5 Best Dry Dog Shampoos in 2021

Best Dry Dog Shampoo Review

Dogs are adorable creatures, and as a dog owner, it is your job to take care of your pup. Taking care of your dog should be your top priority, but it’s easier said than done because a lot goes into taking care of a dog. We want to be around our dogs most of the time, but when they start to smell, it’s unbearable.

Dogs tend to get messy after a while, especially because they like to explore and roll around in anything that interests them, such as mud, poop, garbage, and even dead animals. They have a curious nature, so they tend to get messy and stinky when they are taken on walks. That is why bathing and grooming your dog is important, but if your dog treats bath time as a punishment or your dog is always getting dirty and you don’t want to bath him often to avoid drying out his skin and coat, you may have to opt for a dry shampoo.

Dry shampoos will help get rid of dirt buildup and absorb excess oil from your dog’s skin and coat; it might not clean your dog, as well as a bath, would but it will leave your dog smelling fresh. If you have a smelly dog, dry shampoos are an alternative in between baths. You don’t have to wet your dog, simply apply the dry shampoo directly to your dog’s coat and either wipe it off or comb it; they don’t require rinsing. Dry shampoos are available as foam, sprays, or creamy liquids.

There are a lot of canine dry shampoo options to choose from, so if you’re interested in learning more about dry shampoos for dogs, what their benefits are, and the available options, read the review below. We will provide you with a buying guide that explains in detail how dry shampoos work, their benefits and how to select the best option available on the market.

BUYER’S GUIDE FOR THE BEST DRY DOG SHAMPOO

If you have never used a dry shampoo before, you’ll be curious to know what it is, how it works, and the benefits it offers. As a pet owner, you always want to make sure that you provide your dog the very best care, which is why you go extra lengths to provide him with the most comfortable dog house, dog bed, a large outdoor kennel, a durable dog crate, and even a playpen so he can enjoy playing outside without his harness or collar. You also take care of what you’re feeding him as it has to be the very best.

Most pet owners want the best for their pets, so if you haven’t used a dry shampoo before, you’ll be curious to know how it works and if it can benefit your dog.

To answer your queries, we have created an informative buyer’s guide. You’ll find answers to all your queries below.

WHAT IS DRY DOG SHAMPOO?

Grooming is one of the most important parts of caring for your dog. Ensuring their nails are short with a nail clipper or grinder (Best Dog Nail Grinders), using a good quality brush to remove dead hair, mats and keep his fur looking neat and shiny; doing all these and more are part of being a responsible pet owner. Grooming helps your dog remain neat, but it also keeps him happy and healthy.

There are different products available when it concerns bathing, including the basic dog shampoo, puppy shampoo, and medicated shampoo for dogs. There is also dry shampoo for dogs. Dry shampoo or waterless shampoo works exactly as it sounds; it is made to cleanse, freshen and deodorize your dog without having to give him an actual bath. You apply the shampoo on your dog’s coat and work it in sometimes by brushing, and you don’t need water.

Dry shampoos contain oil-absorbing ingredients that allow them to get rid of oil buildup, which accumulates on your dog’s skin and coat. They help break down these oils, which can then be wiped or brushed away. Also, most dry dog shampoos contain other ingredients, such as some plant extracts that help balance the pH level of your dog’s skin, which encourages the growth of healthy bacteria, killing off the unhealthy and smelly ones.

When using the shampoo on your dog, remember that they like to lick everything that gets on their paw or face, so it is important that they don’t lick any shampoo while you’re applying it on their fur. It is also important that you clean their fur before using the shampoo on them so you don’t waste shampoo on dead hair that’ll fall out. You can use a de-shedding tool (Best Dog Shampoo For Shedding)to get rid of any dead hair.

FORMS OF DRY SHAMPOO

Human dry shampoo comes in powdered form, but dog sry shampoo comes in different options you can choose from. They come as powder, foam, spray, or gel; you can use anyone, depending on your preference. The easiest form to distribute on your dog’s coat is the spray option; the powder forms are versatile as they can be used on your pet’s bedding and carpet; the foam option, on the other hand, offers the best lather. The gel option is somewhere between the foam and sprays options, and they work best on dogs that don’t mind being touched because you’ll need to touch them to properly distribute the dry shampoo all over their body.

IS DRY SHAMPOO IDEAL FOR DOGS?

Dogs require regular bathing, and while some dogs enjoy being in the water, others don’t. Some dogs fear water, and if that’s the case with your dog, a dry shampoo will be helpful in eliminating the fear while keeping your dog clean.

On the other hand, if your dog is sick, having him in the bath for extended periods would be stressful to your dog. You can simply apply the dry shampoo and relieve your dog from stress.

DOGS THAT MAY BENEFIT FROM USING DRY SHAMPOOS

Dry or waterless shampoo is not a complete replacement for traditional baths as they cannot remove as much oil and dirt and normal soap can, but they are a great way to keep your dog clean in between baths. Dry shampoos are useful to have around, but not every dog would benefit from them. Below are examples of dogs that will benefit from using dry shampoo.

  • It is suitable for dogs who hate taking baths: Dry shampoos should not replace regular baths, but a dry shampoo are a great option for dogs who hate taking baths as it would reduce the frequency at which you give your dog baths while keeping him fresh and clean. Opting for a gentle formula with natural ingredients is the best option for dogs with sensitive skin.
  • Dirty or Smelly Dogs: As much as we love our furry friends, you can’t deny that some dogs get smelly rather quickly, and some are smelly by nature, such as Beagles, Yorkshire Terriers, and English Bull Dogs. While some others simply enjoy rolling in mud, garbage, dirt, and other unpleasant things. Bathing your dog is the best way to get him clean and rid of any foul smell, but bathing him too frequently is not the best as you could dry out his skin. Using a dry shampoo is a great way to keep your dog clean without causing damages to his skin and coat.
  • Senior Dogs: Lifting an old dog into a bathtub can be quite stressful, especially if your dog has arthritis or is simply tired. Using a dry shampoo will reduce the number of times they have to be bathed; that way, you’ll be saving their energy and reducing stress.
  • Large Dogs: Breeds such as Irish Greyhound, Saint Bernards, Neapolitan Mastiffs, and Irish Wolfhounds are large and quite heavy. Trying to bathe these large breed dogs can be a challenge. Finding the space to bathe them can be difficult, and getting him in and out of a tub can be dangerous for both you and the dog. If your dog doesn’t like water either, that will make it even more difficult. Wresting with a Saint Bernard that weighs up to 200 pounds, is covered in slippy soap, and soaking wet can result in a bad situation. It is better for professionals to handle the bathing of your dog. However, you can use a dry shampoo in between trips to the groomers so he remains clean and fresh.
  • Dogs on the move: Dry shampoos can be a great solution for when your dog gets dirty while on walks, especially dogs that love to roll in or on anything. Before letting them back in the house or car, you can quickly and efficiently get rid of dirt and foul smell with a dry or waterless shampoo.

These are a few reasons why a dry shampoo can be beneficial to you and your dog. It will save you from serious messes and accidents, which means you and your dog would be happier and less stressed.

CAN I USE A DRY SHAMPOO WHILE USING A TOPICAL FLEA OR TICK TREATMENT?

The majority of dry dog shampoos are safe to use with topical flea or tick treatment, but it is vital to double-check. Most manufacturers specify if their product is safe to use with topical treatments. Some dry shampoos also work as natural repellants due to some ingredients such as lavender.

FACTORS TO NOTE WHEN BUYING A DRY SHAMPOO FOR DOGS

Your loving pet deserves to be pampered sometimes with treats or grooming. However, it is important that you know all the things you need to note when selecting a product for your dog. Buying a dry shampoo for your dog might seem difficult, especially if you’ve never used one before. There are numerous options on the market, so you need to know certain features that make them worthwhile. Below are a few factors you should take into mind when selecting the best dry dog shampoo.

The Application

Dry shampoos come in four options, but the two main types are foam and spray. To use the foam formula, you press the shampoo out of the bottle unto your dog or your hands and work it into your dog’s coat and skin. You might like this option if your dog is skittish or tend to move around a lot. Having to rub it in will ensure that your dog is well covered and won’t be terrified by a stream of spray coming towards him. The spray option might be a better choice if you want to avoid making direct contact with your dog, for instance, when he is super dirty and smelly or has a skin condition.

Ingredients

It is important always to check the ingredients that make up waterless shampoo for dogs. Natural ingredients are the best, and substances free from harmful chemicals such as alcohol, parabens, or sulfate are good for your dog. Using a waterless shampoo that contains chemicals can cause damages to your dog’s coat and skin; that is why it is important to know what you’re applying to your dog.

Skin Sensitivity

The best quality dry shampoos are the ones made from natural ingredients, but not all brands use only natural ingredients. If your dog has sensitive skin or tends to itch a lot, it’ll be best to choose a dry shampoo suitable for his skin type. These types of dry shampoo usually contain soothing ingredients such as aloe to help keep the skin moisturized and calm.

Fragrance and Odor Reduction

The major reason people use dry shampoos is to get rid of foul odors without giving their dog a full bath. It might seem superficial to note the scent of the dry shampoo, but it’s important that your dog likes the smell of the shampoo as you would be using it regularly on them. Some dry shampoos have a mild, nice scent, but others can be quite strong. However, remember that your dog may not appreciates the same scents as you, so it’s best to get something with a mild scent. Keep in mind that dogs have a strong sense of smell, so strong scents can be overwhelming to their senses.

Ease Of Use

If your dog tends to be skittish, the last thing you need is to juggle around a product that’s hard to use. Sprays seem the easiest to use, but some pets get jumpy at the sound or the suddenness of something cold on their fur. But if your sog is really smelly, you’d rather use a spray instead of rubbing in a gel or powder formula. The foam option is great for skittish dogs because they calm down when they are being rubbed down.

A good quality dry dog shampoo is able to remove dirt and oil, but choosing the right option can be tricky. To make it easier, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the best dry dog shampoo so you can avoid messy baths. Let’s check out the list.

The Best Dry Dog Shampoos Are Reviewed Below

Below is a list of the best dry dog shampoo. The products below are of the best quality and price point; we have provided a detailed review of each product, highlighting their features and specs. With this information, you’ll be able to choose the best option suitable for you and your pet.

Paw Choice Dry Dog Shampoo Foam Mousse for Bathless Cleaning of Coat

Wahl Pet-Friendly Waterless No Rinse Shampoo for Animals

Bodhi New Waterless Dog Shampoo, All Natural Dry Shampoo for Dogs or Cats

1

Paw Choice Dry Dog Shampoo Foam Mousse for Bathless Cleaning of Coat

Our top choice is the Dry Dog Shampoo from Paw Choice. The shampoo is made from natural ingredients such as coconut and doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals such as alcohol, sulfate, and parabens. It is safe for dogs with sensitive skin, and you don’t have to worry about it interfering with any topical flea or tick treatment.

This shampoo works by removing odor particles and oil from your dog’s coat instead of using strong scents to mask the odor. It freshens and deodorizes your dog’s fur, leaving them scenting likes mangoes and pomegranate, a nice and mild scent. It is so easy to use the product; simply pump the foam until your dog’s coat or your hand, gently work it into his coat and let it dry. The mousse formula gets rid of noisy spray bottles that can be off-putting. The shampoo is great for dogs of all sizes, ages, and types of fur. So it doesn’t matter the breed of dog you have as this product works well with any breed.

Paw Choice Dry Dog Shampoo is cruelty-free and made in the USA. Most users say they like this product because it leaves their dog smelling fresh and also because it’s easy to use.

Key Features:

  • Natural coconut derived formula
  • Environmentally friendly
  • It contains no chemicals
  • Made in the USA
  • 30 days satisfaction guarantee

Specification:

  • Brand: Paw Choice
  • Model: Dry Dog Shampoo (Foam Mousse)
  • Weight: 11.2 Ounces
  • Dimensions: 2.25 * 2.25 * 6.75 inches
  • Type: Foam
Pros
  • It is sulfate-free
  • It has a fresh and tropical scent
  • It gets rid of odor instead of masking it
  • The small bottle goes a long way in freshening your dog
  • Its mousse formula is easy to use
Cons
  • It can leave a greasy residue on your dog’s coat
  • Not every use likes the scent
  • The scent stays on your dog long after bathing

2

Wahl Pet-Friendly Waterless No Rinse Shampoo for Animals

One of the best dry dog shampoos is Wahl Pet-Friendly No-Rinse Waterless Shampoo. It comes in two scents, lavender and chamomile, coconut, and lime verbena. Both formulas leave your dog smelling fresh and nice. This shampoo isn’t made exclusively for dogs as it can be used in other animals such as horses. It is alcohol and paraben-free; it has a balanced pH level that helps maintain the pH level of your dog’s skin. It also contains guar conditioner that moisturizes and detangles your dog’s fur.

These shampoos come in the form of foam that can be easily worked into your dog’s coat and brushed out after it dries. Wahl is a well-known and trusted name among vets and groomers, so your pet is safe with this shampoo. Another amazing feature of this shampoo is that it has calming effects, so your restless dog will be calm in a matter of minutes.

This shampoo is ideal for pet owners who want to give their dogs quick spruce up without having to give them a full bath or using harsh chemicals. Most users also commend the mild scent that isn’t overpowering but eliminates most unpleasant smells.

Key Features:

  • Made from natural ingredients
  • Comes in two scents
  • Kind to skin and coat
  • Rub it in, and brush out

Specification:

  • Brand: Wahl Clipper Corp
  • Model: 820014
  • Weight: 9.6 Ounces
  • Dimensions: 1.98 * 1.98 * 7.8 inches
  • Type: Foam
Pros
  • Suitable for dogs and other animals
  • It is easy to use
  • It has a calming effect on dogs
  • It is free from alcohol and paraben
  • It has a balanced pH
  • Moisturizes and detangles fur
Cons
  • Some people do not like the smell of lavender

3

Bodhi New Waterless Dog Shampoo, All Natural Dry Shampoo for Dogs or Cats

Bodhi is well known for manufacturing top-notch dog shampoos; they have scents like lemongrass and lavender. What makes these shampoos so great is that they are all-natural and plant-based. So if your dog has any allergies, you can use this shampoo as he won’t have an adverse reaction. Even if your dog licks the shampoo, he won’t be harmed.

This shampoo is gentle on your dog’s skin, and it leaves a nice fresh aroma that’s pleasant to both you and your dog. If you don’t have time to give your dog s full bath, this shampoo would be great for you and your pet.

Key Features:

  • Made in the USA
  • Available in two scents
  • Ideal for dogs with sensitive skin
  • All-natural and plant-based ingredients
  • Eco-friendly recyclable packaging
  • Producer’s 100% guarantee

Specification:

  • Brand: Bodhi Dog
  • Model: All natural dry shampoo
  • Weight: 3.2 Ounces
  • Dimensions: 7.99 * 1.97 * 1.85 inches
  • Type: Spray
Pros
  • It has a plant-based formula
  • It is naturally hypoallergenic
  • It is suitable for dogs, cats, and other animals
  • It’s non-toxic, so it’s safe for pets who lick it
  • It is preferred by many vets and pet owners
  • Suitable for all breeds of dogs, even pregnant dogs
  • It has no harsh ingredients
Cons
  • There are a few reports of dogs reacting to the shampoo
  • Some users say it scents nice, but it only lasts a few hours
  • A few owners have said it improved their dogs smell but not really their look

4

Burt’s Bees for Dogs Natural Waterless Shampoo Spray

One of the most popular dry shampoos for dogs is Burt’s Bees natural waterless shampoo. It is affordable, easy to get, and offers you great value for your money. It uses a natural formula that is designed to soothe and moisturize sensitive skin. It is free from sulfates, dyes, and strong fragrances. The formula includes apple for skin nourishment and honey for shine boost; it also contains Omega 3 fatty acids and vitamin E to strengthen hair and reduce breakage. It also comes with the right pH balance for both puppies and adult dogs.

This dry shampoo is suitable for use on any dog’s coat, whether young or old. It contains natural cleansing ingredients such as oatmeal and avocado. This formula doesn’t have any harsh fragrances, and it can only remove so much dirt and smell from your dog’s coat. If you have a medium or large breed, the small spray bottle won’t be sufficient.

Key Features:

  • Cleanses and soothes
  • Made from high quality natural ingredients
  • Suitable for all puppies and dogs
  • Veterinarian recommended
  • 100% safe

Specification:

  • Brand: Burt’s Bees
  • Model: FF4771
  • Weight: 11.2 Ounces
  • Dimensions: 2.25 * 2.25 * 8.33 inches
  • Type: Spray
Pros
  • It has a mild scent
  • It contains no harsh ingredients
  • It moisturizes your dog’s skin and coat
  • It can be used on any dog
Cons
  • It’s hard to apply on large dogs
  • It leaves your dog’s fur damp
  • It doesn’t totally mask foul odors

5

Pawstruck No-Rinse Pet Shampoo

Pawstruck spray-on dry shampoo is natural and effective. The spray can be used on both dogs and cats; it can handle any type of skin, fur, and hair. It uses a gentle formula that cleanses your pet’s skin and fur while reducing inflammation on their bodies for better healing.

It also has a great scent; a light citrus scent will be left on your dog’s coat after being sprayed with this dry shampoo. The combination is both vegetarian and vegan friendly, and this makes it a great choice for animal lovers of all dietary restrictions. It also kills off the bacteria that causes foul odors, leaving your pet smelling nice for long periods.

Key Features:

  • Made in the USA
  • Naturally derived ingredients
  • It has a gentle citrus scent
  • 100% safe
  • Biodegradeable
  • Recyclable packaging
  • It comes with a 30-day quality guarantee

Specification:

  • Brand: Pawstruck
  • Model: No-Rinse pet shampoo
  • Weight: 1.25 Pounds
  • Dimensions: 9.8 * 3.3 * 2.5 inches
  • Type: Spray
Pros
  • Suitable for all types of coat and skin
  • It can be used on both cats and dogs
  • It kills odor-causing bacteria
  • Helps reduce inflammation
  • Contains natural ingredients
  • Vegetarian-friendly blend
Cons
  • It may leave a greasy residue on your dog’s coat

Buying Guide Questions

Below are answers to some FAQs concerning dry dog shampoos.

Does dry dog shampoo really work?

Dry shampoos are an effective way to keep your dog clean and fresh in-between baths. They work by absorbing excess oil and dirt from your dog’s skin and coat while leaving your dog with a nice scent.

Are waterless shampoos safe for dogs?

If you want to use a waterless shampoo, opt for one that uses only natural ingredients, as some waterless shampoos contain harmful ingredients. Ensure you check the ingredients of your waterless shampoo before buying and using it; you wouldn’t want to hurt your pet.

What dog shampoo do vets recommend?

Vets recommend different shampoos, but their top choices include Earthbath All Natural Pet Shampoo, Wahl 100% Natural Pet Shampoo, BarkLogic Shampoo, and more. Before using a new shampoo on your pet, make sure you ask your vet, especially if he has sensitive skin.

Can you use baby wipes on dogs?

You shouldn’t use baby wipes or adult wipes on your dog. They might not cause any serious harm to your dog, but they are not great for cleaning your dog.

Is spray the same as a dry shampoo?

Dry volume spray is different from dry shampoo. They both absorb excess dirt and oil, but this spray also adds volume to hair, while dry shampoos are used mostly on oily hair to get rid of dirt, oil, and bad odors.

Is Batiste the best dry shampoo?

Batiste is the number 1 dry shampoo on Amazon; it has a high selling rate with great reviews. It is a great shampoo but whether it is the best depends on preference.

What works better than dry shampoo?

There are alternatives you can use instead of a dry shampoo, and they include baby powder, cornstarch, perfume, hand sanitizer, apple cider vinegar, and more.

How can I make my dog smell better without a bath?

If you would like to keep your dog clean without having to bathe him all the time, you could use pet wipes, dry shampoos, brush him regularly, clean their ears, clean their things, use freshening sprays and foams.

Conclusion

Dogs are not just our pets; they are also our friends. They love to follow us wherever we go, but they tend to get dirty quickly, and it’s impossible to bathe your dog every time they get dirty due to how often they roll or play with something stinky. Also, some dogs fear water, so a dry shampoo would be perfect for the dog.

However, a dry dog shampoo should not replace traditional baths, but it can help keep him clean and smelling fresh in between baths. Good quality dry shampoos can also condition your dog’s coat and skin; some even soothe irritated skin issues such as dry, flaky, and itchy skin. Dry shampoos are affordable and ideal for frequent travelers and those who don’t have time to bathe their dogs regularly.

The buying guide above was made to offer recommendations on the best dry dog shampoo available on the market and also tell you how to use it properly; that way, you’ll be able to select the best dry dog shampoo to meet the needs of you and your canine friend.