muddy dog after a forest hike

Best Dog Shampoo for Odor

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Looking for the best dog shampoo for odor control? As a pet owner, you know that keeping your pooch clean and smelling fresh is important. But, not all dog shampoos are created equal, and some may not be very good at eliminating odor. We’ll give you a list of the best dog shampoos for odor control so you can keep your pup smelling great.

When getting a good shampoo for your smelly dog, it’s important to see what the ingredients in it are. Check the shampoo labels for natural ingredients and only buy shampoos that are free from harsh chemicals, dyes, and additives. Also, know your dog’s skin type and any skin issues he or she may have. After all, some shampoos are specifically designed for dogs with sensitive skin, while others are better suited for dogs with oily or dry skin.

Check the shampoo labels for natural ingredients. Buy shampoos that don’t have harsh chemicals, dyes, and additives.  Know your dog’s skin type!

Whether you’re dealing with a smelly pup or just want to keep your dog smelling fresh and clean, keep reading to find the perfect shampoo for your best friend.

Understanding Dog Odor

As a dog owner, you’re likely familiar with the distinct odor that dogs sometimes get. Some dog odor is to be expected, but excessive or unpleasant smells can be a sign of a problem. In this section, we’ll explore the causes of dog odor and the importance of regular grooming. 

Causes of Dog Odor

  • Skin infections: Bacterial or fungal infections of the skin can cause a strong, unpleasant odor.
  • Ear infections: These can produce a very noticeable foul smell.
  • Dental problems: Bad dog breath can be a sign of gum disease or tooth decay.
  • Anal glands: Dog anal glands often become impacted or infected causing a stinky odor.
  • Diet: Just like in people, some foods or treats can cause bad breath.

Importance of Regular Grooming

Regular grooming is really important for keeping your dog smelling fresh and clean. 

Here are five tips to help keep your pup smelling A-OK:

  • Bathing: Regular baths with a can help remove dirt and debris that can contribute to bad odor. Look for shampoos that are formulated for odor control.
  • Brushing: Brushing your dog’s coat regularly can help remove dead hair and prevent matting, which traps smelly odors.
  • Dental care: Regular teeth brushing and vet checkups can help prevent dental issues that can cause bad breath.
  • Anal gland expression: Regular anal gland expression can help prevent odor.
  • Diet: A high-quality diet for your dog will prevent body odor caused by certain foods.

The Best Dog Shampoo for Odor

When it comes to buying the best dog shampoo for odor, there are a few things you should consider. After all, you’ll want to get a shampoo that is safe and effective for your dog. 

Key Ingredients to Look for

When shopping for the best dog odor shampoo, look for products that contain natural ingredients like these that are gentle on your dog’s skin: 

  • Baking Soda: Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can help eliminate odors from your dog’s coat.
  • Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a soothing ingredient that will relieve itchiness, dryness and get rid of unpleasant odors.
  • Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a moisturizer that will soothe your dog’s skin and reduce inflammation.

Product Safety and Effectiveness

It’s important to look for a dog shampoo that is both safe and effective. Shop for products that have been tested and approved by veterinarians. Avoid shampoos that contain harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances. These will irritate your dog’s skin and may actually cause odor problems. Why? Because your dog will scratch and roll in stinky stuff attempting to escape the itch and fragrance.

It’s a good idea to know the type of smelly dog odor you are trying to get rid of. For instance, some shampoos are specifically for skunk smell and some are just for general body odor control. Read labels and ask your veterinarian’s advice. 

Remember: Choosing the best dog shampoo for odor takes some careful consideration. Look for natural ingredients, avoid harsh chemicals, and choose a product that has been tested and approved by veterinarians. 

beagle wrapped in a towel after a bath

Top Rated Dog Shampoos for Odor

Product NameFeatures
Pro Pet Works Organic Oatmeal Shampoo + ConditionerOrganic, biodegradable, and hypoallergenic. 
Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet ShampooAll-natural ingredients and effective in cleansing extremely dirty dogs while lifting stuck-in odors.
TropiCleanDeep cleaning, long-lasting scent, soap-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free.
Nature’s Miracle Oatmeal Shampoo and ConditionerOdor neutralizer and deodorizer for tough pet coat odors, natural oatmeal-based shampoo cleans and conditions.
Burt’s Bees for DogspH balanced, made with all-natural ingredients, no sulfates, no colorants, no fragrances.

Pros and Cons

Pro Pet Works Organic Oatmeal Shampoo + Conditioner:

Pros:

  • Organic and biodegradable
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Coconut-based cleansers
  • Deep cleaning
  • Long-lasting scent

Cons:

  • May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive skin

Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo:

Pros:

  • All-natural ingredients
  • Effective in cleansing extremely dirty dogs while lifting stuck-in odors
  • pH balanced

Cons:

  • May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive skin

TropiClean:

Pros:

  • Deep cleaning
  • Long-lasting scent
  • Soap-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Cruelty-free

Cons:

  • May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive skin

Nature’s Miracle Oatmeal Shampoo and Conditioner:

Pros:

  • Formulated with an odor neutralizer and deodorizer for tough pet coat odors
  • Natural oatmeal-based shampoo cleans and conditions

Cons:

  • May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive skin

Burt’s Bees for Dogs:

Pros:

  • pH balanced
  • Made with natural ingredients
  • No sulfates, no colorants, no fragrances

Cons:

  • May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive skin

When buying a dog shampoo for odor control, think about your pet’s individual needs and sensitivities. Always ask your veterinarian before trying any new products on your best friend.

Using Dog Shampoo Correctly

There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to using dog shampoo for odor. 

Bathing Techniques

The way you bathe your dog can have a big impact on how effective the shampoo is at getting rid of odor. 

Here are five tips for bathing your smelly dog:

  • Wet your dog thoroughly before applying the shampoo. This will ensure that the shampoo is evenly distributed and will be more effective.
  • Use warm water to help the shampoo penetrate deeper into the dog’s coat and skin.
  • Massage the shampoo in, paying special attention to areas that get particularly smelly, like the ears, paws, underbelly, and rear end. Let the shampoo sit for a few minutes to allow it time to work.
  • Rinse your dog thoroughly with warm water, making sure to remove all of the shampoo.

Frequency of Use

Using dog shampoo for odor too often can actually make matters worse. That’s because the natural oils get stripped away leading to dryness and irritation. 

Here are three guidelines for using dog shampoo for odor:

  • It is typically recommended to bathe dogs with healthy coats and skin every 4-6 weeks.
  • If your dog has stinky hair and skin, you may need to bathe him or her more often. But, be careful not to overdo it.
  • If your dog has sensitive skin or a skin condition, ask your veterinarian before using any type of dog shampoo, including those designed for odor control.

Follow these tips to use dog shampoo and your dog should smell fresh and clean without causing any harm to the dog’s skin or hair.

MoreTips to Combat Dog Odor

  • Regular grooming: Routine grooming will keep your dog smelling fresh and clean. Brushing your dog’s coat will remove the dirt and debris that adds to odor. It also helps distribute natural oils throughout the dog’s coat which helps it stay healthy and shiny.
  • Clean their bedding: Your dog’s bedding can teem with stinky bacteria and other smells. Wash the bedding frequently to keep it clean and fresh. You can also try this for odor control: sprinkle some baking soda on the dog’s bedding before washing.
  • Clean their ears: Your dog’s stinky ears can add to overall odor. Make sure to clean their ears as needed with a gentle, veterinarian-approved ear cleaner and a washcloth. Never use a Q-Tip or swab on your dog’s ears.
  • Watch their diet: Your dog’s diet can give your dog bad breath and body odor. Make sure they are eating a well-balanced diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level. Do not feed them table scraps or foods that are high in fat or sugar. Not only is this unhealthy for your dog but it can cause bad breath, body odor, and flatulence.
  • Keep them hydrated: Make sure your dog has access to plenty of clean, fresh water. This can help flush out toxins and keep their body functioning properly helping to reduce body odor.

Remember, always choose a high-quality dog shampoo for odor control and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog’s health or odor.

Best Dog Shampoo for Odor

Buying the right dog shampoo for odor control is often a trial and error task, but with the right information, you will be an informed dog parent and your dog’s best friend. When shopping, look for shampoo products that are gentle on your dog’s skin and coat, and avoid harsh chemicals that can cause redness and itchy, dry skin.

In addition to using a quality dog shampoo, there are other steps you can take to control odors. Regular grooming will remove dirt and debris that contributes to unpleasant smells. Keeping your dog’s bedding and living areas clean and well-ventilated can also help reduce odors.

All of our top picks of the best dog shampoos for odor listed in this article contain natural ingredients that effectively eliminate whiffs and leave your dog smelling fresh.

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