If you’re hunting for the right shampoo to keep your dog looking and smelling great, you’ve picked a lively corner of pet care—there’s a lot to consider from scent and size to skin sensitivity and coat needs. Whether you’re weighing options like Wahl’s oatmeal and coconut lime verbena formulas, Burt’s Bees Manuka honey with charcoal, Arm & Hammer’s baking soda deodorizing shampoo, or PAWFUME’s deshedding, probiotic-rich salon formula, you’ll want something that cleans well, protects your pup’s skin, and makes grooming easier for both of you.
Pet shampoos have come a long way from simple soap and water. Over the years manufacturers have introduced gentler, pH-balanced formulas, natural and hypoallergenic ingredients, deshedding and conditioning blends, and deodorizing technologies so you can treat skin issues, reduce loose hair, and manage odors more effectively at home. Owning the right shampoo means healthier skin and coat for your dog, fewer baths when formulas lock in moisture, less matting and easier brushing, and a more pleasant-smelling home—benefits that add up to less stress for you and your pet.
In the article ahead you’ll get a closer look at each product—what’s in them, how they perform on different coat types, which scents and sizes make sense, and which options are best if your dog has sensitive skin, shedding issues, or odor concerns. By the end you’ll be able to choose the shampoo that fits your routine, your dog’s needs, and your budget.
Wahl Dog Shampoo — Oatmeal Formula for Dry Skin & Itch Relief, Coconut Lime Verbena Scent, Pet-Safe, 24 oz (Model 820004A)
This Wahl USA Dry Skin & Itch Relief Pet Shampoo (Model 820004A) is designed for dogs with dry, itchy skin and dull or dirty coats. You’ll reach for it when your dog needs gentle moisturizing, itch relief, and a clean that won’t strip natural oils. It’s ideal for regular baths, target treatments after scratching or rolling in dirt, and for dogs who react poorly to harsher grooming products.
If your dog has sensitive skin, seasonal allergies, or a coat that needs extra moisture, this shampoo is a solid choice. It’s also great for pet owners who prefer a pet friendly formula that’s formulated with professional grooming standards in mind.
You’ll appreciate how thoughtfully Wahl formulated this shampoo. It’s pH balanced, paraben free, PEG-80 free, and alcohol free, so it’s gentle on your dog’s skin. The oatmeal formula provides soothing relief for irritated skin, and the coconut lime verbena scent leaves a pleasant, fresh aroma without being overpowering. Wahl’s reputation among vets and groomers gives you confidence that you’re using a product trusted in professional settings.
A little goes a long way thanks to a higher concentrate of a coconut-derived sudsing agent, so you’ll get more baths per bottle. The shampoo produces a rich lather that’s easy to rinse off, helping you spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying cuddle time with your pup.
This shampoo was developed to moisturize dry skin, soothe itchiness, and clean dirty coats without harsh chemicals. Key features include:
- Oatmeal Formula for soothing and moisturizing.
- Coconut Lime Verbena Scent for a fresh, pet-safe fragrance.
- pH Balanced and alcohol free to protect skin’s natural barrier.
- Paraben free and PEG-80 free to minimize irritation.
- Higher concentrate so you use less product per bath.
- Made in the USA and backed by Wahl, a brand used by professionals for over 50 years.
The formula was even tested with a real family dog with severe allergies, showing it can be effective for sensitive pets. It’s a good all-around shampoo if you want something that combines gentle care with a professional-grade approach.
The overall quality is high. You’ll notice the shampoo’s texture is thicker than many supermarket brands, which contributes to its rich lather and ease of rinsing. The ingredient choices reflect a focus on safety and effectiveness rather than cheap fillers. Because Wahl has long roots in professional grooming, the product meets higher expectations for performance and reliability. For most dogs, you’ll see softer fur, reduced itchiness, and a clean, pleasant scent after use.
If your dog has severe dermatological issues, you should still consult your veterinarian. For everyday dryness, seasonal itchiness, and routine cleaning, the shampoo performs well and offers good value given its concentrated formula.
Pros
- Soothes dry, itchy skin with oatmeal-based moisturizing.
- pH balanced, paraben free, alcohol free, and PEG-80 free for a gentle clean.
- Concentrated formula — a small amount creates a big lather.
- Pleasant coconut lime verbena scent that isn’t overpowering.
- Made in the USA and trusted by professionals and groomers.
- Easy to rinse, leaving coat clean and soft.
Cons
- The scent, while mild, might not match every owner’s preference.
- If your dog has severe skin conditions, this is supportive but not a medical treatment.
- Bottle size (24 oz) is good for many but could run out faster for large breeds or frequent bathe schedules.
You’ll likely find Wahl’s Dry Skin & Itch Relief Shampoo a dependable, pet friendly formula that keeps your dog comfortable and smelling fresh — especially if you value a gentle, professional-grade oatmeal shampoo.
Wahl 4-in-1 Calming Dog Shampoo — Lavender & Chamomile, 64 oz (cleans, conditions, detangles, moisturizes)
The Wahl USA 4-in-1 Calming Pet Shampoo is designed to clean, condition, detangle, and moisturize your dog’s coat in one easy step. If you bathe dogs with sensitive skin, anxious furbabies, or pets with medium to long coats that tangle easily, this is a practical all-in-one solution. The lavender chamomile scent provides a calming formula that helps reduce bath-time stress while delivering a rich lather that rinses clean.
You’ll appreciate that this shampoo is pH balanced, alcohol free, paraben free, and PEG-80 free, which makes it a gentle choice for most dogs — including allergy-prone pets. Wahl’s higher concentrate of a coconut-derived sodding agent means less is more: a little goes a long way, producing a thick lather that’s simple to work through coats and easy to rinse out. The calming lavender chamomile scent is pleasant but not overpowering, and it helps soothe anxious pets during grooming.
The primary purpose of this shampoo is to deliver a professional-level clean while protecting skin and coat health. Key features include:
- Made in the USA formulation trusted by professionals and pet owners alike
- Calming Formula that helps reduce pet angst during baths
- 4-in-1 action: cleans, conditions, detangles, and moisturizes
- Allergy Friendly — formulated with sensitive dogs in mind (Wahl tested it on a goldendoodle with severe allergies)
- High concentrate thanks to a coconut-derived cleaning agent, so you use less product per bath
- Free from common irritants: alcohol free, paraben free, PEG-80 free
These features mean you can use one bottle to manage multiple grooming needs, saving time and cabinet space.
Wahl has been a brand used by groomers and vets for over 50 years, and this shampoo reflects that professional pedigree. The texture creates a luxurious, thick lather that helps you work through mats and tangles without tugging. Because it rinses well, you won’t be left with residue that can irritate skin or dull fur. For regular maintenance baths, this product provides reliable cleaning power and conditioning without harsh chemicals, so your dog’s coat stays soft, manageable, and smelling fresh.
Pros:
- 4-in-1 functionality reduces the number of products you need
- Calming lavender chamomile scent helps anxious dogs relax
- Gentle formula: pH balanced, alcohol free, paraben free, PEG-80 free
- Concentrated — a small amount makes a rich lather, so one bottle lasts longer
- Made in the USA and backed by a professional grooming brand
Cons:
- The scent, while mild, may still be noticeable if you prefer unscented products
- Some very short-haired dogs may not need conditioning agents included in the formula
- Large 64 oz bottle is great for frequent groomers but might be bulky for occasional users with limited storage
If you want a single, trustworthy shampoo that calms your dog, tackles tangles, and is formulated with sensitive pets in mind, the Wahl USA 4-in-1 Calming Pet Shampoo is a solid pick. It balances professional performance with gentle ingredients, so you can keep your dog clean and comfortable without fuss.
Burt’s Bees for Pets Deodorizing Dog Shampoo with Manuka Honey & Charcoal, 16 fl oz
You use Burt’s Bees for Pets Deodorizing Shampoo with Manuka Honey and Charcoal when you want a gentle, pH-balanced, and effective wash that targets odor while keeping your dog’s skin healthy. This 16 Fl Oz bottle is designed specifically for canine skin (not human shampoos), so it helps prevent the irritation that can come from mismatched pH. The shampoo deodorizes, restores coat luster, and leaves a light milk and honey scent—ideal for regular baths or between-grooming touch-ups.
You’ll appreciate how the formula combines natural ingredients and modern grooming needs. The inclusion of Manuka Honey and charcoal gives you a two-fold approach: Manuka Honey for skin wellness and antioxidant support, and charcoal to help neutralize odors and impurities. The product is made with 95%+ natural origin formulas, free from harsh additives like sulfates, parabens, phthalates, colorants, and chemical detergents, so it’s kinder to both your dog and your home.
This shampoo’s purpose is straightforward: reduce odor, soothe the coat and skin, and maintain a healthy shine. Key features you’ll want to know:
- Formulated for dogs: accounts for dogs’ higher skin pH to reduce irritation.
- Deodorizing action: charcoal helps draw out impurities and neutralize smells.
- Skin-soothing: Manuka Honey supports skin wellness and provides antioxidant benefits.
- Naturally derived: over 95% natural origin ingredients; no harsh chemicals.
- Gentle fragrance: leaves a subtle milk and honey scent, not overpowering.
- Eco-conscious packaging: bottles made with 80% post-consumer recycled plastics.
- Size: 16 Fl Oz, practical for small to medium dogs or as a test bottle for larger breeds.
You’ll find that the thicker, darker formula lathers well and rinses clean without stripping natural oils, making it a good pick for regular grooming.
The overall quality is solid for a biologically thoughtful, mainstream pet brand. You’ll notice a premium feel from the Manuka Honey ingredient and the thoughtful exclusion of harsh chemicals. Performance-wise, the shampoo deodorizes effectively for light-to-moderate odors and helps improve coat texture and shine. It’s not a medicated product for severe skin conditions, but for everyday maintenance and dogs with sensitive skin, it performs reliably. Packaging is sturdy and the pump or cap dispenses easily during bath time. From a sustainability standpoint, the use of post-consumer recycled bottles adds a feel-good factor to your purchase.
Pros
- Gentle and pH-appropriate for dogs, reducing the risk of irritation.
- Contains Manuka Honey for skin wellness and charcoal for deodorizing.
- 95%+ naturally derived ingredients and free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and dyes.
- Pleasant, subtle milk and honey scent—not overpowering.
- Packaged in 80% post-consumer recycled bottles.
Cons
- Not a medicated shampoo—won’t replace veterinary treatments for severe skin issues.
- 16 Fl Oz may be small if you bathe a large breed frequently.
- Dogs with extremely stubborn odors may need a stronger or repeated treatment.
If you want a trustworthy, naturally derived deodorizing shampoo that respects your dog’s skin and the planet, this bottle fits nicely in your grooming kit. It’s a gentle, effective choice for keeping your dog smelling fresh and looking healthy between professional baths.
Arm & Hammer Deodorizing Dog Shampoo (Baking Soda) — Moisturizing for Sensitive Skin, Kiwi Blossom Scent, 20 fl oz
You’ll reach for the Arm & Hammer Deodorizing Dog Shampoo when your dog or puppy needs reliable odor control and gentle cleansing. This product is designed as a regular-use deodorizing dog shampoo that targets lingering smells using baking soda, while being safe enough for sensitive skin and tear-free for puppies. If your goal is to keep your pet fresh between baths without stripping natural oils, this is a practical choice.
You’ll appreciate how this formula balances effectiveness with gentleness. The inclusion of Arm & Hammer baking soda offers natural neutralization of odors rather than masking them with heavy perfumes. The shampoo is tearless, moisturizing, and marketed for both dogs and puppies, so it’s versatile for multi-dog households or for pets with delicate skin. The light kiwi blossom scent leaves your pup smelling clean without overwhelming, and the formula claims compatibility with topical products, giving you flexibility if your dog is on medicated treatments.
- Purpose: A daily or regular-use deodorizing dog shampoo to remove and neutralize dog odors while maintaining skin hydration.
- Key features:
- Baking soda for proven odor neutralization.
- Moisturizing ingredients intended to protect and soothe sensitive skin.
- Tearless formulation suitable for puppies and anxious pets.
- Naturally derived elements and a refreshing kiwi blossom scent; product copy also mentions cucumber mint notes.
- Safe to use alongside topical products and medicated treatments.
- Available in a convenient 20 fl oz bottle for multiple baths.
This shampoo is meant to be used regularly for the best deodorizing results. You’ll want to lather, let it sit briefly if your dog tolerates it, then rinse thoroughly to remove oils, dirt, and trapped smells.
The overall quality of this Arm & Hammer shampoo is strong for pet owners who need a reliable, affordable dog odor shampoo. Performance-wise, the baking soda effectively reduces common canine smells, and many owners find the kiwi blossom scent pleasant and not overpowering. The formula’s emphasis on being moisturizing makes it a good match if your dog has occasionally dry or sensitive skin. Because it’s tearless and suitable for puppies, it’s a practical pick for families with young pets or dogs that don’t like baths.
You should manage expectations: while it reduces everyday odors, extremely strong or medical smells may require a vet-recommended medicated shampoo. For routine maintenance and freshening between deeper cleans, this product offers very good quality for the price.
Pros:
- Effective odor control thanks to Arm & Hammer baking soda.
- Moisturizing and gentle on sensitive skin.
- Tearless formula safe for puppies.
- Pleasant kiwi blossom scent that doesn’t overpower.
- Safe with topical products—good if your dog is on treatments.
- Affordable and easy to find.
Cons:
- May not fully eliminate severe or medical odors—those may need a medicated shampoo.
- Fragrance notes (cucumber mint vs. kiwi blossom) are mixed in product descriptions; scent expectations may vary.
- Frequent use may still require occasional conditioning for very dry coats.
If you want a friendly, effective, and affordable deodorizing dog shampoo for routine use, this Arm & Hammer option is one you’ll likely reach for often—especially if you’re caring for puppies or dogs with sensitive skin and want a product that neutralizes smells without harshness.
PAWFUME Deshedding Dog Shampoo & Conditioner (1-Pack) — Probiotic, pH-balanced, deep-cleaning formula to nourish and detangle for a soft, tangle-free coat
You’re looking at the PAWFUME Deshedding Dog Shampoo and Conditioner when you want a dual-action, salon-quality solution that both cleans and conditions. This bottle is primarily designed for dogs with medium to heavy undercoats, frequent shedding, sensitive skin, or a need for regular grooming before events like shows. Use it as your go-to deshedding and deep-cleaning wash to nourish the coat, detangle mats, and keep fur fresh and manageable between brushings.
You’ll appreciate how this formula blends practical grooming benefits with gentle care. The combination of probiotic conditioners, oatmeal extracts, and pH-balanced cleansing gives you effective deodorizing and moisturizing action without harsh alcohols or over-drying surfactants. It’s vet-approved, so you get a product that soothes itchy patches, calms redness, and supports the skin barrier while reducing excess shedding—perfect when you want visible results without irritating your dog’s skin.
PAWFUME’s 2-in-1 aims to be a comprehensive grooming step: a dog shampoo that cleans deeply and a conditioner that leaves fur silky and tangle-free. Key features include:
- Probiotic blend to support skin health and help maintain natural moisture balance
- Oatmeal extracts and soothing agents to relieve dry, itchy patches and calm sensitive skin
- pH-balanced formula that lifts dirt and odors without stripping natural oils
- De-shedding and detangling complexes to loosen undercoat hair and prevent matting
- Alcohol-free cleaners to avoid added irritation and maintain coat resilience
These features make it both a practical choice for routine baths and a strong option for prepping coats for shows or photos.
You can expect salon-quality performance from a product that balances cleansing power with gentleness. The lather removes grime and neutralizes odors while the conditioning agents soften fur and improve manageability. In practice, the shampoo delivers fast-acting relief for hot spots and reduces scratching, so your pup stays more comfortable. For multi-breed households, it’s effective across a range of coat types—long, short, curly, or double-coated—so you don’t have to stock multiple specialty shampoos.
Pros
- Reduces shedding and helps detangle, making grooming easier
- Soothes skin with oatmeal and probiotics; reduces redness and irritation
- pH-balanced and alcohol-free for sensitive or allergy-prone dogs
- Deodorizing formula that keeps fur fresh for weeks
- Works as both a shampoo and conditioner, saving time in grooming routines
Cons
- Some dogs with severe skin conditions may still need medicated veterinary products
- If you prefer fragrance-free options, the deodorizing element may be more noticeable than expected
- For extremely matted coats, pre-treatment or professional dematting may still be necessary
Use this shampoo when you want a reliable, multi-purpose grooming product that prioritizes skin comfort and coat manageability. With regular use you’ll likely notice less shedding around the house, a softer, shinier coat, and fewer post-bath tangles—making bath time better for both you and your dog.
Comparison — at a glance
Here’s a friendly, side-by-side look at the five dog shampoos so you can quickly see how they differ and which one fits your needs. Below the table I explain the key specifications so you know what each term means and why it matters for your pet.
Quick comparison table
| Product | Size | Scent | Key actives / features | Best for / Skin type | Notes / Model |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wahl Dry Skin & Itch Relief (Oatmeal) | 24 oz | Coconut Lime Verbena | Oatmeal, concentrated coconut-derived cleanser; pH-balanced; alcohol-, paraben-, PEG-80-free | Dry, itchy skin; moisture & itch relief | Made in USA — Model 820004A; “less is more” concentrated formula |
| Wahl 4‑in‑1 Calming (Lavender Chamomile) | 64 oz | Lavender Chamomile | Calming botanicals, concentrated coconut-derived cleanser; pH-balanced; alcohol-, paraben-, PEG-80-free | Anxiety-prone dogs; cleans, conditions, detangles, moisturizes | Made in USA — Model 821000-050; large value bottle |
| Burt’s Bees Deodorizing (Manuka Honey & Charcoal) | 16 fl oz | Light milk & honey | Manuka honey, charcoal; 95%+ naturally derived; no chemical detergents, phthalates, parabens, sulfates, or dyes | Dogs needing gentle deodorizing and antioxidant skin support | 80% post-consumer recycled bottles |
| Arm & Hammer Deodorizing (Baking Soda) | 20 fl oz | Kiwi Blossom | Baking soda odor control, cucumber & mint, tearless; moisturizing for sensitive skin | Smelly dogs needing regular deodorizing; puppy-safe (tearless) | Good for regular use; scent-forward |
| PAWFUME Deshedding / Show Dog (Probiotic formula) | 1 pack (size varies) | Unscented / salon-style | Probiotics, oatmeal extracts, pH-balanced, alcohol-free, de-shedding & detangling complexes | Heavy shedders, matted coats, show/maintenance care; sensitive skin | Salon-quality, vet-approved claims; reduces shedding & tangles |
What the specifications mean (so you can choose confidently)
- pH-balanced: Dog skin has a different pH than human skin. A pH-balanced dog shampoo matches canine skin pH to reduce irritation, dryness, and barrier damage.
- Alcohol-free / paraben-free / PEG-80-free: These are ingredients that can dry or irritate some dogs. Alcohol-free means less drying; paraben- and PEG-80-free indicates fewer certain preservatives and synthetic solvents that some owners avoid.
- Concentrated coconut-derived cleanser (Wahl “less is more”): Means the shampoo uses a coconut-based surfactant that’s concentrated so you use less product per bath — good for value and easier rinsing.
- Oatmeal: A classic skin soother that helps moisturize and calm itchy or dry patches.
- Manuka honey & charcoal (Burt’s Bees): Manuka honey provides antioxidant and skin-soothing benefits; charcoal helps absorb odor and impurities. Burt’s Bees emphasizes high natural-origin content and gentle formulation.
- Baking soda (Arm & Hammer): Effective at neutralizing odors; this formula pairs it with moisturizing agents and a tearless claim for gentler use around faces/puppies.
- Probiotics & de-shedding complexes (PAWFUME): Probiotics can help balance skin microbiome; de-shedding agents loosen undercoat hair and detangling complexes reduce matting—useful if you’re trying to reduce shedding and improve coat manageability.
- Tearless: Formulated to be gentle around the eyes — helpful if you bathe a squirmy dog or a puppy.
- Naturally derived / recycled packaging: If eco-friendliness matters to you, Burt’s Bees calls out 95%+ natural origin and 80% post-consumer recycled bottles.
How to match the product to your needs (short guide)
- If your dog has dry, itchy skin and you want soothing moisturization: Wahl Dry Skin & Itch Relief (oatmeal) is designed specifically for that use.
- If you want a calming, conditioning system and larger value size: Wahl 4‑in‑1 Calming (lavender chamomile) cleans, conditions and detangles — great for nervous dogs and long coats.
- If you prefer mostly natural ingredients with deodorizing and antioxidant benefits: Burt’s Bees (Manuka honey & charcoal) is the gentlest and most natural-leaning option.
- If odor control is your priority and you like a budget-friendly deodorizer: Arm & Hammer (baking soda) targets smell and is tearless for regular use.
- If you need to reduce shedding, detangle, and get salon-style results: PAWFUME’s probiotic, de-shedding formula is built to improve manageability and cut down loose hair.
If you tell me your dog’s coat type, age, and skin concerns (dry, itchy, smelly, heavy shedder, anxious), I can recommend the single best pick for you.
Conclusion and recommendations — quick roundup of the five shampoos
You’ve looked at five different dog shampoos, each built for a slightly different need. Below is a friendly, straight-to-the-point summary of what each does well, the main drawbacks to watch for, and which type of owner or dog each product suits best.
Wahl Dry Skin & Itch Relief (Oatmeal + Coconut Lime Verbena, 24 oz)
- Summary: Gentle oatmeal formula aimed at soothing dry, itchy skin with a pleasant coconut-lime scent.
- Drawbacks: The fragrance may bother very scent-sensitive dogs or owners; not intended to treat severe dermatological conditions; 24 oz may be small if you bathe large dogs often.
- Best for: You and your dog if dryness or occasional itching is the primary concern and you want a soothing, pet-friendly formula.
Wahl 4‑in‑1 Calming Shampoo (Lavender Chamomile, 64 oz)
- Summary: Large, value-sized calming formula that cleans, conditions, detangles, and moisturizes—good for frequent bathing and multi-dog households.
- Drawbacks: Strong calming scent may be too much for some dogs/owners; not the best specialized choice for heavy odor control or deshedding.
- Best for: You if you have anxious dogs, multiple dogs, or want a convenient bulk option that also conditions and detangles.
Burt’s Bees Deodorizing Shampoo (Manuka Honey + Charcoal, 16 fl oz)
- Summary: Naturally derived ingredients with charcoal to help deodorize; gentle and formulated with sensitive skin in mind.
- Drawbacks: Smaller bottle and potentially higher price per ounce; charcoal/deodorizing effects may be milder on very smelly dogs.
- Best for: You if you prefer natural ingredients and have a dog with mild odor concerns or sensitive skin.
Arm & Hammer Deodorizing Shampoo (Baking Soda, Kiwi Blossom, 20 fl oz)
- Summary: Strong deodorizing action thanks to baking soda—good for noticeably smelly dogs and puppies.
- Drawbacks: Baking-soda formulas can be drying for dogs with very dry or sensitive skin; the fragrance is synthetic and may not suit every nose.
- Best for: You if odor control is your top priority and your dog doesn’t have significant skin sensitivity.
PAWFUME Deshedding Shampoo & Conditioner (Show Dog, 1-pack)
- Summary: Salon-quality, probiotic, pH-balanced formula that nourishes, detangles, and reduces shedding—excellent for long or double coats.
- Drawbacks: Often pricier and may be more than you need for short-haired dogs; richer formulas can be overkill for low-shed pets; availability/size options vary.
- Best for: You if you’re managing heavy shedding, long coats, or prepping a show dog and want a professional-level deshedding and conditioning treatment.
Final advice
Pick the shampoo that matches your dog’s main need—soothing (Wahl Oatmeal), calming and multi-purpose (Wahl 4‑in‑1), natural/deodorizing (Burt’s Bees), heavy-duty odor control (Arm & Hammer), or deshedding/conditioning (PAWFUME). Always patch-test a new product, avoid contact with the eyes, and consult your vet if your dog has chronic skin problems or severe allergies. With the right match, you and your dog will both be happier after bath time.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
