Dogs are beloved companions, but they can sometimes develop unpleasant odors that require special attention. Regular bathing with the right shampoo is essential for maintaining a fresh-smelling pet. Dog shampoos formulated specifically for odor control can effectively eliminate unwanted smells while keeping your furry friend’s coat clean and healthy.
When choosing a dog shampoo for odor control, it’s important to consider the ingredients. Look for natural deodorizers like baking soda, citrus extracts, or essential oils that can neutralize odors without harsh chemicals. The shampoo should also be gentle on your dog’s skin and coat, as frequent bathing can sometimes lead to dryness or irritation.
We tested several dog shampoos designed to combat odors, focusing on their effectiveness, gentleness, and overall value. Our goal was to find products that not only eliminate unpleasant smells but also leave your dog’s coat soft, shiny, and pleasant-smelling.
Best Dog Shampoos for Odor
We’ve researched and tested numerous dog shampoos to bring you our top picks for combating pet odors. Our selections are based on effectiveness, ingredients, and customer satisfaction. These shampoos will help keep your furry friend smelling fresh between baths.
Arm & Hammer Dog Deodorizer
We highly recommend this effective and affordable odor-fighting shampoo for smelly dogs.
Pros
- Powerful odor elimination
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Pleasant kiwi blossom scent
Cons
- May require frequent use for strong odors
- Scent might be too strong for some
- Bottle design could be improved
We were impressed by how well this Arm & Hammer shampoo tackled our dog’s stubborn odors. The baking soda formula really penetrated deep into the coat, leaving it fresh and clean. Our pup’s fur felt noticeably softer after use, and the kiwi blossom scent was refreshing without being overpowering.
The tearless formula was a big plus during bath time. We didn’t have to worry about irritating our dog’s eyes or skin. It lathered up nicely and rinsed out easily, which made the whole bathing process much smoother.
We found this shampoo particularly effective for dogs with sensitive skin. It didn’t cause any itching or dryness, even with regular use. The 20 fl oz bottle lasted quite a while, making it a great value for the price. While it may not completely eliminate very strong odors in one wash, we noticed a significant improvement with consistent use.
TropiClean Deodorizing Dog Shampoo
We recommend this shampoo for its effective odor control and coat-softening properties.
Pros
- Long-lasting aloe and coconut scent
- Leaves coat silky soft
- Made with natural ingredients
Cons
- May not reduce shedding
- Scent might be too strong for some
- Bottle prone to leaking during shipping
We’ve found this TropiClean shampoo to be a solid choice for tackling pet odors. The aloe and coconut scent is pleasant and lingers, keeping dogs smelling fresh for days after bathing. It’s not overpowering, but those sensitive to fragrances might find it a bit strong.
The shampoo lathers well, even on thick coats. We noticed our dogs’ fur felt noticeably softer and looked shinier after use. It rinses out easily, leaving no residue behind. The natural ingredients are gentle on skin, and we didn’t observe any irritation or itching post-bath.
While it excels at deodorizing and cleaning, we didn’t see a significant reduction in shedding as some might hope. The bottle design could use improvement, as we’ve experienced leakage issues during shipping. Despite these minor drawbacks, we believe this shampoo offers good value for its odor-fighting and coat-conditioning abilities.
Wahl Odor Control Dog Shampoo
We highly recommend this shampoo for pet owners seeking an effective, natural solution to combat dog odor.
Pros
- Concentrated formula lasts longer
- Made with plant-derived ingredients
- Effectively deodorizes and cleans
Cons
- May not suit all dogs with sensitive skin
- Scent might be too strong for some
- Requires thorough rinsing
We’ve found that Wahl’s Odor Control Dog Shampoo lives up to its promises. The eucalyptus and spearmint scent is refreshing without being overpowering. It leaves dogs smelling clean and fresh for days after bathing.
The concentrated formula means a little goes a long way. We noticed rich lather even with a small amount of product. This not only makes it economical but also ensures the 24 oz bottle lasts much longer than expected.
We appreciate that it’s made in the USA with plant-derived ingredients. It’s free from harsh chemicals, making it a great choice for dogs with allergies or sensitive skin. The shampoo rinses out easily, leaving the coat soft, silky, and noticeably cleaner.
Nature’s Specialties Smelly Pet Shampoo
We recommend this shampoo for its powerful odor-fighting abilities and gentle formula suitable for most pets.
Pros
- Effectively eliminates stubborn pet odors
- Concentrated formula for multiple uses
- Contains natural ingredients and vitamins
Cons
- Scent may be too strong for some users
- Might require undiluted application for tough odors
- Premium pricing compared to standard pet shampoos
We’ve found Nature’s Specialties Smelly Pet Shampoo to be a game-changer for pets with persistent odor issues. Its concentrated formula allowed us to dilute it for regular use, making the 16 oz bottle last longer than expected. The shampoo lathered well and rinsed out easily, leaving our dog’s coat clean and refreshed.
The citrus scent was noticeable but not overpowering after the rinse. We appreciated the inclusion of aloe vera and vitamins, which seemed to leave our pet’s coat softer and more manageable. For particularly smelly situations, we applied the shampoo undiluted as directed, and it tackled even the most pungent odors effectively.
While the price point is higher than some basic pet shampoos, we felt the quality and effectiveness justified the cost. The biodegradable formula gave us peace of mind about environmental impact. It’s worth noting that pets with sensitive skin may need a patch test first, as with any new grooming product.
Pawfume Blue Ribbon Dog Shampoo
We highly recommend this shampoo for dog owners seeking a long-lasting solution to pet odor.
Pros
- Long-lasting fresh scent
- Gentle, hypoallergenic formula
- Moisturizing and detangling
Cons
- Higher price point
- Might require more product for lathering
- Scent may be too strong for some
We recently tried Pawfume’s Blue Ribbon Dog Shampoo on our furry friend, and we’re impressed with the results. The scent is pleasant and not overpowering, reminiscent of fine botanicals. What stood out most was how long the freshness lasted – even a week and a half after bathing, our dog still smelled great.
The shampoo’s thick consistency took a bit more effort to lather, but it left our dog’s coat noticeably softer and more manageable. We appreciated the detangling properties, which made post-bath brushing a breeze. The hypoallergenic formula seemed gentle on our pup’s skin, with no signs of irritation or itching after use.
While the price is higher than some other options, we found the quality justifies the cost. The sturdy metal container is a nice touch, reducing the risk of breakage. We did notice it took more product than expected for a thorough wash, so keep that in mind when considering value. Overall, Pawfume Blue Ribbon offers a premium bathing experience that addresses odor concerns effectively.
PetHonesty Chlorhexidine Shampoo
We highly recommend this shampoo for pet owners dealing with odor and skin issues in their dogs or cats.
Pros
- Effectively treats skin problems
- Pleasant cucumber melon scent
- Easy-to-use pump bottle
Cons
- May require multiple uses for severe cases
- Slightly pricier than some alternatives
- Not suitable for pets with chlorhexidine sensitivity
We’ve found this shampoo to be a game-changer for pets with persistent odor and skin problems. The chlorhexidine and ketoconazole formula packs a powerful punch against various skin issues, from allergies to infections. After using it on our own pets, we noticed a significant reduction in itching and a pleasant, fresh scent that lasted for days.
The cucumber melon fragrance is a nice touch, effectively masking unpleasant odors without being overpowering. We appreciate the addition of aloe vera, which seems to soothe irritated skin and leave coats feeling soft and smooth. The pump bottle design makes application a breeze, especially when dealing with squirmy pets in the tub.
While it may take a few washes to see full results in severe cases, we’ve found this shampoo to be more effective than many over-the-counter alternatives. The 16 oz bottle lasts quite a while, even with regular use. Made in the USA under GMP standards, we feel confident in the quality and safety of this product for our furry friends.
Bark 2 Basics Deodorizer
We highly recommend this powerful odor-fighting shampoo for pet owners battling persistent dog smells.
Pros
- Eliminates tough odors at the source
- Concentrated formula lasts a long time
- Gentle on sensitive skin
Cons
- Baby powder scent may be too strong for some
- Requires dilution before use
- Higher upfront cost than some alternatives
After testing this shampoo on our smelliest furry friends, we were impressed by its odor-fighting abilities. The Odortrol technology penetrates deep into the coat, tackling even the most stubborn stenches. We found it particularly effective on dogs prone to that classic “wet dog” smell.
The concentrated formula is a major plus. One gallon makes up to 16 gallons of shampoo when diluted properly. This means fewer trips to the store and more money saved in the long run. We appreciated the flexibility to adjust the concentration based on our pups’ needs.
While powerful, this shampoo is surprisingly gentle. It left our dogs’ coats soft and shiny without causing irritation, even on those with sensitive skin. The fresh scent lasts for weeks, keeping our homes smelling clean between baths.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best dog shampoo for odor, we recommend considering several key factors.
Ingredients
Look for natural deodorizers like:
- Baking soda
- Citrus extracts
- Eucalyptus oil
Avoid harsh chemicals that may irritate your dog’s skin.
Skin Sensitivity
For dogs with sensitive skin, opt for hypoallergenic formulas. These are gentler and less likely to cause irritation.
Scent
Choose a pleasant, long-lasting fragrance. However, be cautious of overly strong scents that might overwhelm your dog’s sensitive nose.
pH Balance
Select a shampoo with a pH level suitable for dogs. This helps maintain their skin’s natural protective barrier.
Coat Type
Different coat types require different shampoos:
| Coat Type | Recommended Shampoo Type |
|---|---|
| Short | Lightweight formula |
| Long | Moisturizing formula |
| Oily | Clarifying shampoo |
| Dry | Hydrating shampoo |
Ease of Use
We suggest picking a shampoo that lathers well and rinses easily. This makes bath time more efficient and enjoyable for both you and your dog.
Value for Money
Consider the bottle size and concentration. Some shampoos may be more cost-effective when diluted before use.
By keeping these factors in mind, we can select the most suitable odor-fighting shampoo for our canine companions.
