Baby Shampoo On Dogs: What You Must Know
The type of shampoo you use on your pooch is important. Using some soaps can lead to skin irritations that cause itching, redness, and other discomforts.
Plus, the cost of shampoos made specifically for dogs can really add up.
So, you may be considering using baby shampoo for your dog?
While many dog owners use baby shampoo for their dogs, frequent use of a human shampoo may impact your pet’s coat and skin.
Can I Use Baby Shampoo on My Dog?
When no other solution is available, baby shampoo can be used for dogs.
Dr. Debora Lichtenberg, VMD, states that veterinary dermatologists recommend Johnson & Johnson Baby Shampoo frequently for sensitive dogs. Some human shampoos are milder than in years past.
Still, using baby shampoo or any human shampoo is not recommended on a regular basis, especially for pets that have skin conditions, skin sensitivity or require frequent shampooing.
Why?
There’s a difference with the Ph levels between human and canine shampoos.
The Difference Between Canine and Human Skin
A pet’s skin has a different pH balance than humans.
Dr. Lam, a veterinary dermatologist says human skin is very acidic with a pH range of 5.4 to 5.9.
A dog’s skin is generally a pH range of 6.2 to 7.4. Therefore, it is essentially neutral which means it is not heavily acidic or alkaline.
Human shampoos could wash away the acidic layer of skin that serves as a barrier to containments such as bacteria and viruses. Thus, leaving their skin exposed to odor-causing bacteria.
Also, products that are specifically designed for human skin could be quite irritating and be drying to the canine skin.
Finding the Best Dog Shampoo
Grooming products are designed to maximize cleaning and minimize irritation. Since the chemistry of a canines skin and fur is different than the chemistry of human skin and hair it is wise to use a product specifically formulated for a dog.
Dog shampoos are designed for many issues such as dry skin, sensitive skin, fleas, and odor to name a few.
When looking for a dog shampoo for routine cleaning keep these key points in mind.
- Find a shampoo specifically balanced for a dog’s skin with a pH balance in the neural range which is 7
- Use products that contain soothing ingredients such as vitamin E, aloe vera, honey, tea tree oil or oatmeal
- Do not use products with added artificial fragrances or colors
- Shop for shampoos that contain natural fragrances such as chamomile, lavender, eucalyptus, and citrus
If your dog is showing signs of an ongoing skin condition, your veterinarian can help you with product recommendations.
Recommendations
Many people intend to use baby shampoo for their dog because they know it is mild and less costly than some dog shampoos.
Here are some recommended dog shampoo products that can be used for sensitive dogs, yet affordable.
1. Crazy Dog Baby Dog Shampoo
Bath your pet with gentle ingredients that moisturize your dog’s coat and skin—all without stinging eyes. Crazy Dog Baby Dog Shampoo is formulated with pro-vitamin B5, which adds a beautiful shine. It also contains wheat protein conditioners that nourish the coat.
At under $9, it is a good price for a product that conditions, softens, cleans and neutralizes odor well. It is also available in a gallon size if you become a big fan!
Even though this formula is ultra-gentle, it still cleans your dog’s coat thoroughly without any aggressive ingredients. Many pet owners love this product because it lathers well and leaves the coat silky smooth. The main reason most buy this product is that they love the baby fresh smell!
Key Benefits:
- Professional quality conditioning shampoo for general use
- Formulated for puppies and adult dogs of all breeds
- A baby fresh scent for long-lasting odor control
- Leaves coat soft and static-free
- Made in a 100% Solar Powered California facility
Cons:
- Some pet owners do not like the fragrance.
2. Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Shampoo
Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Shampoo is an all-around favorite. It comes highly rated and is great for everyday bathing as well as dogs with skin sensitivities.
This shampoo is gentle and safe while also smelling amazing. It is vanilla and almond scented, pH balanced contains natural ingredients, and is biodegradable.
Another benefit is that this product also helps with dry, itchy skin and thoroughly deodorizes pets.
Additionally, this shampoo boasts other benefits such as being soap free and not interacting with flea and tick medications. Earthbath is pet owner favorite, and you can’t go wrong with this safe and effective shampoo.
Key Benefits:
- A mild shampoo that deodorizes pets
- Gently cleanses hair without irritating eyes
- Rinses out easily
- Light, clean scent
Cons:
- May be a bit oilier than other products
3. Burt’s Bees Tearless 2 in 1 Shampoo and Conditioner for Puppies
If you’re looking for an affordable, yet mild shampoo for your dog consider Burt Bee’s Tearless 2 in 1 Shampoo. This shampoo consists all natural ingredients to clean, soften, and condition your dog’s sensitive skin and coat.
Ph balanced specifically for dogs, this formulation helps to avoid over-drying skin which leads to redness or flaking.
This product works great for puppies or older dogs with sensitive skin because it does not contain harmful chemicals or irritants, leaving your dogs coat looking healthy and less irritated.
Pet owners appreciate that this low priced puppy shampoo which provides a fresh clean smell without irritating ingredients.
Key Features:
- Gentle Cleanser infused with nourishing buttermilk to soothe skin irritations
- Contains honey to retain moisture and add shine
- Ph balanced for dogs skin which is less acidic
- Does not contain sulfates, colorants, and is cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
- Does not wash off treatments for fleas and ticks
Cons:
- Since this shampoo is low lathering, it may take more product to clean your pup.