🐶The Ultimate Clean! 7 Best Dog Shampoos in the UK (2025 Review & Buying Guide)
Let's face it, our dogs are family. They sleep on our sofas, our beds (sometimes!), and are a big part of our lives. But with all that love comes.... well, sometimes a bit of a pong. And let's be honest, no one, absolutely no one, wants a smelly dog, no matter how cute its little face is!
As a long-time dog owner here in the UK, I have seen my fair share of muddy paws, fox-poo rolls, and doggy grime. And I have learned the hard way that not all dog shampoos are the same! In fact, some can actually irritate the skin, dull the coat, and even result in a costly trip to the vet!
That is why I have sniffed out (pun intended!) and personally reviewed some of the best dog shampoos in the UK you'll find in 2025. Regardless of whether your pup has sensitive skin, mucky paws, or a coat that needs instant shine, you are covered! This is not just about making them smell nicer, it is about contributing to healthy skin, and a happy coat.
Ready to upgrade bath time from a task to a relaxing treat? Let's look at the top dog grooming products that UK pet parents recommend!
Looking for the best breeds for kids? Don’t miss our detailed guide on the Top 10 Dog Breeds for Families in 2025.
Why It's Important to Pick the Right Dog Shampoo (It's Not Just About Smelling Good!)
Before we dive into the reviews, it's worth saying a couple of things about why your shampoo matters. A dog's skin has a different pH balance than your skin so when you choose a human shampoo, it can strip natural oils from a dog’s fur and skin leading to:
Dry, itchy, flaky skin (hi, 'doggie dandruff' and discomfort!).
Irritation and hot spots (that can quickly lead to infections).
A dull, unhealthy coat (without shine, full of tangles).
A good dog shampoo will clean effectively but not in a harsh way resulting in moisturised skin, and glistening fur.
Our Top 7 Picks: Best Dog Shampoos in the UK (2025 Review).
I have personally used, reviewed, and researched the following leading contenders. The following links are all affiliate links to Amazon UK which means if you buy through any of the links, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. This just helps me keep the guide going!
1. YuMOVE Skin & Coat Care Itching Dog Shampoo
The All-Rounder & Itch Soother
My number one recommendation for a reason! YuMOVE is already known for its joint supplements so you can only imagine the effort they took to develop a high quality skin care product. This great shampoo contains natural ingredients, such as colloidal oatmeal and essential oils, that are great for skin calming and soothing of irritated skin.
Why I like it: I have used this on my terrier mix who has a habit of occasionally developing dry patches or irritated skin. I noticed a marked improvement in the amount of scratching after a couple of washes. It lathered well and rinsed clean, with a lovely light fragrance that was noticeable but not overwhelming. I use this shampoo for general cleanliness; but it really helps with mild skin irritations or seasonal itches in dogs.
Best suited for: Designed for most dogs in general, but especially for dogs with mild skin sensitivities, or the occasional itch.
Amazon Link: Check Price & Reviews on Amazon UK
2. Vet's Best Allergy Itch Relief Dog Shampoo
Best Trusted Dog Shampoo for Allergies & Itchy Skin
This brand has repeatedly shown up as one of the best with respect to itch relief & allergy support on Amazon UK. Vet's Best is made by veterinarian's (not just in their name) and uses all-natural ingredients to calm eczematous skin.
Why I love it: When a friend's Cocker Spaniel started getting super itchy with the seasonal change, this was the first product they tried and it worked wonders. It contains oatmeal, d'limonene & tea tree oil - basically, a magic trifecta for calming skin. It washes away allergens from the coat and leaves behind a nice scent. It's one of the most recommended if you specifically looking for dog shampoo for allergies that pet owners trust.
Best for: Contracting over the counter with respect to moderate to severe itching, red skin, or just known allergies (environmental, etc.).
Amazon Link: Check Price & Reviews on Amazon UK
3. WildWash Dog Shampoo - Pro Detangle
Luxury & Detangling Powerhouse
Brushing out tangles can be a disaster for breeds with longer, curlier, and more prone to matting types of hair. WildWash has a high-end, natural, and beautiful smelling detangling shampoo!
Why I love it - Do I even need to elaborate here? The smell alone (imagine lavender and ylang-ylang) makes the bath feel like a spa. But beyond the lux presentation, this shampoo worked wonders on my tangles. My Cocker Spaniel usually exits the bath looking and failing like a dread locked sheep. I wiped off the lint brush and she came out smoother and easier to brush than normal. It's pricey, but you only need to use a little bit compared to other products, and it's totally worth the investment for some types of coats!
Great for: Dogs with long hair, curly hair, or prone to matting hair; owners who want to use more natural, luxurious feeling dog grooming products UK.
Amazon Link: Check Price & Reviews on Amazon UK
4. Earthbath Oatmeal & Aloe Shampoo
Gentle, Natural & USA Export - A UK Favourite
Originally an American brand, Earthbath is now a widely distributed and very popular choice in the UK because they use nice, natural ingredients. This oatmeal and aloe shampoo is a great staple for soothing irritated skin.
Why I love it: A good, straightforward, effective and very gentle shampoo. Paraben and dye free, sulphate free - a good option for pups with sensitive skin that might react to other stronger chemicals. It has a very mild pleasant scent and leaves the coat soft and shiny. A good tried and tested option for general sensitive skin care, usually recommended by veterinarians.
Great for: sensitive skin, puppies, and owners or dogs that don't want a lot of chemicals and would prefer a very natural, basic formula.
Amazon Link: Check Price & Reviews on Amazon UK
5. BUGALUGS Bug Repellent Dog Shampoo
For the Outdoor Adventurer (and their unwanted hitchhikers!)
If your dog takes pleasure in rolling in everything, investigating through tall grass, or just inviting fleas and ticks to dinner, this shampoo gives you an extra layer of protection during bathtime.
Why I love it - Although it is not a substitute for flea/tick treatments, this shampoo will use natural insect repellents like citronella and cedarwood to help prevent pests. I liked it a great deal for summer swims or after a muddy walk in the woods. It cleaned great and did leave a fresh scent that was not overwhelming chemically. Ideal for dogs that are outside a lot.
Great for - outdoor dogs, dogs that pick up a flea/ tick infestation (as a precaution not a cure), or those that need to get really clean after an adventure.
Amazon Link: Check Price & Reviews on Amazon UK
6. Wahl Dirty Beastie Dog Shampoo
Heavy Duty Cleaner for the Mud Monsters
Have a serious mud monster? You know the type - every puddle, every mud patch, it will be trodden through. Wahl's "Dirty Beastie" might just be your best friend.
What I like - This shampoo is engineered to cleanse "serious" dirt, grime, dirt, grease and odours. It's got a mighty concentration of cleansing agents, therefore it will last quite a while, hence the value for larger breeds or frequent bathers. It cuts through grease and mud like a hot knife through butter; it will leave even the dirtiest coat clean. Really suited for active breeds or working dogs.
Good for - Very dirty dogs, very smelly dogs, large breeds and baths frequents pets.
Amazon Link: Check Price & Reviews on Amazon UK
7. Pet Head Dog Shampoo - Deodorizing with Odour Eliminator
For the Perpetually Pungent Pup
Some dogs have "doggy odour" more than others or are just really good at finding the grossest stuff to roll in. Pet Head's deodorizing shampoo is meant to get rid of those stubborn smells without just masking the scent.
Why I love it: This brand has fun packaging and great scents, but this one really gets rid of odour. It has baking soda and Odor Destroyer, which actually work to break down nasty smells. After using it, the dog smells fresh, fruity, and the scent is still there long after. I have used this on my dog after encountering something unfortunate in the garden, and this deodorizing dog shampoo completely saved the day!
Great for: Dogs with bad body odour, dogs that want to put their snout in everything and roll in gross stuff, or for a deep clean and refreshing clean.
Amazon Link: Check Price & Reviews on Amazon UK
Dog Shampoo Buying Guide in the UK: What is best for your Dog
There are so many dog grooming products for UK pet parents to choose from, here are some things to think about:
1- Skin Sensitivity: If your dog has itchy, red or flaky skin, then you want to look for shampoos with soothing natural ingredients like colloidal oat flour, aloe vera, and tea tree oil. Avoid perfumes, chemicals, and artificial colours. This is where dog shampoo for allergies is essential.
2- Coat Type:
Long/Curly Hair: Look for shampoo with conditioners, or ones with detangling formulas.
Short Hair: Most gentle shampoos work well for dogs with short hair.
Very Oily/Smelly: You will want to buy deodorizing or deep cleansing formulas.
3- Natural vs. Medicated: If your dog suffers from bad skin or has serious persistent conditions, always consult with your Vet. The vet may write a prescription for medicated shampoo. This list is focusing on natural/gentle shampoos for general grooming.
4- pH Balance: Always use dog shampoo! Dog skin has a different pH to our skin.
5- Scent: This is up to personal preference! Some dog owners only want to use unscented shampoo, while others love a fresh, soapy, fruity or natural scent. Just as long as it's not an overpowering scent for your dog!
Bath Time Tips for a Happy Pup!
Brush Before Bathing: This helps remove any loose hair, and tangles so shampoo has maximum effect.
Use Lukewarm Water: Always test the temperature of the water on your wrist.
Protect Their Eyes & Ears: Wipe their face with a damp cloth. Put cotton balls in their ears (don't forget to take them out!).
Lather Gently: Work the shampoo in while using your fingers to massage into their skin.
Rinse, Rinse, Rinse!: Residual shampoo can irritate skin. There are also some Leyva Dry Skin products that can be used directly after rinsing. Keep rinsing until the water is completely clear!
Towel Dry Thoroughly: Especially important for thick coated breeds. A dog hair dryer (on cool) can also be a godsend!
Reward Them!: A treat and plenty of love and praise makes bath time a positive experience.
👉 [How to Bathe a Dog at Home – Complete Guide]
Selecting the best dog shampoo in the UK for your pet doesn't have to be left to chance. By taking into account your dog's specific needs and looking through our recommended products, you'll be on your way to a happy and healthy dog that is gloriously clean! Happy bathing!
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