What is the Best Shampoo for Dogs with Skin Problems

Watching your dog itch, scratch, and gnaw at their skin is a terrible feeling.

And what’s even worse, is when those itchy areas become inflamed and your dog starts losing hair.

All you want to do is relieve their suffering. Right?

So, if you’re pondering the question, ‘what is the best shampoo for dogs with skin problems?’, you should.  And you’re in the right place today.

Because if you don’t know what to look for, you could make things worse, instead of better.  And ignoring skin problems can cause permanent damage to your dog’s skin and beautiful coat.

Investing in a shampoo made with soothing natural ingredients gives you the best chance of helping your dog calm their itchy, painful, and sensitive skin.

That’s easier said than done though.  With so many options out there and hidden toxic ingredients, finding a shampoo that’s natural, kind on your dog, and one that suits your needs can be tricky…

• Which shampoo kills fleas?
• Which shampoo has no artificial colors and fragrances?
• Which shampoo works to stop hair loss?
• What is the best shampoo for dogs with allergies?
• Which shampoo is best for a puppy’s skin?
• What is the best shampoo for dogs with sensitive skin?

That’s why here at German Shepherd Corner you can explore what’s available for your best friend. I’ve broken down all the ingredients so that you know what you’re paying for.  What’s good and what’s not.

And using the buyer’s guide and handy comparison charts will help you learn about exactly what to look for to make the best choice for you and your dog.

Quick Overview: Our Top Picks for Shampoos for Dogs with Skin Problems

If you’ve got time and want to hang around, just use the links below and be magically transported to any section you’re interested in.

Quick Navigation Menu

1. What’s the Big Deal About Skin?
2. What Does Skin Do for Your Dog?
3. What is the Best Shampoo for Dogs with Skin Problems? – Buyer’s Guide
4. Best Shampoo for a Dog with Allergies – Comparison
5. What is the Best Shampoo for a Dog with Skin Allergies?
6. Best Shampoo for Dogs with Sensitive Skin – Comparison
7. What is the Best Shampoo for Dogs with Sensitive Skin
8. Conclusion

What’s the Big Deal About Skin?

Just like us, dogs may suffer from allergies and dry, greasy or sensitive skin.  This leads to scratching, licking and gnawing at their fur.

In many ways, your dog’s skin works like yours…

Your skin is the largest organ in your body.  And it’s the same for your dog.

Skin is waterproof, insulating, and manufacturing vitamin D to protect bones.  But instead of rattling off a laundry list of what your skin does…

Let’s look at what your dog’s skin does.

What Does Skin do for Your Dog?

Your dog’s skin protects them from parasites, infections, and anything else that they may roll around in from grass to rabbit poop!

But dogs have an added bonus of the fur that helps guard themselves against the elements too.  Keeping them warm in winter and cool in the summer.

Most puppies are born with soft, woolly-like hair that develops into their own distinctive coat. These multi-layers go by names like underfur, guard hairs, and whiskers.  Your dog’s skin and each layer of fur must be kept healthy.

What is the Best Shampoo for Dogs with Skin Problems? – Buyer’s Guide

Any vet will tell you the first thing they look at to determine your dog’s health is the condition of their coat.  A smooth, shiny and lush coat equals good health and a happy dog.  On the flip side, a dull, brittle, or bumpy coat could mean problems.

Just like you use moisturizers, topical creams, and lotions to keep your skin hydrated and fresh (especially in the winter months), your dog’s coat and skin need regular TLC too!

In places with low humidity, a dog’s skin can get dry just like ours does, and supplemental oils like olive and coconut can keep skin looking healthy and fresh.

Tip: Coconut Oil has other great uses too! Check out this guide by SimplyWag for the lowdown on Coconut Oil.

So what is the best shampoo for dogs with skin problems?

The Wrong pH Balance will Destroy Your Dog’s Natural Oils

Because dogs interact with their environments, and each other, they need a shampoo that may be better than yours.

So before giving them the standard Head ‘n Shoulders, let’s look at a dog’s pH balance and how it compares to humans…

On a pH balance scale, your dog’s skin is more alkaline than your own, leaning towards a more neutral pH.

The normal pH range for humans is 5.2-6.2 which tends to be more acidic.  A pH balance of 5.5-7.5 is the range for healthy doggy skin.

So, if you use human shampoo on a dog, it may disrupt the dog’s acid mantle which leaves it vulnerable to bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

When this happens, many pooch parents will repeat the shampooing because the increase of bacteria will give off an unwanted smell. This makes the problem worse and causes a snowball effect as their dog’s skin pH level becomes more unbalanced.

On top of that, constant shampooing (or the wrong shampoo) will dry out your dog’s skin causing them to scratch at it and create abrasions that invite more bacteria in.

Another interesting fact: shampooing too much can give your dog diarrhea.  It can be a vicious cycle when all you wanted to do was keep your dog clean!

Picking the  Perfect pH Balance

Just as you want to keep your own scalp healthy and your hair looking glorious, you should actively look for a dog-specific shampoo that helps maintain the pH balance of its own skin and fur.

The best shampoo for dogs with skin problems will always have a pH neutral range, at a 7 or so.

Most shampoos tell you right on the label the pH-balance right for dogs.  Some don’t.  That leaves you in the dark to investigate further.  Tip: Use the comparison table to check the pH balance of each product.

Even if there is that big flashing sign on the label that says, “Perfect pH-balanced shampoo for dogs!” you still want to read the rest of the label.

And, avoid artificial fragrances or other possible vitamin-strippers added to the shampoo. Your pooch may have an intimidating bark, but they still have sensitive skin!

That’s why answering the burning question, ‘what’s the best shampoo for dogs with skin problems?’ is so important for your dog’s safety and happiness.  And your’s too!

Ingredients that Promote Health and Soothe Your Dog’s Skin

Some key ingredients and fragrances you want to look for in a dog shampoo should be all-natural and promote the growth of healthy fur.

Natural skin moisturizers that are great for humans and dogs include Aloe Vera, Tea Tree oil, Vitamin E, and Honey.

Dog shampoo with moisturizers and natural fragrances are beneficial to your dog maintaining its healthy coat as well.

Natural scents that your dog will love include lavender and eucalyptus.

And others that serve a dual purpose like chamomile and lemongrass that can act as an insect repellent.

Organic dog shampoos can be good due to its minimal processing but again, you want to read the label.

Herbs and Plants You Should Look for in Your Dog’s Shampoo

• Lemongrass – acts as a natural flea and mosquito repellent.
• Lavender – soothing to the central nervous system and can relax the dog during travel.
• Rosemary – high in calcium, iron, vitamin B6, and acts as an antioxidant.  It also improves circulation.  And it also smells good too.
• Thyme – rich in vitamins C, A, K, iron, manganese, calcium, and antioxidants, thyme also has antiseptic and antibacterial properties.
• Chamomile – this calming herb offers antispasmodic effects and can help tone down a hyper/excitable dog.
• Oatmeal – soothes itchy skin and leaves a protective film to prevent dryness/more itching.
• Aloe Vera – another skin soother for irritations, aloe Vera helps calm inflamed, infected areas.
• Eucalyptus – not only does this oil get rid of fleas, it has a wonderful natural scent.

Tip: If your dog suffers from yeast infections, avoid using a shampoo with oatmeal.

Other Ingredients for Added Health Benefits

• Vitamin A, D, E, and K – these fat-soluble vitamins are essential for a dog’s metabolism. A deficiency can lead to vitamin buildup in the dog’s fat cells, which is noticeable by the condition of its coat.
• Bentonite Clay – this highly-absorbent, negatively charged clay is referred to by Native Americans as “the mud that heals”. Comprised of volcanic ash, it is known to help skin and allergy issues.
• Shea Butter – just like for humans, Shea butter’s effects can greatly help a pup’s skin irritations and help soothe cracked paws.
• Argan Oil – a natural skin moisturizer, argan oil also helps untangle matted fur and leave it silky smooth.
• Coconut Oil – the lauric acid contained in coconut oil is a great immunity booster, especially when applied topically.
• Primrose Oil – the main ingredient in primrose oil is gamma-linolenic acid, a fatty acid recognized for enhancing the skin and hair of a dog.

Remember, that your dog produces natural oils, too, so overdoing bath time, even with natural shampoos can strip their coat of these natural oils.

A solid shampooing every few months is all your dog really needs.  Unless you’re dealing with skunk spray or bunny poop!

And if you’re dog’s caked in mud, a quick hose-off should do the trick in between baths.  Unless you’re treating a specific skin ailment, you won’t need more than a bottle of shampoo per year.

Understanding the benefits of all the wonderful ingredients will help you choose and a shampoo wisely.  And give you the best chance of helping your dog to soothe skin problems.

What is the Best Shampoo for a Dog with Skin Allergies?

Pro Pet Works Hypoallergenic Organic Oatmeal and Aloe Dog Shampoo and Conditioner

This all-in-one shampoo and conditioner is vet recommended and has everything you are looking for to keep your dog healthy and clean.

The healing extracts of aloe and the protective nature of oatmeal along with vitamins A, D and E are all wrapped up in a soothing, soft blend.

Along with leaving your pup smelling and feeling clean for days, this all-natural detergent-free pH-balanced shampoo leaves the fur is easy to brush after the bath and less irritating for your pet.

The fine oatmeal particles work to soak up allergens, helping to beat dry, itchy skin that may have previously affected your pup.

Some things you won’t find in the shampoo include alcohol, parabens, sulfates and unnatural soap products that may irritate your dog’s skin.

However, you WILL find a blend of cherry extracts, wheat germ glycerides, and hydrolyzed oat proteins that exude a pleasant scent and is easy on your pet’s fur.

The mixture of cherries, aloe, and oatmeal along with all of the other wonderful moisturizers leave your dog with a wonderful yet not overpowering scent. Some people have even been tempted to use it on themselves!

Pro Pet Works hypoallergenic shampoo users rave about the smell but more importantly, it really helps dogs with allergies of all types. This shampoo has been used on all sorts of breeds including Golden Retrievers, Chihuahuas, and Spaniels.

One reviewer reported that her white dog’s skin always turned red and irritated after a bath, even when using an oatmeal-based shampoo. But after applying the Pro Pet Works solution, there was no redness, itching or scratching afterward.

Pet groomers who use this shampoo give it high accolades as well for a number of reasons. The massive amount of foam it gives off when bathing shows that the shampoo isn’t diluted and you can use a lot less of it compared to an average brand.

It’s also nice that it works for various breeds of dogs with different kinds of sensitivities.   Plus, the fact that the lovely scent stays on the dogs long after he’s dry makes their owners happy when they come to pick him up.

This is the shampoo that finally makes bath time enjoyable and fun for both you and your dog. Did I mention that it can be used for bunnies and ferrets, too?

I like that this product is made in the USA, so you’re guaranteed high-quality ingredients from reliable sources. It’s also 100% biodegradable, non-toxic, made with recycled materials.  And is cruelty-free!

Pro Pet Works also offers you a money-back guarantee if you are not 100% satisfied.  Which says a lot about the company and their belief in their product.

I do like this all-in-one shampoo and conditioner.  And it should definitely be on your list of choices for the best shampoo for a dog with skin allergies.

Although it won’t irritate your dog’s eyes, because of the large amount of foam it creates, I recommend taking care around your dog’s face and eyes.

See the Pro Pet Works Hypoallergenic Organic Oatmeal and Aloe Dog Shampoo and Conditioner on Amazon.

4-Legger Certified Organic Dog Shampoo

Lemongrass and aloe make a great team, as lemongrass has an all-natural smell that insects and fleas hate and aloe is a soothing moisturizer that feels good on your dog’s skin. Keep in mind that although it repels bugs, it is not a flea treatment.

If you’re wondering what it smells like…

The answer is it’s a woodsy scent with lemon and citrus undertones.  And many pooch parents mentioned that the scent that lasts for a day or two after the wash.

Lemongrass alone puts off a strong aroma but has been proven to be gentle on sensitive dogs. The holistic hypo-allergenic oils within the shampoo give off a sweet scent and rest assured that this will not strip away your dog’s natural oils.

4-Legger users have stated that they’ve used it on their Pomeranians, Miniature Pinschers, Pugs, Rottweilers, and other breeds- all with great results.

This totally natural USDA-certified organic solution ensures that there is nothing synthetic or artificial in it- you won’t find parabens, sulfates, or anything weird in the ingredients.

During the rinse, some people have experienced their dog’s fur dry to the touch. However, once the water was completely dried out of their fur, they reported their dogs feeling as soft as a Sherpa blanket.

For those double-coated dogs out there like German shepherds, the 4-Legger totally cleans those thicker-layered four-legged friends as well.

The shampoo puts out a frothy foam and rinses quick. If you have a long-haired dog, you know all about those annoying tangles.  So you’ll be happy to know that 4-Legger will leave your dog with soft, smooth hair.

If you’re anything like me, you’ll know the feeling of grabbing the shampoo bottle, only to notice it’s all run out at your feet.

Leaving an empty bottle and a half washed dog!

If this is you, then the convenient lid spout will keep you from accidentally spilling or depleting your supply too fast.

And you only need a small amount to give your dog a good wash.

One dog owner said that when her dog was afflicted with inflammations, she saw an obvious improvement after using the 4-Legger.

Her dog quit scratching and gnawing at her coat, leaving her more time to play and snuggle with her family.

I like the combination of ingredients of 4-Legger shampoo.  Things like coconut, olive, jojoba, and lavender oils, all known to be beneficial for your dog’s skin.

Organic oatmeal glycerin and rosemary extract coupled with the main lemongrass and aloe vera ingredients are a perfect combination to put on your dog.

Although 4-Legger is manufactured in the United States governed by the National Organics Program and USDA, some of the raw materials are naturally-grown in other countries with tropical climates.

Whether the ingredients are sourced in the USA or other countries, 4-Legger ingredients still have to pass USDA and NOP standards with how they are grown and harvested. And, it’s vegan, too!

If you’re asking ‘what is the best shampoo for a dog with skin allergies?’, this is one of the top contenders that should be on your shopping list.

See 4-Legger Certified Organic Dog Shampoo on Amazon.

Jax N Daisy Dog Shampoo & Lotion

How can you not love a dog shampoo with a cute bottle and name like “Jax N Daisy”? But don’t let the name fool you.

This shampoo will straight up destroy fungal and bacterial skin infections that your dog may be suffering from. It has no problem combating hot spots and clearing up excessive scratching.

Jax N Daisy has all kinds of dog-loving ingredients that help aid in your dog’s hair growth such as: lemon oil, lavender, thyme, rosemary, chamomile, hemp, and grape seed.

The lemon, thyme, and lavender soothes dermatitis caused by environmental-stress issues or allergies and lemon alone directly kills bacteria.

Not much is said about hemp and grape seed in relation to your dog’s health, but they are both considered beneficial ingredients for various reasons.

Hemp is considered a super-food by some in the treatment of cancer, allergies, and joint disease. More humans are using hemp topical creams that can be translated to your pets, too (when used in specific doses).

Grapeseed is loaded with Omega-6 fatty acids that can be good in replenishing your pup’s natural oils as well.

Although the makers of Jax N Daisy do not recommend that it be mixed with a topical flea treatment, it is hard-hitting when it comes to making those skin rashes go away. Along with the shampoo, a lotion can be applied between bathing (up to 5 times daily).

With a lot of the same anti-fungal and antibacterial ingredients as the shampoo, the Jax N Daisy lotion can be left on the skin whereas the shampoo is rinse off. Made with all-natural organic ingredients, if your dog happens to get a lick of the lotion, don’t worry- it’s non-toxic.

One reviewer saw how well the lotion worked for her dog so she tried it on an eczema spot she had on her foot- and it healed it. So the Jax N Daisy isn’t just the best shampoo for a dog with skin allergies- it works for people too!

A few users have said that their dogs were scratching so much that they were losing hair and weight, but with the Jax N Daisy, they plumped back up and grew their hair back within three weeks.

Depending what kind of dog you have, you can get 4-6 washes out of the Jax N Daisy shampoo and have seen immediate results.

For dogs that have really bad skin problems, Jax N Daisy recommends using it for 3 days in a row and then decreasing application as your dog heals (which seems to be most effective).

Even people who’ve tried allergy shots and weeding out foods have seen progress in their pet’s health by simply bathing it with Jax N Daisy.

I like the Jax N Daisy dog shampoo.  And I think the extra bottle of lotion is a nice touch.  Although, if your dog has serious skin allergies, I recommend trying something like the 4-Legger Certified Organic Dog Shampoo.

See Jax N Daisy Dog Shampoo and Lotion on Amazon.

OxGord Natural Oatmeal Dog Shampoo & Conditioner

Oxgord understands that as an immediate member of your family, your dog deserves only the best in skin and coat care. Touting oatmeal, shea butter, and aloe vera as the main ingredients in this economically-priced dog shampoo, this 100% organic vegan pet wash turns bathtime into fun time.

The natural extracts and oils within Oxgord’s oatmeal shampoo blend offer a tear-free, pleasant experience while also working to restore the shine so that your pet comes out of the tub with an illuminating coat.

Non-toxic natural jojoba, coconut, and aloe oils relieve painful dander and dryness while the oatmeal, rosemary, and shea butter moisturize your dog’s coat.

Helping to relieve skin irritations and promote healing through its use of Aloe Vera, chamomile, rosemary, and borage oils, your pet will come away feeling clean and refreshed.

Although it’s not mentioned a whole lot, borage oil is a derivative of the starflower which is rich in Omega-6 fatty acids helping to promote the growth of your pup’s naturally-produced coat oils.

This 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner is strictly a wash just for your dog and is not to be used as a substitute medication or flea treatment, but it has been known to help with paw chewers.

Its pinkish-orange liquid emits a subtle cherry vanilla scent which is nice if your dog happens to put off a normally bad body odor (especially if playing with other dogs all day).

One customer said that she has even come close to using it as their own body wash in the shower and another person said that she wishes she could find a shampoo for people that smells so good.

So the moral of the story is- when a company makes a dog shampoo that smells so good that people are jealous, you know they’re doing something right!

Users claim to get a lot of washes out of a single bottle depending on the size of the dog and that the small opening in the lid helps prevent leakage or overuse.

One owner of a 110-pound German shepherd said he used half of a bottle and a 10-gallon bucket of water for the dog’s bath, and his furry friend loved it!

Another owner of a small dog said she bathed him at least 10 times and hasn’t even gotten through a quarter of the bottle. A little bit goes a long way with the Oxgord shampoo.

Oxgord’s oatmeal shampoo is paraben-free, cruelty-free, and made with recycled materials in Los Angeles, California. It seems to work on dogs with some of the toughest skin conditions.  It’s also the one shampoo that’ll give you the most bang for your buck.

There are a few gripes I have with the Oxgord Natural Oatmeal Shampoo…

Firstly, I think the word ‘medicated’ is deceiving.  A product can only be labeled as medicated if it actually contains an ingredient/s that treat a specific condition. I’m talking about a shampoo you’d get from your vet.

Secondly, the label says the shampoo contains Sodium Laureth Sulfate.  This is known as a cancer-causing agent. And it strips the hair of natural oils.

It’s not a bad shampoo, but because of the Sodium Laureth Sulfate I wouldn’t use this shampoo on my dogs.

See Oxgord Natural Oatmeal Dog Shampoo & Conditioner on Amazon.

Moosh Natural Organic Dog Shampoo

This Moosh dog shampoo blend by Fieldworks is a great solution to keeping your best buddy clean and healthy. Chock-and-block full of organic and natural materials, this concentrated wash keeps all of the bad stuff that’s attracted to your dog’s skin away.

As one of the only shampoos using Bentonite clay – a volcanic ash base regarded as having incredible healing, detoxifying, and cleansing properties – it binds with the toxins, fungus, and bacteria drawing them away from dog’s skin.

For dogs afflicted with skin allergies or dermatitis, the Neem and Argan oil helps to moisturize and reduce flaking.

What is “Neem”, you ask?

Called the “miracle herb for dogs”, Neem is a non-toxic oil that’s great for treating dry hair, sunburns, and it even keeps pests away.

Ancient Indian texts and even recent studies have shown Neem to be anti-everything: it’s antiseptic, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-fungal, antibacterial, and more.

Moosh may come in a fancy bottle, but a reducer in the design of it keeps the shampoo from gushing out. As well as the formula being safe for your dog, it’s eco-friendly and biodegradable.

If you think about how often your dog licks their fur, the shampoo you use better be safe!

Along with the moisturizing and healing properties of the Argan oil, neem, and Bentonite Clay, this shampoo contains a variety of other herbal extracts and oils including Coconut, Nutmeg, Olive, Sunflower, Shea Butter, Guar gum, and Aloe Vera juice. This shampoo can be used as often as needed and produces fast results.

What makes this shampoo only for dogs and not people?

The makers of Moosh say that the Neem and Argan oil combination makes this work specific to dogs (and since dogs have a higher pH balance, their skin tends to be more sensitive).

Some people have admitted using it on themselves, but Fieldworks does make chemical-free body washes specifically for people too.

Moosh’s many hypoallergenic and moisturizing ingredients make this the best shampoo for a dog with skin allergies. For a reasonable price, this concentrated wash has been known to cure dog acne and regenerate hair growth.

One user said that it only took two washes to completely cure her heeler pointer cross’ skin allergies and leaves no greasy residue on her dog’s fur like some other shampoo products do.

Another added benefit is that any fleas will keel over and instantly die during the lather, this is largely due to the Bentonite clay and Neem. With its subtle citrusy smell and Bentonite clay ingredients, your dog will feel like it’s been at the spa all day!

In all honesty, I can’t find anything about the Moosh.  I especially love the Bentonite clay, which is something I use on my own skin weekly.  When the clay, or ash, reacts with water it draws all the toxins and dirt out.

So, when it’s time to rinse you can be sure all the gunk is out.  If it’s good enough for my skin, it’s good enough for my dogs.

See Moosh Natural Organic Dog Shampoo on Amazon.

What is the Best Shampoo for Dogs with Sensitive Skin

Particular Paws Hypoallergenic Dog Shampoo for Sensitive and Young Skin

Released by Particular Paws, this shampoo pretty much captures its goal in the name by taking care of pooch paws and sensitive skin.

Created specifically for dogs that get into stinky adventures, this hypoallergenic shampoo removes dander, dirt, and grime so that your dog comes out of the bath squeaky clean.

This mild, all-natural solution relieves existing skin conditions as well as protects your pet’s fur from future breakouts.

It’s also great to use on wiggling puppies or those who are a bit freaked out about baths. This calming blend help to calm your dog during bath time.

And you’ll love to give those warm cuddles to your gorgeous smelling Rosemary and Honey pooch.

Particular Paws promotes all organic ingredients that are epi-sensitive, safe, and simple. The Aloe Vera, Rosemary, Chamomile, and Honey extracts work for all breeds of dogs.

Aloe Vera acts as the soothing agent, Chamomile improves the skin’s elasticity, and the Rosemary and Honey adds a fresh scent to your young pet.

What’s different about Particular Paws shampoo is that it doesn’t foam up- the texture comes out in a thick lather, almost like silk but not soapy.

The lack of bubbles helps to keep it out of your pet’s eyes and is easy to rinse out. Users have said that it helps keep allergies under control and helps their loyal partners stay itch-free and comfortable, especially after a day outside playing.

Bert, an Irish setter who scratched his skin until it bled, tried out Particular Paws and was completely healed after a week of use. So now Bert’s owner uses this shampoo on Ernie as well because they both love the lather.

This shampoo is tough on odors – even as bad as skunk spray – but gentle on your four-legged companion. Some people may get embarrassed if they happen to have a naturally stinky dog.  It’s okay, this shampoo takes care of all of that.

Chamomile and Rosemary and Honey scents linger on the dog. Even though your dog probably doesn’t care what it smells like, you probably do!

Particular Paws packs a cleaning power punch but is one of the more affordable puppy shampoos available. It doesn’t leave a medicine-like smell and is a great recommendation for a dog’s first bath.

Particular Paws Hypoallergenic Dog Shampoo is not my first choice for dogs with sensitive skin.  Sure, it’s safe for pups, non-toxic, made in the USA in a GMP-compliant facility.

And if you don’t get results you’re happy with, this high quality formula also offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee, or your money back.

But I think there are better shampoos in the same price range.

See Particular Paws Hypoallergenic Dog Shampoo for Sensitive and Young Skin on Amazon.

Dr. Mercola Organic Lavender Shampoo For Dogs

Lavender is known to help calm and soothe both people and pets by offering a feeling of relaxation through its soft, herbal scent.

A popular aromatherapy, lavender can reduce dogs’ vocalization and movement, which really comes in handy for bathing a hyper-excitable dog in this right before a long car ride.

Although lavender is the main ingredient in this shampoo, a blend of other botanical extracts including Sunflower, Sesame, Jojoba, Coconut, Neem, and Aloe Vera also round off this solution.

Although these ingredients are found in other dog shampoos, what sets Dr. Mercola’s apart from the rest is the addition of Apple Juice, Horsetail leaf extract, and Pro-Vitamin B5.

Apple juice can help a dog’s constipation, but it has also been used to boost the immune system and as a detoxifying agent.

Horsetail leaf extract is an anti-inflammatory due to its salicylic acid components that help control pain.

Finally, Vitamin B helps a dog’s coat keep its natural oils and soothe delicate skin.

This shampoo is mildly exfoliating and works to remove those dead skin cells while pumping in a lather rich in amino acids, vitamins, fatty acids, and minerals.

Perfect for dogs with dry and weathered coats, this is the best shampoo for dogs with sensitive skin.

Dr. Karen Becker is a holistic vet and promotes alternative medicine for pets at her practice in Illinois.  Along with her husband Dr. Mercola, they have developed natural remedies for pets of all types.  And both have received several awards for their findings in alternative medicine.

Made in the USA, Dr. Mercola’s organic lavender shampoo is free of sulfates, potentially harmful chemicals, and pyrethroids that are known to be toxic to cats. It also doesn’t have any oatmeal in it, so if your dog has a yeast allergy then he can still use it!

The only downside to this shampoo is its price for a bottle much smaller than other shampoos reviewed here.  But if you compare it to other shampoos for sensitive skin, it is higher in quality.

See Dr. Mercola’s Organic Lavender Shampoo for Dogs on Amazon.

Isle of Dogs Coature No. 10 Evening Primrose Oil Dog Shampoo for Dry and Sensitive Skin

Presented in a sleek, simple bottle, the main ingredient in Isle of Dogs Coature No. 10 is evening primrose oil- effective at relieving itchy skin and putting off a delicious scent.

This super-rich moisture replenishment deposits essential fatty acids into your dog’s coat alleviating any skin irritations and radiating cleanliness and shine.

There are so many amazing benefits to primrose besides the smell that it’s tough to list them all – so I’ll list the most important ones.

Primrose is an anti-inflammatory agent, helping older dogs that may suffer from arthritis.

If your dog swells up due to pollen and mold allergies, then primrose can help subdue the swelling and minimize the pain.

A dog’s scruffiness, dryness, and skin renewal are all influenced by omega fatty acids, which evening primrose oil does a great job in producing.

Your dog’s body uses the linoleic acid (found in omega-6 fatty acids) to regulate internal processes such as its heart functions and insulin utilization.

On top of that, evening primrose contains gamma-linolenic acid that inhibits your pet from creating inflammation-causing chemicals.

This non-greasy, penetrating formula is suitable for all dogs. But beware- after using this shampoo your dog will be marked with the Isle of Dogs creamy primrose vanilla signature scent.  Which may make him irresistible to your hugs. The dogs don’t notice or react to the smell, either.

If you bathe your dog regularly, you’ll be happy to know that some pet parents reported their dogs smelling fresh all until the next wash. The formula is so gentle that you can get away with more frequent use.

A few loyal customers of Coature No. 10 admitted to using it on their own hair after turning their friends and family onto the formula for their dogs.

Primrose oil can also help stabilize hormone imbalances as well as rejuvenate coats. So for anyone or anything that regularly uses primrose supplements or oil, this is a good product to always keep on hand.

If you have tried every line of dog shampoo and nothing really works, then Isle of Dogs Coature No. 10 might be for you.  Especially if you plan on entering your dog in dog shows! then this solution is for you.

It’s been used on Spaniels, Pomeranians, Schnauzers, German Shepherds and a bunch of other breeds. Their owners all love it!

Although Isle of Dogs makes several different kinds of dog shampoos for specific purposes, the Coature No. 10 primrose blend is the best answer to ‘what is the best shampoo for dogs with sensitive skin’.

Plus, they offer great customer service which alone makes it worth the price.

Of all the shampoos designed for dogs with sensitive skins, this one is by far my favorite.  But you know the saying ‘you get what you pay for’.  In this case it’s true.

This shampoo does have a steep price tag, but considering what’s on offer, it should be an option to consider.

Isle of Dogs Coature No. 10 Evening Primrose Oil Dog Shampoo for Dry and Sensitive Skin on Amazon.

Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. Soothe Oatmeal Shampoo for Sensitive Skin

Specializing in soothing, calming, and shine, the Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. offers a dog shampoo with ingredients that meets 3 important criteria.

The Oatmeal in this skin-sensitive shampoo helps protect your dog’s coat while Rosemary and Chamomile restore and calms your puppy during bath time.

After your pet is all rinsed off and dry, you’ll immediately notice the shine due to the Argan oil in the mix.

Aloe Vera helps seal the moisture into your pup’s coat and stimulate hair follicle growth while being gentle to your pet’s skin.

All Rocco & Roxie formulas come in a neutral 6-7.5 pH range that makes it less irritating to the eyes and safe for your four-legged furry friend.

Other ingredients included in this solution also include purified water, a Coconut-based cleanser, Shea Butter, Almond Butter, Mango fragrance, and Olive oil.

The mild, pleasant scent of Rocco & Roxie shampoo is safe for both humans and dogs.  And it’s been reported dramatically improve and diminish skin irritations.

Even for dogs with extreme sensitivities like Alopecia (balding), this formula has been known to help regenerate fur growth.

Although some people may have complained that the after bath scent isn’t strong enough.  But are others enjoy the gentle Tea Tree, Chamomile and Shea Butter scent.

That cuts the regular dog smell out but isn’t too “perfumy”. Users say that their dog remains doggy-smell-free for up to 2 weeks.

This shampoo has been known to really work in helping dogs with weather-enhanced environmental allergies – like winter dryness.

If this is your dog, Rocco and Roxie Dog Shampoo might be what you need. Plus, If you like fur that feels smooth, smells clean, and takes away the itching, then Rocco & Roxie is definitely for you.

If your dog has sensitive skin but is a roll-in-the-dirt kind of pooch you’ll be pleased to know this shampoo leaves shiny coats without harsh toxic ingredients.

Rocco & Roxie doesn’t let terrible sounding ingredients like formaldehyde, parabens, artificial colors, phthalates, or isopropyl alcohol into their shampoos.

So your dog will be completely safe and happy in this bath. Made with all-natural goodies, Rocco & Roxie’s dog shampoo is my second favorite pick for shampoo for dogs with sensitive skins.

Rocco and Roxie also offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee.  Which goes to show just how much they believe in their product.

The only thing that might put you off is the mid-range price tag.  But when you’re caring for a dog with sensitive skin, only the best is worth it.

See Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. Soothe Oatmeal Shampoo for Sensitive Skin on Amazon.

Conclusion

So, what IS the best shampoo for dogs with problem skin?

Making the choice of which shampoo to choose depends on the type of skin problem your dog is struggling with.  The 2 main skin problems are allergy based and sensitive skin.

Whether your dog suffers from allergies that affect their skin or they have delicate, sensitive skin.  Your main focus should be a shampoo that is designed with all-natural ingredients. A shampoo with the ideal pH balance, free from toxins and skin irritants are the kind you’re looking for.

Some of the shampoos here are better than others and there’s 1 or 2 I’d avoid using on my own dogs.  But the final decision lies with you and ultimately how your dog reacts to the shampoo.

But after reading these reviews, you’re equipped with the information and the knowledge to shop with confidence. Now you can choose a shampoo that will make your dog feel happy and comfortable again.  And one that suits your pocket.

And from experience, seeing the appreciation in my dog’s eyes when they know I’ve helped relieve their suffering is one of the most rewarding things on earth.

Photo Credits:

Lavender: GaborfromHungary

Honey: Keyseeker