What To Do When You’re Out of Dog Shampoo
Running out of dog shampoo can be stressful, but don’t worry—there are plenty of safe substitutes you can use in a pinch. Dog shampoo is carefully formulated to maintain your dog’s health in their skin and hair, so it’s always the best choice. However, if you’re in a bind and need to wash your dog urgently, a few household items can temporarily do the trick. Let’s dive into some alternatives and why they should only be a last resort.
Why Is Dog Shampoo Special?
Dog shampoo is designed with your puppy’s unique needs in mind. Unlike human skin, a dog’s particular skin has a more neutral pH balance, which means regular human shampoo can disrupt a pet's natural oils, leading to irritation or long-term damage. That’s why using a proper dog shampoo is crucial for keeping their fur healthy and shiny.
If you have no other choice, here are some safe alternatives:
Emergency Dog Shampoo Substitutes
These common household items can help clean your dog safely when you're out of dog shampoo. But always remember to use them sparingly and rinse thoroughly after:
-
Baby Shampoo (Unscented and Gentle)
-
Mild and gentle enough for sensitive skin, unscented baby shampoo is one of the safest substitutes. Use a small amount and rinse well.
-
Baby shampoo can strip a pet's fur or hair of its natural oils if used too often. Limit its use to occasional baths.
-
Some baby shampoos contain fragrances that can irritate the skin of a dog. Opt for a fragrance-free formula.
-
Make sure to rinse all the shampoo out of their coat thoroughly to prevent skin irritation.
-
-
Dish Soap (Mild and Non-Toxic)
-
A tiny amount of mild dish soap, like Dawn, can cut through grease and dirt. Be cautious, as it can dry out your pooch's skin if used too often. While Dawn is often used to clean up major events, such as oil spills on wildlife, it's not recommended for regular use on pets.
-
Dishwashing detergent like Dawn is specially created for use on dishes and not for use on pets. It's designed to cut through grease and grime, which can be harmful to your dog's fur or skin. Dishwashing detergents can strip away the natural oils that keep your dog's skin and hair healthy and shiny. This can lead to dry, itchy skin and a dull coat.
-
Dishwashing detergents can be irritating to your pet's skin. The chemicals in these detergents can cause skin irritation, redness, and even chemical burns. A pup has much more sensitive skin than humans, so even a small amount of dishwashing detergent can be harmful to them.
-
Dishwashing detergents are not made to deal with the specific needs or safety of a dog's body. Dogs have a different pH balance than humans, which means that their skin and hair require different care. Using a product that is not specifically created for dogs can throw off their pH balance and lead to skin irritation, dryness, and other issues.
-
Read more information on the dangers of using dish detergent on your pets here: THE PRIDE+GROOM BLOG
-
White Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar
-
Mix equal parts water and vinegar to create a cleansing rinse. Apple cider vinegar can also help soothe minor skin irritations like itchiness or dryness.
-
-
Baking Soda
-
Sprinkle baking soda on your dog’s coat as a waterless shampoo, then brush it out to neutralize odors. For a wet wash, mix it with water to form a paste, apply, and rinse thoroughly.
-
-
Cornstarch
-
If you find yourself in a real pickle and your dog isn’t overly dirty, you can use cornstarch as a dog shampoo substitute. This is a job that should be done outdoors if possible because it can be messy like the baking soda method.
-
To use this alternative, shake cornstarch over your pet's body, then work the powder into the fur. Let it sit for a few minutes, then remove the cornstarch using a grooming comb or dog brush. Cornstarch absorbs foul odors, so it will freshen up your pup if they smelled terrible before you started. Like the baking soda method, using cornstarch isn’t your best choice if your dog is terribly dirty, as it simply won’t cut through heavy dirt and grime.
-
Natural Dog Shampoo Substitutes
If your pup has itchy, dry, or sensitive skin, there are a few things you can add to the shampoo to relieve their symptoms. You can make a shampoo that has aloe vera gel and glycerin, which can be found in pharmacies, some grocery stores, and online. You could also make an oatmeal shampoo. Oatmeal is known for its soothing properties and is found in many commercial grooming products.
Aloe Vera and Glycerin Shampoo
Ingredients:
-
1 quart of water
-
1 cup of white or apple cider vinegar
-
1/3 cup of glycerin
-
1 cup of baby shampoo or non-toxic dish soap
-
2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel
Mix all ingredients in spray bottle and shake to thoroughly combine. Apply to your dog, avoiding their eyes and work into their fur. Rinse.
If you prefer natural shampoo options for your dog, here are a few gentle alternatives:
-
Coconut Oil
-
Rub a small amount into your dog’s coat for conditioning and to repel fleas and ticks. Brush it through thoroughly.
-
-
Lemon Water
-
Mix equal parts water and lemon juice to freshen your dog’s coat. Avoid sensitive areas like the eyes, ears, and paws.
*While some people use a diluted lemon water solution to bathe a dog, it is generally not recommended as the acidity of lemon juice can irritate a dog's skin, especially if they have sensitive skin, and should be avoided unless consulting a veterinarian first.
-
-
Oatmeal Mix
-
To make oatmeal dog shampoo, grind plain, uncooked oatmeal into a fine powder using a blender or coffee grinder, then mix it with warm water and a small amount of baking soda in a bowl until a smooth consistency is achieved; wet your dog thoroughly before applying the shampoo, lathering it into their fur or hair, and then rinse well with warm water.
-
-
Homemade Dog Shampoo
Combine:-
1 cup of warm water
-
1 tablespoon of dish soap (natural or gentle)
-
1 tablespoon of white or apple cider vinegar
*Use sparingly, and rinse well to prevent skin irritation.
-
Key Factors to Remember:
Use these options sparingly:
Even with substitutes like baby shampoo, use only a small amount as they can still strip natural oils from your dog's coat.
Dilute thoroughly:
If using dish soap, dilute it heavily with water to avoid irritation.
Check for sensitivities:
Always test a small area of your dog's skin before applying any new substitute to ensure they don't have an adverse reaction. You can even check a product on your own hand first before you continue.
Consider the reason for bathing:
If your dog has specific skin issues, look for natural alternatives like coconut oil or oatmeal depending on their needs. Your pup may also need conditioner after shampooing to help with knots and tangles.
Why Brush Your Dog?
Using a brush on your dog regularly not only keeps their coat looking good, but it also helps release dead hair and skin follicles, helping you manage dog shedding season, remove mats, and distribute the natural oils in the skin to keep your dog healthy while cleaning them. The right brush and proper dog grooming is important for all breeds, not just those with long hair or matted ears. Short haired dogs and shedders also require regular dog grooming and brushing.
But which brush is right for your pet? Learn more here: THE PRIDE+GROOM BLOG
Can Dogs Use Shampoo for Humans?
One thing all pet parents should know is: you don’t want to use is shampoo made for humans. The pH level of our skin is different from that of dogs: ours ranges from 5.5-5.6, while dogs’ pH is between 6.2-7.4. Human shampoo will be too acidic for dogs and can cause skin irritation or perpetuate any skin conditions. If you’re going to mix up your own pet shampoo, you’ll be aiming for a pH level around 7.
Using Baby Wipes on Dogs
Many think that baby wipes can be a quick and convenient option for cleaning your dog. While this is true, wipes specifically formulated for pets are much safer and healthier than baby wipes.
PRIDE+GROOM's THE SWIPE wipes offer the best antiseptic wet wipes for dogs (and cats) made without any harsh chemicals or additives. They are extremely nourishing and soothing like our shampoos and conditioners and armed with our signature scent. They are especially useful for spot cleaning or for dogs that are averse to baths because there’s no water or rinsing required, but you can use them on small areas like the paws, ears or nose. You will absolutely love the fresh smell!
If you do not use wipes that are specifically made for dogs, then always look for unscented baby wipes without alcohol or harmful chemicals to ensure they are safe for your dog's skin.
Common Questions About Dog Shampoo Substitutes
1. Is Dove Soap Safe for Dogs?
No, Dove soap isn’t safe for cleaning dogs. It’s too harsh for their skin and can disrupt their pH balance. Stick to gentler alternatives like baby shampoo if you do not have a shampoo specifically made for your dog's bath.
2. Can You Use Cat Shampoo on Dogs?
If you use cat shampoo on your dog a few times, it probably won’t cause much of a problem. However, if you do it frequently, you risk irritating your pet’s skin. There’s a difference between dog and cat skin, so you shouldn’t use their shampoos interchangeably.
If you don’t have anything else at home, you can use cat shampoo on your dog, it’s far better than human shampoo, but you cannot use it constantly, as it’s slightly different from dog shampoo.
PRO TIP: PRIDE+GROOM shampoos can be used on both dogs and cats in the bath!
3. Can Dish Soap Be Used to Wash a Dog?
Yes, but only as a last resort. Dish soap can clean effectively but may dry out your dog’s skin. Use sparingly and rinse thoroughly.
PRO TIP: Instead of Dawn, try something like Castile Soap. Castile soap is a versatile, plant-based cleanser that's safe for use around pets. It's biodegradable and free from harsh chemicals, making it an excellent choice for cleaning various surfaces in your home without exposing your dog to harmful substances.
If your dog's paws are dirty and need cleaning, you can take a small amount of soap on a dish cloth or towel and gently scrub the area before rinsing.
4. Can You Use Human Shampoo on Dogs?
No. Human shampoo is too alkaline for dogs and can strip their natural oils, causing skin irritation. The pH level of our skin is different from that of dogs.
Pro Tip: Never Run Out of Dog Shampoo Again
PRIDE+GROOM keeps your dogs smelling fresh with our all natural, gentle formulas made especially for our loved animals in mind. From our coat specific shampoo to our dog brush options to our detangling conditioner to our dry dog shampoo, we do it all.
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. Our line is veterinarian approved with options for both in the bath or on-the-go, from puppy to senior, fur to hair.
Why Should I Buy Shampoo Made Specifically for Dogs?
You should buy shampoo made intentionally for dogs because it's specifically formulated to gently cleanse your dog's skin and coat without stripping away their natural oils, unlike shampoo for humans, which can be too harsh and disrupt their skin's pH balance, potentially causing irritation and dryness. Dog shampoo can also be tailored to address specific needs like flea control, sensitive skin, or dandruff depending on your dog's unique requirements.
Using "better for their life" dog products means choosing items like natural, high-quality food, eco-friendly grooming supplies, and toys made with healthier materials, which can contribute to your dog's overall health and well-being by minimizing exposure to harmful chemicals and promoting a healthier lifestyle, potentially leading to a longer lifespan and improved quality of life.
When looking for dog shampoo alternatives, it's crucial to avoid products that are harmful to dogs. This includes shampoos containing harsh chemicals, dyes, or fragrances that can irritate their eyes, ears, tail or paws. Also, products with the wrong kind of essential oils or an alcohol base should be avoided as they can be toxic to dogs. Always prioritize your pet's safety and consult your veterinarian if you're unsure.
Choose to buy shampoos, conditioners, grooming materials and sprays that are free from harsh chemicals like parabens, dyes, and synthetic fragrances, opting for plant-based ingredients instead.
Common Homemade Dog Shampoo Ingredients
There are hundreds of homemade dog shampoo recipes out there, most using some combination of the following ingredients:
-
Vinegar, which deodorizes and adds shine
-
Castile soap, or dish soap, which helps the ingredients bind together
-
Baking soda to balance the acidity of vinegar and water, which is pH neutral
Next time you and your dog are preparing to bond over bath time, start in the kitchen and mix up some easy, safe, and inexpensive dog shampoo of your own!
Final Thoughts
While these substitutes can work in a pinch, your dog will thank you for sticking with a proper dog shampoo. It’s the best way to keep their coat healthy and their skin irritation-free. From one dog parent to another—happy grooming!
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.
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
