. They are known for using natural ingredients and ensuring their products are safe. These shampoos are usually subjected to more thorough testing and formulated to work especially well on dog skin, which is very different from human skin. I’ve used all of these myself and tell Shenee to try them because they are both useful and gentle.

What Is the Best Over-the-Counter Dog Shampoo?

The next day, Shenee asked about the best over-the-counter dog shampoo for her dogs. I gave her a few of my top recommendations based on my own experiences:

Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo for Sensitive Skin

What makes Earthbath Muesli & Aloe Shampoo the best over-the-counter dog shampoo for sensitive skin is up to you and your dog. It’s gentle but effective, soothing inflamed skin while cleaning well. Shenee liked how cheap and easy it was to find nearby when I told her about it. It was especially helpful for her dogs, who get dry spots when the seasons change.

Pet Head Dog Shampoo for a Fresh, Pleasant Clean

If you want a shampoo that smells great and uses natural ingredients, Pet Head Dog Shampoo is a solid choice. It keeps the coat clean without stripping away natural oils, which is important to prevent dryness or itching. Shenee liked this brand for her more active dogs who tend to get dirty and smelly after a day outdoors.

Sentry Petrodex Enzymatic Shampoo for Odour and Oral Care

For dogs that struggle with bad odours or even dental issues, Sentry Petrodex Enzymatic Dog Shampoo is a unique option. It contains enzymes that help clean the coat and can support oral hygiene by targeting bacteria around the gums and teeth. I shared this one with Shenee as a great multitasking shampoo, especially useful for dogs that need extra care.

Choosing the Right Shampoo for Your Dog

I always tell Shenee to select shampoos based on her dogs’ specific needs. It’s important to read the labels carefully and avoid harsh chemicals or allergens. What works for one dog might not suit another, so being attentive to how your dog’s skin and coat react is key. Over-the-counter shampoos can be excellent if chosen thoughtfully, and these brands have proven reliable in my experience.

Day 8: Final Reflections and Wrapping Up

Before I left Triple B Farms for good, I thought about all the things I had learnt from Shenee and her dogs. I learnt a lot about making my own dog shampoo, how important natural dog shampoo is, and how to care for dogs with different skin and hair types.

Shenee was now ready to take care of her dogs’ cleaning needs, whether they needed help with shedding, skin irritations, or just keeping their coats healthy and shiny.

As I left Texas, I felt very thankful for the time I had spent there. It wasn’t just a trip to see an old friend; it was an education that helped me understand how to care for dogs better, and I knew I would use what I learnt at work in Ozark.

Quick Answers for Happy, Healthy Coats

1. How long should I leave shampoo on my dog?
Leave shampoo on for 3-5 minutes to let ingredients work effectively, especially with medicated or soothing shampoos, then rinse thoroughly.

2. Can frequent baths harm my dog’s skin?
Yes, too many baths can strip natural oils, causing dryness and irritation. Usually, bathing once a month is enough unless advised otherwise by a vet.

3. What’s the best water temperature for bathing dogs?
Use lukewarm water, not too hot or cold, to avoid skin irritation and keep your dog comfortable during the bath.

4. How can I prevent my dog’s coat from matting?
Regular brushing and grooming prevent mats, especially for long or curly coats. Using conditioner can also help keep fur soft and manageable.

5. Are natural shampoos safe for all dogs?
Most natural shampoos are safe, but always check ingredients and test on a small skin patch first, especially for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.

6. How do I know if my dog has a shampoo allergy?
Look for redness, itching, swelling, or rash after bathing. If symptoms appear, switch shampoos and consult your vet.

7. Can dog shampoo help with flea control?
Some dog shampoos contain flea-repellent ingredients, but they should be part of a comprehensive flea control plan including treatments and prevention.

8. Is it necessary to condition a dog’s coat after shampooing?
Conditioners help moisturise and detangle, especially for long-haired breeds. They aren’t always necessary, but can improve coat health and manageability.

9. Can I mix different dog shampoos during baths?
Mixing shampoos isn’t recommended, as ingredients might react poorly. Stick to one shampoo per bath for the best results and safety.