Which shampoo and conditioner is best to use on your dog?

When choosing a shampoo, always use a shampoo specially formulated for dogs. Human shampoos are formulated with a different pH than what a dog needs.

Whitening Shampoos
A whitening shampoo visually enhances and brightens the coat color and helps to remove any yellow discoloration. Although designed to be used primarily on pets that are white or silver, the shampoo can also be used on pets that are golden, buff, and multi-colored.

Tearless Shampoos
This type of shampoo is used primarily to shampoo a pet's face and head. Tearless shampoos can be used on the whole body. The agents used in tearless shampoo are less harsh on the eyes, but are still just as effective on the rest of the coat.

Oatmeal or Raspberry-Oatmeal Shampoos
These ingredients are beneficial to pets that are prone to dry skin.

Aromatic Shampoos
These shampoos are especially fragrant, and will stay with the dog for several days after bathing. Beneficial to dogs with an odor problem.

Medicated Shampoos
Medicated shampoos help to relieve itching and scaling due to dry skin or dermatitis. Make sure the coat is completely rinsed free of any shampoo residue.

Flea and Tick Shampoos
These are oil-based shampoos designed to rid the dog of external parasites. Pyrethrins and d-Limonene, both natural chemicals derived from plants, may be used in these shampoos and are safe, non-toxic pesticides that are highly effective. In addition to killing fleas and ticks, these shampoos also clean and beautify the coat. Always follow the directions carefully when using flea and tick shampoos.

Conditioning Shampoos
Used on both dogs and cats to condition the hair and skin as well as clean the coat.

Creme Rinses
Creme rinses cannot be used on all pets. Dogs such as the Old English Sheepdog, Bichon Frise, and double-coated breeds can benefit from a rinse. However, do not use creme rinses on cats, on silky-haired pets such as Yorkies, or on harsh-coated breeds like terriers, Poodles, Pomeranians, and the Pekingese.

Remoisturizers
Suggested for pets with dry skin, moisturizing treatments are designed to seal in the moisture from the pet's own skin. These can be used on a regular basis for pets that are prone to dry skin or dandruff. In most cases, the solution is massaged into the skin and left on the coat.