11+ Best Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin & Alternative Remedies [2024]

If your dog has been scratching, biting, or licking their skin more than usual, you’re in the right place to find some remedies. This behavior, often referred to as pruritus, is a common issue in dogs and can result from various factors, including allergies, dry skin, or even parasites.

We’re here to guide you toward the best dog shampoo for itchy skin. Let’s look at the best dog shampoo for itchy skin, and some alternatives like medicated wipes and dog food for allergies. These products are designed with skin issues in mind.

What is Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin?

Dog shampoo for itchy skin is specifically formulated to address the discomfort and irritation associated with pruritus in dogs. These shampoos typically contain soothing ingredients that help to hydrate and protect the skin to reduce inflammation and calm the itch. 

Dog shampoos that are designed to help itchy skin typically avoid harsh chemicals and dyes that can trigger skin sensitivities. Instead, they focus on restoring the skin’s natural balance.

What to Look for In Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin

[Source]

Not all dog shampoos are created equal. It’s important to focus on ingredients that are known for their soothing and healing properties. Here are some key ingredients to look for:

• Pramoxine hydrochloride: This ingredient is a powerful topical anesthetic that provides immediate relief from itching and discomfort. It works by numbing the skin to minimize the sensation of itching and discomfort.
• Colloidal Oatmeal: Colloidal oatmeal helps calm irritated skin and creates a protective barrier that locks in moisture. 
• Lidocaine: Another topical anesthetic, lidocaine provides fast-acting relief from itching and pain. 
• Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a natural anti-inflammatory and moisturizing plant. It helps soothe irritated skin and promotes healing.
• Free from Parabens: Parabens can irritate the skin, especially if your dog has an allergic reaction to them.

Choose a dog shampoo with as many of these ingredients as you can find to promote the best possible care for their itchy skin. 

 

Best Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin 

Choosing the right shampoo for your dog’s itchy skin can make a significant difference in their comfort and overall wellbeing. With so many options, let’s look at the best products available today.

1. Nootie Itch Relief Medicated Shampoo

Nootie Itch Relief Medicated Shampoo is the best overall shampoo for dogs experiencing itching and discomfort. This formula includes pramoxine hydrochloride and lidocaine, which work together to help soothe and relieve itching by numbing the affected areas. Colloidal oatmeal is also included to support the skin’s natural moisture barrier and promote more comfortable and hydrated skin. The formula is free from parabens making it gentle enough for dogs with sensitive skin. 

Benefits:

• Features veterinarian strength active ingredients.
• Helps manage dry, irritated, inflamed skin.
• Supports skin hydration.
• Features a paraben-free formula.
• Promotes long-term skin health.
• Is safe to use along with topical flea and tick products.

Try Nootie’s Itch Relief Medicated Shampoo today!

2. Nootie Medicated Pet Shampoo

Nootie Medicated Pet Shampoo is the best dog shampoo to support the management of skin conditions caused by bacteria and fungi. This antimicrobial shampoo includes chlorhexidine gluconate and miconazole nitrate, which work together to help maintain your dog’s natural skin health by addressing infections that can lead to discomfort. 

The light fragrance of soft lily passion also leaves them smelling fresh and clean. All of Nootie’s products are free from harsh chemicals like parabens.

Benefits:

• Features veterinarian strength active ingredients.
• Supports skin health with antimicrobial ingredients.
• Helps manage skin discomfort related to bacteria and fungi.
• Is suitable for dogs with sensitive skin.
• Is safe to use along with topical flea & tick products.

Try Nootie’s Medicated Pet Shampoo today!

3. Natural Dog Company Itchy Dog Shampoo

 

Natural Dog Company’s Itchy Dog Shampoo is a hypoallergenic shampoo designed to support dogs with sensitive skin and occasional itching. This formula is aimed at dogs experiencing discomfort due to surface level irritants. It’s free from sulfates, parabens, alcohol, and other harsh chemicals.

Benefits:

• Provides antimicrobial and antifungal ingredients.
• Supports healthy skin.
• Moisturizes chapped skin.

4. Jax n Daisy “Don’t Let Your Dog Itch” Shampoo

Jax n Daisy’s “Don’t Let Your Dog Itch” Shampoo is formulated to support dogs dealing with dermatitis caused by allergies, flea bites, and environmental conditions. This antifungal and antibacterial shampoo combines ingredients such as chlorhexidine gluconate, essential oils, and soothing agents to help maintain your dog’s skin health. The inclusion of essential oils like lavender provides additional support.

             

Benefits:

• Provides antimicrobial support.
• Offers natural antibacterial and antifungal properties.
• Helps soothe the skin and support its natural moisture balance.

5. Vetnique Labs Dermabliss Anti-Itch & Allergy Relief Shampoo

Vetnique Labs Dermabliss Anti-Itch & Allergy Relief Shampoo is a veterinarian-formulated product made to support dogs and cats with itchy and irritated skin. The shampoo includes pramoxine hydrochloride and safflower seed oil to maintain skin moisture. This pH-balanced, soap-free shampoo is suitable for regular use.

       

Benefits:

• Helps manage itching.
• Helps to maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
• Features a soap-free and pH-balanced formula.

6. Sulfodene Medicated Dog Shampoo & Conditioner

Benefits:

• Supports the management of flaking and scaling.
• Helps condition the skin and coat.
• Deep cleans and deodorizes the skin.
• Is suitable for regular use.

7. Nature’s Miracle Oatmeal Dog Shampoo & Conditioner

Nature’s Miracle’s Oatmeal Dog Shampoo & Conditioner provides a cleanse that supports skin and coat health. This formula includes colloidal oatmeal, aloe vera, and keratin to help moisturize the skin. Although it’s not specifically formulated for itchy skin, it can still be used in cases where irritation is not severe.

      

Benefits:

• Provides moisture and shine.
• Neutralizes odors.
• Supports the health of your dog’s coat.

8. Maxbone Calming Pet Shampoo

Maxbone’s Calming Pet Shampoo is a soap-free formula that supports dogs and cats with sensitive skin. Infused with nano-encapsulated vitamins, this shampoo helps maintain the skin's natural moisture. The formulation includes aloe vera and oatmeal for pets experiencing occasional itching or scaling.

           

Benefits:

• Help maintain skin hydration.
• Includes nano-encapsulated vitamins.
• Is suitable for pets with skin sensitivities.

9. Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic & Antiseborrheic Shampoo

Veterinary Formula’s Clinical Care Antiparasitic & Antiseborrheic Shampoo is a medicated shampoo designed to support dogs dealing with seborrheic dermatitis and parasitic infections. This formula combines ingredients like coal tar, salicylic acid, and micronized sulfur to help manage the symptoms of seborrhea, including flaky, scaly skin, and redness. The inclusion of oatmeal and allantoin supports hydration and promotes skin healing.

     

Benefits:

• Supports the management of flaky, scaly skin caused by seborrhea.
• Helps support skin hydration.
• Is formulated to maintain the natural pH of a dog’s skin.

10. Kin+Kind’s Organic Dog Shampoos

Kin+Kind’s Organic Dog Shampoos are formulated with natural and organic ingredients to offer a gentle cleanse for dogs with various skin types, including those prone to itching or dryness. These shampoos are free from allergens and other harsh chemicals. Their key ingredients include organic coconut oil, olive oil, and essential oils tailored to address specific skin concerns.

    

Benefits:

• Support the skin's natural moisture barrier.
• Maintains skin health and a pleasant scent.
• Features an allergen-free formula.

11. Virbac Epi-Soothe Shampoo

Virbac’s Epi-Soothe Shampoo is formulated to support the skin health of dogs and cats with sensitive or irritated skin. The shampoo features Spherulites to provide a sustained release of moisturizing ingredients to support prolonged skin comfort. This soap-free, pH-balanced formula helps cleanse and hydrate the skin of pets experiencing discomfort or dryness.

     

Benefits:

• Supports the soothing of irritated skin.
• Provides sustained release of moisturizing agents.

 

Alternatives to Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin

[Source]

When your dog is struggling with itchy skin, traditional dog shampoos aren’t the only option. These alternatives can be beneficial for targeting specific areas or providing relief between baths. 

Allergy Supplement

Sometimes, the root cause of your dog’s itchy skin lies deeper than what a shampoo can address. In these cases, allergy supplements like Nootie’s Progility Allergy & Immune Soft Chew Supplements offer an inside-out approach to enhance your dog’s immune response. These chews are packed with ingredients that may help support healthy skin and maintain your dog’s immune health.

Medicated Pads

When your dog needs targeted relief for specific areas of irritation, Nootie’s medicated pet wipes are a practical alternative to shampoos. These wipes are easy to apply and contain ingredients like chlorhexidine gluconate and miconazole nitrate, which support the management of skin infections caused by bacteria, fungi, and yeast. They’re perfect for addressing issues such as hot spots, skin infections, allergy dermatitis and topical ear & skin conditions.

Medicated Spray

For situations where a full bath isn’t feasible, Nootie’s Itch Relief Medicated Spray can be a useful alternative to dog shampoo. This spray provides relief with chlorhexidine gluconate and ketoconazole to spot-treat itchy areas between baths. It’s easy to apply and perfect for managing minor irritations without the need for water.

Diet

A well-balanced diet plays a critical role in promoting healthier dog skin. Hypoallergenic dog food, like those offered by KOHA, can help minimize exposure to common allergens that may trigger skin reactions. These moisture-rich foods promote better digestion and overall skin health, making them a great preventative or complementary measure to using shampoos for itch relief.

More About Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin

Understanding the right care for your dog’s itchy skin can make all the difference. Below, we answer common questions to help you choose the best shampoo and treatment options for your dog’s needs.

What is the best shampoo for itchy dogs?

Nootie’s Itch Relief Medicated Shampoo is the best option for itchy dogs. It combines pramoxine hydrochloride and colloidal oatmeal to soothe the skin and provide quick relief from itching. This shampoo is also free from parabens, making it gentle enough for regular use on sensitive skin.

How can I soothe my dog's itching?

Begin by bathing your dog with an itchy dog shampoo, like Nootie Itch Relief Medicated Shampoo, to calm irritated skin quickly. This shampoo contains pramoxine hydrochloride, which numbs the skin and provides fast relief from itching. If symptoms persist, consult your veterinarian to rule out any underlying conditions that might require further treatment.

What is the best thing to wash a dog with skin allergies?

For dogs with skin allergies, the best option is a hypoallergenic shampoo like Nootie Itch Relief Medicated Shampoo. It’s formulated without harsh chemicals and uses soothing ingredients like colloidal oatmeal to calm irritated skin. Regular use helps maintain a healthy skin barrier and reduces the risk of allergic reactions.

 

Find the Best Dog Shampoo for Itchy Skin 

Now that you know the best dog shampoos for itchy skin, you’re ready to manage your dog’s irritated skin. Your dog can look forward to easier days and healthier skin with the right care. 

For those looking for trusted, effective solutions, consider Nootie’s Itch Relief Medicated Shampoo or Nootie Medicated Pet Shampoo. They’re each formulated with powerful ingredients and your dog’s comfort in mind.

Try Nootie’s products today!