Dog dandruff can be a frustrating problem for both dogs and their parents. It can make your furry friend really uncomfortable, causing itchy skin and even hair loss. If you’ve noticed flakes on your dog’s coat, it’s time to lend a paw.
This pesky problem could be caused due to dry skin, allergies, or even a particular breed’s unique coat type. The best way to combat dog dandruff is to use a specialized shampoo or spray formulated to soothe and moisturize the skin. But there are just too many of them out there to choose from.
For this guide, we’ve scanned products with soothing ingredients like oatmeal and aloe vera to medicated formulas for stubborn cases, so that we could bring you products tailored to every dog’s skin type. Let’s explore some of the best dog dandruff shampoos and sprays on the market.
Can Dog Dandruff Be Cured?
While dog dandruff can be managed effectively, “cured” depends on the root cause. Here’s what to consider:
Identify the Cause
Dandruff might stem from dry skin, allergies, parasites, or an underlying health issue. Your doggo will feel better in the long run if you treat the cause.
Regular Grooming
Regular brushing stimulates natural oils in your dog’s coat, which helps combat dryness and reduce flakes over time.
Specialized Shampoos
Using the best dandruff shampoo for dogs with soothing and hydrating properties can significantly reduce dandruff.
Diet and Supplements
A healthy diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can improve skin health. Supplements for skin and coat can also make a difference.
Veterinary Check-Up
If dandruff persists, consult your vet. It might signal a Breed-specific issue or a medical condition needing professional care.
How Often Should I Bathe My Dog With Dandruff Shampoo?
The frequency of bathing your dog with dandruff shampoo depends on the severity of their condition and the specific product you’re using.
- Mild Cases: Bathing your dog once a week with a gentle, moisturizing shampoo can help manage mild dandruff.
- Severe Cases: For more severe cases, your vet might recommend more frequent baths, perhaps 2-3 times a week.
- Always Follow Instructions: Always follow the specific instructions on your dandruff shampoo’s label. Over-bathing can strip your dog’s skin of natural oils, making it even drier and irritated.
Best Dog Dandruff Shampoos and Sprays to Buy in 2025
Say goodbye to scratching and shedding dandruff with our top products to address the problem! With the right care routine, your furry friend can feel comfortable and look their best, no matter their breed.
BEST OVERALL
Pet Honesty Chlorhexidine Shampoo
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Veterinarian-recommended
Formulated with Chlorhexidine and Ketoconazole
Gentle on the skin
Has a pleasant scent
Removes knots and tangles
Easy-to-use packaging
But…
May not be ideal for dogs with extremely sensitive or allergy-prone skin
This shampoo from Pet Honesty is our top pick and a great choice for pet parents looking for the best dog shampoo for dandruff and shedding. Enriched with natural ingredients like aloe vera, this gentle yet effective shampoo leaves your dog’s coat soft, shiny, and smelling fresh with a cucumber melon scent.
With this veterinary-strength solution, you can easily soothe and heal irritated skin, reduce shedding, and tackle dandruff head-on. Its unique blend of Chlorhexidine and Ketoconazole works well to eliminate bacteria and fungus. Packed in a convenient 16 oz bottle with a pump for easy dispensing, it is designed to simplify bath time while delivering deep cleansing benefits.
Best Medicated Spray
TropiClean Oxymed Anti-Itch Medicated Soothing Spray
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Provides immediate soothing relief
Penetrates deep into the skin
Multi-symptom treatment
Made with gentle and safe ingredients
No-rinse convenience
Trusted by professionals
But…
May need repeated applications for severe conditions
TropiClean Oxymed Anti-Itch Medicated Soothing Spray provides instant relief for pets suffering from itchy, irritated skin. Formulated with a blend of Alpha Hydroxy and Beta Hydroxy, it penetrates deep into the pores to exfoliate and calm inflammation. Redness, swelling, and dandruff will all be things of the past when you use this spray on your furry friend.
Its no-rinse formula is so easy to use and can be applied directly to affected areas and gently massaged into your pet’s coat. Made in the USA with gentle, vet-recommended ingredients, it’s free from harsh chemicals and delivers safe and effective results. Pair it with other OxyMed products, like their medicated shampoo, for a complete skincare routine.
Best Soap-Free Shampoo
Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Pet Wash
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
All-natural ingredients
Soap-free, tearless formula
Hydrates the skin and coat
Helps reduce shedding and controls loose hair
Multi-purpose formula
Cruelty-free
But…
Some pet parents may find the scent too overpowering
A versatile 5-in-1 grooming solution, the Pro Pet Works Oatmeal Pet Wash cleans, conditions, detangles, deodorizes, and moisturizes your dog’s coat. Because it has organic aloe vera, olive oil, and oatmeal in it, you can use it on pets with sensitive skin without any worry. It soothes hot spots and itching and manages to get rid of the wet dog smell, too. Also, it is gentle enough for regular use.
If you’re looking for the best dog shampoo for dandruff and itching, this all-natural blend delivers exceptional results. Its hypoallergenic, tearless formula is free from parabens, sulfates, and soap, making it safe for pets 8 weeks and older. The advanced deshedding properties reduce loose hair, while fatty acids keep your pet’s skin hydrated and protected.
Best Multipurpose Spray
Warren London 10-in-1 After Bath Spray
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Offers a wide range of benefits
Made with natural ingredients
Easy to use
Helps detangle knots and mats
Soothes dry skin and adds shine
Cruelty-free
But…
Some users report that too much spray can leave the coat feeling greasy
Tired of a complicated grooming routine? Warren London’s 10-in-1 After Bath Spray simplifies your pet’s grooming needs. You’ll be reassured to know that a lot of natural, good things are in this spray, like aloe vera, silk amino acids, and green tea extract. It detangles, conditions, and adds a dazzling shine to your dog’s coat, making them look and feel amazing.
All dog breeds, including pups, can safely use this spray, which will help you to maintain their healthy skin and hair after a bath. It gets rid of even the hardest mats and works to make the coat smoother. It is also easy to apply with no rinsing required, just spray and brush for best results.
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Best for Dry, Flaky Skin
Vet’s Best Oatmeal Medicated Shampoo
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Alleviates itching, redness, and dryness
Developed by experts
Gentle cleansing
Contains soothing ingredients
Complements other treatments
Ethically produced without animal testing
But…
May not be strong enough for severe skin conditions
Vet’s Best Oatmeal Medicated Dog Shampoo is the ultimate cleansing agent for dogs suffering from dry, flaky skin. This dog shampoo for dandruff and dry skin is specially formulated to eliminate dandruff, reduce flaking, and moisturize itchy, irritated skin. Salicylic acid, colloidal oatmeal, tea tree oil, and vitamin B5 are all in it, and they work together to help your dog’s skin stay healthy, clear up pores, and provide relief for your dog.
Veterinarian-formulated, this shampoo is gentle yet effective and ensures your pet’s coat stays clean and healthy without interfering with topical flea and tick treatments. For optimal results, use it alongside Vet’s Best Moisture Mist Conditioner and Healthy Coat Shed and Itch Relief Supplements.
Best for Itching
Pet MD Benzoyl Peroxide Medicated Shampoo
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Powerful cleaning and degreasing
Soothes itchy skin
Helps to calm irritated skin
Veterinarian-formulated
Soap-free and paraben-free
Moisturizes and deodorizes
But…
Not suitable for daily use
One of the best dog shampoos for itchy skin, the Pet MD Benzoyl Peroxide Medicated Shampoo is designed to target the root cause of skin problems, including dermatitis, skin infections, and follicular plugging. This medicated formula combines benzoyl peroxide, micronized sulfur, and salicylic acid to deeply cleanse, degrease, and remove oils from your pet’s coat.
This soap and paraben-free shampoo is gentle on your pet’s skin and yet does not compromise on its intense cleaning power. The addition of skin moisturizers helps soothe and hydrate your pup’s skin. You’ll love its mild citrus scent and deodorizing action that makes sure your pet smells great after every wash.
Best for All Dog Breeds
Hartz Groomer’s Best Anti-Dandruff Dog Shampoo
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Has salicylic acid in its formula
Gentle on sensitive skin
Safe for all dog ages and fur lengths
Fresh jasmine and citrus scent
Lathers well and rinses easily
Budget-friendly option
But…
Can dry out the skin if overused
Hartz Groomer’s Best Anti-Dandruff Dog Shampoo is here to rescue your pup from annoying dandruff. This shampoo calms your dog’s skin irritations and itches thanks to the salicylic acid it contains. With countless positive Hartz anti-dandruff dog shampoo reviews, this product has proven its effectiveness in soothing irritated skin and eliminating pesky flakes.
It’s also safe for dogs of all breeds and ages because it is free from harsh chemicals like parabens and alcohol. The delightful jasmine and citrus scent will have your dog smelling fresh and fabulous, like they just stepped out of a grooming salon. And with its easy-to-lather formula, you can give your furry friend a spa-like experience right at home.
Best Deodorizing
Lillian Ruff Calming Oatmeal Pet Shampoo
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Effectively removes odors
Clean, ethical ingredients
Soothes itchy, dry skin
Hydrating formula
Rich lather means you use less per wash
Stress-reducing scent
But…
No medicated ingredients
Lillian Ruff Calming Oatmeal Pet Shampoo is a go-to choice for pet parents looking to cleanse and also tackle lingering odors. Infused with natural oatmeal and aloe, it doesn’t just soothe dryness and dandruff; it neutralizes odors without overwhelming your pet’s senses. The light smell of lavender and coconut makes bath time feel relaxing.
This rich, pH-balanced formula lathers beautifully and rinses easily, so a little goes a long way. It’s crafted to hydrate deeply while lifting away dirt, leaving your pet’s coat soft, clean, and subtly scented. Safe for all skin types and proudly made in the USA, this deodorizing shampoo is cruelty-free, vegan, and free of sulfates, parabens, and gluten.
Best Plant-based Spray
Earthbath Shea Butter Spray
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Made with natural, skin-loving ingredients
Cruelty-free and eco-conscious
Hypoallergenic and gentle
Free from harsh chemicals
Adds shine and softness
Easy to use between baths
But…
Can dry out the skin if overused
When your dog’s skin is feeling dry or irritated, a plant-powered mist can make all the difference. This ultra-gentle spray from Earthbath is packed with Fair Trade Nilotica shea butter, aloe vera, and other naturally soothing conditioners that hydrate and soften without any harsh additives. Formulated for sensitive pets and safe for those over six weeks old, this hypoallergenic spray is free from parabens, sulfates, dyes, and soap.
It’s great to use in between baths to calm hot spots, get rid of dander, and restore a healthy, shiny coat, especially when the weather is dry or allergy-prone. The plant-based ingredients are kind to your dog’s skin and also to the planet. And with Earthbath’s cruelty-free commitment since 1995, you can feel good about every spritz.
Best Hypoallergenic
ResQ Organics Hypoallergenic Dog Shampoo
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Hypoallergenic and tear-free
Packed with natural ingredients
Free from harsh chemicals
Grain-free and GMO-free
Light, natural scent
Supports animal rescue efforts
But…
Not heavily lathering
Sensitive skin calls for something gentler, and this hypoallergenic shampoo fits the bill beautifully. ResQ Organics Hypoallergenic Dog Shampoo is made without harsh chemicals, dyes, perfumes, or sulfates — just clean, calming ingredients like aloe vera, manuka honey, cehami, and lemongrass oil.
This tear-free formula not only soothes irritation and itching but also restores softness and shine to your dog’s coat, making every bath feel like a little relief session. It’s gentle enough for regular use and leaves behind a fresh, natural scent without artificial fragrances. Also, every bottle helps pet rescue groups across the country, so buying it makes you feel good in more than one way.
Best Unscented
JAYU PET White Essence Mist
PHOTO CREDIT: AMAZON
Why We Love
Fragrance-free formula
Hydrates and soothes dry skin
Minimizes static electricity
Safe if licked
Ultra-fine, quiet mist sprayer
Vet-approved and hypoallergenic
But…
Doesn’t clean fur or absorb oils
Not every pet loves perfumed products — and some simply can’t tolerate them. That’s where this ultra-gentle, unscented mist comes in. Made to hydrate, soothe, and reduce pet dander without any added fragrance, Jayu Pet White Essence Mist is ideal for pets with sensitive skin, allergies, or aversions to strong smells. It calms dryness, flaking, and irritation with EWG Green-rated natural ingredients that are safe even if licked.
It also tackles another common issue: static. A quick misting with this super-fine, quiet sprayer helps tame the dry-season zaps without startling you or your furry friend. Plus, it’s gentle enough for both dogs and cats, thanks to its hypoallergenic formula.
How We Chose the Best Dog Dandruff Shampoos and Sprays
At DogTime, our experts curated this list of the best dog dandruff shampoos and sprays by assessing factors such as safe ingredients, formula, efficacy on different coat types, scent, vet and groomer recommendations, and overall price. They further consulted with industry professionals to gain more insight into the top-selling products to bring our readers the clearest view. When you choose one of our recommended products, you can rest assured that you’re making an informed purchase from the best brands available on the market.
FAQ
What is the best shampoo for dogs with dandruff?
The best shampoo for dogs with dandruff is one that combines effective dandruff treatment with gentle ingredients. Look for shampoos with salicylic acid, oatmeal, or tea tree oil, like Hartz Groomer’s Best Anti-Dandruff Dog Shampoo, which soothes and prevents flakes.
Do vets recommend coconut oil for dogs?
Yes, many vets recommend coconut oil for dogs as a natural remedy for dry skin, itching, and inflammation. It can also support coat health and digestion. However, always consult your vet for the right dosage and usage for your dog.
What do vets recommend for puppy shampoo?
Vets typically recommend gentle, tear-free puppy shampoos that are free of harsh chemicals. Look for shampoos with natural ingredients like oatmeal or aloe vera that are safe and soothing for a puppy’s sensitive skin.
Can I use human dry shampoo on my dog?
It’s not recommended to use human dry shampoo on dogs, as it may contain ingredients harmful to their skin, like fragrances or alcohol. Instead, choose a dry shampoo specifically formulated for pets to ensure safety and effectiveness.
How often should I bathe my dog?
The frequency of bathing your dog depends on its breed, coat type, and lifestyle. Generally, bathing your dog once a month is sufficient. However, more frequent baths may be necessary for dogs with oily skin or those who spend time outdoors. Always use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo.
Can human dandruff shampoo be used on dogs?
It’s not recommended to use human dandruff shampoo on dogs. Human shampoos can disrupt their skin’s pH balance and lead to irritation. Always choose a dog-specific shampoo formulated to address their unique needs.
What can I use to wash my dog with dandruff?
To wash your dog with dandruff, use a gentle, medicated shampoo specifically formulated for dogs. Look for products that contain ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, tea tree oil, or salicylic acid. Always follow the instructions on the shampoo bottle.
