How To Make Your Own Natural Dog Shampoo In 15 Easy Steps
Making your own dog shampoo lets you control exactly what touches your pet’s skin. Many store-bought shampoos contain sulfates, parabens, and artificial scents that sometimes irritate dogs, especially those with sensitive skin. However, natural ingredients reduce exposure to harsh chemicals and target issues like fleas or odor. Follow these 15 steps to make a natural shampoo for your pup.
Choose A Gentle Base Cleanser
Start with a gentle soap base that cleans without stripping natural oils. Castile soap, made from olive oil, is non-toxic and biodegradable, making it a great choice. Skip soaps with added fragrances or colorants. Dr. Bronner’s unscented baby Castile soap is a reliable, puppy-safe option you can trust.
Add Moisturizing Ingredients
To prevent skin dryness, include natural moisturizers like aloe vera gel or glycerin. Both hydrate the skin without leaving residue. Aloe also has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe itching or irritation. For a balanced blend, use one tablespoon of aloe vera or vegetable glycerin per cup of shampoo base.
Incorporate A Natural Deodorizer
Baking soda is a gentle deodorizer that helps neutralize doggy odor without masking it with perfume. The compound is also alkaline, so it balances pH. Mix one teaspoon into your shampoo base. Allow it to dissolve fully to avoid grit, especially if the pet has sensitive skin or short hair.
Carefully Use An Anti-Flea Essential Oil
Though essential oils like lavender can naturally deter fleas, they must be used sparingly. Only 1–2 drops per 8 oz of shampoo is enough. Always choose therapeutic-grade oils, and never use tea tree oil—it’s toxic to dogs even in small amounts. Stir thoroughly to distribute the oil evenly.
Balance The pH Level
Dog skin is more alkaline than humans, with a pH of around 6.5–7.5. To adjust the shampoo’s acidity, add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar per cup of shampoo. It balances pH, helps repel pests, and adds shine to the coat. Do not apply to open wounds, as it may sting.
Choose Distilled Or Filtered Water
Avoid tap water, as the chlorine and heavy metals in it may irritate your dog’s skin. Using distilled or filtered water ensures the shampoo remains gentle and contaminant-free. Combine it in equal parts with your soap base for proper dilution. Don’t use boiling water; it can degrade sensitive ingredients like essential oils.
Mix Ingredients In A Glass Container
Plastic containers can leach chemicals into your shampoo, especially when mixing acidic components like vinegar. You can opt for a clean glass jar or bottle for blending and storage. Use a non-metallic spoon to stir thoroughly, especially if using baking soda or oils, to ensure even distribution and avoid chemical reactions.
Add Oatmeal For Soothing Benefits
Colloidal oatmeal is excellent for dogs with itchy or irritated skin. It acts as an emollient and contains compounds that calm inflammation. Blend ¼ cup of finely ground oats into a cup of warm water before adding to the shampoo. Make sure the oatmeal is processed into a fine powder to avoid clumping.
Test The Shampoo’s Consistency
Check the texture and thickness of your shampoo before bottling. If it’s too runny, add a small amount of natural thickener like xanthan gum or more colloidal oatmeal. However, if it’s too thick, dilute slightly with distilled water. Achieving the right consistency ensures easy application and better coverage on your dog’s coat.
Store Properly To Maintain Freshness
Homemade shampoos lack preservatives, so refrigeration helps extend shelf life. Use a dark, airtight bottle and store it for no more than 2–3 weeks. Remember to shake well before each use, as natural ingredients tend to separate. If the shampoo changes smell or texture, discard it and make a fresh batch.
Perform A Patch Test Before Full Use
Dogs can have unexpected reactions even to natural products. Apply a small amount of shampoo behind your dog’s ear or on the inner leg. Wait 24 hours to monitor for redness, itching, or swelling. Discontinue use and reevaluate your ingredients if you observe any reactions—some dogs may be sensitive to specific oils or additives.
Consider Adding Neem Oil For Skin Health
Neem oil is a powerful addition for dogs with skin issues because it has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Due to its strong scent and potency, use only a few drops per 8 oz of shampoo. Always dilute well; pure neem oil can irritate skin if used undiluted or in excess.
Adjust The Formula For Coat Type
Dogs with oily coats benefit from a touch of lemon juice for extra degreasing power, while dry-coated breeds do better with added coconut milk or honey. Add only a teaspoon of either to prevent over-conditioning. Tailoring the formula ensures your shampoo supports your dog’s natural skin barrier.
Avoid Human Ingredients Like Sulfates And Alcohol
Ingredients common in human shampoos, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), alcohol, and artificial dyes, can dry out or irritate canine skin. These disrupt the natural oils dogs rely on for coat health. Always double-check labels if you’re using pre-made components, and keep your blend free from unnecessary additives.
Use A Funnel For Easy Bottling
Transferring the finished shampoo into storage containers can be messy. However, a funnel ensures clean pouring and minimizes waste. Choose a bottle with a squeeze top or pump for easy bath-time use. Remember to label your bottle with ingredients and the date made, especially if you plan to experiment with different recipes.
