10 Best Dog Shampoos For Dander – 2024 Reviews & Top Picks

Humans are not the only ones affected by allergies. Dogs can suffer from itchy skin, watery eyes, and runny noses from this aliment, too. Dust mites are typically the culprit, and they can make your dog very uncomfortable. The only thing worse than watching your pet suffer is if you are itching and scratching right along with them.

Your pal’s fur is full of dander, which can cause you to have an adverse reaction. This is where dander-preventing dog shampoos come into play. They can help eliminate allergens that you both suffer from, plus they help with other issues.

While special dog shampoos can have a lot of benefits, we know you want to be sure you are using a safe and effective product. With that in mind, we have reviews of the top ten dog dander shampoos on the market.

A Quick Look at the Winners in 2024

The 10 Best Dog Shampoos For Dander

1. Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo — Best Overall

Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo is safe to use on pets due to its use of natural ingredients. It is free from soaps that can further dry out your dog’s skin, as well as glutens, DEA, sulfates, dyes, and phthalates. Instead of worsening your pet’s allergy problem, this shampoo restores your dog’s coat and soothes irritated and inflamed skin, all thanks to the active ingredient, colloidal oatmeal.

Hepper’s Colloidal Oatmeal formula is our choice for the best overall dog shampoo for dander because it is gentle on extra-sensitive skin, pH-balanced, and made in the USA. Once your dog’s coat is dampened with water, it is easy to work a light lather. The disc cap allows you to control the amount you need, which will help you get the most uses out of the 16-ounce bottle. The suds are easily washed away, leaving your pup’s coat refreshed, hydrated, and residue-free.

This shampoo does it all. It cleans and conditions the coat, moisturizes the skin, and reduces painful and itchy irritations. It contains an aloe vera and cucumber scent that freshens up your dog’s coat for days after their bath. However, some dogs are sensitive to fragrances and may not like this one.

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2. Shed-X Shed Control Anti-Dander Dog Shampoo — Budget Buy

Despite being one of the cheapest shampoos on our list, SynergyLabs Shed-X Shed Control Shampoo contains a range of amino acids, omega fatty acids, and vitamins, including vitamins A, D, and E. Its formulation controls shedding and alleviates the discomfort of dermatitis and other skin conditions. Moreover, it has a pleasant smell of ginger and orange, rather than the pervading chemical smell found in some shampoos.

The shampoo will work with flea and tick treatments, so you don’t have to choose which irritants to treat and which to leave. As well as keeping your dog’s coat shiny and healthy, it also helps protect their skin and minimizes dander production.

Its quality and cost make SynergyLabs Shed-X Shed Control Shampoo the best dog shampoo for dander for the money. It has proven effective at preventing shedding, but it won’t combat all conditions in all dogs.

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3. Earthbath All Natural Dog Shampoo

If you are open to spending more on pet shampoo, this is an excellent choice. Earthbath is an all-natural, pH-balanced formula that is soap-free, so it will not dry out your pup. It uses aloe vera, shea butter, and green tea extract to condition and soothe irritated skin plus condition their fur.

Earthbath will help control shedding, dander, and environmental allergens, and it will leave your pup smelling fresh and looking great with the added ginseng and omega-6 fatty acids. Beyond that, the product is 100% biodegradable and does not contain parabens, phosphates, or dyes. Plus, it’s cruelty-free.

The drawback, besides being more expensive, is that it contains alcohol and won’t prevent fleas or ticks from attaching to your pup’s coat. However, it will not wash away protective spot treatments.

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4. Allertech 60-2120 Anti Dander Dog Shampoo

Up next, we have a 16-ounce dog shampoo that is mild and gentle. This non-toxic formula is great for allergy and asthma control by eliminating pet dander and other irritants from your ankle biter’s fur. You will also be able to reduce the “dog smell” with the deodorizing power and protect against fleas and ticks.

Allertech’s unscented shampoo has a natural anti-allergen base and other emollients. One drawback is the vagueness of the ingredients, however. Although this is a natural formula, there may be alcohol and other preservatives. Furthermore, the shampoo is harder to rinse out than other brands. Otherwise, it is a good option for reducing dander for all size breeds and fur types.

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5. Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Dog Shampoo

Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Dog Shampoo uses a combination of salicylic acid, coal tar, and micronized sulfur to alleviate the itching and flakiness that come from conditions like dermatitis. Not only does it help to eradicate itching, but it also minimizes dander production.

The shampoo should be used two or three times a week until the condition is under control, and then you can use it less often. The veterinary-recommended ingredients are gentle and have been proven effective in treating a range of skin and dermatitis-related conditions.

Your dog should notice a difference after the first use or two. The Veterinary Formula shampoo not only helps to reduce irritation, but by minimizing dander, it can also reduce human sensitivities to the fur and skin.

The Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Dog Shampoo is well-priced and effective for a host of skin conditions, making it another excellent choice.

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6. Bodhi Dog Anti Itch Oatmeal Dog Shampoo

Moving along, we have an anti-itch, hypoallergenic, plant botanical formula that will help relieve dry, itchy, and irritated skin on your pup. You can also use it to spot-treat areas that have been bitten since the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredients condition, soothe, and cool irritated skin.

This brand uses oat proteins, baking soda, aloe vera, coconut, fruit extracts, and vitamins A, D, and E in their formula. This will help reduce allergies by reducing and eliminating grass pollen, pet dander, and several other allergens. It also helps protect from flea bites.

The non-toxic formula also has antifungal and antiseptic properties, and it reduces odors with the light apple scent, as well. Although Bodhi Dog is cruelty-free and eco-friendly, it’s important to note that it is better for skin irritants versus allergies.

Also, the product wears off quicker than the other options above. On the other hand, the formula is paraben, SLS, alcohol, and detergent-free. Last, while it prevents fleas from nipping at your pal, it has no defense against ticks.

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7. HONEYDEW Natural Oatmeal Dog Shampoo

If you have a dog that is a nervous bather, this lavender shampoo will help naturally calm your pup’s nerves. The HONEYDEW Natural Oatmeal Dog Shampoo uses a combination of oatmeal, lavender, and jojoba oil to condition the fur and relieve itchy and irritated skin. You will also be able to reduce pet dander and eliminate odors.

An essential feature of this brand is the added ingredient that promotes hair growth. Phytokeratin softens the hair follicles, keeping your dog’s coat full and healthy. What the formula does not have is alcohol, parabens, sulfate, triclosan, or formaldehyde. However, while the formula is good, the label shows the oatmeal, lavender, and jojoba oil ingredients to be the last on the list. This means those three elements have the least concentration in the formula.

Another factor to consider is that this product only comes in an 8-ounce bottle, so it will not last as long as other shampoos. You can take comfort in the hypoallergenic and all-natural formula, however. Be aware that its flea and tick protection is very limited, and it is a better product for moisturizing rather than dander control.

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8. Paws & Pals PTSH-01-16 Natural Oatmeal Dog Shampoo

The Paws & Pals shampoo is our next pick, and it features an anti-itch moisturizing formula that deodorizes and softens pet fur. It is natural, vegan, and organic. You get a 20 fl oz bottle that lasts through many washes.

However, we have issues with the ingredients. First, you will find oatmeal, shea butter, rosemary, aloe, jojoba, and coconut oil, plus vitamin B-5 in the formula, which will not only condition the skin but help reduce your dog’s allergies and reduce the “dog smell.”

The inconsistency lies within the claim of “all-natural” versus the ingredients list, however. The product claims not to have any parabens, sulfates, synthetic dyes, or soap. Conversely, there are fragrances, sulfates, and dyes within the formula, so it’s essential to be aware that the ingredients may not be updated correctly. On the other hand, it could mean only the oils are natural.

Besides that problem, you want to steer clear of this option if your pup has sensitive skin since the ingredients make it too harsh, not to mention it is not tear-free as described. Also, be advised there is no tick or flea protection, and it will wash away any spot treatments if they are done within 48 hours. Last, the cherry-almond fragrance is very strong.

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9. Allersearch AL206016 Pet+ Dog Shampoo

Allersearch’s 16-ounce formula washes away allergens and dander from your pet’s fur. The hypoallergenic formula uses all-natural plant and root extracts to condition the coat and reduce odors. Unfortunately, although it does a tolerable job of reducing allergens from your pup’s coat, the effectiveness does not continue in deodorizing and moisturizing.

Interestingly enough, this mild product is too gentle and, therefore, ineffective. It does not contain any dyes or ammonites, and it is non-toxic, however. Once again, the ingredients list is vague, but the formula contains alcohol.

On a brighter note, your pup will have protection against fleas, but you should not trust the tick prevention. Also, the pH-balanced formula is hard to wash out and will sting your pet’s eyes. Finally, it is unclear whether this brand is cruelty-free.

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10. Furminator 285314 Shampoo for Dogs

Last on our list is a 16-ounce shampoo that uses omega 3&6 fatty acids, papaya leaf extract, and calendula extract to strengthen hair follicles. While it claims to reduce dander, it does not have a lot of effect on human or canine allergies.

You will also find cactus flower extract, hydrolyzed silk, and yucca schidigera within the formulation, yet it has fragrance, alcohol, soap, and vague preservatives. These ingredients can dry out your dog’s skin, and it is not an all-natural product.

There are no deodorizing agents nor any flea or tick protection with this shampoo. It is hard to wash out, and you need to use a lot of the product to get a full-body wash. Furminator’s shampoo is best used on dogs that shed excessively, and it’s not recommended for pups or people with allergies. Although there are no parabens, chemicals, or dyes, you are better off with one of the brands above.

Buyer’s Guide – How to Select the Best Dog Shampoo for Dander

There are a few characteristics you should know about dog shampoo to ensure your puppy’s safety and health during and after their bath. This comes in the form of ingredients. First, it’s important to note that the APPA indicates that grooming products only need to be regulated if they claim to be pesticides.

On top of that, many people do not know that the FDA does not regulate pet shampoo, and manufacturers are not required to provide ingredients. However, many products will still list ingredients as they are a main attraction and selling point, plus they wish to promote transparency within their company.

There are several ingredients you should be aware of and avoid if possible. One of these agents is artificial colors since they can contain harmful dyes. You also want to avoid mineral oil because it fully coats the surface it is applied to and will not allow the skin to breathe or release natural oils.

Avoid These Ingredients

If you took one look at the list and were ready to fly the coop, we don’t blame you. Just because you can type it doesn’t mean you can pronounce it! Most people won’t attempt to say those words out loud, never mind memorizing their purpose in a shampoo.

Here is an easy way to remember what is good and what should be avoided, but first, it’s important to note that some of the ingredients above are natural, so going with a “natural” product is not always safe. What you can do is look for “carbon-based” natural products or brands that list exact formulations.

If all else fails, try to stay away from mineral oils and dyes. Also, don’t use human-grade shampoo on your pup. Shampoo, whether for a human or a dog, typically is pH balanced. If you use a formula that is not balanced correctly for your dog’s skin, it can cause damage. What’s more, you want to avoid fragrances that are not natural. If it smells like lemons and lemon extract is listed on the label, you are good to go. Artificial fragrances can cause skin irritation and other issues.

Shopping Tips

Okay, now that you know what to avoid, it’s time to talk about the good stuff to look for in the best dog shampoos for dander control. Depending on your pup’s needs and your allergy levels, there are many dander shampoos you can consider.

Plant extracts and oils help nourish and condition your pooch’s fur and soothe their skin. Jojoba oil, coconut oil, aloe vera, and honey extract are great for the skin and hair. Other ingredients, such as baking powder and lemon extract, will help deodorize your pal’s coat.

Plant-based, vegan, organic, and all-natural (with ingredient label) formulas are great for your pup. When it comes to issues such as allergies and pet dander, you want to look for hypoallergenic formulas. This type of shampoo will be effective at curbing those allergies for both you and your furball.

Flea and tick control can be a nice bonus, but they can be harsher than other formulas. If your little buddy has sensitive skin, you may want to avoid these products and try a more gentle option.

Suggestions & Tips for Bathing Your Dog

Last but not least, as promised, here are a few tips for stress-free bath time for you and your pet.

 

Conclusion

We hope our reviews have helped guide you in the right direction and given you an idea of the dander shampoo options. If all else fails, go for our number one choice of the best dog shampoo for dander. Hepper Colloidal Oatmeal Pet Shampoo is the best product for getting your pup squeaky clean and dander-free.

If you need a more affordable option, the SynergyLabs Shed-X Shed Control Shampoo is a great alternative. It will help you eliminate watery eyes and runny noses, and it will leave your pet smelling extra fresh.

Related Reads:

• My Dog Ate a Bar of Soap! – Here’s What to Do (Our Vet Answers)
• 11 Best Dog Shampoos for Odor Control – Reviews & Top Picks

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Featured Image Credit: angel1238812, Pixabay