If you ever find yourself out of dog shampoo, there’s no need to panic. While dog shampoo is specially formulated to support your dog’s skin and coat health, there are safe and effective dog shampoo substitutes you can use in a pinch. When you have no other option to bathe your dog, certain household items can help gently remove dirt and odors without causing irritation. Below are some dog shampoo alternatives that can help keep your pup clean, fresh, and comfortable until you can restock the proper products.
First of all, let's recap: why is dog shampoo special?
Dog shampoo is not the same as human shampoo. Dogs have a different pH balance than humans, which is why dog shampoo is specifically formulated to protect and maintain a dog’s skin and coat health. Using human shampoo or improper substitutes can disrupt this balance, potentially leading to long-term coat damage, dryness, and skin irritation. While dog shampoo should always be the first choice, there are situations where no other option is available. In those cases, the following dog shampoo alternatives can be used temporarily and with caution.
What can I wash my dog with if I don't have dog shampoo?
The following household items should only be used as last-resort dog shampoo substitutes when no proper dog shampoo is available. While these options may help temporarily clean your dog, they are not designed for regular use and should be applied with caution.
Baby Shampoo
Human baby shampoo is one of the most commonly used dog shampoo alternatives. Its gentle formula is less likely to strip the coat of natural oils compared to regular human shampoo. Use only a very small amount and rinse thoroughly to prevent residue and irritation.
Dish Soap
Dish soap can be used in emergency situations but should truly be a last resort. Because it is designed to cut grease, it can be harsh on a dog’s skin and may lead to dryness or irritation if overused.
White Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar
Vinegar is effective at neutralizing odors and can help soothe minor skin issues when diluted properly. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar or apple cider vinegar, apply lightly to the coat, and rinse well. Apple cider vinegar may help relieve mild itching, dryness, and skin irritation in dogs.
Baking Soda
Baking soda can help deodorize and freshen a dog’s coat. Create a paste using baking soda and water, apply gently to the dirtiest areas, and rinse thoroughly. Baking soda may also help dry out rashes, reduce redness, and relieve itching.
Pro Tip:
When using any dog shampoo substitute, always use the smallest amount possible and apply only to the areas that truly need cleaning. Rinse extremely well with plenty of water to avoid buildup and irritation.
Natural Dog Shampoo Substitutes
If you're looking for a more natural dog shampoo substitute, there are plenty of options. Here are a few to try:
- Coconut oil is great for conditioning your dog’s coat and can also help to repel fleas and ticks. Just rub a small amount into your dog’s coat and brush it through.
- Apple cider vinegar can be mixed with equal parts of water and and applied to your dog’s coat. Do not forget to rinse it very well!
- Lemon juice can also be used to freshen up your dog’s coat. Just mix equal parts of water and lemon juice, and apply it carefully on the body of the dog, carefully avoiding ears, eyes and cracks in the paws.
The Best Dog Shampoo Substitutes
PRIDE+GROOM, the first-ever dog beauty brand, takes the topic of dog shampoo alternatives seriously. That commitment led to the creation of THE MANE TAME, a premium waterless dog shampoo designed specifically for safe, effective cleaning between baths.
This lightly scented waterless dog shampoo is formulated without sulfates, parabens, gluten, toxins, dyes, or silicones, ingredients that can be harmful to a dog’s skin and coat. Instead, THE MANE TAME gently refreshes and nourishes your pup’s fur, helping them smell clean and feel comfortable between grooms or whenever a full bath is not possible.
If you are out of traditional dog shampoo, this waterless option is an ideal alternative. It contains only safe, dog-approved ingredients to keep your dog’s coat clean, healthy, and irritation-free. No water is required, though a good brush is recommended for best results.
To use, simply rub the waterless dog shampoo into your dog’s coat, brush thoroughly, and enjoy a fresh, clean pup in minutes. It really is that easy.
Is Dove Soap Safe for Dogs?
Dove soap is not safe for dogs because it can be too harsh and may disrupt your dog’s natural skin pH, leading to dryness, irritation, or even rashes. If you need a temporary dog shampoo substitute, always choose something gentle and formulated for sensitive skin, specifically designed for dogs. While Dove is a great choice for humans, it is not suitable for canine skin and should be avoided to keep your pup healthy and comfortable.
If you need a temporary dog shampoo substitute, always choose a product that is gentle and formulated for sensitive dog skin. Options like waterless dog shampoos, baby shampoo in very small amounts, diluted apple cider vinegar, or baking soda pastes can be safer alternatives when used carefully.
Understanding your dog’s skin pH is key: using products designed for humans can strip natural oils and weaken your dog’s skin barrier, while dog-specific products help maintain coat health, reduce itching, and prevent irritation.
While Dove soap is wonderful for humans, it is not suitable for canine use. Sticking to dog-safe alternatives ensures your pup stays clean, healthy, and comfortable.
Can You Use Dog Shampoo on Cats?
Not quite. While it's true that cats are often able to clean themselves quite well, there are still benefits to bathing them on a regular basis. For one, it can help get them used to the water in case they ever need a bath for an emergency. Secondly, regular baths can help remove any dirt or debris that may be stuck in their fur. And lastly, it can simply be a bonding experience for you and your cat. However, when it comes time to actually give them a bath, you should avoid using just any shampoo.
Dog & cat's skin is different in terms of thickness, composition & pH levels. You should not swap dog's shampoo with cat's shampoo (or a human’s shampo)!
Can You Use Human Shampoo on Dogs?
No, you should never use human shampoo on dogs. Human shampoos are formulated for our skin pH, which is different from a dog’s. Using human shampoo on dogs can strip natural oils from their coat, disrupt the skin’s protective barrier, and lead to dryness, irritation, or even rashes. Over time, this can compromise your dog’s skin health and coat condition.
If you need a temporary dog shampoo substitute, always choose a product that is gentle and safe for sensitive skin, such as human baby shampoo. Baby shampoo is milder and less likely to irritate, but it should still be used sparingly and only in emergencies. Always apply a very small amount, work it gently into the coat, and rinse thoroughly with plenty of water to prevent residue and irritation.
For the best long-term results, always return to a dog-specific shampoo, which is formulated to maintain your dog’s natural oils, protect their skin barrier, and keep their coat healthy and shiny.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has helped you learn what to do if you ever find yourself without dog shampoo. Remember, these substitutes should only be used in emergencies, as nothing beats a proper dog shampoo for maintaining a healthy, shiny coat. Using dog-specific shampoos helps protect your pup’s skin, preserve natural oils, and prevent irritation. From one dog owner to another, happy grooming—and here’s to keeping your furry friend clean, healthy, and happy!
Sensitive skin in dogs is far more common than many pet parents realize. Learn the true causes + signs, plus the proper tools, thoughtful grooming practices, and how to choose better products for dogs with sensitive skin in The Ultimate Guide to Dogs With Sensitive Skin!
WHO IS PRIDE+GROOM?
PRIDE+GROOM was born because a group of New York City dog lovers wanted the same level of grooming products for their dogs that they themselves enjoyed. They looked (hard) but nothing was up to snuff. Or sniff. Like so many, we love our families and take pride in our homes, and we consider our pets to be integral parts of those entities. That said, we could not find an effective way to coif them that was on par with the way we tended to our children, our homes, or ourselves. These beloved pets are allowed on the furniture and in our beds, and yet even when fresh from the groomer, we knew they did not smell or feel as good as they could.
With the development of our coat-specific shampoos, conditioner and deodorizing spray, we think we found just the way to say thanks for being the best and the sweetest MVP of the house. Skin and coat health is very important to us.
PRIDE+GROOM is the first dog grooming brand launched under a beauty platform, with formulas made in a clean beauty and scent lab. We know beauty is not only skin deep. We did a ton of research to create the entire line. Each product is formulated with its own unique blend of essential oils sourced from around the world.
IN DOG WE TRUST
Shop our entire line: www.prideandgroom.com