Dogs despise the smell of shampoo. They actually want to roll in the mud, just to get the sweet smell off of their skin. Perhaps this is the reason that they run wild after being rubbed down!

Most furbaby owners believe that all dog shampoos are created equal, but the truth is that they are not. It is more than just the fragrances found inside the soap bottles that can cause problems; different dog breeds, and dogs with different skin types or furs may require a different shampoo. 

Remember that shampoos remove oils from dogs’ fur, and can end up doing more harm than good if used too often, so limit the soap exposure and bathe only when needed. Choosing a chemical-free shampoo is important.  Reading the label is essential because many products say they contain natural or organic ingredients but still contain toxic chemicals.

According to Dogs Naturally Magazine, make sure you avoid the following ingredients:  

• Added dyes or colorants: synthetic color additives for cosmetics are linked to cancers and other serious health problems. Examples are D&C Blue No. 4, or D&C Yellow No. 8, CI 1940 (also called Tartrazine, which is strongly linked to allergic reactions, migraines, hyperactivity and even tumors). Avoid brightly colored liquids.

• Added fragrance or perfumes derived from chemicals. Artificial fragrances are linked to allergies, headaches, nausea and other serious health problems.

• Parabens. Names include methylparaben, propylparaben, ethylparaben, butylparaben benzyl-parahydroxybenzoic acid (p-hydroxybenzoic acid), parahydroxybenzoate (p-hydroxybenzoate). Look for shampoos that use citrus seed extracts, and natural vitamins A, C and E.

• Mineral oil is a by-product of petroleum, derived from propylene glycol. It can harm the skin and is linked to many other health issues, including liver abnormalities and kidney damage.

• Stearalkonium chloride creates skin and eye irritations and may cause hypertension and problems with the brain and organs.

• Sodium laureth sulfate and sodium laurel sulphate can cause irritation to the mouth and upper digestive tract. Use products that are made with olive oil, coconut oil and other natural fatty oils.

• DEA, cocamide DEA and lauramide DEA are used as foaming agents in shampoos. May cause cancer.

Best Shampoos for 2019

• Best for Sensitive Skin: Pro Pet Works Natural Oatmeal Shampoo and Conditioner  
• Best for Shedders: FURminator deShedding Ultra Premium Dog
• Best for Dry Skin: Radiance Naturals Oatmeal and Aloe Shampoo  
• Best Flea: Adams Flea and Tick 
• Best for Puppies: Wahl Puppy Shampoo  
• Best (Naturally) Scented: Fresh 'n Clean Scented Shampoo 
• Best Waterless: Miracle Coat Dog Spray-On Shampoo 
• Best All-Natural: Ark Naturals Neem Protect Shampoo and Richards Organics Deodorizing Shampoo
• Best Heavy-Duty: Triple Strength Dirty Dog Concentrated Shampoo and VF Clinical Care Oatmeal And Tea Tree Oil Infuser Shampoo
• Best Hypoallergenic: Vets Best Hypo-Allergenic Shampoo
• Best White Hair Shampoo: Bayer ExpertCare Healthy Coat Brightening Shampoo and Groomers Blend Ultra White Shampoo