Simple Steps To Make Natural Dog Shampoo At Home

Bath time can be challenging for both dogs and their owners, especially when harsh commercial shampoos irritate your pup’s skin. That’s why more pet owners are choosing natural, homemade alternatives. DIY dog shampoo not only saves money but also gives you control over the ingredients. Here are 10 easy steps to help you make your own homemade, natural dog shampoo.

Gather Your Ingredients

Start by collecting natural ingredients that are safe and beneficial for your dog’s coat and skin. Basic components include liquid castile soap (for cleansing), apple cider vinegar (for pH balance; dilute with equal parts water to avoid irritation), coconut oil or olive oil (for moisturizing), and water. Optional ingredients include oatmeal for soothing the skin and aloe vera for hydration.

Choose The Right Base

Liquid castile soap is a gentle, natural soap made from vegetable oils and serves as a safe cleaning base for dogs. It’s free from harsh detergents and synthetic chemicals, which makes it ideal for pets with sensitive skin. You can find it unscented or lightly scented with dog-safe essential oils.

Add Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) helps to balance the pH of your dog’s skin and has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Add about 1/4 cup of ACV with an equal amount of water before adding to the shampoo base. It works to soothe itchiness, fight dandruff, and give your dog’s coat a beautiful, natural shine. However, avoid this ingredient if your dog has open wounds or very sensitive skin.

Include Moisturizing Oils

Dogs need moisture in their skin just like we do, especially after frequent baths. Hence, add 1–2 tablespoons of coconut oil or olive oil to the mix. These oils nourish dry skin and reduce inflammation. With antifungal properties, coconut oil serves as an added advantage for dogs susceptible to skin infections.

Incorporate Oatmeal For Soothing

Oatmeal is excellent for calming irritated or itchy skin and is commonly used in pet care products. Grind 1/4 to 1/2 cup of plain, raw oatmeal into a fine powder. Add the powder to the shampoo base and mix well. Make sure the oatmeal is finely ground to prevent clogging.

Add Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera’s cooling and moisturizing benefits can soothe dogs dealing with itchy or inflamed skin. It also promotes healing and reduces redness, making it a great addition for dogs with minor skin issues. Use about 2 tablespoons of pure aloe vera gel—either store-bought (without added chemicals) or freshly extracted from a plant—and ensure dogs do not ingest it, as it can be toxic internally. Stir thoroughly.

Use Dog-Safe Essential Oils (Optional)

If you’d like your dog shampoo to have a pleasant scent, add a few drops (3–5) of dog-safe essential oils like lavender or cedarwood, ensuring they are diluted in the shampoo mixture (e.g., 0.1-1% concentration). Besides their scent, these oils can calm your dog and repel pests. Never use essential oils like tea tree, clove, or peppermint without veterinary guidance, as they can be toxic to dogs.

Mix And Store The Shampoo

After combining all your ingredients, stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly distributed. Pour it into a clean, sealable bottle using a funnel to avoid spills. A squeezable bottle works best for easy application during baths. Store the shampoo in a cool, dark place and shake well before each use.

Test On A Small Area First

Before using the shampoo all over your dog’s body, do a patch test to check for any allergic reactions or sensitivities. Apply a small amount to an area like the back of the neck and wait 24 hours. Watch for redness or any unusual behavior. If no issues arise, the shampoo is likely safe.

Bathe Your Dog With Care

Wet your dog’s fur thoroughly with lukewarm water before applying the shampoo. Massage it gently into the coat, avoiding external openings. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to let the ingredients take effect, then rinse well to make sure no residue is left.