Bathing your dog offers numerous advantages, from removing dirt and grime to eliminating unpleasant odors and strengthening the bond you share with your pet. Beyond basic cleansing, medicated dog shampoos can provide targeted benefits for specific health needs. These specialized formulas can effectively address skin issues stemming from allergies or infections, offering much-needed relief from irritation and discomfort.
As a veterinarian, I recognize the complexities of canine skin conditions. This guide reviews 15 over-the-counter (OTC) medicated dog shampoos, drawing on insights from veterinary professionals. My top recommendation is the Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic and Antiseborrheic Medicated Shampoo. It excels in treating a range of issues, including parasitic and fungal infections, flaky and itchy skin, and it also helps to moisturize dry skin.
It is crucial to consult your veterinarian before using any medicated shampoo on your dog. A proper diagnosis is essential to ensure the correct treatment is chosen. In some instances, a prescription shampoo might be more effective than an OTC option. Always adhere to your veterinarian’s specific instructions for use. If you’re seeking options for regular grooming, explore my guide to the best dog shampoos.
Our Top Picks for Medicated Dog Shampoos
- Best Overall: Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic and Antiseborrheic Medicated Shampoo – See at Chewy
- Best for Bacterial Infections: Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Medicated Shampoo – See at Chewy
- Best Antifungal Dog Shampoo: Pet MD Topical Shampoo with Colloidal Oatmeal – See at Chewy
- Best for Skin Allergies: 4-Legger Natural Organic Lemongrass, Aloe, and Coconut Oil Shampoo – See at Chewy
- Best for Fleas and Ticks: Adams Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo with Precor – See at Chewy
Best Overall
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic and Antiseborrheic Medicated Shampoo
This mild-scented shampoo effectively treats various skin conditions while simultaneously hydrating and healing the skin.
Pros:
- Soap-free formula
- Addresses multiple skin conditions
- Safe for puppies 12 weeks and older
- Does not interfere with topical flea and tick treatments
Cons:
- Salicylic acid can potentially lead to skin dryness
Skin issues can cause significant discomfort for dogs, making prompt and effective treatment essential. “Medicated shampoos are designed to manage a variety of skin conditions, including bacterial and fungal infections, as well as allergic reactions,” explains Dr. Joya Griffin, a board-certified veterinary dermatologist. However, simply treating the condition isn’t enough; the skin also requires adequate moisture to facilitate proper healing.
The Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiparasitic and Antiseborrheic Medicated Shampoo stands out as the best overall medicated dog shampoo. It’s affordably priced and targets multiple skin ailments while promoting skin healing. Its active ingredients effectively combat parasitic and fungal infections, seborrhea (characterized by greasy, flaky, itchy skin), and general dermatitis. Oatmeal and allantoin are included to soothe, hydrate, and support the skin’s natural healing processes.
The formulation combines salicylic acid, coal tar, and micronized sulfur to manage skin infections and alleviate seborrhea symptoms. Dr. Griffin notes that shampoos containing sulfur or salicylic acid are beneficial for seborrheic conditions, but she also cautions about potential dryness and irritation from salicylic acid.
This shampoo is free from soap and dyes and is suitable for puppies aged 12 weeks and older. Importantly, it does not strip away topical flea and tick treatments, making it a convenient choice for ongoing parasite prevention.
Best for Bacterial Infections
Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Medicated Shampoo
This shampoo swiftly tackles bacterial and fungal skin infections while soothing the skin with natural ingredients like aloe vera and lanolin.
Pros:
- Soap-free
- Treats various skin infections
- Reduces itching and flaking
- Soothes and heals the skin
- Safe for puppies 12 weeks and older
- Compatible with topical flea and tick treatments
- Mild scent
Cons:
- Lather may not be as thick as some other shampoos
Bacterial skin infections, commonly known as pyoderma, can arise from various factors, including skin trauma from injuries or excessive scratching, imbalances in the skin’s natural bacterial flora, and prolonged moisture exposure.
The Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Antiseptic and Antifungal Medicated Shampoo features benzethonium chloride, an antibacterial agent targeting bacterial skin infections, alongside ketoconazole for managing fungal infections. Many medicated dog shampoos designed for skin infections incorporate both antibacterial and antifungal agents.
This shampoo earns our top recommendation for bacterial infections due to its dual-action efficacy against both bacterial and fungal issues. It also contains lanolin to alleviate itching and flaking and aloe vera to soothe and heal irritated skin. Furthermore, it is compatible with topical flea and tick preventatives. Considering its comprehensive benefits, the shampoo offers excellent value at under $10 for a 16-ounce bottle.
While its lather might not be as abundant as some alternatives, it possesses a mild, non-medicinal fragrance and rinses out easily. It is safe for puppies over 12 weeks old.
Best Antifungal Dog Shampoo
Pet MD Topical Shampoo With Colloidal Oatmeal
This shampoo effectively treats fungal and bacterial skin infections and aids in healing dry skin and minor abrasions.
Pros:
- Contains ketoconazole for fungal infection treatment
- Includes colloidal oatmeal and aloe vera for skin soothing and moisturizing
- Safe for puppies 12 weeks and older
- Compatible with topical flea and tick treatments
- Assists in healing minor skin injuries
- Light mint scent
Cons:
- Potential to discolor white fur
Fungal skin infections, such as ringworm and yeast dermatitis, are less prevalent than bacterial infections in dogs but are treatable with medicated shampoos. For specific fungal infections, the Pet MD Topical Shampoo with Colloidal Oatmeal is highly recommended. It contains ketoconazole, a potent antifungal agent, complemented by colloidal oatmeal and aloe vera to calm and moisturize itchy, inflamed skin.
The shampoo also includes chlorhexidine, an antibacterial agent beneficial for conditions like bacterial dermatitis. Chlorhexidine exhibits antifungal properties as well, potentially offering an advantage over shampoos solely focused on bacteria. Additionally, chlorhexidine can aid in healing minor skin injuries from superficial cuts or insect bites.
This shampoo is appropriate for puppies over 12 weeks of age and leaves a pleasant, lingering peppermint scent. Owners of white dogs should be aware of the possibility of slight fur discoloration.
Best for Skin Allergies
4-Legger Natural Organic Lemongrass, Aloe, and Coconut Oil Shampoo
This all-natural shampoo cleanses, moisturizes, and conditions the sensitive, itchy skin of dogs suffering from allergies.
Pros:
- Free from synthetic ingredients
- Lemongrass offers antimicrobial benefits
- Compatible with topical flea and tick treatments
- Suitable for puppies and adult dogs
- USDA-certified organic
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other allergy shampoos
- May leave a slightly sticky residue
Skin allergies are a common concern for dogs, manifesting year-round or seasonally and often triggered by environmental allergens like pollen and dust. These irritants can accumulate on the skin, leading to persistent itching. If left unaddressed, allergies can escalate into severe skin conditions requiring extensive veterinary care.
The 4-Legger Natural Organic Lemongrass, Aloe, and Coconut Oil Shampoo is the premier choice for dogs with skin allergies. As a USDA-certified organic product, it contains no synthetic ingredients. Its natural components, including aloe vera and essential oils, work synergistically to relieve itchiness and irritation associated with allergies. The inclusion of lemongrass provides natural antimicrobial properties.
This shampoo is safe for dogs of all ages and possesses a light, pleasant scent. While it carries a higher price tag, its 100% natural ingredient profile and the added benefits of lemongrass make it a worthwhile investment. Unlike many other shampoos in this category, it offers properties that can also help manage minor skin infections.
Best for Fleas and Ticks
Adams Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo with Precor
This shampoo effectively eliminates fleas, flea eggs and larvae, ticks, and lice for up to 28 days, while also soothing dry, irritated skin.
Pros:
- Kills fleas, ticks, and lice on contact
- Offers extended protection
- Soothes dry, irritated skin
- Pleasant fragrance
Cons:
- Not recommended for puppies under 12 weeks
- Thick lather can be difficult to rinse
- Washes off topical flea and tick treatments
Consistent flea and tick prevention is fundamental to responsible pet ownership. The most effective approach involves veterinarian-prescribed preventatives as the primary defense against these parasites.
However, flea and tick shampoos do offer benefits. Dr. Tierra Price, a veterinarian and founder of BlackDVM Network, notes that these shampoos can be highly effective at eliminating adult fleas and ticks. Nevertheless, veterinarians generally agree that they are not suitable for prevention. “Flea and tick shampoos have minimal residual effect and are not effective in preventing future infestations,” Dr. Griffin advises.
Considering this, several flea and tick shampoos were evaluated to complement prescription preventatives. Adams Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo with Precor emerged as a top contender due to its potent antiparasitic agents, moisturizing ingredients, and refreshing coconut scent.
This shampoo utilizes synthetic pesticides, S-methoprene and pyrethrins, to eliminate all flea life stages for up to 28 days. It is also effective against ticks and lice. Concurrently, natural oatmeal helps to soothe and moisturize skin irritated by scratching. It’s important to note that this shampoo can remove topical flea treatments, so it’s recommended to wait 48 hours after bathing before applying any topical medication.
Adams Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo with Precor is safe for puppies aged 12 weeks and older. However, certain ingredients, like pyrethrin, are toxic to cats. If you have feline companions, consider an alternative from our guide to the best flea shampoos for dogs.
How We Chose the Best Medicated Dog Shampoos
Our selection process involved consulting with two veterinarians who shared their clinical expertise on medicated dog shampoos. They provided valuable insights into appropriate usage scenarios and explained the mechanisms by which active ingredients combat various canine skin conditions.
Additionally, extensive research was conducted on common dog skin issues, including infections, allergies, and parasitic infestations like mites, fleas, and ticks.
The following criteria guided our evaluation of products and recommendations:
- Ingredients: Each shampoo’s ingredient list was scrutinized to identify active components. Priority was given to shampoos containing natural ingredients for soothing and healing.
- Puppy Safety: Recognizing that puppies have more sensitive skin, shampoos gentle enough for them were prioritized. Products safe for puppies received higher ratings, while those only for adult dogs or lacking clear age indications were rated lower.
- Ease of Use: Customer reviews were analyzed to gauge real-world usability. Shampoos frequently praised for ease of use were rated higher, while those with common complaints, such as poor lathering, received lower scores.
- Effectiveness: The ingredient lists were assessed to confirm the efficacy of active ingredients for the shampoo’s intended purpose. Shampoos with veterinarian-recommended active ingredients for specific conditions like bacterial or fungal infections were rated higher.
- Scent: Shampoos with pleasant, non-medicinal fragrances were preferred over those with potentially off-putting odors.
Glossary of Skin-Related Terms
A clear understanding of a dog’s skin condition aids veterinarians in diagnosis and treatment planning. “A pet owner might describe a dog’s issue as ‘a rash,’ which isn’t very helpful diagnostically,” notes Dr. Price. Familiarizing yourself with these terms can enhance communication with your vet.
- Antimicrobial: An agent that inhibits or destroys microorganisms.
- Atopy: Allergic skin condition.
- Chlorhexidine: An antimicrobial agent.
- Crusts: Scabs formed from dried blood, pus, or serum.
- Dermatitis: Inflammation of the skin.
- Discharge: Fluid emitted from a wound or lesion.
- Ketoconazole: An antifungal agent.
- Miconazole: An antifungal agent.
- Papules: Small, elevated bumps on the skin.
- Seborrhea: A condition involving the overproduction of sebum, leading to greasy, scaly, flaky, red, and itchy skin.
Medicated Dog Shampoo FAQs
Can an over-the-counter medicated shampoo effectively treat my dog’s skin infection?
According to Dr. Griffin, very few OTC medicated dog shampoos contain the same potent active ingredients found in prescription formulas that effectively treat skin infections. Dr. Price adds, “Without clinical studies validating their efficacy, OTC medicated dog shampoos can be a gamble in terms of containing the right combination of active ingredients.”
Will an anti-itch shampoo provide relief for my dog?
Most OTC anti-itch shampoos lack the most effective anti-itch ingredients, such as hydrocortisone and pramoxine, as noted by Dr. Griffin. They also offer limited long-term relief, often necessitating more frequent bathing.
Do flea and tick shampoos for dogs prevent future infestations?
While flea and tick shampoos can kill existing fleas and ticks, they do not offer protection against future infestations.
How often should my dog be bathed with medicated shampoo?
Dr. Griffin points out a common misconception: bathing dogs infrequently, such as monthly, is not ideal. Dogs can be bathed several times a week, or even daily if required, without drying out their skin, provided the shampoo contains high-quality ingredients.
How long should medicated shampoo be left on during a bath?
For maximum effectiveness, medicated dog shampoos should remain on the skin for 5 to 10 minutes. Dr. Griffin recommends applying the shampoo evenly, focusing on affected areas, and then rinsing thoroughly with clear, lukewarm water after the specified time.
How can I tell if a medicated dog shampoo is working?
Even the best medicated dog shampoos typically require consistent use as directed by a veterinarian to show results. “Consistency is key to achieving therapeutic benefits,” states Dr. Griffin. Dr. Price suggests it may take one to two weeks of consistent use to observe significant improvements, such as healed skin lesions and reduced redness and itching. If your dog’s condition does not improve or worsens, discontinue use and consult your veterinarian.
Can I use medicated dog shampoo instead of prescription medication?
It depends on the condition. Dr. Griffin explains, “For certain conditions, like seborrheic skin problems, a medicated shampoo can be used as a standalone treatment.” However, for deep skin infections, severe inflammatory responses, or chronic skin conditions causing persistent inflammation, additional medication is usually necessary, according to Dr. Price.
JoAnna Pendergrass, DVM is a veterinarian and founder of JPen Communications, a medical communications company specializing in pet owner education. Her expertise spans preventive pet care, nutrition, and common and uncommon dog and cat diseases. Dr. Pendergrass earned her veterinary degree from the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine and completed a research fellowship at Emory University’s Yerkes National Primate Research Center. Combining her passion for science and writing, she pursued a career in medical writing. After several years at medical communications agencies, Dr. Pendergrass transitioned to freelancing, contributing to publications like Great Pet Care, Healthy Paws Pet Insurance, and All About Cats. She can be reached at http://www.jpencmc.com.
