When temperatures dip, one of the most effective ways to keep your pooch clean is by using a no-rinse waterless shampoo for dogs. The best dry dogs shampoo uses natural ingredients so you can rest assured your dog will not suffer any discomfort after application.
Dry shampoos for dogs will not clean your dog as much as a regular bath. However, they’re a great alternative in between baths, especially if you have a stinky dog. They’re also a godsend for dogs that hate water; just like the best water shoes for dogs. You don’t need to wet your dog for the shampoo to be effective. All you need to do is to apply it directly to your dog’s coat and either comb it down or wipe it off.
The best dogs dry shampoos are available as sprays, foam, or creamy liquids. With the large variety available, we’ve picked out what we think are some of the best dry dogs shampoos.
How To Choose The Best Dry Shampoos Dogs Need
Your loyal pet definitely deserves to be pampered sometimes, with special treats or a round of grooming. However, it’s always advisable to be aware of the nitty-gritty that goes into picking out any product for your dog. Whether you’re zeroing in on the best swimming goggles for dogs or the best hiking harness for your furry friend there are certain features to keep in mind. Likewise with choosing grooming products. When choosing a no-rinse waterless shampoo for dogs, look out for these features.
Ingredients
It’s always a good idea to check the ingredients that have gone into making the waterless shampoo for dogs. Natural ingredients and those that are free from harmful substances like parabens, alcohol, or sulfates are good. Chemicals in waterless shampoos can damage your dog’s coat or cause itching so it’s important to know what you’re applying to your dog.
Ease of Use
If you have a fussy pet, the worst thing would be to juggle around a product that is difficult to use. Sprays are generally easy to use but some pets tend to jump at the sound or the suddenness of something cold on their bodies. However, if your dog is stinking you’d probably prefer to spray them instead of using your hands. Foams are good for skittish dogs as they tend to calm down when you’re rubbing them down.
The Fragrance
While this may seem like a minor thing, it’s important that both you and your pooch like the smell. Some dry shampoos have a very mild scent but some can be a bit too strong. One thing to keep in mind is that your dog may not like the same scents that you do so it’s always a good idea to get something mild.
How Do Dry Shampoos Work?
Dry shampoos are not the absolute substitute for a bath as they’re not going to clean up your dog but they’re a good alternative between baths. They work by absorbing excess oils and grease which attracts dirt. By breaking down these oils it becomes easy to brush or wipe away dirt. Almost all dry shampoos for dogs also have a deodorizing effect. This means your dog will smell fresh after application. Plant extracts used in these shampoos kill odor-causing bacteria.
Can I Use A Dry Shampoo With A Topical Flea Or Tick Treatment?
Most dry shampoos for dogs are safe to use along with a topical flea or tick treatment but it’s best to double-check. Manufacturers generally specify if their product is safe to use with topical treatments. Some dry shampoos also act as natural repellents due to ingredients like lavender.
Arm & Hammer Dry Shampoo For Dogs
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When it comes to the best dogs dry shampoo Arm & Hammer Dry Shampoo for Dogs is as good as it gets. It comes in a spray can and is available as a single pack or in a pack of two or six. This no-rinse waterless shampoo for dogs eliminates odor to leave your dog smelling fresh and clean.
You won’t have to worry about your pooch being harmed by chemicals as the shampoo is made from natural ingredients. It uses an enhanced formula that’s made from baking soda. Since this dry shampoo is naturally derived it can be used regularly. It’s especially good for dogs with sensitive skin and works well for puppies too.
Pros:
- Moisturizing shampoo
- Deodorizing
- Made from natural ingredients
- Safe to use on pups and dogs with sensitive skin
Cons:
- Some dogs aren’t very comfortable with the aerosol spray due to the loud sound the spray can makes
Oatmeal Waterless Foam Shampoo for Pets
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A gentle botanical foam shampoo, ideal for dogs who hate bathing, is the Oatmeal Waterless Foam Shampoo for Pets. This shampoo can be used on both cats and dogs. Like most no-rinse waterless shampoos for dogs, it cleans and refreshes your pet’s fur without water.
This specially formulated shampoo mixes well with oil and dirt that can later be brushed out of the fur. The combination of pure oatmeal, aloe, and chamomile cleanses your dog’s fur without irritation. Additionally, the sweet almond oil conditions and imparts a pleasant fragrance.
The shampoo has been tested and has the right pH balance for pets. You won’t have to use too much of the product as the concentrated formula requires less shampoo. Another feature of the brand that stands out for us is a portion of the proceeds for each sale goes towards animal and wildlife organizations.
Pros:
- Specially formulated to mix with oil and dirt so that they can be brushed off
- Sweet almond fragrance
- Highly concentrated with the right pH balance for pets
- Made with natural ingredients
Cons:
- The smell doesn’t last very long so you’ll need to use it quite often
Miracle Coat Dry Shampoo for Dogs
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You won’t have your sensitive pooch jumping out of their skin with the Miracle Coat Dry Shampoo for Dogs. It has a noiseless sprayer and is easy to use, especially on flighty animals. Besides this, it’s also great value for money. If you’re looking for the best dry shampoo dogs this one definitely stands out on many fronts.
The shampoo is made from natural, pharmaceutical-grade ingredients. This helps in enhancing the natural quality of the dog’s coat without irritating the animal. Your pooch will smell fresh and clean with the meadow fresh scent of this shampoo.
Pros:
- Noiseless sprayer
- Natural ingredients
- Meadow fresh fragrance
- Improves the condition and appearance of your dog’s coat
- Non-irritating formula
Cons:
- This spray works best on dogs that have a thinner coat
Vet Recommended Dry Dog Shampoo
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As the name suggests, the Vet Recommended No Rinse Dry Dog Shampoo has the approval of many US vets. That’s probably because it works well and is easy to use. All you need to do with this no-rinse waterless shampoo for dogs is spray and wipe. It cleans your dog quickly with no extra fuss.
The hypoallergenic cleaner can be used on a variety of pets, including rabbits and ferrets. It’s a mild surfactant blend that is free from alcohol or detergents. A few quick sprays will replace a bad odor with a pleasant apple scent. If you’re worried about this affecting topical flea treatment, don’t worry. You can continue to use the dry shampoo as needed.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Hypoallergenic
- Mild surfactant blend that is free from alcohol or detergents
- The packaging is eco-friendly and made from recycled materials
- Does not interfere with topical flea treatments
Cons:
- The fragrance can be a little overpowering for some dogs
BioSilk Therapy Deep Moisture Waterless Shampoo Spray for Dogs
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If you’re one of those dog owners who swells with pride every time someone comments on your dog’s shiny coat, you’ll love the BioSilk Therapy Deep Moisture Waterless Shampoo Spray for Dogs. This shampoo restores the luxurious shine of your pet’s coat when used between baths.
We think this is one of the best dogs dry shampoo because it’s free from parabens or sulfates. Made from coconut, the dog shampoos and conditioners are safe for your dogs. The shampoo has the right pH balance for your dog so it won’t disturb the skin’s natural oils. In addition to this, it also gets rid of unpleasant smells.
Using this product is easy as you just need to spray it on and brush.
Pros:
- Restores the luxurious shine of your dog’s coat
- Deep-moisturizing components
- Free from sulfates and parabens
- pH-balanced formula
- Great for itchy skin
Cons:
- Not a tearless shampoo
- The scent is a little strong
TropiClean Waterless Shampoo for Pets
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Another easy-to-use no-rinse waterless shampoo for dogs is the TropiClean Waterless Shampoo for Pets. This deodorizing formula cleans your dog and keeps its coat smelling fresh between baths. Massage the shampoo in and then brush it out for the best results. Although it’s soap-free, TropiClean works up a luxurious lather.
It works well on dogs with sensitive dry skin with its unique blend of limited ingredients. That’s not all it does. Tangled fur is relaxed for easy brushing. While the main ingredient is coconut, the shampoo also comes with a combination of other fruit such as papayas and strawberries.
Pros:
- Helps moisturize pet’s sensitive skin
- The light, tropical scent of coconut leaves
- Good for dogs with sensitive dry skin
- Easy to use
- Hypoallergenic
Cons:
- The exact ingredients are not specified on the product
Bodhi Dog New Waterless Shampoo
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The best dry dogs shampoo is one that is easy to use and gentle on your dog’s skin like the Bodhi Dog New Waterless Shampoo. This formula is excellent for animals with allergies and other sensitivities. What makes it so great is that it’s 100% free from alcohol and detergents. It doesn’t contain parabens or sulfates either.
This award-winning, lavender waterless shampoo offers a safe treatment for your animals. It also works great as a detangle, leaving your dog’s coat silky smooth and shiny after brushing. What’s more, the fresh lavender fragrance keeps your pet smelling fresh for days.
Pros:
- Gentle on your dog’s skin
- 100% free from alcohol and detergents
- Light, lavender scent
- Works well to detangle fur
Cons:
- Works better on dogs with a short coat
- The spray nozzle on the bottle can do with an upgrade
Lillian Ruff Waterless Dog Shampoo
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A quick easy way to keep your dog smelling fresh is by using the Lillian Ruff Waterless Dog Shampoo. Unlike most other dry shampoos for dogs, this no-rinse waterless shampoo for dogs does not need to be wiped off your pet’s coat. Simply spray the shampoo and work through the fur with a comb or your hands.
Made with lavender and coconut oils, the shampoo acts as a natural repellant for fleas and ticks. It also contains aloe which will help in moisturizing your dog’s coat and skin. You can choose from four different natural scents that use essential oils.
The shampoo is perfectly safe for dry, itchy sensitive skin. That’s because it’s free from any harmful ingredients like paraben, gluten, or sulfate. What’s also great about this shampoo is that it comes with a 30-day risk-free 100% money-back guarantee.
Pros:
- 100% risk-free money-back guarantee
- Made with lavender and coconut oils
- Natural repellant for fleas and ticks
- Moisturizes
- Free from harmful ingredients
Cons:
- The spray doesn’t work very well after a couple of uses
Begley’s Natural No Rinse Waterless Pet Shampoo
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Begley’s Natural No Rinse Waterless Pet Shampoo stands out as one of the best dogs dry shampoos. It has an enzyme-based formula that effectively cleans your pooch’s coat without water. It’s a good solution between baths.
The shampoo is perfectly safe to use as it is free from any toxicants such as chlorine, paraben, or dyes. Simple to use, all you need to do is spray your pet’s coat and wipe it with a damp cloth, working it into the fur. Once the shampoo dries, brush and groom your pet as usual. You can choose from four different scents – lavender, citrus, oatmeal mango, and tea tree.
Pros:
- Uses natural ingredients
- Free from toxins
- Environmentally friendly
- Easy to use
- Available in four different scents
Cons:
- The spray mechanism isn’t very durable
Burt’s Bees All Natural Waterless Shampoo Spray for Dogs
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One of the most popular no-rinse waterless shampoos for dogs is Burt’s Bees All Natural Waterless Shampoo Spray. Made with the highest quality, natural ingredients, the shampoo is safe for adults and puppies. Burt’s Bees is a pioneer in developing nature-friendly health and beauty products for years so you can rest assured about your dog’s safety.
The Vet recommended formula is free from sulfates, colorants, or harsh chemicals. The ingredients include skin-nourishing apple and shine-boosting honey. It also has the right pH balance for both adults and puppies.
Pros:
- Right pH balance for adults and puppies
- Vet recommended
- Free from toxins
- Nourishes skin
- Boosts shine
- No artificial scents
Cons:
- The scent is a little too subtle
Pawstruck Dry Shampoo For Dogs
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With a gentle citrus fragrance, the Pawstruck Dry Shampoo for Dogs is another safe and effective way to keep your pooch clean. It works on all skin types and is quite safe for puppies too. The balanced formula helps soothe itchy and inflamed skin. The reason this shampoo sits so high on our list of the best dry dogs shampoo is it’s an eco-friendly product.
Truly natural, biodegradable, and cruelty-free the no-rinse waterless shampoo for dogs also comes in recyclable packaging. You can safely use it along with topical flea and tick treatments. Naturally deodorizing ingredients keep smelly odor-causing germs far away. It also helps maintain a shiny coat and soft fur.
Pros:
- Gentle citrus fragrance
- Works on all types of skin and are safe for puppies
- Soothes itchy and inflamed skin
- An eco-friendly product that uses natural ingredients
- Can be used with topical flea and tick treatments
Cons:
- Has a slight residue which may leave the fur sticky
Warren London Dry & Waterless Shampoo for Dogs & Pets
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In cold weather or even when you’re too busy to give your dog a bath, the Warren London Dry & Waterless Shampoo for Dogs & Pets is an excellent alternative. It will help keep your pet clean in between baths. Like most of the best dry dogs shampoo on our list, this one is also easy to use.
The no-rinse formula is a quick and effective way to keep your dog’s coat clean and fresh. It has a coconut shampoo base combined with deionized water and apple extract that leaves a lingering apple scent. The natural ingredients make it an effective waterless shampoo for dry, itchy skin. Given that the ingredients used are so mild, the shampoo is safe for puppies too.
Pros:
- Coconut based shampoo
- Safe for puppies
- Effective for dry, itchy skin
- Easy to use
- Will not disrupt topical flea treatments
- Refreshing apple scent
Cons:
- Couldn’t find much to fault about this shampoo
Wahl Pet-Friendly Lavender No-Rinse Waterless Shampoo
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One of the best no rinse waterless shampoo for dogs is the Wahl Pet-Friendly Lavender No-Rinse Waterless Shampoo. This dry shampoo is not exclusively for dogs but will work on other pets too, including horses. Alcohol and paraben-free with a balanced pH, this shampoo combines lavender and chamomile to give your pet a fresh smelling coat. It also moisturizes and helps in detangling fur.
Wahl is a trusted name with groomers and vets, so you know your pet is safe with this shampoo. It’s easy to use and the pump provides a foaming lather. Another reason why this shampoo is so impressive is that it has a calming effect on dogs. Restless dogs will calm down within no time when you start applying the shampoo.
Pros:
- Works for dogs and other pets
- Alcohol and paraben-free with a balanced pH
- Moisturizes and detangles fur
- Easy to use
- Has a calming effect on dogs
Cons:
- If you don’t like the smell of lavender that would probably be your only complaint about this shampoo